REMINDER: I made this vlog A MONTH before the tragic events where innocent young girls lost their lives, but I stand by my thoughts on Southport, It is a lovely town with great people. One depraved and evil lunatic does not ruin a place. I find the joke comments with laughing emojis sickening, how people can find humour in this is beyond me.
Sure, one depraved and evil lunatic does not ruin a place, but many thousands of them imported over a period of decades can (and will) ruin a whole country if we are not very careful.
Thank you for coming back and joining those of us who love Southport and are now grieving for those lovely little girls . They could have been my daughters and NEVER in a million years couldI ever think such a thing could happen in my old town To say I am disgusted by the Governments reaction to it is an understatement .God bless those babies
My pathetic contribution "What did one grass blade say to his neighbour at the Barbers? That's a nice cut ".. used to make loads of money clearing leaves from lawns. I was raking it in.
Pulling your bits out on camera James…. I used to live in Southport 20-years ago and like many seaside resorts it is what it is. Apart from a few of the major cities and towns in the UK, central government has starved them of funding. HS2 costs billions upon billions to save 20-minutes getting to London. I was so fed up with how unfair the UK was re London vs the rest of country, I moved to Spain. It’s no different here but the sun shines 300 days a year. Great vlog amigo.
Fab place to bring up family? Everywhere is at risk in this country, evidently. No matter how safe you think you are, some scumbag is about to snap and come attack your family.
Bizarre comment. Southport is in a serious state of decline. It is self evident to anyone who walks around with their eyes open and knows how it has deteriorated in the last twenty five years.
@@susanleatherbarrow2495 Formby is a snobby and cliquey town, with anti social behaviour by youths whose parents do not do their job properly, charity shops everywhere (compared to Birkdale which is thriving), unaffordable house prices and a Waitrose that is too expensive. The cost of a typical basket of of goods is far higher there than elsewhere. Many people shop there because they want to perceive themselves as better than the rest- snobbery in action. It is a nice environment albeit the town centre is characterless; the attitudes of many of the residents leave a lot to be desired.
Living in Liverpool, we often went to Southport as children. Fish and chips by the boating lake. Going on the speedboat with dad. The fair, before they closed it.😢 The Lord Street shops., and cream teas. The beach was famous, because the Sea was so many miles away, just the endless sand.We never did see the sea 😂 The Uk Councils have a lot to answer for, with the lack of money plowed into these great places, over the years. Southport still looks beautiful
Heartbreaking to think that those three little girls were running around happily somewhere as this video was being recorded. Our traitorous ruling class have a lot to answer for. They are leading this country over the edge of a cliff.
This was my home for over ten years I LOVED IT its a huge asset to the North west and people need to protect it It has an amazing history and some highly expensive housing, golf clubs ,parks, etc I love in the sun now as a retired Brit..but my heart will always be in Ainsdale and Southport
Another lifelong resident here glad to see a good review for a change. I don't go to town much but walked through from tulketh street to lord street past the bhs building and it's a mess isn't it, I bet if they cleaned the grass out of the gutter above it would make a difference.
My mother moved to Southport in the late 80's, from Manchester. We had spent many days-out there over the years as kids, mainly Ainsdale. It seems like a second home now, even though she's in one, at 96!
Spent many happy holidays as a kid in Southport. My grandmother lived on Trafalgar Road. We stayed there and would go to Pleasure Land, the Lord Street shops, the pier with the little train, the model village and the beach. It was lovely. The legend was that when the tide was out you could walk across the beach to Blackpool.
Love Southport, use to take my son on the train from Liverpool and we would stay in the Premier Inn for the weekend. I was single parent with not a lot of money and it was really lovely to be by the sea and the beach is beautiful.
