Ten reasons to visit Churchtown this Summer

Summer is here so you might be planning a day out in and around the city region.

We are lucky to have so many gorgeous places to visit on our doorstep, some you might be familiar with, others you are yet to explore.

Here are ten reasons to visit Churchtown.

History: A picturesque village with history at every turn

With its whitewashed buildings, traditional pubs and thatched roof cottages, Churchtown is one of the prettiest and most historic villages on the Sefton coast.

It appeared in the Doomsday Book as Otegrimeles, its Scandinavian name, and Vikings landed in the area, making it among the oldest settlements in the area and almost certainly older than neighbouring and much larger Southport.

The area is also home to Meols Hall, which is set in a large area of private parkland and is one of the oldest homes in the north west of England.

Churchtown’s historical importance extends to 1575 when a shipwreck happened in the area, washing up a cargo of potatoes giving Churchtown a claim to being the first place in England where the vegetable was grown.

Views: A short walk to the beach or some bird watching

The village of Churchtown is nestled on the northern edge of Southport so close to the beach and its gorgeous sweeping views of Lancashire to the north and Wales to the south.

Or if you’re a nature lover, the nearby Marshside RSPB is perfect for bird watching.

And it isn’t just feathered friends you can spot, if you are lucky, you might witness the boxing hares in spring.

During the autumn and winter the spectacular site of visiting wildfowl, like pink footed geese, is guaranteed. The skies around the area will be filled with the flocks flying over and settling on the marshland for a rest before heading south for warmer climes.

There are two hides and a viewing platform so whether you are a keen nature lover or want to learn more, there is something for everyone.

Find out more here.

Walk: Take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a wander through the gardens that first opened in 1874, when they cost fourpence to enter.

Twice saved from closure since then, the gardens are a jewel in the crown of the local area.

Typical of this type of Victorian park, there is a picturesque lake, winding paths and even a fernery, home to a selection of impressive ferns.

There is also an aviary, a gift shop and a café to have a chill out after your walk.

The gardens have achieved a green flag for excellence as a park.

Indulge a sweet tooth: RS Fine Chocolate

Enjoy hand crafted chocolate using traditional methods at this gorgeous boutique chocolaterie.

There is also a selection of cakes and hot drinks on offer in the café and you can grab a seat outside in the courtyard to relax and enjoy.

As well an individual chocolates, there are bars and novelties, including the chocolate robot, stiletto and Formby red squirrel.

Truly a chocolate lover’s paradise.

92 Botanic Road.

Find out more here or call to order 01704 807177.

Deli delights: Churchtown Deli

This small independent deli is the go to for local produce, wines, cheese and hampers.

There is a wide variety of cheese on offer, homemade soup, chilli jam, cakes, chutneys and more.

They stock a good range of wine and locally brewed beer, while the graze boxes would make a lovely present for your favourite foodie.

82 Botanic Road.

Open Tuesday – Saturday 9am – 5pm.

Find out more here.

Enjoy dinner at a cosy Italian restaurant: La Tabella

This neighbourhood Italian has been serving up the best pasta and pizza for ten years and it’s easy to see why it’s a local favourite.

With an atmosphere to match its excellent food, La Tabella has the traditional classics you’d expect but also popular specials like crispy chilli beef, whipped ricotta with focaccia and local asparagus with crispy poached egg.

There is also a lovely selection of wines, beers and of course Aperol Spritz.

48 Botanic Road.

Find out more, see the menu and book here.

Enjoy a cocktail and watch the world go by: Arthur’s of Churchtown

Grab some sunshine and a cooling drink on the terrace at this stylish bar, restaurant and small hotel.

Like its sister venue in Aughton, Arthur’s serves a range of beers, wines, cocktails and a menu including sandwiches, small plates, grazing boards, pizza and a brilliant brunch.

145 Cambridge Road.

Find out more and book a room or a table here.

A good pub: The traditional Bold Arms

This historic pub dates back to the 1600s when it was run by landlord William Sutton who is credited with being the founder of Southport.

It has a lovely traditional feel and a great reputation for food and drinks.

Now under the ownership of Green King Brewery, it has a range of real ales and a good menu, including beer and a burger on Wednesday for £10.

59 Botanic Road.

Find out more here.

Local arts and crafts: Lancashire Makers

Lancashire Makers is run as a Community Interest Company by a group of local designers, artists and makers to showcase and sell their work and that of other creatives from the north west. You will find everything from handmade jewellery to pottery.

Find out more here.

A drop of whisky: The Dram

Browse some of the finest whiskies from around the world, as well as cigars, brought to Churchtown by Ayrshire born Darren Boyd-Preece.

There are a wide range of products to choose from, perfect for a gift and you can learn more in the whisky tasting area.

80 Botanic Road.

Find out more here.

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