The Atkinson Southport
Elegant arts venue with theatre, gallery, museum, library, cafe, and shop. Free gallery entry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music and family activities
The Atkinson Southport
Best Time
Live music and family activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Elegant arts venue with theatre, gallery, museum, library, cafe, and shop. Free gallery entry.
"A stunning building housing art, history, and performances, with incredibly helpful staff and great accessibility."
🎯 Free Admission to Galleries
Enjoy the art gallery and museum exhibits for free! Donations are welcome to support the venue.
♿ Accessible Facilities
Features Changing Places toilets on the first floor for a comfortable visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art Gallery Exhibitions
Upper Galleries
Explore diverse art collections, from local artists to historical pieces. Don't miss 'Lilith' by John Collier.
The Atkinson Theatre
Main Theatre Space
Catch a variety of performances, including pantomimes, music concerts, and comedy shows.
Museum Collections
Museum Area
Discover local history and unique displays, like the teddy bear adoption program.
Egyptian Exhibit
Discovery Box
Engage with interactive exhibits, including dressing up and brass rubbings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to The Atkinson
Accessibility and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission to Galleries
Enjoy the art gallery and museum exhibits for free! Donations are welcome to support the venue.
♿ Accessible Facilities
Features Changing Places toilets on the first floor for a comfortable visit.
🎭 Check Theatre Schedule
Book tickets in advance for popular shows like pantomimes and concerts.
🧸 Teddy Bear Adoption
A unique way to support The Atkinson and get updates from your adopted teddy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission to Galleries
Enjoy the art gallery and museum exhibits for free! Donations are welcome to support the venue.
♿ Accessible Facilities
Features Changing Places toilets on the first floor for a comfortable visit.
🎭 Check Theatre Schedule
Book tickets in advance for popular shows like pantomimes and concerts.
🧸 Teddy Bear Adoption
A unique way to support The Atkinson and get updates from your adopted teddy.
☕ Cafe & Gift Shop
Grab a coffee and cake, or find unique souvenirs after your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Atkinson is a highly regarded arts venue in Southport, praised for its diverse exhibitions, engaging theatre performances, and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the free entry to galleries, excellent accessibility features like Changing Places toilets, and the friendly, helpful staff. While the traditional display of some art exhibitions might not appeal to everyone, the overall experience is consistently positive, making it a cherished cultural hub.
"The Atkinson is a lovely place to visit, and features a museum, aswell as the art gallery, library and theatre. The staff are friendly and helpful; there is a gift shop and cafe and plenty of space to take your time and study what is on display. Currently there is a Lord of the rings exhibition and the gallery is showcasing artwork which hasn’t been seen in over 100 years, and they are displaying it in the old traditional way of cramming as many paintings in one room, this is not there usual way of displaying things, but just a respect for the way it once was in the Atkinson of old. It’s really nice and it features my favourite painting of all times ‘John collier’s Lilith’ which is breathtaking. So many beautiful pieces of art on display. It is free to visit. There is also a lovely little teddy bear display, of which you can adopt one, and receive updates from your teddy bear, which is a lovely idea for youngsters and a great way to donate to the Atkinson and keep this wonderful Southport attraction going."
Naomi
"Thank you for an accessible experience! We were visiting Southport as we do at least once a year from stockport. Our usual changing places toilets were closed (market hall). We were amazed to find one here so close to the other. A kind lady working there (didnt catch her name sorry) escorted us to the changing places on the first floor. We were a little pushed for time but now we know this is here we will be visiting properly to view the exhibitions. A stunning building too."
cez brown
"Went to the art gallery and the café. Excellent exhibition very friendly curators who helped the art students who were with me nothing was too much trouble for them. Very well presented exhibition and expertly curated. The cafe is excellent very good coffee didn't have cake or food but it looked fantastic."
Glyn Chaplin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Atkinson is located in Southport town centre. It's easily accessible by public transport, with Southport train station a short walk away. Many bus routes also serve the town centre.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at The Atkinson, there are several public car parks nearby. Search for 'parking near The Atkinson Southport' for options.
Yes, it's a pleasant and short walk from Southport train station to The Atkinson, making it convenient for train travelers.
Absolutely! The Atkinson is well-served by local bus routes, and Southport train station is within walking distance, making it easy to reach via public transport.
The closest transport links are Southport train station and various bus stops in the town centre, all within easy walking distance of The Atkinson.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the art gallery and museum at The Atkinson is free! However, tickets are required for theatre performances and special events.
