Southport Pier

Right, Southport Pier. You can't really miss it, can you? Proper old-school, built back in the Victorian days. It's a big iron walkway stretching right out into the sea. Not that the sea ever really *comes* in much these days, mind. Still, good for a stroll and a bit of fresh (salty) air. The Google reviews are pretty good - 4.4 stars from over three thousand people, so it's not just me who thinks it's alright.

It's mostly outdoors, obviously, but there's an arcade at the end with those old penny machines – proper nostalgic fun for the kids (and adults, let's be honest). They even have a little train that runs the length of the pier if your legs are knackered or the kids are moaning. You can phone them on 07402 339095 if you want to check anything. I think it's open most of the year, weather permitting. It's dead easy to find, right in the middle of Southport's front.

Good for families, yeah. Nothing too fancy, just simple seaside fun. It's free to walk on the pier, which is a bonus.

Parking can be a pain in the neck on a busy day, so get there early or try the car parks further back from the front.