Things to Do in Southport During The Open
Activities, attractions, golf, and day trips for Open week 2026
More to Southport Than Golf
Most visitors to The Open spend the majority of their time at Royal Birkdale — but not every day, and not every member of every group. Southport is a proper seaside town with a lot to offer beyond the course, and Open week is actually a great time to explore it.
The town is buzzing, the restaurants are full of interesting people, the weather in July is usually the best it gets all year, and the beaches are at their finest. Whether you're looking for a morning off, a family day out, or something for a partner who doesn't follow golf, there's genuinely plenty to do.
🏖️ Beaches & Coast
Southport Beach & Pier
One of England's longest piers and a wide, family-friendly beach. The pier stretches 1,108 metres into the sea — a proper Southport institution worth walking on a clear morning.
Ainsdale Beach & Sand Dunes
A short drive south, Ainsdale's extensive dunes and open beach are excellent for a morning walk. The dune system is a National Nature Reserve and the beach itself has more space than anywhere else in the area.
Formby Beach & Red Squirrel Reserve
Twenty minutes south of Southport, the National Trust's Formby reserve has red squirrels, ancient pine woodland, and one of the best stretches of beach in the North West. A perfect half-day if you're not at the course.
⛳ Golf (Beyond Royal Birkdale)
Hillside Golf Club
Directly adjacent to Royal Birkdale and of similar quality — Hillside is one of England's finest links courses. If you're a golfer and want to play a course of genuine championship standard during Open week, Hillside is the answer. Book well ahead.
Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club
Another links course of real quality, minutes from Birkdale. Has hosted the Ryder Cup. Worth playing if Hillside is unavailable.
Hesketh Golf Club
A respected parkland course on the edge of Southport. More forgiving than the links courses but still an enjoyable round.
🎡 Family & Indoor Attractions
Pleasureland Southport
A traditional seaside amusement park on the seafront — good for families with younger children who need a break from golf. Rides, attractions, and food all in one site.
Southport Model Railway Village
A quirky and genuinely impressive scale model railway exhibition that surprises most visitors. Good for a couple of hours on a rainy afternoon.
Botanic Gardens & Museum
Southport's botanic gardens in Churchtown are beautiful in July. The adjacent Atkinson arts centre runs exhibitions. A peaceful morning option if you want something away from the Open buzz.
🛍️ Shopping & Lord Street
Lord Street
Southport's famous Victorian boulevard with a covered canopy running its length. Independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. One of the finest shopping streets in the North of England and worth exploring properly.
Wayfarers Arcade
A beautiful Victorian indoor arcade off Lord Street. Independent retailers, a good café, and one of Southport's best-preserved historic buildings.
Ocean Plaza Retail & Leisure
The seafront development has larger retail names, a cinema, and casual dining if you need a more relaxed shopping environment.
🚂 Day Trips
Liverpool (40 min by Merseyrail)
The Albert Dock, Beatles Museum, Liverpool FC or Everton stadium tours, world-class museums — all free or cheap. A full day out that's easy on the Merseyrail Southern line. Ideal for non-golf partners or a rest day.
Chester (1hr by road)
One of England's most complete walled medieval cities. The Rows, the Roman amphitheatre, the cathedral — excellent for a day away from the Open. Easy to drive or take public transport.
The Lake District (1hr 45min by road)
If you have a full free day and a car, the southern Lake District is within range. Windermere and Coniston are doable and back by evening.
Terry's picks for a day off from golf: Formby beach in the morning (arrive before 10am, the squirrels are more active), lunch at a Lord Street restaurant, afternoon at the Botanic Gardens in Churchtown. If the sun's out, it's hard to beat. If it rains — Liverpool on the train is 40 minutes and will keep you busy for a full day.
Southport Attractions Directory
View all →Things to Do FAQ
What is there to do in Southport during Open week if I'm not attending?
Southport has a good range of activities — beach and pier, Pleasureland, Botanic Gardens, Lord Street shopping, and excellent restaurants. The town also has a lively pub scene. For half-day trips, Formby beach and red squirrel reserve (20 minutes) and Liverpool city centre (40 minutes by train) are both excellent options.
Can I play golf in Southport during Open week?
Yes — Hillside Golf Club and Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club both offer public access and are among England's finest links courses. Book well in advance as Open week demand is high. Both courses sit adjacent to or near Royal Birkdale.
What can families do in Southport during The Open Championship?
Families are well served — Pleasureland amusement park on the seafront, Southport Pier and beach, Botanic Gardens in Churchtown, and Formby beach with the red squirrel reserve are all suitable for children. The Model Railway Village is a surprisingly good option for younger visitors.