Enjoy the tide coming in, and pushing the birds up close.
This meeting will involve a stay on Hilbre Island over the high tide, when we will be cut off by the incoming tide. This means a walk across the sands of around 2 miles, 1 hour; then a stay of around 5 hours on the island; before leaving around 2 hours after high tide to return to the mainland. You cannot leave early.
As the tide comes in to surround us, wading birds are pushed ashore to roost. Terns may be off-shore. Land birds will include Meadow Pipits and Linnets. And hopefully there will be passage migrants present. Inquisitive Grey Seals will come to inspect us!
Meet at the slipway at the bottom of Dee Lane, West Kirby (by the closed Sail Loft Coastal Kitchen) ready for a prompt departure at 9.15am.
Postcode: CH48 0QG
What3words: ///consoles.tentacles.gained
Parking along South Parade, or adjacent side streets. There should be spaces available at this time.
Alternative parking in Pay & Display car park at the bottom of Dee Lane (by Morrisons car park, but do not park in here as parking is limited to 1.5 hours only).
Don’t be late, we will not wait and you can get cut off by the tide!
Recommended to wear wellingtons for the crossings as the sand can be wet. You can bring shoes to change into on the island.
The rocks leading to the main islands can be slippy when wet. Please be very careful.
Bring suitable clothing for all eventualities, depending on the forecast. It can be colder and windier on the island, so best to have layers. Rain can come in quickly. There is some shelter but it is limited.
Bring food and drinks for the day.
There are earth toilets available on Hilbre.
Any questions about the trip, please contact the leader for the day, Hugh (07527 828 571).
In the event of bad weather, please check with Hugh in advance that the trip is still on.
In the event of any last-minute changes to the meeting, we will send out messages to all members via email and WhatsApp.
Hugh