Hilbre Island

Hilbre Island is a tidal archipelago consisting of three separate islands—Little Eye, Middle Eye, and Hilbre Island—located where the River Dee meets the sea. Each island has its own character and features, with the main island being the largest and most accessible to visitors.

Archaeological evidence shows that people have lived on these islands since the Stone Age. Benedictine monks later established a religious cell and church during the Norman period, making it an important settlement.

The name comes from a medieval chapel dedicated to St. Hildeburgh, which shows the island's religious importance in Anglo-Saxon times. You can still see traces of this spiritual past when you walk through the islands today.

You can walk to the islands from West Kirby only during low tide, so checking tide schedules is essential for your safety. Plan your visit carefully to allow enough time and avoid being caught by rising water.

A bird observatory on the main island is part of a national network that tracks seasonal migrations and monitors bird populations. This makes the location a destination for anyone interested in watching birds during their travels.

Location: West Kirby

GPS coordinates: 53.37540,-3.21751

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:23