Otterspool Promenade Walk

3.6 miles (5.8 km)

An easy walk or cycle along the surfaced promenade in Otterspool, just south east of Liverpool.
Walk Report October 14th 2026 By Andy Howard:
I fancied an easy walk by the water without having to travel far out of Liverpool, and Otterspool turned out to be just the place. We parked at the car park at the end of Riversdale Road and set off across the open grass towards the River Mersey.... It was a bright but breezy day, and the first thing that struck me was how much open space there is here. You can see right across the river towards the Wirral, with the wide skies making the whole place feel much bigger than you might expect on the edge of the city.
The riverside path is a lovely place to take things slowly. We watched the water for a while, keeping an eye out for ships moving along this busy stretch of the Mersey. There were dog walkers, runners and a few people simply sitting on the grass enjoying the view. The breeze coming off the water was quite strong at times, so I was glad I'd brought an extra layer. I can imagine this would be a good spot for flying a kite, and there are plenty of places to stop for a picnic when the weather is warmer.
From the promenade, we continued towards the Southern Grasslands, a sizeable area of parkland with open meadows, paths and higher ground that gives you some excellent views. It was a pleasant change from the exposed riverbank, with the grassland and trees providing a more sheltered feel. The route is generally easy, although the paths through the greener sections can be softer underfoot after rain. Wildflowers add interest in season, and it’s worth looking around rather than just following the path straight through.
We then explored Liverpool Festival Gardens, the former site of the 1984 International Garden Festival. I found it fascinating that an area once created for a major public event has become a place for local walks and quiet corners beside the river. There are ponds, trees and landscaped sections to wander through, and the atmosphere feels quite different from the broad promenade. Some areas have become a little overgrown, which gives parts of the gardens a wilder character, although it’s clear that the site has seen better-maintained days. I still thought it was well worth including in the walk, especially for the contrast between the open grassland and the more enclosed garden paths.
One of the things I liked most was that the walk offered several different settings without being strenuous. The route is around six kilometres in total, so it makes a manageable outing for most walkers and leaves time to stop and enjoy the surroundings. It would also suit a relaxed dog walk, although dogs should be kept under control where other people are using the paths and near wildlife. We saw a few families out enjoying the space too, and the open areas give children room to stretch their legs.
After exploring the gardens, we returned towards the Mersey and retraced our steps to the car park. I lingered by the river again, watching the light change over the water and the Wirral shoreline beyond. Otterspool is not a remote countryside walk, but that is part of its appeal: it offers fresh air, wide views and a good stretch of waterside walking right on Liverpool’s doorstep. I’d happily return for another stroll, particularly on a clear evening when the views across the Mersey are at their best.