Marine Lake is one of the UK's largest man-made marine lakes. It sits right in the heart of Southport's seafront. And somehow, despite being large, beautiful, and right there, it's underused by the majority of visitors who come here. This is about to change with MLEC opening in 2027, but right now it's a genuinely underrated gem.
What's available on the lake
West Lancashire Yacht Club operates from the lake and offers sailing lessons and taster sessions to non-members. The club is one of the most active sailing clubs in the region — the annual 24-hour Dinghy Race every September is a genuinely spectacular event.
- →Sailing — lessons and club sessions via West Lancashire Yacht Club
- →Kayaking and paddleboarding — available through local providers seasonally
- →Model boating — the lake has a dedicated area for remote-controlled boats
- →Pedalos and rowing boats — seasonal, family-friendly option
Adventure Coast
Adventure Coast on Marine Drive overlooks the lake and has Viking Adventure Golf (genuinely well-designed, not the tired crazy golf you're imagining), go-karts, and various activity options. Good for families who want structured activity rather than open-water stuff.
Kids on the lake
The paddling and shallow areas near the promenade are safe for young children on calm days. The main sailing area is for properly supervised activities. If you've got kids who've never been on the water before, a sailing taster session at West Lancashire Yacht Club is a genuinely good experience and surprisingly affordable.
The MLEC effect
When the Marine Lake Events Centre opens in 2027, this whole area of the seafront is going to transform. The lake will be the centrepiece of a major entertainment and culture destination. Right now, you've got the lake and relative peace. In 2027, you'll have the lake plus 515,000 additional visitors a year. Worth making the most of the current quiet.
⛵The West Lancashire Yacht Club 24-hour Dinghy Race (September) is one of the most underrated spectator events in Southport. Over 500 competitors, coloured sails on the lake, free to watch. Put it in the diary.
Terry
Chief Editor, SouthportGuide.co.uk — Lives in Churchtown with his wife,
four kids, and Frank the bulldog.
