Tucked between Blackpool and Liverpool, Southport is an overlooked gem on the northwest coast. Easily accessed by train on the Merseyrail and Northern lines, Southport is well-connected to nearby cities. Southport’s history as a leisure destination stretches back to the early Victorian period and while the historic pier and city streets are still welcoming visitors, there is now more to do than ever.
Golfing
Although most people associate golf with Scotland, the sport is popular around the UK and the area around Southport boasts so many high-quality golf courses that it has earned the nickname of ‘England’s golf coast’. Two of the most popular courses are the Bootle and Southport Links, which saw nearly 5,000 people showing up to play on their first week of the season this year. Other popular local courses include the Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club, the Royal Birkdale Golf Club and the Southport Old Links Golf Club. With the weather warming up, now is the perfect time to get out on the links for a fun day of golfing.
Staying in
While everyone loves a day out, sometimes the fun to be had closer to home is more appealing. Smartphones and tablets have made it easier than ever to indulge in a bit of relaxing gaming. Arcades have largely given way to personal consoles and traditional casinos seem to be heading in the same direction. The permanent closure of Southport’s Genting Casino could have left residents without a place to enjoy casino games but thankfully, recent years have seen the growth of online alternatives. UK online casinos like this specialise in offering the latest selections of all our casino-favourites across the country – arguably a finer selection than places like Genting were capable of offering, thanks to no physical restrictions and a far wider range of choices.
Seaside outings
Southport’s location on the northwest coast provides its residents and visitors with a wide variety of seaside destinations. With 22 miles of coastline stretching across Sefton, there are coastal walks to appeal to anyone. There are gentle beaches, rolling dunes and even one of the largest permanent outdoor art installations in the world – Antony Gormley’s eerie Another Place.
Southport beach itself boasts the second longest pier in the country: a Victorian-era iron pier that still has all of its original charm. The Pier Pavilion features old-fashioned arcade machines, ice cream and wonderful views. The Southport Promenade contains all of the essential attractions for a classic day at the seaside. King’s Gardens has lovely walks and a tea room, while those looking for a bit more excitement can head to Silcock’s Funland, with games and rides for all ages.
One popular seaside destination located near Southport is the National Trust nature reserve site at Formby. The nature reserve at Formby includes a long stretch of coast with sand dunes for seaside walks, along with pine forests with a colony of adorable native red squirrels. Most uniquely, though, it also includes an asparagus farming heritage walk – complete with a series of lovely carved wooden statues. Follow the trail to learn about an important part of Merseyside’s Victorian economy and get some lovely photo ops.
If a traditional day at the beach doesn’t appeal, Southport is also home to the Marshside RSPB reserve. A year-round destination for bird watchers, the Marshside reserve is home to nesting birds such as lapwings and waterfowl, including pink-footed geese. As entry is free (though parking must be paid for), the reserve is a popular location for a relaxing afternoon.
In town
Residents and visitors alike enjoy ambling along Southport’s Promenade and the wide streets with Victorian architecture and extensive shopping opportunities. Those looking for a bit of culture can also stop in at The Atkinson. This museum has something for everyone – there are a number of visiting art exhibitions as well as a permanent Ancient Egypt exhibition. It also features an area dedicated to local history.
The Southport skatepark has been a popular destination for local skateboarders since it opened in 2003. While minor improvements have been made over the years, the major refurbishment of the four ramps is an exciting development. The ramps should be ready for skaters as early as the beginning of June. While not everyone can tell a kickflip from an ollie, for those Southport residents who can, visiting this park is a favourite pastime.
Southport is a small seaside community that has made a name for itself, in spite of its proximity to the bustle of Liverpool and the attention-grabbing lights of Blackpool. There is something for everyone in Southport.
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