Discover The Atkinson: Southport’s cultural hub

Music, theatre, art, literature, and history

In many ways, The Atkinson is the focal point of Southport town centre.

The stunning Grade II-listed building is an iconic landmark, where local people and visitors congregate to enjoy the best of music, theatre, art, literature, and history.

The arts venue is the perfect indoor adventure for families, culture buffs, or those looking to find out more about local history.  First time visitors can easily lose a day exploring displays and enjoying the many different attractions on offer.

There’s so much to do, it’s hard to know where to begin - museums, exhibition spaces, live arenas, as well as a library, shop, and popular café.

We asked Charlotte Buckingham, The Atkinson’s Marketing Manager, to give us a guided tour to help you plan your day out.

Explore the Museum

“Our museums are split into two sections.  Between Land and Sea is our local History Museum and that tells the story of the people who have lived and worked along the Sefton coast.

“You’ll find displays on Aintree Racecourse, Sefton golf courses, and Southport in the Victorian-era.

“Then there’s the Egyptology Museum.  It’s a real snapshot of what life was like in Ancient Egypt.”

“The bulk of the collection originally belonged to local lady Mrs Anne Goodison, who was a collector of Egyptology during the 19th century.”

Visit the exhibitions

“Our fine art collection has around 3,500 works, which are displayed on rotation in the galleries.

“There’s a real mix of displays, something for everyone.  You might find a photography exhibition next to one focusing on fine art or something more family friendly.

Keep an eye out for the much-loved Sefton Open, an annual celebration of art and creativity that showcases the very best local talent across multiple styles.

Browse Southport Library

The Library is an expansive community space used and loved by many.

Along with a plentiful selection of soon-to-be-borrowed books, Southport Library offers free computer access, tourist information, and group activities.

“The Library offers a range of services.  It’s the information point for tourists – where you can pick up leaflets and ask for advice on your stay.”

“It’s also a real hub for the community too.  There’s ‘Story and Rhyme Time’ for toddlers, digital upskilling sessions, ancestry workshops, reading groups, and much more.”

Did you know? You can loan a ukelele from The Atkinson via The Ukelele Lending Library

See a show

“The Atkinson has two performing arts spaces; a theatre auditorium and a smaller studio space, where you’ll find music, comedy, children’s plays, theatre, and everything in between.

“There’s a mixture of touring musicians, national West End shows, and local bands and performers.”

Jason Manford, Dave Spikey, and Paul Smith have all played comedy shows here in recent years.  The Love Folk Festival is an annual celebration of all things folk music.

Meet with friends at A Great Little Place

The Atkinson’s in-house café is a popular meeting spot for locals and cultural visitors alike; so much so that tables can often be at a premium.

The lunch menu choices are abundant.  The artisan coffee and homemade pastries are a must.  Daily specials offer something new on every visit.

“A Great Little Place is run by Autism Initiatives, with incredible home-made, fresh food.  There are always daily specials and delicious cakes on offer.”

Browse the gift shop

No visit to a museum or cultural venue is complete without a stop-off at the gift shop.

“Our gift shop supports buying local and there is always a rotation of local artists and makers.

“That could be prints, jewellery, textiles, ceramics, or sculpture.”

Friends and neighbours

“If you’re interested in art in any way, The Art House is the place to go.  They host a regular rotation of local artists, as well as studios and workshops.

“There’s plenty of businesses in Cambridge Walks and Arcade, which is just around the corner.  Tap and Bottles is a favourite for pre-show drinks.  Then there’s Southport Market for something to eat before your visit.

The Atkinson is open Monday – Saturday.  Admission to museums and exhibition spaces is free.

Visit The Atkinson website to find out more.