How to Plan an Historic Day Out in Southport

Living in such a vibrant town has never been better, but there’s certainly a lot to Southport that has been lost in history. No matter how much you love today’s high street, a stroll down the pier, or the buzzing nightlife scene, wouldn’t you be interested to find out a bit more about how Southport used to be? Take a trip down memory lane with us as we plan a visit to Southport through the ages.

Southport’s Historic Buildings

Although the Grand Casino in Southport has been derelict for some time, its faded facade makes for the start of an interesting walk around some of the town’s historic buildings. The Southport Grand Casino was built in 1923 and although it was to be used as a car showroom it was an imposing building. Its next two uses were to be the most glamorous, firstly a cinema, and next, a casino. Many of us will remember it only as a casino, with exciting gaming options, a glamorous interior, and a flash bar. Nowadays it won’t be possible to recreate the fun of the casino at the Grand, but if you want to play then there’s nobody to stop you sitting in the gardens outside and enjoying a mobile casino game. If you make use of a PokerStars promo code then you might even be able to play for free.

Once you’ve taken in the Grand, it’s time to move on to the next building on the list, the Southport Promenade Hospital. Built in 1806, this stunning Victorian building was once the hospital for the region. However, since then it has been Grade II listed and turned into luxury flats. Fondly known as the Marine Gate Mansions by locals, these apartments are amongst the most sought after in the town.

Visit the Pier

After looking around the Marine Gate Mansions you’ll be just a skip across the lake from Southport Pier. Although many of us take the pier for granted, it is a spectacular example of iron architecture. As well as being beautiful to look at, it is the oldest iron pier in the whole country, and with a length of just over a kilometre, by the time you’ve walked to the end and back you’ll be just about ready for some lunch!

A Picnic To Go

For those who can bear to save this day out until the summer, you will be well rewarded. The Southport Food and Drink Festival is one of the most delicious events to come to the town. Take a picnic basket with you and fill it with whatever takes your fancy. You can either eat at Victoria Park where it’s held, or you can avoid the crowds and take in a little more history.

The Botanic Gardens were first opened in 1874, so like the Marine Gate Mansions, they’re of the Victorian era. They’re very happy for you to enjoy a picnic amongst the greenery, so bring a blanket and settle in for the afternoon. Before you leave be sure to check out the stunning greenhouses and the aviary which houses two beautiful gold and blue macaws.