That street with the grotty old BHS store in Southport has one of the best micro pubs in Merseyside - got 2 pints of Thornbridge Jaipur Noir (Black IPA) on cask there (it was recently released), and drank a Kernel IPA
I never get people leaving an abusive comment on a channel like this it’s completely innofensive 😂 Great video We were in Southport at the end of may Loved it
I’ve just watched this enjoyable vlog of yours on Southport, your first visit. We used to live in Southport, my wife having lived there much longer before we met. Your assessment of the seaside town was positive and refreshing, given a lot of negativity about the place. A few boarded up shops here and there shouldn’t detract from the bigger picture in my humble opinion. I hadn’t realised the long pier was closed as we haven’t been to that part of Southport for a few years since moving to east Lancashire 16 years ago. I’m 73 and have fond memories of occasional day trips to Southport as a child with my parents and siblings. I like your easy, natural style of presentation and your endearing sense of humour. You just got yourself another subscriber sir, thank you 🙏
Thanks for showing Southport in a good light. I live in Southport, and I love living here. The people are friendly. I agree with you that the pier needs repairing. It's a bone of contention because the local authorities neglect Southport, and any repairs seem to take forever. Thanks for your very fair report on Southport.
On a heavy tide, it used to flood the road. I drove down it one stormy night and could not see the edge of the road. It was a hairy trip and Marine Drive is the right name for it..
I heard a noise the other night at 3 in the morning and went out to investigate as I was awake and as I stood in front garden quietly i heard geese flying over and was making a racket lol
Well done, poor old Southport needs a good plug. I'm a Scouser like the previous contributor, 70 now and a regular visitor to this lovely seaside resort over the years. It's a classy little town, ideal if you want to avoid the rowdiness that you get in more popular seaside resorts. Now my rant - its's crying out for serious long term investment which you could say about the whole of the North of England. Let's hope the new Labour government gives us some hope of finally fixing the terrible North-South divide. Nice work and thanks again for the excellent video ( and I hope those geese didn't keep you awake!), Cheers, Clive.
Thank you for this positive view of this beautiful place my late husband was brought up there frim the age of 7 when his family moved from Liverpool, we were married there in 1966 and both our daughters were born there, having moved for work reasons we went back often to visit Mum and Dad and remember it being really busy,it's sad to see empty shops but it still looks as lovely and well worth visiting 😊
Daily express and mail are both so negative. Continually slagging off British coastal resorts and then reporting horror stories of trying to check in at British airports… good god you can’t go anywhere
I live in Greater Manchester, but Mum and Dad used to take us to Southport, Blackpool or Morecambe, if he wasn’t at work that weekend, when we were children. Mum would take a picnic for us. We’d run all over the beaches having the best fun and then get called back to the car for the picnic. It was great. We were so lucky. Happy memories. Miss you Mum and Dad 💕
Hi you need to come back to southport we have a lovely all you can eat chinese buffet on eastbank st and 2 beautiful park the botanic gardens and hesketh park. We also have a lovely little village near botanic gardens and then we have birkdale village churchtown ainsdale village and formby village. The fair only opens at weekends and school holiday in season and where you parked first of there is a lovely walk through gardens around the lake. Oh and if you go down the steps near where you was on the pier on hot days we have free live entertainment at the marine lake cafe bar. Thank you for your very positive view of southport. It isn't what it once was but as you said seaside towns are suffering. Really enjoyed your tour and thank you again ❤
Plus right next to all of this is the beautiful Marine Lake (speed boat mentioned previously still in operation) as are paddle boats and rowing boats too! Also a brilliant and free childrens play area, further down a fountain kiddies can play in safely which is set in a tranquil garden area, great for a picnic. Botanic gardens and Churchtown village (same place really) are another fabulous and free day out for parents and kids, there are some stunning walks too. If you make it to Formby pinewoods, another great area for adults and kids, walk down to the beach via the woods to the beach for a great view over to Wales (on a good day) look out for the red squirrels too. Crosby further down has great kite flying, beach and all free again. No need to travel far from Southport as everything on its doorstep if not actually in the town itself!!
To be honest I had to turn my head round quickly when I heard the name Southport on the news, such a shock but it appears it is becoming more and more the way of the world, so sad. You cannot and must not let that incident mar your visit I can honestly say Southport is a fab place and if you want some peace and quiet head to the stunning Botanic Gardens at Churchtown-just five mins from Southport by car. Beautiful park/lake/play area/food/toilets etc etc. it is next to the village too with two pubs there and shops. Let us know how you get on, am sure James will want to know.
