"On the Road..." - Southport's Delights

"On the road..." is a series of posts about our Discovery of Britain's highways and byways.  Whether it be some family fun, a surprising connection or just a beautiful spot we want to share our love for this country with you.  

Today we visit Southport. 

This past weekend (3-5 June 2016) was Southport's Food and Drink Festival.  I've never been before, but I was pleasantly surprised at the wide range of goodies available. Pies, crepes, sausages, cheeses, street food, sweets, gourmet burgers, hog roast, ice creams, etc. etc.... I'm getting hungry just remembering.    The sweet aromas were tempting and I'd highly recommend a visit if you are around that area next year.  Come with an empty stomach and money in your wallet - there is just soooooo much to choose from.

This was a boys day out, and the highlights for my gang were:

1. Fudge.  Fudge, fudge and more fudge.

2. The creepy creatures from Windmill Farm 
These were not available to eat!  Just part of a range of free activities for younger visitors.

Isaac was the only one brave enough to put the snake around his neck

 We have not visited Windmill Farm for a few years now.  It is a delightful petting farm which is perfect for younger children, but did not have as much enduring appeal now for our four high school children (our younger two primary school children sometimes miss out on younger activities as we try to balance family activities for the greater good).   However, I discovered this weekend that since our last visit they have introduced a falconry display and a whole range of critters - which suddenly shoots it right back up into the interests of my growing brood.

Luke, Daniel, Isaac and Jacob with their new friend.
No - we can't take him home.

If you have never been to Southport before I think you will be surprised at how much there is to do all right next door to each other.  Splash World, Pleasure Land, Go-Karts, Cinema, Laser Tag, Pier Train, Speed boats, rowing/pedal/motor boats, arcades, miniature train/village, bowls, playgrounds, mini golf, pitch and putt.  They all have a price tag on them (except for the children's playground), but there is lots to keep you occupied.

Sadly no one fell in.  

And, if you time it right, you can enjoy a food festival as well.  Or a fireworks competition.  Or an air show.  Or a car show.  Or a Flower Show.  Or a Fashion show.  Or ... take a peek to see  What's on in Southport?

And guess what... we are currently researching a new self guided walking tour of Southport on our Obelisk Tours app http://www.obelisktours.com/    I think you'll enjoy some of the historical highlights we've discovered.