Things To Do
in Southport
Southport is a historic seaside town on the Fylde coast in Merseyside, England. It blends elegant Victorian and Edwardian architecture with a modern promenade, pristine beaches, and leafy parks. The town is famed for its long sandy beaches, the iconic Southport Pier, and top golf at nearby Royal Birkdale and Hillside courses.
It serves as a convenient base for exploring Formby dunes and the wider Merseyside coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the historic streets of Southport, where you can admire the stunning Victorian architecture. Visit the Southport Town Hall and take a moment to appreciate its intricate design and historical significance. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional English breakfast to energize your day.
After lunch, head to the Southport Pier, one of the longest piers in the UK, and enjoy a leisurely walk along its length. You can explore the amusement park at the pier and even take a ride on the charming carousel. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the nearby Marine Lake, where renting a pedal boat can provide a fun way to relax on the water.
As the sun sets, dine at one of Southport's cozy restaurants that offer local seafood specialties. Enjoy the ambiance as you savor your meal, and perhaps pair it with a fine wine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the promenade, where the evening lights create a magical atmosphere.
Kick off your day with a visit to Southport's beautiful sandy beach, where the fresh sea air and sound of waves create a perfect start. Spend some time lounging on the beach or simply walking along the shore, collecting seashells. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to experience the water up close.
After your morning on the beach, grab a quick lunch at one of the beachside cafes, enjoying a view of the bustling seaside. Continue your water adventure by trying your hand at windsurfing or kite surfing, with lessons available for beginners. Alternatively, take a break and relax on the beach with a good book while soaking up the sun.
As the day winds down, head to one of the beachfront bars for a refreshing cocktail as the sun sets over the horizon. The vibrant atmosphere will set the perfect backdrop for a casual dinner with friends. Enjoy some live music or entertainment often featured at these lively venues.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🥪Lunch sandwich or takeaway meal | $6-9 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way local transport ticket | $3-4 |
| 🏨Night in a mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and seafront with a long pier
- Excellent golf courses nearby and leafy parks
- Walkable town centre with Victorian architecture
- Good rail links to Liverpool and Preston for day trips
- Weather can be variable and frequently rainy
- Seasonal crowds in summer can reduce tranquility
- Nightlife is more pub- and cafe-based than club-focused
Places to Visit in Southport
Visit one of these nice places.
One of Britain's longest pleasure piers with sweeping sea views and a lighthouse at the end.
Elegant Victorian architecture, glass canopies and arcades perfect for architectural photography.
Wide sandy shores, colourful beach huts and expansive sea horizons at low tide.
Subtropical glasshouses and lush plant displays set in a tranquil park.
Arts centre and historic building with interesting façades and creative spaces.
Food in Southport
Southport Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty beef or lamb stew with vegetables, traditionally served with crusty bread or pickled cabbage; widely available in pubs around Southport.
Must-Try!
Golden battered fish with chunky chips, best enjoyed from a seaside chippy near the promenade, with mushy peas and tartar sauce.
Scones with clotted cream and jam, enjoyed in a traditional tea room after a stroll along the seafront.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A revived Victorian market hall with a range of traders, bars and street food stalls offering local and international bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British etiquette favors orderly queues; wait your turn and be polite.
A simple greeting and 'please'/'thank you' go a long way in shops and pubs.
Respect local spaces and wildlife; avoid loud behavior near dunes and nature reserves.
Safety
Tipping in Southport
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and pubs, usually 10-15% if service isn’t included.
Card payments (including contactless) are widely accepted; cash is still handy in smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with spring blooms around the Botanic Gardens; great for walking and early-season coastal photography.
Long daylight hours and warm temperatures; peak beach and promenade activity, so expect crowds.
Cooler air and dramatic sea breezes; ideal for colors in parks and dune landscapes.
Often windy and chilly with frequent rain; indoor attractions and festive events provide warmth.
Southport at Night
Hiking in Southport
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic sandy dunes and pinewood trails with wildlife viewing.
Extensive dunes and coastal habitats perfect for long hikes.
Hilly coastal reserve with woodland trails and views over the Merseyside coast.
Airports
How to reach Southport by plane.
Approximately 25–40 miles from Southport; accessible by car or frequent rail links via Liverpool.
A major international hub about 1.5–2 hours by road or rail from Southport.
A smaller regional airport within an hour’s drive offering limited flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many visitors and residents are families drawn to beaches, parks and kid-friendly attractions.
A sizeable retiree community with a long-standing local presence.
A mix of commuters and students in the wider Merseyside area.
Seasonal visitors from the North West and beyond drawn to beaches, golf and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class courses nearby, including Royal Birkdale and Hillside.
Local club matters in regional leagues; Southport FC hosts matches in town.
Local clubs offer seasonal play and community cricket events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Southport.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer meat-free options; look for veggie mains or a meat-free day menu and ask about cross-contamination if needed.