I think the article you read in the Express is totally incorrect. Southport is a lovely place with many historic buildings and the covered walk way on Lord Street is quite unique and means you can still shop even in inclement weather. I visit Southport quite regular and always come away having had a good day. It seems to be quite a micro climate as they say in Lancashire, "it's an overcoat warmer". Glad you enjoyed it and if you get a chance the go again there is a Weather Spoon called The Sir Henry Seagrave and quite a good chippy done the side of the Bold Hotel called the Swan, so maybe check is out next time.
@@deniseroney I haven't been out and about in Southport for a long while now. My mother lived there for 35 years. It's a mix of a place and the many grand old houses are now flats.
@@terencejay8845 Guess you can say that is a plus - if someone is not happy with a place they do not reside there for 35 years! I agree many of the huge detached houses are now flats, not always a good thing either as they usually become single bedsits!
I've lived here for 33 years. I have to explain to my teenage daughter that she doesn't live somewhere horrible as these kids tend to believe what they're being told. But it's a great town. Lovely to see someone visiting and not tearing the place to bits for a change!
Charming video! Some people always see the negatives and it drives me crazy! I was brought up to get on with life. We've been living in the Outer Hebrides for three years and we're back in Stafford and have never been to Southport so a trip is on the cards. Nice work mate, new subscriber here. Thanks
New subscriber. You came up on my feed & so pleased you did. Great chanel and thank you for all your hard work. Can't wait to binge watch your past videos. Regards from rich :-)
Thanks for showing the positive side of our town - if you come back have a look at the work of the hard working gardening volunteers in Rotten Row, Botanic gardens Churchtown and Birkdale Village . Some of the media just promote negativity and disregard how much work communities put into their towns and villages .
Thanks for the video, I have lived in Southport all of my life, I'm originally from the birkdale area, I now live near hillside in Southport. I remember when Southport town centre used to be a bustling, lovely place to visit, everyone used to make an effort to look their best and make a day of it, walking down lord street was a lovely experience, especially at Christmas time, where the atmosphere was magical. Businesses have suffered over recent times and the town centre is now a shadow of it's former self. I rarely visit the town centre these days, I haven't bothered much in years. But there's still lovely parts of Southport to visit, I enjoy living here.
Totally agree... used to love going to The Kingsway and Palm Court clubs back in the late 80' and early 90's. Though think that online shopping has done for a lot of the high street shops there (like many other town centres). We still go there occasionally to do shopping, as its not too far away.
Hi James... thank you so so much for your vlog on Southport... My husband and I are about 20 mins drive away...this was our club stomping ground ehen we were youthful.. late 50,s now. So many memories... James I could be here all day....love your vlogs... my husband thinks Helen is lovely, she is... but your not so bad yourself.... thank you for showing a nice side of Southport xxx
When I was growing up in the 1970's /1980's I spent a lot of time in Southport as my Grandparents there, waking up and going fishing on Ainsdale beach was brilliant or doing 18 holes of golf in ChurchTown , Southport has always been a nice place to visit I'm 57 yrs old now I've travelled and lived all over the UK but visiting Southport and its surrounding villages like Ainsdale & Churchtown etc are a joy to visit and its safe to swim in the sea at Ainsdale as well I used to do that as a child, Back in the early 1980's the beaches were packed at Ainsdale with locals and day trippers etc. The Daily Express Newspaper you mentioned the journalist obviously has never been to the town because if they had they would not have written what they did, the Southport County Council and its Business Executive need to get in touch with the Daily Express and get the paper to print a retraction and get the reporter to actually visit the town and do a comparison on Closed shops in Southport compared to other Seaside Towns I bet there's less in Southport compared to the rest of the UK !!!!!!!! Regards Mark
Always found Southport be a lot of fun with great bars, pubs, restaurants and its a seaside town for families. Your video has reminded me to go again. And van life is what you make it, I lived in my motor home for 6 months, that was enough but had used it every week for 10 years prior.
