Sunset Spots in and around Cheshire: 6 Gems for Golden Hour

I’m always on the lookout for the best places to watch the sunset in Cheshire, and luckily the county is full of them. A few gems just beyond the borders are worth mentioning too – especially some of our closest beaches. So, I’ve rounded up five of my favourite sunset spots in and around Cheshire. Take this as your little nudge to pick one and soak it in before the darker evenings roll in.

Frodsham Hill

Frodsham Hill is one of the most breathtaking places to catch a sunset in Cheshire. Thanks to its elevation and dramatic cliff-bank position, the views from the monument stretch for miles – on a clear evening you can spot Liverpool, the Welsh hills and even the edges of the Peak District. It really does feel like you’re standing on top of the world.

It’s a popular spot for good reason, and as the sun begins to dip you’ll often find a few people gathered along the sandstone banks, sitting and soaking up the colours. It’s the kind of place where you can pause, take a breath, and feel completely wrapped up in the moment.

Location: Google Maps link
What3words: ///goals.gardens.flagging
Parking: There are a few spaces at Frodsham Hill Car Park, or you can use the small car park for the Sandstone Trail further down the road.

Thurstaston Beach

Thurstaston Beach was our sunset spot of choice this September, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. Tucked just below Wirral Country Park, with sweeping views across the Dee Estuary, it’s reached by a short walk down some steps. Once you arrive, you’re greeted with golden sands, rolling dunes, and even a little white cottage that looks straight out of a postcard — it’s one of those places that feels untouched and utterly charming. Definitely a contender for the most Instagrammable sunset in Cheshire and beyond.

We made an evening of it with a BBQ picnic up at Wirral Country Park before heading down to the beach. There are designated BBQ areas and plenty of picnic benches, and if you time it right, you can grab something sweet from Flissy’s or a coffee at the Whistle Stop Café nearby. For those who love to make a day of it, the Wirral Way offers a brilliant cycling or walking route that brings you right here.

Location: Google Maps link
What3words: ///pheasants.opened.release
Parking: Two large pay-and-display car parks serve Wirral Country Park, so finding a space in time for sunset shouldn’t be a problem.

Parkgate

Charming Parkgate is one of those places that feels like stepping back in time. Once a bustling fishing village, it’s now a beautifully quaint spot to enjoy a Cheshire sunset. I like to park up along the front and take a stroll with either the famous Parkgate Fish & Chips in hand or an ice cream from Nicholls of Parkgate. If I’m making more of an evening of it, I’ll wander down towards The Boathouse pub and settle in for the views as the sun sinks over the Dee Estuary and across to Wales.

It’s such a relaxed way to end the day, and with the history and character of Parkgate all around you, it makes watching the sunset feel that little bit more special.

Location: Google Maps link (for Parkgate Fish & Chips)
What3words: ///clocks.fans.attend
Parking: There’s on-street parking along Parkgate’s front, or you can use the car park closer to The Boathouse pub and enjoy a short walk along the promenade.

Formby Beach

Just beyond Cheshire, Formby Beach is one of the North West’s most famous spots for sunsets – and it never disappoints. I’ve experienced some truly outstanding evenings here, where the sky turns into a canvas of pinks, purples and fiery orange. Families, couples and groups all gather along the sweeping sands, either nestled into the dunes with a picnic or playing games on the beach until the light fades. It has that magical end-of-summer feel, and the kids always have the best time running free here.

Although it’s a little outside the county, I couldn’t leave Formby off this list. It’s the perfect reminder that some of the best places to watch a sunset in Cheshire are just a short drive away.

Please note: Formby Beach car parks are currently closed and set to reopen in Spring 2026 – so we’ll be heading back for more sunsets then!

Location: Google Maps link
What3words: ///jugs.modifies.ripen (Victoria Road Car Park)
Parking: Pay-and-display car parks are available at Victoria Road or Lifeboat Road. Parking at Victoria Road is free for National Trust members.

Alderley Edge

Alderley Edge, with its glorious walking trails and sweeping views, is always a great choice for catching a sunset in Cheshire — though I’ll admit, it’s just as magical at sunrise if you can get yourself up early enough! From the sandstone escarpment you can see across to the Peak District and over Manchester, making it an iconic spot to pause, breathe, and watch the world go by.

We often walk the Wizard Way with the kids before heading up to the Edge. They love exploring amongst the trees and discovering the hidden caves, which makes it a fun family adventure as well as a scenic place to end the day.

Location: Google Maps link
What3words: ///glory.lots.trim
Parking: A pay-and-display car park is available at the Wizard Tea Room, and it’s free for National Trust members.

White Nancy

Perched above Bollington, White Nancy is a small but iconic hilltop folly with some of the most spectacular views in Cheshire. From here, you can watch a sunset in Cheshire unfold across rolling fields, the Peak District, and even catch glimpses of Manchester in the distance. Its elevated position makes it feel like you’re on top of the world, and the walk up is short and very family-friendly, making it perfect for an evening adventure.

It’s a popular spot, so you might find a few people gathered to watch the sun sink below the horizon, but there’s plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the colours in peace. For an extra special experience, pack a small picnic and a blanket, and stay a little longer as the sky shifts from gold to pink to deep purple — it’s truly magical.

Location: Google Maps link
What3words: ///hills.rarely.lace
Parking: There’s limited parking near the base of the hill, but it’s only a short walk up to White Nancy.

Read more of Sarah’s Cheshire gems here, and don’t forget to subscribe to our twice-monthly newsletter

Chasing Sunsets in Cheshire

Whether it’s the sweeping views from Frodsham Hill, the sandy charm of Thurstaston and Formby, the historic character of Parkgate, or the woodland trails of Alderley Edge, there are so many magical places to catch a sunset in Cheshire (and just beyond). Each one offers something different – from family picnics and coastal strolls to peaceful walks and picture-perfect views – but all of them remind you to slow down and soak up the simple beauty of the evening sky.

So, before the darker winter evenings set in, why not pick a spot, pack a flask or a picnic, and head out to see a sunset for yourself? Trust me, you won’t regret it.

And if you love discovering little gems like these, I’d love for you to follow along on Instagram. I’m always sharing more Cheshire finds, family days out, and of course, plenty of beautiful sunset moments – and if you go chasing a sunset yourself, don’t forget to tag me so I can see your snaps too!

By Sarah Grant, Girl About Cheshire