As temperatures soar across the UK, with highs of 32C forecast for Greater Manchester and a red severe heat alert issued for parts of southern England, many are seeking coastal escapes. Crosby Beach, located on the Sefton coast just an hour from Manchester, offers a unique seaside experience with a popular beach bar serving cocktails and street food.
The Bus Yard Beach Bar
The Bus Yard, a converted double-decker bus, sits right by Marine Lake on Crosby Beach. Open daily from 11am to 8pm from April 1 to September 30, it provides a perfect pitstop for beachgoers. The bar serves frozen daiquiris, cocktails, draught beer, and soft drinks. Surrounding food stalls offer Greek gyros and churros. Live entertainment includes music, DJ sets, and a Tuesday quiz.
Originally a pop-up with a three-year agreement with Sefton Council in 2022, the bar recently secured a nine-year lease. It is family-friendly, with kids' beach toys and seating, and dogs are welcome.
What to See and Do
Crosby Beach features a stretch of golden sand backed by dunes and dotted with Antony Gormley's cast-iron statues. Visitors can enjoy views across to the Wirral and North Wales, and watch container ships and cruise ships heading to and from Liverpool.
Parking is available at Sefton MBC Pay & Display Car Park (L28 8TA) and Crosby Leisure Centre Car Park (L23 6SX). Note that Crosby Beach is a non-bathing beach with soft sand and mud, and changing tides. Visitors should stay within 50 metres of the promenade and not walk to the furthest statues.
Travel from Manchester
The beach is easily reachable from Manchester by car or train, making it an ideal day trip during the heatwave. With its bar, food, and entertainment, Crosby Beach offers a holiday feel without the long journey.