Hi James , thanks for that , it's my home town & I was going to suggest you visit, but over the last couple of years there's been so much negativity around that I thought it's not a good place to go . So really glad you enjoyed it , however where you parked for the night , you were a short walk from what used to be ( 40 odd years ago ) a really good fish & chip shop , "The Swan "........ just checked & yes it's still rated the best. Thanks for taking me back "home" ............so many happy memories ......you're a star James ....cheers fella .
Stirring my memories again. lost my partner Jayne 5 years ago, And we used to drive to southport for the day occasionally. We would park up have some fish/or pie chips n peas and take the train to the end of the long pier. And have a slow walk back. was just over an hours drive or so from were we lived. Was always quite busy. But got no idea now as aint been there for years. As usual ive been trawing your past vids and enjoying the memories they occasionally stir in my mind. Thank you.
Well get yourself back there then-have a bit of Summer sun on the Prom pre the long Winter setting in!! I am sure it will also trigger some happy memories for you too!
Thank you so much for your positive and fun video about Southport. As the local MP '92-'97 and then living in the 'resort', I know how hard the local Council and I worked for the huge £millions to develop the sea front and sea defences from central Gov. The town is still a lovely place to visit and being optimistic and positive as you have been is vital. Much to do to continue to attract visitors and make it an even better place to live.
What does the council need to do to obtain the funds to repair arguably the town’s main attraction? And what can be done to fill the empty units in the town? Are the rents too high?
@alexhoward93 Alex, sorry, I've only just seen this. To try and give a positive answer, I would lobby the new MP - he probably needs a big project - and with the fact that the PM et al have all been in Southport recently a good campaign, with the support of the Council who are his political friends could achieve something. I persuaded John Gummer then Environment Sec, to help release over £40m for the sea front and sea defences. "Be lobby fodder, but DO something" for Southport I'd say to him. You never know until you try.
Thanks so much for doing such a good job in such a short time, i live in Ainsdale and love Southport so many places of interest and things to do, so much history to be had. next time come when the sun is out or sunny weekend you'll see Southport in a new light. enjoy
Thanks for a lovely walk through Southport,it's as nice as Lytham St annes. On a side note i don't think that pub is the smallest.i think that is the signal box in cleethorpes which you and Helen went to last year .hate seeing piers left to rot like that too.
I’m so thrilled I came across your channel I really like theses kind of videos that give one an insight of towns and places as it gives one ideas of places to visit one’s self . I personally love Southport as a Sandgrown’n myself from just across the water, one might say, there are good and bad in every place across the UK but like you mentioned in your video, I hate to see people bring places down because of a boarded up shop as an example. This town has character without a doubt it’s not full of new stuff it’s full of nostalgia from the past and a Main Street ie Lord Street with lots of on street bars and great shops to browse round. It’s my first visit to your channel and look forward to watching many more…….Keep up the good work and I really like your van conversion.
RIGHT...I've had to stop that at 26 minutes because I need to vent TOO James 😂 It does my HEAD IN...the way the media and TH-camrs SLAG OFF beautiful towns like this! It's just completely irresponsible to the people who live there, and the businesses that are trying to make a go of it there. Bloody "nere do wells"..."moaning minnies"..."malcontents"... It makes me want to 😱 I will say, without equivocation, that... SOUTHPORT LOOKS LIKE ONE OF THE NICEST PLACES YOUVE EVER VISITED! So...what are they whinging about?! How anyone can slag off that beautiful town is beyond me! As you know James, I live on the Kent coast, but have lived in over 40 different places in my 63 years, so I've seen a few things in my time, and I can hardly think of a single resort in Essex, Kent, Sussex, or Hampshire...that compares. And...I've been to them ALL...because I used to be a long distance haulage courier. The only resorts that could compare down this way, are maybe...Brighton, Eastbourne, and Portsmouth/Southsea. I think Southport looks ABSOLUTELY GLORIOUS! WTF are those muppets whinging about??? ONE rundown shop facade?! Jesus...🙄🙄🙄 I could go on and on... But I won't. I'll get me coat...😂😂😂
I completely agree Chris, the thing is 'poverty porn' and controversial videos do really well on TH-cam. It's just a sad reflection of society. I also dislike all the new wave of pretend journalists who just make videos filming homeless people and drug addicts. I think its exploitative.
