The Atkinson

Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor

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The Atkinson

Lord Street, Southport, Southport, PR8 1DB
01704 533333
  • Monday11:00am - 4:00pm
  • Tuesday11:00am - 4:00pm
  • Wednesday11:00am - 4:00pm
  • Thursday11:00am - 4:00pm
  • Friday11:00am - 4:00pm
  • Saturday11:00am - 4:00pm

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

The Atkinson
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Southport’s home for Art and Culture.

The Atkinson, which opened in 1878, was built as a result of a £6,000 donation by cotton manufacturer William Atkinson: it started life as an art gallery and library. Over the years, the 19th Century buildings have undergone an extensive refurbishment. The venue is now well-renowned for its cultural offering: music, theatre, art, poetry, literature, history and film.

Holding regular live productions in the theatre – known to locals as the cornerstone of Lord Street – catch a talk, music performance or even a play. Now fully operational, the theatre and stage play home to a variety of talents almost every night of the year.

The Atkinson also proudly incorporates a museum, showcasing the history of Southport and Sefton, and a gallery. The impressive collection holds over 3500 artworks and 25,000 artifacts of social history.

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 library is open for ‘click & collect’ services too.

An exciting destination for families, culture seekers and art lovers, The Atkinson is a welcoming and contemporary venue offering a varied seasonal programme of exhibitions and events.

What's on near The Atkinson

A large mechanical puppet controlled by multiple people. Encounter Festival in Preston
FestivalsLancashire
Encounter Festival in Preston

Expect a jam-packed day of outdoor performance, live music, family fun – plus Preston’s iconic Torchlight Procession and fireworks finale.

Free entry

Where to go near The Atkinson

Southport
Tourist Attraction
Town Hall Gardens

The Town Hall Gardens is a perfect spot to recharge your batteries whilst out and about in Southport.

The Engine Room Notice Board
Southport
Event venue
The Engine Room

The Engine Room is a creative community hub in Southport’s Wayfarers Arcade, offering co-working space, cultural events and collaborative opportunities for artists, freelancers and educators.

Southport
Southport Pier

Southport Pier opened in 1860, making it the oldest iron pier in Great Britain. It is also the second-longest in the country.

Southport Seafront
Southport
Beach
Southport Seafront

As well as being home to the Southport Air Show, there are many nostalgic seaside delights on Southport’s seafront, including the iconic pier.

Southport
Park
Victoria Park

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

Beach
Formby Beach

A beautiful National Trust beach which emerges from glorious coastal pinewoods. The ideal spot for walking the dog and spying red squirrels.

Ring O'Bells
Restaurant
Ring O’Bells

Popular country pub based in Ormskirk, serving classic British food and local ales.

Ormskirk
Restaurant
Moor Hall

Fine dining in a renovated grade II listed manor house. Offering some of the country’s most innovative dishes in beautiful surroundings.

Exterior of fish and chip shop
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Harrowside Fish & Chips

Winner of the Good Food Award’s coveted Chippy of the Year award on multiple occasions, Harrowside is a great choice for fish and chips in Blackpool.

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