Top Reasons to Live in Southport
The Charm of Southport
Southport is a historic and picturesque seaside town located in Merseyside, UK. Southport is a favoured spot among vacationers who seek a laid-back holiday, thanks to its sandy shores, wharfs, and Victorian style. In this piece, we’ll delve into some of the leading sites to see in Southport. The first one is Southport Pier, a famous monument and a highly sought-after destination in Southport.
1. Southport Pier
Southport Pier is an iconic landmark and one of the most popular attractions in Southport. The pier is the oldest iron pier in the country and stretches for over a mile into the Irish Sea. Initially constructed in 1860, this structure has undergone several reconstructions due to destruction caused by fires and storms throughout the years. Today, the pier is a popular spot for a leisurely stroll, with stunning views of the coast and the sea. There’s also a small amusement arcade at the end of the pier, as well as a café where visitors can grab a drink or a snack.
2. The Atkinson
The Atkinson is a multi-arts venue that’s located in the heart of Southport. It features a museum, gallery, and theatre, as well as a café and gift shop. The museum houses a wide range of exhibits on the history and culture of Southport and the surrounding area, including displays of the town’s maritime heritage, its role in World War II, and its famous residents. The art gallery presents a rotating series of exhibitions that display works from both local and global artists. Meanwhile, the theatre hosts various performances, such as plays, concerts, and comedy shows, throughout the year.
3. The Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Gardens is a beautiful park that’s located just outside of Southport town centre. It was first opened in 1874 and features a wide range of plant species from around the world, including rare and exotic plants. The park is a popular spot for a leisurely stroll, with plenty of benches and picnic areas for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery. There’s also a small café where visitors can grab a drink or a snack.
4. Lord Street
Lord Street is the main shopping street in Southport and is famous for its Victorian architecture. The street is lined with elegant, white-washed buildings that date back to the 19th century, and it’s a popular spot for a leisurely stroll. There are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants along the street, as well as some of Southport’s most iconic buildings, including the former Town Hall and the Royal Clifton Hotel.
5. Marine Lake
Marine Lake is a large saltwater lake that’s located just outside of Southport town centre. It’s a popular spot for water sports like sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking, and there are plenty of facilities nearby for visitors to rent equipment or take lessons. Additionally, there exists a pathway beside the lake that’s ideal for a relaxed walk, providing breathtaking views of the lake and the nearby countryside.
6. Southport Model Railway Village
Southport Model Railway Village is a miniature village that’s located just outside of Southport town centre. It features an impressive collection of model trains and is a great place to take the kids for a fun day out. The village is created to resemble a classic English village, containing tiny homes, stores, and other structures. Visitors can watch the trains as they weave their way through the village, and there’s also a café and gift shop on-site.
7. Hesketh Park
Hesketh Park is a beautiful park that’s located just a short walk from Southport town centre. It features a large lake, a rose garden, and a children’s play area, as well as plenty of green space for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery. The park is a favoured location for picnics and serves as a habitat for various wildlife, such as ducks, swans, and other animals.
8. Southport has Several Beaches
- Ainsdale Beach
- Southport Beach
- Formby Beach
- Crosby Beach
- Hightown Beach
9. Ainsdale Pinewoods
Ainsdale Pinewoods is a nature reserve located in Ainsdale, Southport, UK. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and offers a range of activities, such as hiking, cycling, birdwatching, and picnicking. The reserve features a large expanse of sand dunes, as well as a variety of plant and animal species, including the rare Natterjack Toad. The area is also home to a number of well-marked trails, including the Trans Pennine Trail, which runs through the reserve.
10. Voted in the top 10 places to Live
In 2020, a survey by the Sunday Times ranked Southport among the most desirable places to live in the North West.
(Image by Andrew Hall)
