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Things to Do in Southport with Kids

Southport, Merseyside

Southport is a classic seaside resort packed with family attractions, from the famous pier and Marine Lake to Splash World waterpark and charming gardens. With so much to offer rain or shine, it is one of Merseyside's top family destinations, and Bubbles World of Play is just 30 minutes away for even more fun.

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Ready-Made Day Plans

Take the stress out of planning with these curated full-day itineraries for Southport

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Morning

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM activity
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Southport Beach & Promenade

Enjoy the long sandy beach, build sandcastles, fly kites, and walk along the Victorian promenade

2 hours
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Afternoon

12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

1:30 PM - 3:30 PM activity
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Southport Pleasureland or Pier

Choose Pleasureland theme park for rides and amusements, or the classic Victorian pier for traditional seaside fun

2 hours

💡 Helpful Tips

  • Southport is quieter on weekdays outside school holidays
  • Beach can be very wide at low tide - sea may not be visible
  • Lord Street has excellent shopping if parents want to browse
  • Free parking available along the promenade
  • Pleasureland operates pay-per-ride - budget accordingly
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Morning

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM activity
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Museum of Liverpool

Start your day exploring Liverpool's fascinating history through interactive exhibits. The museum opens at 10am, so arrive early to beat crowds and pick up a free family trail at reception.

3 hours
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Afternoon

12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM activity
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Bubbles World of Play

Let the kids burn off energy in our premium soft play center while you relax with a coffee. Perfect end to a rainy day with climate-controlled comfort

2 hours

💡 Helpful Tips

  • Check Museum of Liverpool for any special family events or trails happening that day
  • Weekday visits are quieter than weekends
  • Bring spare clothes for Bubbles in case of spills
  • Download the museum family trail before you visit
  • Allow extra time for Albert Dock exploration if kids want to see the boats
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Morning

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

10:00 AM - 12:30 PM activity
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Crosby Beach & Another Place Sculptures

Explore the famous iron men sculptures at low tide, build sandcastles, paddle in the sea, and enjoy classic beach activities

2.5 hours
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Afternoon

12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM activity
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Sefton Park Playground & Gardens

Let kids play on the adventure playground, feed the ducks at the lake, or explore the Palm House gardens

2 hours

💡 Helpful Tips

  • Check tide times for Crosby Beach - low tide is essential for the full sculpture experience
  • Bring sun cream, hats, and plenty of water
  • Beach shoes recommended for walking among sculptures
  • Sefton Park has toilets and cafes if you need refreshments
  • Consider visiting Bubbles if the weather forecast changes

💡 Pro Tip: These are flexible suggestions! Mix and match activities based on your family's interests, or use them as inspiration for your own custom day plan.

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Top Family Activities in Southport

Discover the best places to visit with children in the area

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Marine Lake

outdoor

A scenic saltwater lake in the heart of Southport offering pedalos, mini golf, a large playground, and lovely lakeside walks.

Why visit: Multiple activities in one location with something for every age group

👶 All ages
📍 The Promenade, Southport PR9 0DZ
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Splash World

indoor

An exciting indoor waterpark featuring flumes, a wave machine, water slides, and a toddler splash area, open all year round.

Why visit: Thrilling water fun whatever the weather, with areas for all ages

👶 All ages
📍 Esplanade, Southport PR8 1RX
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The Atkinson

indoor

A free museum and gallery hosting regular children's events, interactive exhibitions, and creative workshops in an impressive building on Lord Street.

Why visit: Free admission with engaging exhibitions and regular family-focused events

👶 All ages, especially 3-12 years
📍 Lord Street, Southport PR8 1DB
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King's Gardens Playground

outdoor

A large adventure playground set within beautiful sensory gardens along the Southport promenade, with equipment for a wide range of ages.

Why visit: Excellent playground with sensory garden elements and sea views

👶 All ages
📍 The Promenade, Southport PR8 1QX
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Bubbles World of Play

indoor Bubbles

A premium soft play center offering a safe, clean environment for children to climb, slide, and play. Features dedicated areas for different age groups and a comfortable cafe for parents.

Based in New Brighton, Wirral — a short trip from Southport.

Why visit: Worth the 30-minute drive for premium soft play facilities and a relaxing parent experience

👶 0-11 years
📍 20 Marine Point, Kings Parade, New Brighton, Wirral, Merseyside, CH45 2HZ

Plan Your Visit

Find the perfect activities for any occasion in Southport

Activity Ideas

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Splash World

Embrace the water indoors with flumes, wave machines, and splash zones when the rain moves in.

