The 100 iron figures were originally created for an exhibition in Cuxhaven, Germany, before being moved permanently to Crosby in 2005.
Each statue was cast from the artist's own body, capturing his exact physical dimensions and facial features.
The figures are positioned to face the sea, observing the horizon regardless of whether they are submerged by the tide.
The beach sand is notoriously soft and silty, leading to frequent rescues of visitors who become stuck near the water's edge at low tide.
The installation was initially intended to be temporary but was granted a permanent permit by the local council following significant public interest.
Crosby Beach is primarily recognized for 'Another Place,' a permanent art installation by sculptor Antony Gormley consisting of 100 cast-iron figures. These statues are distributed along a three-kilometer stretch of coastline, standing up to one kilometer out to sea. The figures are life-sized casts of the artist's own body, weighing 650 kilograms each. As the tide ebbs and flows, the statues are gradually submerged or revealed, creating a dynamic visual experience. The beach is managed by Sefton Council and provides views across the Mersey Estuary toward the Wirral Peninsula. Visitors should be aware that the sand can become treacherous due to soft mud and rapidly changing tides. It is part of the Sefton Coastal Path, which provides walking access along the dunes. The site is designated as a bathing water area, though swimming is discouraged due to strong currents and shifting sands.
At the water's edge during low tide, capturing the silhouette of the statues against the horizon of the Irish Sea.
Check the local tide tables before your visit to ensure you can safely access the figures when they are not fully submerged.
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear as the beach area near the statues can be very muddy and difficult to traverse in flip-flops.
Keep a safe distance from the water's edge, as the incoming tide at Crosby moves faster than many visitors anticipate.
Do not attempt to walk out to the furthest statues if the tide is beginning to turn, as the water level rises extremely rapidly.
Do not attempt to climb or move the statues, as they are heavy iron structures; stay off the mudflats if tide warnings are active.
