Top 10 things to do in Southport

If you want to see a spectacular air show, head to Southport. The annual event is being held over the weekend of September 20-21. It is the only “seaside” air show where planes can take off and land in front of the public. 

But there’s a lot more to do and see in this north-west resort of England – 20 miles north of Liverpool and 30 miles from Manchester. Here’s the Top 10 things to do in Southport.

Southport Air Show

Southport Air Show
The Southport Air Show thrills the crowds every September with two days of outstanding aerial displays, including both military & civilian aircraft as well as a spectacular Air Show Village. This is just one of the events in the town’s event programme which also includes The Southport Flower Show, the Food & Drink Festival, the Southport Jazz Festival and more.

Southport Beach

Southport Beach & Coastline
Southport is at the north end of 22 miles of coastline running through Ainsdale, Formby and Crosby, ending just north of Liverpool. Southport beach is home to Southport Pier. Ainsdale & Formby have great beaches, sand dunes, pinewoods and are home to one of the few remaining Red Squirrel colonies in England.

Southport Pier

Southport Pier
Southport’s Grade II listed Pier is the oldest iron pier in the country – and the second longest, so if you’re feeling energetic, enjoy the fresh air and take a walk along to the Pier Pavilion. And if you are a fan of the TV game show, Tipping Point, have a go on the penny slot machines. If you fancy a leisurely trip, let the pier tram or road train take the strain.

Royal Birkdale

Royal Birkdale
Royal Birkdale, regarded as England’s top golf course is the jewel in Southport’s golfing crown. It has hosted The Open no less than nine times and it will again host it in 2017. But Southport has several more championship courses including Formby, Southport & Ainsdale, Hillside and Hesketh and is the ideal base for any golfing holiday.

Lord Street

Lord Street
Lord Street is Southport’s main shopping street. This historic tree-lined boulevard still retains its Victorian iron canopies and the wide pavements lend themselves to a mix of shops, cafes and restaurants. At the centre of Lord Street is Wayfarers Arcade, with its glass-domed roof and home to more exclusive shops and cafes.

 

Churchtown Village

Churchtown
Churchtown Village is the oldest part of Southport, being mentioned as far back as the Domesday Book in 1086. There are still a number of thatched roof cottages as well as shops and two traditional pubs. It is also home to The Botanic Gardens, Southport’s prettiest park, with a lake, gardens, fernery, children’s play areas and café.

Pleasureland

Pleasureland Southport
No seaside town would be complete without an amusement park and Southport is no exception. Pleasureland has attractions for all ages from the gentlest of carousels to the scariest of white knuckle rides. Admission is free and you only pay for the rides you go on.

The Atkinson

The Atkinson
The Atkinson is Southport’s newest arts venue. With two theatres, art gallery, museum, shop and bistro, it’s a really welcoming venue with a strong contemporary feel. Wander through the major exhibitions and see performances from some of the UK’s foremost musicians, actors, performers and enjoy films, shows and a programme of family activities.

Kings Gardens, Southport

Kings Gardens
Sitting between The Promenade and the Marine Lake is Kings Gardens, which has just undergone a multi million pound refurbishment. It’s great for a family day out, with children’s play area, gardens boats for hire, cafes, and picnic areas.

Splash World

Splash World
Splash World is Southport’s all weather water park so you can always have fun as it is a constant 84 degrees Fahrenheit inside! There are flumes, raft rides, bubble spa and a poolside cafe.

See www.visitsouthport.com and www.visitengland.com