As we all know, the north-west can be prone to erratic weather so rainy days are not unusual. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Southport to keep you smiling when the sun isn’t shining…
The north-west is well known for its unpredictable weather which keeps residents and those visiting for the weekend on their toes.
Still, come rain or shine, Southport’s myriad entertainment options and tight-knit community can offer a huge variety of different undercover family-friendly activities, and indoor attractions for rainy day fun.
If you live in Southport or are travelling from Liverpool or Manchester for a day by the sea, Southport is an easily accessible destination, no matter whether the sun is out or not. Even better, the town has different family-friendly indoor activities to cater for weather of all kinds.
Housed in a beautiful art deco building, the Atkinson is Southport’s cultural hub around which the town’s vibrant creative community orbits. From theatre productions and stage shows to its different galleries and exhibitions, there’s a huge amount for visitors to enjoy.
Music, comedy and performing arts all take place in the theatre and studio space with upcoming live events from household names including Wishbone Ash and G4 while seasonal attractions include pantomimes and more. Elsewhere, there are cultural talks held in the different exhibition spaces while child-friendly workshops and various community groups often gather too.
Culture vultures looking for indoor activities during a heavy downpour will enjoy taking refuge in the Egyptology gallery with its fascinating array of ancient artefacts. There is also the Local History museum which tells the story of Southport’s past and the people who have called it home. There are five galleries to choose from, making it one of the best things to do in Southport regardless of the weather. It’s easily accessible and has a cafe for any refuelling on an action-packed day.
If films are more your thing, then Southport has various cinemas to enjoy for rainy day entertainment. The Southport Bijou Cinema is a volunteer-run and not-for-profit Community Interest Company, which features a wide range of movies. Programming includes classics old and new, hard to find independent films and world cinema features too. Recent screenings have included ‘Withnail and I’, ‘Blinded by the Light’ and ‘The Breakfast Club’. Film buffs can even submit their requests for screenings of their favourites to the Bijou team or leave them on the Film Suggestions blackboard in the foyer. There is also a fantastic bar and cafe for visitors to unwind in before or after the film.
Ocean Plaza is Southport’s vast entertainment complex with a variety of family-friendly entertainment options and food and drink available. The Vue is a seven-screen cinema showing all the latest blockbusters for those wanting their dose of Hollywood action. Food options include classic high-street eateries such as Nando’s, Starbucks and Roberto’s Italian while the plaza is handily located close to the beach and town centre.
Tenpin Bowling and Playtown are other options for families looking to keep themselves entertained on a rainy day. Playtown is a soft play centre and party venue with children’s games and slides matched by a mouth-watering menu. Bowlers will love Tenpin with its 20 lanes, pool tables, arcades and even laser tag.
If the kids want some animal action, then Farmer Ted’s Adventure Farm and the Windmill Animal Farm are both close by. At Farmer Ted’s, visitors can take on the toboggan, go-karts, experience the Shaun the Sheep Adventure as well as meet many of the animals that call it home. Visitors to the Windmill Animal Farms will have the chance to watch and feed many of its animals too.
Finally, if you can’t stop the rain, then you can always fully embrace watery escapades at Splash World Southport. This indoor water park has plenty of slides and rides and is one of the town’s top tourist attractions whatever the weather. Just don’t forget your swimming costume - or umbrella.
