Hilbre Island with children

Pace and timing

The recognised route is about 2 miles each way. Children, rock pools and snack stops all add time. Take the slowest walker's pace, not the average.

Start back from Hilbre well before the calculated leave-by time. A late start leaves no room to slow down on the way back.

Keeping together

• Keep children within arm's reach in the channels between Little Eye and Middle Eye. Water fills channels behind walkers before it reaches the visible route.
• Stay on the recognised line via Little Eye and Middle Eye. Do not take shortcuts.
• Count everyone at Dee Lane, on the island and again before you start back.
• RNLI reports include people and dogs cut off between Little Eye and Middle Eye as the tide rose quickly. If anyone is in danger, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Wet feet, rocks and edges

Expect wet feet. Rocks, seaweed and mud can be slippery and sharp objects can be hidden in the sand, so children should wear closed, wet-proof footwear, and a spare set of dry clothes helps. Wirral Council does not recommend walking barefoot.

On the island, keep to the paths and keep well back from unstable cliff edges. Hold hands near steep, rocky edges.

Toilets and supplies

Use the public toilets by the Marine Lake before you set out. They cost 30p, and open 10am to 6pm from May to September and 9am to 4.30pm from October to April. The island has basic composting toilets, which you should not rely on.

There is no shop, café or fresh water on the islands. Bring water, snacks and warm layers for everyone. See what to bring.

What children enjoy

The rocky shore has over 150 species of algae, according to the council, and rock pools are the main attraction. Friends of Hilbre note boots or wellingtons help with the pools. Look, do not collect: the reserve protects all plants and animals.

Watch seals from a distance with binoculars and never approach them. Birds roost on the islands in winter; keep back and keep dogs on a short lead. Friends of Hilbre hold open days with refreshments, and the Telegraph Station opens on regular open days.

Pushchairs, buggies and groups

There is no surface suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs. Read the accessibility guide for mainland alternatives. For a school or club, email the rangers first; see groups and schools.

Plan around the tide

WalkHilbre's calculated window opens 3 hours after high water and closes 3½ hours before the next high water. The close is the latest time to be back on the mainland at Dee Lane. Start back from Hilbre by the calculated leave-by time, 60 minutes before that. Check the safety guide. An estimate — not permission to cross. Check the Dee Lane noticeboard before setting out.

Questions and answers