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Looking for a day out that’s packed with creativity, imagination, and fun for all ages? The Atkinson is the place to be! This vibrant arts centre has a fantastic mix of exhibitions, performances, and hands-on activities, many of which are completely free.

From interactive exhibitions to colourful workshops and inspiring performances, there’s something to spark curiosity in every member of the family. Step into the galleries to explore a world of art and stories, journey to Middle-earth, get inspired by ice cream, or travel back in time to the 19th century! Kids will love dressing up in the local history museum and uncovering treasures in the Egyptology room. And don’t forget to drop into the free family workshops happening all through the summer holidays.

In The Atkinson’s Theatre, the fun continues with Flowers & Friendship Bracelets (1 Aug), a high-energy pop party where you can sing along to hits by Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, Olivia Rodrigo, and Sabrina Carpenter. And for families who love a bit of history with a twist, Horrible Histories: Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians (5 & 6 Sep) brings the past to life, with all the gory bits left in!

At Southport Library, little bookworms can climb aboard the magical reading ship in the extended children’s section and join the Story Garden Summer Reading Challenge. Kids can earn fun rewards like stickers and certificates just for enjoying their favourite stories.

The Atkinson is designed with families in mind, fully accessible for buggies and little legs, with lifts, rails, toilets on every floor, baby changing facilities, and a fully equipped Changing Places facility.

Located right in the heart of Southport’s iconic Lord Street and just a 3-minute walk from the train station, The Atkinson is your go-to destination for a creative, fun-filled family day out. Check out the full list of summer events and start planning your adventure today!

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16 October 2026

Once Upon a Half Term... Discover What's On at The Atkinson

As Books Alive! brings storytelling magic to venues across Southport, The Atkinson is hosting a packed programme of family-friendly events designed to spark imaginations and create lasting memories.

16 October 2026

Acclaimed new play Lightstreams shines a light on the hidden sacrifices of migrant care workers

A powerful new drama inspired by the real-life testimonies of migrant health and social care workers will come to The Atkinson this October

14 October 2026

Gilbert & George exhibition comes to The Atkinson in Southport in collaboration with ARTIST ROOMS

The first Gilbert & George exhibition in the North West for 30 years comes to The Atkinson in Southport in collaboration with ARTIST ROOMS.

9 October 2026

Books Alive! Fringe Festival Brings More Family Fun to The Atkinson This Half Term

Families can enjoy even more free storytelling adventures this October half term as The Atkinson announces Books Alive! Fringe Festival line-up

1 October 2026

Three Must-See Exhibitions Closing This October

Don't miss your final opportunity to explore three remarkable exhibitions at The Atkinson.

29 September 2026

Next chapter of Books Alive! revealed as Southport prepares for October half term

The Jolly Postman Book Trail locations unveiled and dozens of free Festival of Stories events announced

21 September 2026

Critically acclaimed Bright Places embarks on
a UK tour with a joyful, unflinching look at
life with multiple sclerosis

Touring the UK this autumn, Bright Places is a joyous and life-affirming show about coming to terms with being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS).

17 September 2026

Books Alive! Exciting chapter as Southport to become living storybook this October half term!

Southport is to become a living storybook for October half term as Books Alive! brings a world of imagination and adventure to the town.

14 September 2026

THE ZOO IS COMING TO SOUTHPORT!

Rod Campbell’s much-loved Dear Zoo returns live on stage

1 September 2026

The Atkinson in Southport announces cast of this year’s family panto Cinderella

Bringing magic, romance and wicked sisters to Southport this Christmas from 4 - 31 December 2026

25 August 2026

Battle Of Mons Commemoration held in Southport to honour sacrifices made in World War One

A special service was held at Southport War Memorial on Friday (21st August 2026) to mark 112 years since the Battle Of Mons, which took place in Belgium in the early stages of World War One.

14 August 2026

The Next Act: Drama, Music, Comedy and Family Fun Awaits

There's plenty to look forward to on The Atkinson stage in the months ahead. Take a look at the fantastic shows coming soon...

7 August 2026

The Atkinson in Southport celebrating another ‘very good’ rating by Visit England

The Atkinson in Southport has retained its “Very Good” rating after a mystery shopper visit by the national tourism agency, VISIT ENGLAND.

6 August 2026

Join our team:
Marketing Manager

We are seeking a Marketing Manager to lead the development and delivery of innovative marketing, communications and audience development strategies for our ambitious cultural programme.

9 July 2026

Humanitarian, inspirational speaker and tennis coach Sam Jalloh presents new ‘Yes I Can’ show in Southport

Award-winning humanitarian, inspirational speaker and tennis coach Sam Jalloh will be presenting his brand-new show on Friday

8 July 2026

Sefton Young Artist of the Year 2026: Winners Announced!

We are delighted to announce the winners and highly commended young artists of this year's Sefton Young Artist of the Year competition.

7 July 2026

Southport's Golfing History

6 July 2026

Summer Reading Challenge

This year’s challenge is Read to the Beat!, delivered by The Reading Agency in partnership with public libraries and powered by Universal Music Group UK.

1 July 2026

Join our team:
Customer Assistants

We’re looking for friendly and reliable Customer Assistants to join our team. Could it be you?

25 June 2026

The Atkinson Celebrates Armed Forces Day

The Atkinson is proud to join the celebrations of Armed Forces Day and will be partially open on Sunday for a day of remembrance and discovery.