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The Atkinson
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A busy arts centre providing fun, creativity and a varied day out. It's free too.
May 2023 marked ten years since The Atkinson re-opened as a combined arts centre following a multi-million pound refurbishment. What a ride it has been, and they are only just getting started. The Atkinson presents an exciting variety of live music, comedy, theatre, art, history, and literature from this beautiful Grade II listed venue. There really is something for everyone.
The traditional theatre and dynamic studio space present an outstanding programme of music, comedy and performing arts. Families can enjoy seasonal pantomimes, magic shows, music and dance, as well as adaptations from best-selling authors. Every seat in the auditorium has a great view of the stage and accessible seating is available.
Be inspired in the art gallery and discover an impressive variety of work including paintings, sculpture, digital art and more. Five galleries feature work from The Atkinson’s own art collection, local artists and exhibitions delivered in partnership with other cultural organisations.
The stunning Egyptology museum takes visitors on a journey through ancient Egypt, showcasing Anne Goodison’s personal artefacts in an interactive display. Mrs Goodison was one of a handful of wealthy Victorian ladies in the north west, who were fascinated by ancient Egypt, and The Atkinson are lucky to have her collection to show you.
The local history museum, Between Land and Sea, tells the story of Sefton from prehistoric times to the present day. Bring objects to life by scanning QR codes with your phone, send a digital postcard from sunny Southport and take a selfie in a historic costume from the dressing up wall.
The Atkinson is home to Southport Library who offer a range of services to the local community and visitors alike. Oh, and not to mention there is an award-winning café and a fabulous gift shop too.
The building itself is fully accessible, with lifts to access all areas. There are toilets on all floors, baby changing facilities on the ground floor as well as full adult changing places facility on the first floor.
You are sure to enjoy discovering all The Atkinson has to offer.
| Galleries and museum (1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Day | Times | |
| Monday - Saturday | 10:00 | - 16:00* |
| Sunday | Closed* | |
| Bank Holiday | Closed | |
| Library (1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Day | Times | |
| Monday - Saturday | 10:00 | - 17:00 |
| Sunday | Closed | |
| Bank Holiday | Closed | |
| Cafe (1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Day | Times | |
| Monday - Saturday | 10:00 | - 16:00 |
| Sunday | Closed | |
| Bank Holiday | Closed | |
* The library is open but unmanned from 2pm on Saturday
Dates and times marked with a '*' are provisional and may be subject to change
Bill Tidy: Is there any news of the iceberg?This exhibition pays tribute to the comic genius who gave us The Cloggies and The Fosdyke Saga
Jordan Connerty in collaboration with RAWD The Boy KingAn autobiographical, vibrant and educational one man show celebrating 100 years since the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb. 
RumpelstiltskinGet ready to meet Rumpelstiltskin, a crafty creature with a knack for spinning gold.
Gigspanner Big BandThe Gigspanner Big Band are a unique force in British folk music.
The Sound of SpringsteenGet ready to experience the legacy of The Boss and rock the night away.
Grateful Fred's: Americana & Roots MusicGrateful Fred's have been pioneering Americana and Roots music in Formby, Southport and Liverpool since 2010 and during that time have presented some of the best US, Canadian and world artists.
Dinosaur Adventure LiveAn awe-inspiring interactive stage show that captivates both young and young at heart, immersing audiences in the enthralling and realistic world of dinosaurs.
Johnny Cash Roadshow: Through the Years TourThe only show to be endorsed by the Cash family. The Johnny Cash Roadshow is back and better than ever.
New date: Clinton Baptiste: Roller GhosterSolo again, Britain's most celebrated clairvoyant medium psychic from Peter Kay's Phoenix Nights returns with his brand new hilarious one-man stand up show.
Peter Andre In The Best of Frankie Valli and the Four SeasonsA spectacular high-pitched celebration of timeless music from one of the biggest selling groups of all time.
Rita, Sue & Bob Too!The record breaking hilarious 1987 cult classic Rita, Sue & Bob Too!
The Very Hungry CaterpillarThe Very Hungry Caterpillar Show is a vibrant celebration of Eric Carle's adored classics and the perfect introduction to live theatre.
Tom Ball: SpotlightThe vocal sensation who's racked up 85 million views and has been working with Grammy-winning writers.
Justin Moorhouse: The Greatest Performance Of My LifeA poignant exploration of comedy, intertwined with the essence of life's ups and downs.
Partner of Visit Lancashire 2018From the south, take the M6 to exit 26; the M58 will take you to Ormskirk and then take the A570 to Southport. From the north, follow the A59 from Preston (exit 31 from the M6) and then follow the signs to Southport. For direct routes please visit the AA route planner. Park & ride services - there are three operating park and ride services in Southport; the Esplanade, Kew and Fairways. Parking - there is on-road pay and display parking around Southport as well as a number of off-road car parks. For more detailed car parking information in Southport please visit Sefton website for car parking information.
With a network of travel centres across Merseyside, Merseytravel operate a number of bus services to and from Southport. National Express coaches serve Southport from all major UK towns and cities making the town easily accessibly by coach. With two airports less than an hour away, Southport is easily accessible by air. Liverpool John Lennon Airport is one of the UK’s longest established operational airports, and is located seven miles from Liverpool city centre, with major operators including KLM, Ryanair, easyJet and Wizz Air. Liverpool John Lennon Airport is fully integrated into the north west’s public transport system and located just ten minutes from the major motorway network making it easily accessible. Manchester International Airport is one of the UK’s most accessible international gateways, operating to more than 200 destinations. You can connect to the airport via a number of options including train, coach and road links. Daily ferry crossings arrive into Liverpool from Belfast, Dublin and the Isle of man. There are also sailings from Dun Laogshire to Holyhead.
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