Wirral Footpaths and Open Spaces Preservation Society

Welcome to the Wirral Footpaths Society

Protecting, promoting, and preserving Wirral's rural routes since 1888.

Whether you are enjoying a casual weekend stroll or a dedicated countryside hike, the Wirral’s network of footpaths is a vital recreational asset. We are here to ensure these paths remain open, accessible, and beautiful for generations to come.

What we do

The Society is just as active today as the day we were founded. We work tirelessly to champion the rights of walkers and nature lovers across the Wirral.

Our day-to-day work includes:

Advocating for Access: We act as the voice of the user, engaging in regular, positive discussions with Local Authorities to ensure the planned maintenance, development, and promotion of our local rights of way.
Guarding the Map: We are officially consulted by Councils on any proposed revisions to the Definitive Map of rights of way. We carefully review any proposals for route closures or diversions and actively object when the public's right to roam is threatened.
Community Outreach: We share our passion for the outdoors by publishing detailed walking leaflets, hosting informational displays at local libraries and countryside events, and giving talks to community organizations.
Public Support: We actively investigate and address the day-to-day issues and concerns brought to our attention by our members and the general public.

History

Over a Century of Vigilance

In November 1888, a group of prominent Wirral business people came together with a shared vision: to protect our local footpaths. Within just a few years, they had surveyed much of the Wirral's footpath system and published some of the area's first dedicated walking maps.

Throughout our history, we have never backed down from a challenge. We have fought cases through the courts to prevent landowners and railway companies from closing or unsafely diverting paths. We also provided and erected the iconic black and white fingerposts you still see guiding walkers today.

From holding early Local Authorities accountable to carrying out vital clearance work, our keen band of members, ranging historically from 150 to 600 dedicated individuals, has maintained a constant watch over the Wirral’s countryside.

The future

The future of Wirral’s beautiful rural scene depends on people like you.

Our members are the eyes and ears of the Society, constantly watching for threats to our footpaths, green spaces, and rights of way. Without a large, passionate, and active membership, we simply cannot safeguard these paths effectively.

If you love the Wirral countryside and want to ensure it remains open for everyone to enjoy, we invite you to stand with us.

Help us safeguard the footpaths of the Wirral. Take the first step, Join the Society today!