I am totally with you, yes the town has gone into a bit of a decline but tell me where hasn't suffered of late. Its also had the most shocking event of late but we won't go into that. I am wondering if all of these moaners would like to get their behinds up to Southport and help the many volunteers who work within the town and gardens to help keep it looking as it does......we won't hold our breath hey!!
@@bythecurb Definitely! We have put many complaints on their sites and put some incorrect facts right, strangely enough none answered then the sites seem to disappear.....mmm wonder why!!?
Thanks for a lovely video. I was born and bred in Southport and my great uncles are sadly listed on that war memorial. Very proud of living here but sad that Sefton Council have let it go downhill, preferring to pour money trying to revive the Strand shopping centre in Bootle.
Thanks James..for showing my home town..I luv living in Southport..lots of folk say about decline..but as you point out..its everywhere.. there's plenty of nice places to visit..The town hall.. Atkinson art gallery are on Lord street..lots to see in there..great vlog..👍
Thank you for doing such a lovely vid on Southport. I grew up only a few miles away from Southport and yes it has dramatically changed but it still has a lot to offer and is deffo not the hell hole media make it out to be at all!! I spent a couple of days in Morecombe 2yrs ago and Morecombe still had a lot of beauty left and wonderful people too. My nan and grandad used to take me to both places for the outdoor pools and beautiful beaches. Thank you again, !st time ive watched and look forward to watching more😊
Loved the vid 👍👍I live in Southport and appreciate your honest comments…… also learned stuff I hadn’t known. So glad you enjoyed your visit. If you come back check out Masons Arms pub, Hesketh Park, Churchtown and the Botanic Gardens….. you also missed The Grand next door to Peaky Blinders! On Lord Street there’s also the Wayfairers Arcade and The Atkinson museum and gallery….both worth a visit. Was sorry you had an early night….all the trees on Lord Street are lit up at night and it’s very different to daytime. Hope this doesn’t sound critical, it’s not meant that way at all…..hope you come back and do another 👍👍👍
We recently bought our new (to us) car from Southport and even though we weren't there long, I thought it was a lovely place. That beach is amazing. I've been to worse places. 'If you have eyes to see and ears to hear' you'll find beauty in anything. Thank you for such a brilliant and honest review... I'm going to go there again with my hubby xxx
Thanks for the great video. I’ve lived in Ainsdale for almost 50 years. Weird to see our lovely beach on your channel. Southport definitely isn’t what it was for shopping but plenty of factors why (internet shopping, Liverpool One etc). Facebook community groups really surface the worst opinions of locals, making it look like no one in Southport actually likes the place. Enjoyed your considered take on the place. Means a lot as you travel to many similar towns. Bought you a beer. Wished I’d have been in town and bumped into you in person.
Yes, he did a great and considered report. I so wish I could talk with him as there is so much more here too. I have put a couple of comments on so hope he sees them.
I love driving to Southport and have been going for 30 years now man and boy and I take my son now. It’s a disgrace what’s happened to the pier but it’s a lovely place and it’s only people who have never been that jump on the bandwagon I’m so glad you went James to judge it for yourself another really good video 🎉
Looks lovely! Many years since I've been to Southport - does it still have the flower show? Town looks clean and plenty of shops - and bigger than I remember. Thanks for posting!
Awwh, that brought back some lovely memories. My late husband and I rowed about going in 'The Lawnmower Museum', I used to call him Inspector Gadget! We went in and indeed it is very interesting. Loved Southport, thanks .
I’ve just got back from Southport and I couldn’t believe how beautiful it was. There was tons of tourists loads of Victorian architecture. Lots of public amenities, it was awesome compared with Blackpool.
Awww I loved this J… I live half an hour away so know Southport well. You did a great and honest review, you covered all the hotspots and I knew straight away where you were headed… I’ve been to that museum about 20 years ago and I agree, it’s a hidden gem! Cracking vlog, keep up the good work… we are all sick of moaning naysayers… it’s nice to see the positives in all these places you visit!! 🙌
A lovely vlog we live about twenty minutes away from Southport, we always go to Weatherspoons when we are there and have the fish chips and mushy peas, the fish is lovely.
