Southport

Creative Tourist

Southport is a large seaside town in the county of Merseyside, which also takes in Formby, West Kirby and Liverpool. Formerly known for genteel ladies of a certain age and crust-less afternoon teas, Southport is subtly and gradually changing from crumbling grandeur and kitsch amusements to an attractive town with a focus on the arts. Take The Atkinson: this determinedly innovative, Grade II-listed arts centre offers a theatre, galleries, museum, deli and an artisan bakery.

There’s also the Waterfront Arts project and excellent architecture, including the wonderful, cathedral-like fernery at the Botanic Gardens and the Belle Epoque colonnades of Lord Street. Legend has it that the graceful boulevards of central Paris were modelled on Southport, after Napoleon spent two years in exile here. Southport does, of course, boast “Britain’s longest overland pier”, a listed structure with its own tramline to carry visitors over a mile between Southport promenade and the pier head.

There’s also Southport Market, a number of good places to eat (if you know where to look) and the Southport Model Railway Village – a pretty unique experience, and yours for only £4.50 entry. Finally, let’s not forget the British Lawnmower Museum, a short walk from the town and everything a specialist museum should be: earnest, interesting and incredibly eccentric.

Our top picks

The Atkinson

The Atkinson, Lord Street, Southport, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 1DB - Visit now

The Atkinson is now well-renowned for its cultural offering: music, theatre, art, poetry, literature, history and film. Visitors can also browse the gift shop, selling gifts and contemporary crafts, and enjoy the delicious sandwiches, light bites, cakes and coffee on offer in the café.

The Atkinson

Southport Pier

Southport Pier, Promenade, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 1QX - Visit now

Southport Pier opened in 1860, making it the oldest iron pier in Great Britain. It is also the second-longest in the country, a must see spot for visitors.

Visit Southport

Victoria Park

Victoria Park, Rotten Row, Southport, PR8 2BZ - Visit now

In Southport’s town centre is Victoria Park, home to the famous Southport Flower Show, Southport Food and Drink Festival and the British Musical Fireworks Championship.

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