Southport offers a beautiful blend of coastal charm, rich history, and scenic landscapes, all within easy reach of Sunnyside Guest House. With so many attractions accessible on foot or by train and bus, you can experience Southport and its surroundings entirely car-free. Iconic attractions such as King’s Gardens, the bustling Lord Street shopping district, The Atkinson gallery, and Splash World are just a short stroll away from the guest house. For those interested in venturing further, here are the top 10 day trips from Sunnyside Guest House, each offering something unique.
1. Liverpool: A Day of Culture and History
Transport Mode: Train
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes (Merseyrail Northern Line)
- Route: Southport Station to Liverpool Central
- Duration: 45 minutes
The lively city of Liverpool is a cultural and historical gem, easily reachable by train. Discover landmarks like the iconic Royal Liver Building and Liverpool Cathedral, or explore the Royal Albert Dock for attractions like Tate Liverpool and The Beatles Story Museum. Liverpool is the perfect place for shopping, dining, and entertainment, making it an ideal day trip.
Highlight: Visit the Cavern Quarter to immerse yourself in The Beatles’ legacy and Liverpool’s famous music scene.
2. Crosby Beach and “Another Place” Art Installation
Transport Mode: Train
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes (Merseyrail Northern Line)
- Route: Southport Station to Waterloo Station
- Duration: 20 minutes to Waterloo, then a short walk to Crosby Beach
Crosby Beach offers a unique experience with Antony Gormley’s “Another Place” installation, featuring 100 cast-iron statues spread across the beach. It’s a mesmerizing spot for photography, especially at low tide when all statues are visible.
Photography Tip: Capture the figures at sunset or sunrise for stunning silhouettes against the sky.
3. Formby Pine Woods and Red Squirrel Reserve
Transport Mode: Train
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes (Merseyrail Northern Line)
- Route: Southport Station to Formby Station
- Duration: 25 minutes to Formby, followed by a short walk to the pine woods
Formby Pine Woods, home to one of the UK’s last red squirrel populations, offers trails through serene pine woodlands and scenic beach access. Walk or cycle along paths leading to Formby’s sand dunes for a truly immersive nature experience.
Insider Tip: Bring binoculars to spot red squirrels and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
4. Port Sunlight Village: A Journey into the Past
Transport Mode: Train
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes (Merseyrail Northern and Wirral Lines, with a transfer at Liverpool Central)
- Route: Southport Station to Bebington Station via Liverpool Central
- Duration: 1 hour
Step back in time with a visit to Port Sunlight Village, a charming historical village built by Lever Brothers in the 19th century. Discover well-preserved Arts and Crafts-style architecture, beautiful gardens, and the impressive Lady Lever Art Gallery.
Highlight: Explore the Port Sunlight Museum to learn about the unique history of this picturesque village.
5. Southport Botanic Gardens in Churchtown
Transport Mode: Bus
- Frequency: Every 20 minutes (Arriva Bus 44)
- Route: Southport Lord Street to Churchtown
- Duration: 15 minutes
The Southport Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful escape with manicured gardens, historic statues, and a beautiful Victorian fernery. Located in the quaint village of Churchtown, this is a lovely spot for a picnic or leisurely stroll.
For Families: The gardens have an aviary and small playground that kids will love.
6. Ainsdale Beach and Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve
Transport Mode: Train
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes (Merseyrail Northern Line)
- Route: Southport Station to Ainsdale Station
- Duration: 10 minutes to Ainsdale, followed by a 10-minute walk to the beach
Ainsdale Beach is a vast, scenic expanse known for its sand dunes and wildlife. It’s a perfect destination for beachgoers, birdwatchers, and those looking to explore protected natural habitats on foot or by bike.
Tip: The nature reserve offers seasonal guided walks where you can learn about the unique coastal ecosystem.
7. Martin Mere Wetland Centre
Transport Mode: Bus
- Frequency: Every hour (Arriva Bus 300)
- Route: Southport Lord Street to Martin Mere (alight at Tarlscough Village and walk 10 minutes)
- Duration: 30 minutes
This wetland reserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with bird hides, walking trails, and a chance to observe otters up close. It’s an excellent choice for a family-friendly day of outdoor exploration, especially during seasonal bird migrations.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn brings thousands of migrating birds to the wetlands, creating a spectacular natural display.
8. Southport Coastal Road: Biking Adventure to Hightown
Transport Mode: Bicycle
- Route: Coastal road southwards to Hightown, approximately 7 miles from Southport
- Duration: 1–2 hours (one-way), depending on stops
The Southport coastal path is ideal for a scenic bike ride southward to Hightown. You’ll pass coastal grasslands, sandy beaches, and sand dunes, with plenty of scenic spots to stop and enjoy the view.
Cycle Tip: Pack a picnic or snacks to enjoy at one of the coastal stopping points along the route.
9. Freshfield Squirrel Reserve and Sand Dunes
Transport Mode: Train
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes (Merseyrail Northern Line)
- Route: Southport Station to Freshfield Station
- Duration: 25 minutes to Freshfield, followed by a 10-minute walk to the reserve
Freshfield offers another opportunity to encounter red squirrels in a beautiful pinewood and sand dune setting. It’s a tranquil alternative to busier beaches, with accessible trails leading to quiet stretches of coastline.
Family Fun: Kids love the gentle trails and beach access, making it an easygoing day out for families.
10. Chester: Roman History and Medieval Charm
Transport Mode: Train
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes, with a single transfer at Moorfields Station in Liverpool
- Route: Southport Station to Chester via Liverpool
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Chester is an ancient city rich in history, with origins dating back to Roman times. Known for its well-preserved city walls, Chester also boasts a Roman amphitheater, Chester Cathedral, and beautiful half-timbered Tudor buildings along its famous Chester Rows. A short walk around the city offers everything from unique shopping and dining to panoramic views atop the walls. Despite the longer journey, a train ride from Southport with just one transfer brings you right into the heart of Chester, making it an affordable and easy day trip for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.