Try going to the smallest pub or the one at the Marine Lake then walk to Swan Chippy its 5 mins from either pub, think the smalles pub is nearest to be honest!
I go to Southport quite often, my brother used to live there. It isn't a dump. Not as busy as it used to be and it's shame that the pier has closed down due to structural issues. Hopefully they will fix it. Still much nicer than Blackpool (which is a dump) and some other seaside towns in the North.I know you are not into motorbikes but on a nice Sunday the area in front of the pier is absolutely rammed full of motorbikes.
I went to Skegness today for the first time in 50 years. I only went because I'm attending a workshop for The Sovereign Project in Leicester tomorrow. I'm shocked at the change in what was once quite a smart resort. It was teeming with zombies on electric carts and also others on foot. After about half an hour , I ready to leave. I found a nice lay-by outside the town, but I've no idea where I am at present . I'll set off for Leicester in the morning . I have some old black and white photos of a holiday in Skegness in the sixties, I think I found the spot where the photos were taken but it's completely different except for the famous clock in the background.
I’m a Londoner studied in Liverpool in the eighties and often took the train to Freshfields was blown away by the space, beauty and beaches…… Fabulous place. Thanks for the reminder :)
Thanks James ….that place doesn’t look that bad at all in fact I liked the shopping area where you could walk under cover with those lovely Victorian balcony thingys!! As you said they could do with a lick of paint but I’ve seen worse places! I hope the geese left you alone, you do make me smile…..when you have a good moan.. Loved the gorgeous wide beach I bet that’s crowded when the school hols start. Reminded me a bit of Holkham in Norfolk, I think you would like it there as you love history and Holkham Hall is fabulous..
There is an even more stunning arcade across the road (literally) called Wayfarers arcade, if its architecture you like get yourself there!! Not as many shops as there was but still worth a visit and use it as a cut through to The Promenade!
I have lived in Southport and live near Southport all my life. It had more character when I was young with the outdoor baths, zoo and shopping experience. But then where has kept the top class it once had. Going out in the town late at night at weekends round the bars is still great for the young at heart. Southport still has a lot going for it. The Marine lake, fairground and many parks can fill days for tourists. Easy link by train to the centre of Liverpool. The pier is a long walk and last time I walked it before Covid. It was like new, so surprised to find it closed.
Awww I love Southport many many fond memories over the years. I still Enjoy A day trip & have been know to go all the way from Wigan to Southport for fresh doughnuts
I a live near Edinburgh and am now a caravaner. I visited Southport as a stopover on the way back from Devon 30 years ago and the town was tidy and maybe a wee bit upmarket for a seaside town. Returned in 2021 and agree it is not as good as it was but it is still a good destination with plenty to do with decent pubs and restuarants. Like you have spent a rainy afternoon in the lawnmower museum and for £3 it is a bargain. I stayed at the CAMC site more than £5 per night but still ok value and close to Victoria Park and Birkdale Village. Every High street is suffering from out of town retail parks and internet shopping. You provided a great informative video and I am now a subscriber.
The problem is that in all honesty and straightforward talking we the British tax paying public cannot afford to holiday in these wonderful resorts because in comparison if you go abroad to get the warm sun with the beach and that is cheap it keeps dads and kids busy having fun in the warmth yes you have lunch still to buy and an ice cream etc . But here you can go to one of our wonderful resorts, no flight costs but crazy hotel ,digs prices go to the beach and it# raining or simply bloody freezing so then it’s money money money paying for and finding things to do whilst trying to keep dry ,warm and positive. It’s quite simply all far far too expensive and bloody cold more often than not.
Thank you for a positive video about the Southport. I’ve lived here for 3 years and I really like the place, it gets so much much bad press but it’s not as bad as some would like us to believe.
I'm Catalan and went to Southport on 7th April 2000 in an old orange Wolksvagen Beetle driven by its owner, Ralph James from Bootle, a friend of Tony and Vicki Moore, much-loved animal advocates. Tony wasn't there at the time and there was a leaflet in the shop window announcing a memorial service for Vicki at Liverpool Cathedral. On the other hand, I like your honesty, simplicity, sense of humor and open and friendly nature.
