Are you looking forward to some warmer weather? We’ve got the lighter days but all we need now is some sunshine so we can head to the beach.

While Bolton is landlocked and doesn’t have any of its own beaches, within a two hour drive, you can reach plenty.

Whether you’re thinking of planning a day out or a staycation, you don’t have to go too far to feel some sand between your toes.

To help you decide which to go to, Tripadvisor has rounded up the best north west beaches and some are less than a two hour’s drive from Bolton – here are five of them.

Best beaches within a two-hour drive from Bolton

Crosby Beach

Location: Crosby, Merseyside

Tripadvisor rating: 4.5

One reviewer said: “It's my hometown, so I know I'm biased, but to me this is one of the most beautiful places in the world. As a teenager I'd come down here to watch the sun setting and then see the lights of the Wirral twinkling across the Mersey Estuary. On a clear day you can see for miles across to North Wales.

“The addition of Antony Gormley's iron men almost 20 years ago was genius - it gave the beach that extra something. There's even a facebook group 'I'm at Crosby Beach and the weather is...' as it just lends itself to such amazing photos. When I come back to Crosby, I have to come here....”

Another commented: “We went to see Anthony Gormley's "Another Place" and we were not disappointed. There are 100 life -sized figures positioned in the sand looking out to sea. The parking near the leisure centre was free and was only a few minutes from the beach. Well worth a visit.”

You can find out more via the Tripadvisor website.

Blackpool Beach, Blackpool

Location: Promenade, Blackpool, FY1 5AA

Tripadvisor rating: 4.5

One reviewer said: “Lovely sandy beach as far as you can see!

“You can swim, have a foot massage by walking on the sand, sun bathe or just rest and relax and watch the sunset!

“We went with teenagers and young children. Everyone enjoined their time. We are definitely coming back to Blackpool just to see this beautiful beach again”

Another commented: “The weather obviously dictates any trip to the beach. We have been graced recently with glorious sunny and hot weather. We booked two nights in Lytham and drove down into Blackpool for a day out.

“After visiting the SeaLife Centre we crossed the road and spent a few hours on the beach with our 4 year old. It was clean, safe and she loved it. The tide was out but we walked to the waters edge for water for the sandcastle.”

You can find out more via the Tripadvisor website.

Formby Beach, Merseyside

Location: Victoria Road, Formby, L37 1LJ

Tripadvisor rating: 4

One reviewer said: “The beach is clean with parking nearby available. The view is good and soothing. During school holidays can be quite busy.”

Another commented: “My favourite beach in the northern UK. Never crowded, nice landscapes. Nice, huge parking. Beach is clean.”

You can find out more via the Tripadvisor website.

St Annes Beach, Lytham St Annes

Location: Beach Road, Lytham St Annes

Tripadvisor rating: 4.5

@ablondetourist #ukbeach #ukbeaches #englishseaside #fyp ♬ Sunset Lover - Petit Biscuit

One reviewer said: “Wow a great well looked after beach with plenty to do from golf , wet play area. A little train . Trampolines a lovely pier . Donkey rides . And beautiful gardens . Very clean and tidy well policed too! I would highly recommend a trip here."

Another commented: “Gorgeous beach with special area for dogs. We visit here on a nice day and also go into the Pier cafe for a snack & drink. The eclairs are so big that even two of you cannot polish one off!”

You can find out more via the Tripadvisor website.

West Kirby Beach, Wirral

Location: 23 South Parade, West Kirby, CH48 0QG

Tripadvisor rating: 4.5

@rnli When the tide comes in at West Kirby Beach, it leaves Hilbre Island completely cut off 😮 Tides can come in really quickly - always check the tide times ⏰ and if you get cut off by the tide, call 999 or 112 for the coastguard📱 PS did you watch Saving Lives at Sea yesterday? #rnli #tides #beach #SavingLivesAtSea ♬ original sound - RNLI

You can find out more via the Tripadvisor website.

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One reviewer said: “A day out at the beach. Lovely clean beach with great views

“Lots of amenities near by. Next time will check the tides and walk out to the islands."

Another commented: “This was my first visit to the area and this beach is an absolute must for everyone who loves the fresh air. It was cold and sunny with lots of activities going on to watch.

“Hilbre island is walkable at ;low tide but be careful of tidal times. There is a cafe, ice cream kiosk and lovely shops nearby too.”