A guide to living in Southport

July 23, 2021 | Laura Whittle

With its Parisian-style boulevards, 22 miles of stunning coastline, and the oldest (and second longest) iron pier in the country, there are lots of benefits to living in Southport – which is why this classy seaside town is the perfect place to lay down roots.

Southport has always been a glamourous destination. A popular resort for well-to-do holidaymakers during the 1930s, and the ideal place to retire to for those who could afford it. The town may have had its heyday in the Victorian era but there’s still an air of grandeur about the place – from its glorious annual flower show to some of the finest golf courses in the country.

As well as having a rich history, Southport also has an exciting future. The town is set to receive £37.5m of government funding to help transform the town centre and seafront, so it’s never been a more exciting time to move to this tranquil gem on the Sefton coast.

If you’re thinking of living in Southport, or you already call this beautiful town home, we’ve whittled down some of our favourite places to eat, drink and play.

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Ice cream cravings – Flavours Ice Cream & Coffee Bar

Like any other seaside town, Southport is known for its ice cream parlours. But when it comes to which one is best, we think Flavours Ice Cream scoops top spot – and those visiting or living in Southport agree.

Situated on Nevill Street, Flavours Ice Cream makes real dairy ice cream using locally sourced ingredients, including milk from Bates Dairy in Birkdale.

As their name suggests, there are plenty of ice cream flavours to choose from, including knickerbocker glories, banana splits and hot fudge sundaes. But we recommend the super-indulgent Eton Mess.

Find at 32/34 Nevill Street, Southport, PR9 0BX | www.silock-leisure.co.uk

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Shop till you drop – Central 12 Retail Park

Southport is a shopper’s paradise with lots of options to choose from, whether it’s the high street chains and independent designer shops on Lord Street with its wrought iron canopies, or the quirky independent shops of the Grade II listed Wayfarers Arcade.

However, we’re big fans of Central 12 Shopping Park. It’s just five minutes’ walk from the town centre and offers all your fashion favourites such as Outfit and Next, as well as a good selection of homeware retailers and coffee shops.

Positioned next to Southport Train station, it’s easily accessible and also has a large car park with ample parking for everyone.

Find at Derby Road, Southport, Merseyside, PR9 0TQ | www.c12shopping.co.uk

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Perfect for a pint – The Lakeside Inn

People living in Southport will find plenty of places to enjoy a pint, but one of the most unusual by far is The Lakeside Inn – one of the country’s tiniest watering holes.

Perched over Southport’s Marine Lake, The Lakeside Inn was officially crowned Britain’s smallest pub in 1989 (there’s even a certificate to prove it). Although it has since lost that crown, it remains one of smallest in the country.

The pintsized pub serves a range of cask ales, from local and national brewers, and there’s even room for customers to grab a pork pie.

So, a beer here is a Southport must. But be warned – with limited seating, you might have to wait your turn to get inside.

Find at The Promenade Marine Lake, Southport, PR9 0EA

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Let’s talk walks – Netherton to Crosby Marine Park

Fancy a hike? There are a wealth of walks to enjoy right across Southport, from coastal paths to meadows to meander through. But the walk from Netherton to Crosby Marine Park takes in a variety of views.

This combined cycling and walking route begins at the Aldrins Lane swing bridge on the Leeds–Liverpool Canal and continues westwards along the canal towpath, linking up with the tarmac pathway through Rimrose Valley Park.

The route then crosses the Liverpool–Southport railway between Seaforth and Waterloo stations to finish on the banks of the Mersey at Crosby swimming pool.

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Day out with a difference – The British Lawnmower Museum

There’s no shortage of things to do in Southport. Sure, you could have a splashing time at Dunes Splashworld water park or hit the rollercoasters at Pleasureland amusement park. But for something a little more out of the ordinary, head to The British Lawnmower Museum.

Located in Southport since 1987, this quaint and quirky shrine to all things lawnmowers offers a fascinating insight into the art of grass cutting, and even includes a collection of mowers that have been donated by celebrities over the years, including Brian May, Paul O’Grady, Eric Morecambe and even the king of gardening himself: Alan Titchmarsh.

Find at 106-114 Shakespeare St, Southport, PR8 5AJ | www.lawnmowerworld.com

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Champion chippy – Fylde Fish Bar

A trip to the seaside wouldn’t be complete without fish & chips. As you would expect from a coastal town, there’s no shortage of chippies to choose from. However, those living in Southport agree that you can’t beat the multi award-winning Fylde Fish Bar, who have a restaurant in Marshside as well as a sister shop in Birkdale.

As well as all your favourites, such as haddock and chips and homemade steak & kidney pudding (“a northern treasure”), there’s also Fylde specials such as panko-coated Cypriot halloumi. Cooked using locally sourced ingredients, this is posh fish and chips done right.

Find at 117 Fylde Road, Southport, PR9 9XP | www.fyldefishandchips.co.uk

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Setting up home near Southport

Want to experience the beach life for yourself? Our Sandhills Park development in Scarisbrick is conveniently situated on Southport Road, less than 4 miles from Southport Pier.