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The Atkinson

Explore free exhibitions and join children's workshops at this welcoming museum and gallery.

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Bubbles World of Play

Let the kids burn energy in our climate-controlled soft play center while you relax with a coffee.

Indoor Play Centre

Planning Tips

  • 💡 Check opening times before you visit - some attractions have reduced hours
  • 💡 Book online in advance to avoid disappointment during busy periods
  • 💡 Pack spare clothes and towels for little ones who might get wet on the way
  • 💡 Indoor play centres are perfect for burning energy whatever the weather

Activity Ideas

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Marine Lake

Hire pedalos, play mini golf, and enjoy the playground by the lake on a sunny day.

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King's Gardens Playground

Let the children loose on the adventure playground and explore the sensory gardens in the sunshine.

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Splash World

Cool off from the summer heat in the wave pool and flumes.

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Bubbles World of Play

Air-conditioned comfort when it gets too hot outside, or backup for rainy summer days.

Indoor Play Centre

Planning Tips

  • 💡 Apply sunscreen regularly and bring hats for sun protection
  • 💡 Pack plenty of water and snacks to keep everyone hydrated
  • 💡 Visit outdoor attractions early in the day to avoid peak crowds
  • 💡 Have a backup indoor option ready in case the weather changes

Activity Ideas

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King's Gardens Playground

Watch the sensory gardens come alive with spring colour while the children enjoy the playground.

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Bubbles World of Play

Perfect spring activity when April showers interrupt outdoor plans.

Indoor Play Centre
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The Atkinson

Half-term workshops and seasonal exhibitions make this a top autumn choice for families.

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Splash World

Stay warm in the heated pools and enjoy winter holiday swim sessions.

Planning Tips

  • 💡 Book activities early as holiday periods get busy quickly
  • 💡 Mix active and quiet activities throughout the day for balance
  • 💡 Look for holiday clubs and special events at local attractions
  • 💡 Plan a mix of free and paid activities to manage your budget

Activity Ideas

🏛️
The Atkinson

A free museum and gallery hosting regular children's events, interactive exhibitions, and creative workshops in an impressive building on Lord Street.

🌲
King's Gardens Playground

A large adventure playground set within beautiful sensory gardens along the Southport promenade, with equipment for a wide range of ages.

🎈
Bubbles World of Play

Perfect spring activity when April showers interrupt outdoor plans.

Indoor Play Centre
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Marine Lake

The perfect summer destination with pedalos on the lake and ice cream along the promenade.

Planning Tips

  • 💡 Leave early to make the most of your day and beat the traffic
  • 💡 Combine multiple nearby attractions for a full day out
  • 💡 Check attraction websites for any special weekend events
  • 💡 Pack a picnic to save time and money on food

Looking for an all-weather indoor option?

🎈Book Your Visit to Bubbles

What Southport Families Say

Hear from local parents about their experiences finding activities in Southport

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"Southport has everything for a full family day out. We usually start at Marine Lake, grab fish and chips, then drive to Bubbles if the kids still have energy. They always do."

- Rachel K.

Southport
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"I bring my grandchildren to Southport most school holidays. Splash World is always a hit, and when we want something different, Bubbles is a lovely 30-minute drive along the coast."

- Brian H.

Southport

Activity Locations in Southport

Find family-friendly activities and attractions in and around Southport

Soft Play Near Southport

Get detailed directions, travel info, and everything you need to know about visiting Bubbles World of Play from Southport.

View Soft Play in Southport

Marine Lake

The Promenade, Southport PR9 0DZ

Splash World

Esplanade, Southport PR8 1RX

The Atkinson

Lord Street, Southport PR8 1DB

King's Gardens Playground

The Promenade, Southport PR8 1QX

Bubbles World of Play

20 Marine Point, Kings Parade, New Brighton, Wirral, Merseyside, CH45 2HZ

Explore Nearby Areas

Discover family activities in locations near Southport

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Formby

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Explore Formby →
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Maghull

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Explore Maghull →
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Kirkby

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Explore Kirkby →
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Planning a Birthday Party in Southport?

Make your child's special day unforgettable at Bubbles World of Play. We handle everything from invitations to party food, so you can relax and enjoy the celebration.

View Birthday Party Packages
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Looking for Soft Play Near Southport?

Bubbles World of Play is easily accessible from Southport. Check out detailed directions and travel information from your specific area.

View Soft Play Locations
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Looking for indoor fun in Southport? Visit Bubbles World of Play!

🎟️ Book Your Visit Now