The Joke Shop, Southport

Right, so you're after a laugh? The Joke Shop on Lord Street is your place. It's been there donkey's years, and it's still going strong. Don't expect some mega-store, it's a proper little shop crammed with all sorts of daft stuff. They've got everything from stink bombs to fake dog poo to whoopee cushions – the classics, you know? It's not going to win any awards for fancy displays, but that's not the point, is it?

I popped in the other day with my lad, and he was in stitches trying on all the different glasses - you know, the ones with the massive noses and eyebrows attached. The fella behind the counter was sound, too, having a laugh with us. Google says they're rocking a 4.1 from 16 reviews, which seems about right. It's not the Ritz, but it's good honest fun.

They're open most days, but give them a ring on 01704 546371 to be sure, especially if you're heading in on a Sunday. It's right in the middle of town, so parking can be a pain. Best bet is the Central 12 car park and walk over. And be warned: your kids will be begging you for a tenner's worth of plastic spiders and exploding sweets!