Southport, a seaside town near Greater Manchester, is hosting several events over the next couple of weeks, offering families a range of activities for day trips or short breaks during the summer holidays. With schools returning in September, visitors can enjoy attractions including a flower show, aircraft displays, and a water park.
Southport Flower Show Returns
From August 20 to August 23, the Southport Flower Show fills Victoria Park with colourful gardens, floral displays, and entertainment. The event includes show gardens, a Cookery Theatre, a Garden Theatre, and a shopping village.
This year’s special guests include BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Adam Frost, Arit Anderson, and Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke. Tickets start from £28 plus booking fees, and entry is free for under 16s.
Southport Airshow and Family Activities
On August 29 and 30, the Southport Airshow will see the Red Arrows return to the Lancashire coast. Spectators can catch aerial displays including the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, featuring the Spitfire, Hurricane, and Dakota, and Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers. Gates open at 10am, with displays running from around midday to 5pm. Tickets cost £13 for adults plus booking fees, while under 16s go free.
Visitors can also attend free craft workshops at The Atkinson on August 20 and 27, or explore its Egyptology Museum and art gallery without spending on entry. Families with little ones can check out the interactive children’s show Vera and her Velociraptor at Southport Market on August 28, featuring singing, dancing, and dinosaur adventures. Tickets start at £2 for adults, £6 for children aged two to fifteen, while under 2s go free.
Seaside Fun and Indoor Options
At Kings Gardens and Marine Lake, families can enjoy a classic seaside day out with crazy golf, a visit to the Southport Model Railway Village, and boat or pedalo hire. Thrill-seekers can stop by Adventure Coast Southport, which has free entry until August 31, with rides, entertainment, and themed lands. Rides are paid for separately, and an unlimited wristband costs £36.
If the weather turns, families can visit Dunes Splash World, Southport’s indoor waterpark featuring slides, flumes, and pools. It also hosts Quiet Nights, designed to create a calmer environment for neurodiverse visitors and those with disabilities.
