15 Best Things to Do and Day Out in Maghull
Wacky World Hire covers parties and events across the North West, and it's a good place to start if you're organising a celebration in Maghull. Once the party planning is sorted, the town itself has more to offer than it gets credit for, from its own slice of toy-making history to some of Merseyside's best-known days out just a short drive away.
This guide rounds up 15 of the best things to do and day out in Maghull, covering the town itself and the nearby attractions that make it such a handy base in Sefton.
Things to Do in Maghull Itself
1. Book Party Hire with Wacky World Hire
If you're planning a birthday, school event, or family celebration in Maghull, Wacky World Hire delivers bouncy castles and party equipment across the North West. It's worth getting in touch early to check availability and delivery to your postcode, especially once you've got the rest of your day out planned around it.
2. Visit the Frank Hornby Heritage Centre
Maghull was home to Frank Hornby, the inventor of Meccano, Hornby model railways, and Dinky Toys, for most of his adult life. The Frank Hornby Heritage Centre sits inside Meadows Leisure Centre on Hall Lane and displays items covering the whole run of his inventions, from the first Meccano sets in 1900 through to his death in 1936. Entry is free, though donations are welcome, and it's open the same days as Maghull Library.
3. Swim or Work Out at Meadows Leisure Centre
The same building that houses the heritage centre also has a swimming pool, gym, and fitness studios, making it an easy stop if you want to combine some local history with an hour of activity.
4. Browse Maghull Library
Maghull Library sits downstairs from the Frank Hornby Heritage Centre and gives you a straightforward option for a quieter afternoon, particularly useful if you're travelling with younger children who need a break between activities.
5. Walk the Leeds-Liverpool Canal Towpath
Maghull sits close to the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, and the towpath gives you a flat, easy walking route with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way. It suits pushchairs and younger children who aren't ready for longer countryside walks.
6. Stroll Around Melling Meadows
Melling Meadows offers a gentle riverside walk with open green space where children can run around freely. It's a good pick for a picnic on a dry day or a short walk before heading elsewhere.
7. Wander Round Maghull Town Centre
Maghull's town centre has a mix of independent shops and cafes, along with the usual convenience of a smaller high street where you can grab a coffee and plan the rest of your day.
8. See Maghull's Local Churches
Maghull has several churches with a long local history, including Maghull Chapel and St Andrew's Church, worth a look if you're interested in the town's older buildings while you're out on foot.
Day Trips a Short Drive from Maghull
9. Watch the Racing at Aintree Racecourse
Aintree Racecourse, home of the Grand National, sits only a few miles from Maghull. Even outside the Grand National Festival in April, the course hosts race meetings throughout the year, and it's directly served by its own railway station.
10. Spend a Day at Croxteth Hall and Country Park
Croxteth Hall, the former country estate of the Earls of Sefton, has extensive grounds now open to the public, with woodland, a walled garden, and space for a proper family day out.
11. See the Sculptures at Crosby Beach
Crosby Beach is home to Antony Gormley's Another Place, a set of 100 cast-iron figures spread across the sand facing out to sea. It's one of the most photographed spots on the Merseyside coast and an easy add-on if you're heading towards the coast for the day.
12. Meet the Animals at Knowsley Safari Park
Knowsley Safari Park, opened in 1971, lets you drive through enclosures to see the animals roaming rather than caged, similar to the drive-through reserves it was originally modelled on. It's a solid choice for a full day out with children of most ages.
13. Head into Liverpool for the Museums
Maghull's train stations connect easily into Liverpool city centre, where National Museums Liverpool runs several sites covering everything from the city's maritime history to its wider archaeology and science collections.
14. Take the Train to Southport
Southport sits a short train ride north of Maghull and gives you a traditional seaside day out, with a long promenade, a pier, and plenty of options for fish and chips.
15. Ride the Rails from Old Roan or Town Green
Maghull's local stations, including Old Roan and Town Green, sit on lines that run directly into Liverpool, making it simple to combine a morning in Maghull with an afternoon further afield without needing the car.
Making the Most of a Day Out in Maghull
Maghull works well as either a destination in its own right or a base for a wider trip around Sefton and Liverpool. Pair the Frank Hornby Heritage Centre with a walk along the canal or Melling Meadows in the morning, then use the train links to reach Aintree, Liverpool, or Southport in the afternoon. Whichever route you take, there's enough within a short radius of Maghull to fill a full day without much travelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maghull known for?
Maghull is best known as the home of Frank Hornby, inventor of Meccano, Hornby trains, and Dinky Toys. The town also sits close to Aintree Racecourse, home of the Grand National.
Is Maghull good for a family day out?
Yes. Between the Frank Hornby Heritage Centre, Meadows Leisure Centre, and canal-side walks, plus short train rides to Liverpool, Aintree, or Southport, there's plenty to keep families busy for a full day.
How far is Maghull from Liverpool city centre?
Maghull sits around eight miles north of Liverpool city centre, with regular train services from local stations making it a quick trip into the city for shopping or museums.
Is the Frank Hornby Heritage Centre free to visit?
Yes, entry is free, though the trust welcomes donations. It's open during the same hours as Maghull Library, and closed on Sundays and bank holidays.
Can I book party equipment for an event near Maghull?
Wacky World Hire covers events across the North West, so it's worth getting in touch to check delivery to your postcode when you're planning a party or celebration near Maghull.
