Southport Air Show is back for 2026 – here’s everything you need to know

One of the most spectacular events of the summer in our region is back this August with the return of Southport Air Show.

It’s the North West’s largest Air Show and a really fabulous day out for the whole family, so if you’re planning to go this year, here’s everything you need to know about Southport Air Show 2026 …

When and where is Southport Air Show this year?

Get the dates in your diary because it’s one not to miss – the annual Air Show will be at Southport Beachfront on Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday August 29 and Sunday August 30. Gates open at 10am, with the displays starting approximately 12noon until 5pm. 

What can you expect to see at the Air Show?

When it comes to marvelling at the action in the skies, the programme Southport Air Show puts on is absolutely world class. Among the major highlights of 2026’s line-up will be a return appearance by the famous Red Arrows aerobatic team on both days, and the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

This flight, which celebrates legendary aircraft and commemorates those who lost their lives in service, features five Spitfires, two Hurricanes, a Lancaster, a C47 Dakota, and two Chipmunk aircraft flown by regular and reserve RAF Aircrew. 

For most people in the crowds, the wow factor is overhead, but there’s plenty of things happening on the ground too including hands-on military exhibits, replica aircraft, exhibition stands, and lots of fun activities for kids. If you want to feel the thrill of flying in person, you need to have a go on the simulators which give you the full heart-racing cockpit experience.

Along Marine Drive you’ll also find the Military Village where you can see Armed Forces equipment up close, and for anyone thinking about a career in the Armed Forces, members of the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force, as well as local Air Cadets, will be there to talk about various roles and share their insight.

What times are the air displays?

Exact timings for all the displays are usually announced just before the event, and can change, so keep an eye on Visit Southport’s website for the latest updates.

Is it OK to bring food to the Air Show?

Yes, you’re able to take your own food to the event, so maybe pack a picnic, but no disposable BBQs are allowed.

How to get to Southport Air Show

Southport Beach is about a 10-minute walk from Southport train station, so the easiest way to get there from anywhere in the region is by Merseyrail and you can make the most of the special £2 return ticket offer (£1 for children) to help keep down the cost of a family day out.

What about car parking?

Car parks open at 9am and parking is available on Marine Drive and off the promenade in Princes Park, the Esplanade car park, and Victoria Park, which is 5 minutes’ walk from the seafront.

Accessible parking spaces are available at the Esplanade and Marine Drive car parks, and also in Princes Park and Victoria Park although these spaces are on grass. Accessible parking spaces will be allocated on a first come first served basis, at the normal parking rate of £10 per car, when you show an official blue disability badge. 

How to get tickets for the Air Show

Tickets can be booked in advance via See Tickets and adult tickets are priced £13 plus booking fee and kids under 16 go free. You can also buy tickets on the day at the event box offices.

Find out more and book your tickets here.

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