You can purchase tickets for theatre shows online via The Atkinson's official website, by calling their box office, or in person at the venue.
Keep an eye on The Atkinson's website and social media for any announced discounts or special offers. Specific promo codes are not always available.
Opening hours can vary for different sections (gallery, museum, library, cafe) and for specific events. It's best to check The Atkinson's official website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended for theatre performances and popular events to secure your spot, especially for pantomimes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Atkinson offers a rich experience with art galleries, a museum, a theatre, a library, a cafe, and a shop. You can enjoy exhibitions, live performances, and interactive displays.
Yes, The Atkinson often hosts family-friendly events, workshops, and has interactive exhibits like the Egyptian display and teddy bear adoption. 
The Atkinson is committed to accessibility, featuring Changing Places toilets on the first floor and providing an accessible experience for all visitors.
The art gallery showcases a variety of exhibitions, including works by local artists, historical pieces, and themed collections, often displayed in a traditional manner. +1
Yes, The Atkinson has a cafe where you can enjoy coffee, cake, and light meals. It's a great spot to relax after exploring the venue.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in galleries, but it's always best to check for specific restrictions.
The building itself is architecturally interesting, and the art exhibitions often provide visually appealing subjects for photography. The theatre can also be photogenic.
The main gallery spaces, the theatre foyer, and the exterior of the building offer good photo opportunities. Look out for unique art installations.
Typically, flash photography is not allowed in art galleries to protect the artwork. Always adhere to signage or staff instructions.
Similar to photography, filming policies may vary. For personal vlogs or social media content, non-flash filming for personal use is often permitted, but check for specific guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the unique teddy bear adoption program, a charming way for kids to connect with the venue.For entertainment, the theatre regularly stages family-friendly pantomimes and shows.
+1 Keep an eye on their schedule for special workshops and events designed for younger visitors, like those held during 'Baby Week' or the 'Coastal Jam Sunday' with family crafts. The cafe also provides a convenient spot for a break with snacks and drinks.🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to see John Collier's 'Lilith', a highlight for many visitors.
The friendly curators are often on hand to share insights, making it a rich experience for those passionate about art.🎵 Music & Theatre Goers
to singer-songwriter performances, and even touring bands. The annual pantomime is a major draw, offering spectacular family entertainment.+1Beyond music and pantos, the theatre also presents comedy shows and drama. Check the schedule for upcoming events and book your tickets in advance, especially for popular shows, to avoid disappointment. The venue's atmosphere is enhanced by its historical setting and the welcoming nature of its staff.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring The Atkinson's Art Gallery
Beyond contemporary pieces, the gallery also delves into historical art, sometimes displaying pieces that haven't been seen publicly for over a century, presented in a traditional, dense style that harks back to the building's past.One of the most celebrated pieces mentioned by visitors is John Collier's 'Lilith', described as breathtaking and a personal favorite for many.
The staff are also frequently praised for their helpfulness and expertise, particularly when engaging with art students or answering visitor questions.For those interested in specific themes, exhibitions like 'The Fear of Missing Out' focusing on recycling have also been featured.
The Atkinson Theatre: A Hub for Performance
and upcoming 'Peter Pan', to musical acts featuring local and touring artists,+1 the theatre ensures there's always something on stage. The annual pantomime is a particular highlight, drawing in families and theatre-goers for a magical experience.Beyond musicals and pantos, the theatre also welcomes comedy shows, drama productions, and special events. The venue has been a stage for various performing arts schools, showcasing the talent of young performers in productions like 'The Lost Secret'.
The intimate setting of the theatre, combined with its historical charm, creates a memorable experience for audiences. Visitors often commend the friendly staff who contribute to the welcoming atmosphere.Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular shows, as performances can sell out quickly.
The Atkinson also participates in community events, such as 'Coastal Jam Sunday', featuring live music on the stage outside the venue. This multifaceted approach solidifies The Atkinson Theatre's role as a vital cultural hub for Southport and the surrounding areas.Accessibility and Community at The Atkinson
The venue also fosters a strong sense of community through various initiatives. The teddy bear adoption program is a unique and heartwarming way for visitors to support The Atkinson, offering a chance to 'adopt' a teddy and receive updates, which is particularly appealing to younger visitors and families.
The friendly and helpful staff are consistently mentioned in reviews, contributing significantly to the positive visitor experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit