Southport campsites

Southport, a classic coastal town, charms visitors with lovely outdoor spaces, fun family attractions and great nightlife entertainment.

One of the must-see attractions right off the bat is Southport Pier. It's a Grade II listed structure, standing the test of time for the past 150 years with views stretching all the way to Blackpool and through the mists, a hint of Welsh Coast. You can't beat a walk here - or a hop on the pier tram - and there are also family amusements and a pavilion serving the quintessentially English option of a cuppa.

It isn't all go big or go home, though. Try the Lakeside Miniature Railway and mini Southport Model Railway Village to see the world on a different scale. You'll find the railway within Southport Pleasureland,  which is packed with family-friendly rides. All your favourites are here: a carousel, waltzers and the tea cups. There are a few new kids in town too, such as the Matterhorn rollercoaster, guaranteed to take your breath away.

Looking for lovely outdoor areas to explore? Check out Ainsdale Beach. More than just a pretty spot for topping up your tan, it's popular for all kinds of kite sports. There's a kite buggy zone, landboarding spaces and, naturally, heaps of kitesurfers to join. The nearby Discovery Centre will clue you up on Southport's beach wildlife.

RSPB Marshside is one of Merseyside's best spots for birdwatchers, brimming with colonies and showing off nesting during the summer. You'll be able to hit the reset button in Hesketh Park and round off the perfect day in the outdoors at Southport's Botanic Gardens, which offer an aviary, set in Victorian gardens. Southport Marine Lake deserves a space on your list for gentle rides on pedalos and motor boat hire, as well as exhilarating powerboat rides.

Southport also has great nightlife entertainment. Take in a show at one of the live performance venues such as the Little Theatre Southport and the Atkinson. The Atkinson is also home to art collections and a fascinating museum, while for something  totally unique on your trip, why not visit the British Lawnmower Museum.

To get a real flavour of the place, time your visit for June, to coincide with the Southport Food and Drink Festival. There are also many pubs and restaurants to choose from for a great night out, but try to order as much seafood and fish as you can - you know it'll be the best of the catch in this seaside spot!

Want to take things at a relaxed and enjoyable pace? Then head to one of the several great golf clubs in Southport. For faster-paced action, however, time your visit for September and let the Southport Air Show captivate you.

There's plenty more to see nearby such as Ribble Estuary National Nature Reserve and the cities of Liverpool and Preston, which can be reached in under an hour by car.