Amazing stone in the columns of that Church. A long time since I have been to Southport, it's not looking too bad at all, bloody express not exactly a paper for telling the truth.
Another great video. Southport looks like a lovely place to visit and i think I would have really enjoyed the lawnmower museum😊. Never believe everything you read in the press!! Better to visit these places, see for yourself and make your own mind up.
I went to the lawn mower museum expecting it to be a bit of a joke but to be fair I quite enjoyed it. That chap had put his life and soul into it so I respect him for that.
So right that we have to support these places.I m sure I read that the Lakeside Pub was owned by Albert Pierrpoint after he retired from being a hangman.
Another great video. We never miss one it's so refreshing to listen and see a couple so down to earth. How were you able to play Fleetwood Mac without TH-cam taking it out ? ❤
We visit Southport practically every week, we used to love walking up and down the pier, it’s terrible how they are leaving the pier to rot. Lots of lovely place in the daytime where you can have a snack or a meal, Kings Garden Tea Room on Marine Drive make a lovely bacon barm, Nostalgia Tea Rooms on Lord Street (the place you were looking up at when you said you’d paint it if you had a shop there. There’s also Walkers on Wesley Street and they do a fab breakfast.
Do you remember the outdoor pool then? That was left to rot, as the Lido in Ainsdale, the cyclone, think this is the new idea, leave it to rot then tell the public it couldn't be saved and demolish same!!
REMINDER: I made this vlog A MONTH before the tragic events where innocent young girls lost their lives, but I stand by my thoughts on Southport, It is a lovely town with great people. One depraved and evil lunatic does not ruin a place. I find the joke comments with laughing emojis sickening, how people can find humour in this is beyond me.
Yes
Sure, one depraved and evil lunatic does not ruin a place, but many thousands of them imported over a period of decades can (and will) ruin a whole country if we are not very careful.
Thank you for coming back and joining those of us who love Southport and are now grieving for those lovely little girls . They could have been my daughters and NEVER in a million years couldI ever think such a thing could happen in my old town To say I am disgusted by the Governments reaction to it is an understatement .God bless those babies
@@jennybertenshaw7694 what would you want the government to do? It was a freak event, tragically nothing could have stopped it.
Just ignore the trolls! Do not give them power! If you stop giving them a reactiin they will stop with the fake laughing!
I saw a man recently, slumped over a lawnmower. I asked if he needed help and he replied " I'm ok, just going through a bit of a rough patch" !
😂😂 Love it
My pathetic contribution "What did one grass blade say to his neighbour at the Barbers? That's a nice cut ".. used to make loads of money clearing leaves from lawns. I was raking it in.
Pulling your bits out on camera James…. I used to live in Southport 20-years ago and like many seaside resorts it is what it is. Apart from a few of the major cities and towns in the UK, central government has starved them of funding. HS2 costs billions upon billions to save 20-minutes getting to London. I was so fed up with how unfair the UK was re London vs the rest of country, I moved to Spain. It’s no different here but the sun shines 300 days a year. Great vlog amigo.
i saw a man holding a Lawnmower above his head i said are you ok mate? he said i'm just cutting my hair
i saw a bloke with a Lawnmower over a tin i said what are you doing? he said i thought it was a Tinopener
Thank you for reviewing Southport … our home town. It has its issues but it’s a fab place to bring up a family and we love living here ❤❤❤
Unfortunately now very tainted!
Fab place to bring up family? Everywhere is at risk in this country, evidently. No matter how safe you think you are, some scumbag is about to snap and come attack your family.
This is why so many of us do not watch or listen to MSM.
Southport looks amazing. Thank you James for another great watch
Bizarre comment. Southport is in a serious state of decline. It is self evident to anyone who walks around with their eyes open and knows how it has deteriorated in the last twenty five years.
Maybe MSM was right about this. Those poor little girls…
Ive not watched tv since 2019, surrendered my tv license and got a refund,.
@cabovermike Good idea.
I'm doing the same next month.
Southport, Formby and Crosby beaches are amazing James. Well worth the trip I'd say!
