The Atkinson in Southport awarded Museum Accreditation status

The Atkinson in Southport has been awarded Museum Accreditation status by Arts Council England.

Museum Accreditation is the benchmark for well-run museums and galleries in the UK.

It means that the Sefton Council-run museum is properly managed and governed to the nationally agreed industry standard. And it shows The Atkinson takes proper care of its collections, sharing them with visitors and keeping them safe for future generations. 

Cllr Liz Dowd, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnership Engagement, said:

“I’m so pleased that The Atkinson has received this Museum Accreditation which shows that it is being well run and that our extensive collections are being well cared for.

“Accreditation also opens exciting future opportunities for funding and means The Atkinson can host exhibitions that are touring the country.”

Each year The Atkinson attracts around 420,000 visitors, making it a significant cultural destination in the Liverpool City Region.

In the museum, Between Land & Sea tells the story of the people and industries that have shaped the Sefton coast across history. Discover Ancient Egypt offers an immersive journey into Ancient Egyptian life through a remarkable collection of artefacts presented in interactive displays. 

The art galleries showcase a rich and varied programme, drawing from a vast collection of around 3,500 artworks spanning painting, sculpture, digital art, photography. Together, these spaces provide visitors with a dynamic blend of local heritage, world history, and visual art that appeals to audiences of all ages.

Cllr Dowd added:

“I know achieving Museum Accreditation from Arts Council England takes an awful lot of work and I would like to thank and congratulate the team at The Atkinson.

“This news will give confidence to our kind donors, sponsors and supporters and it will also encourage more visitors ensuring The Atkinson retain its number one rating #1 for Things to Do in Southport on TripAdvisor.

Find out more about The Atkinson here.

Find out what’s on in Southport in 2026 here.

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