£2 train tickets announced to boost Southport events in 2026

Getting to Southport for some of its biggest events just got a whole lot cheaper, with new cut-price train tickets now available across the Liverpool City Region.

Mayor Steve Rotheram has unveiled a new travel offer on Merseyrail services, giving passengers the chance to travel to Southport for just £2 return for adults and £1 for children.

The initiative is designed to make it easier for families, day-trippers and visitors from across the region to enjoy Southport’s packed events calendar throughout 2026, with savings of up to 70% compared to standard fares.

The discounted tickets will be available for a series of major events across the year, including the Southport Food and Drink Festival, Southport Flower Show, Southport Air Show and the British Musical Fireworks Championship.

Mayor Steve Rotheram said the move is part of a wider push to put Southport firmly back on the map as one of the region’s top destinations.

He said: “Southport is one of the jewels in our region’s crown and we want to make it easier than ever for people to visit. With a huge line-up of events and major investment already underway, this is about helping more people experience everything the town has to offer while supporting local businesses at the same time.”

The reduced fares are part of a broader effort to boost tourism, support the local economy and build momentum around Southport’s ongoing regeneration, including investment in projects like the Marine Lake Events Centre and improvements to public spaces.

Leader of Sefton Council, Marion Atkinson, welcomed the scheme, saying it will help more people enjoy the town’s growing programme of events.

She said: “With something happening nearly every month, there’s never been a better time to visit Southport. These affordable fares will help bring more people into the town and keep that energy going all year round.”

The offer is also being backed by regional tourism leaders, who say it will help strengthen Southport’s reputation as a leading visitor destination while giving a boost to hospitality and local businesses.

Suzanne Grant from Merseyrail added that the new fares, alongside Tap & Go travel, are all about making journeys simpler and more accessible for everyone heading to Southport’s headline events.

The discounted tickets will be available via Merseyrail ticket offices and Tap & Go for selected dates throughout 2026.

Find out more here.

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