You mean filthy, with lots of litter and anti social behaviour, at least on Formby Beach. They are not particularly nice at all. Delusional.
My friend lives at Formby, lovely little town, nice town centre with lots of cafes and .... a Waitrose!!!!! See they're all posh up there!
@@susanleatherbarrow2495 Formby is a snobby and cliquey town, with anti social behaviour by youths whose parents do not do their job properly, charity shops everywhere (compared to Birkdale which is thriving), unaffordable house prices and a Waitrose that is too expensive. The cost of a typical basket of of goods is far higher there than elsewhere. Many people shop there because they want to perceive themselves as better than the rest- snobbery in action. It is a nice environment albeit the town centre is characterless; the attitudes of many of the residents leave a lot to be desired.
@@eightiesmusic1984 Oh dear!!!
@@eightiesmusic1984Blimey, l only go now and again. My mate lives near the Red Squirrel Nature Reserve but is looking to move.
Living in Liverpool, we often went to Southport as children. Fish and chips by the boating lake. Going on the speedboat with dad. The fair, before they closed it.😢 The Lord Street shops., and cream teas. The beach was famous, because the Sea was so many miles away, just the endless sand.We never did see the sea 😂 The Uk Councils have a lot to answer for, with the lack of money plowed into these great places, over the years. Southport still looks beautiful
They closed the fair? That was my first job in '64.
What are you on about? The fair has never gone away and is still going.
It's not about the councils. It's just economic change. British people just don't go the beach like they used to. Times have moved on
The way you describe how Southport was is just the way I remember it 😍
The miniature village, the zoo with the miner bird that someone taught to say, show us ya knickers. Bowling greens. Love Southport.
Thank you for bigging up Southport. I was born in Ainsdale and grew up in Churchtown. Lots of lovely memories growing up in Southport.
I hope the Southport Tourism Board watched your video, excellent job mate. Thanks for sharing.
Oh dear oh dear latest news from Southport. Wishing all those affected the very best.
Heartbreaking to think that those three little girls were running around happily somewhere as this video was being recorded. Our traitorous ruling class have a lot to answer for. They are leading this country over the edge of a cliff.
This was my home for over ten years I LOVED IT its a huge asset to the North west and people need to protect it It has an amazing history and some highly expensive housing, golf clubs ,parks, etc I love in the sun now as a retired Brit..but my heart will always be in Ainsdale and Southport
Southport res here. Great review along with your dry humour. What you covered, most of us take for granted. You are the top dog.
Yes I live here as well, nice to see what someone else thinks.
Another lifelong resident here glad to see a good review for a change.
I don't go to town much but walked through from tulketh street to lord street past the bhs building and it's a mess isn't it, I bet if they cleaned the grass out of the gutter above it would make a difference.
My mother moved to Southport in the late 80's, from Manchester. We had spent many days-out there over the years as kids, mainly Ainsdale. It seems like a second home now, even though she's in one, at 96!
Spent many happy holidays as a kid in Southport. My grandmother lived on Trafalgar Road. We stayed there and would go to Pleasure Land, the Lord Street shops, the pier with the little train, the model village and the beach. It was lovely. The legend was that when the tide was out you could walk across the beach to Blackpool.
Love Southport, use to take my son on the train from Liverpool and we would stay in the Premier Inn for the weekend. I was single parent with not a lot of money and it was really lovely to be by the sea and the beach is beautiful.
Thanks for coming to Southport. It’s still a great place to live. Newspapers are full of garbage.
Are you gonna tell them or should I? 😂
This comment aged like milk
@@user-eq1jv3oo5v One psychopath won’t change our wonderful community. Neither will a bunch of thugs.
@@AndrewEccles-l3i it's not just one sadly
its so nice to see a positive video about some where , there are far to many you tubers showing negativity
That street with the grotty old BHS store in Southport has one of the best micro pubs in Merseyside - got 2 pints of Thornbridge Jaipur Noir (Black IPA) on cask there (it was recently released), and drank a Kernel IPA
@@StravaleReviewsBeer will check that out when I am up there
I’m a Southport resident. I’d just like to say a big thank you. You’ve done a great job producing this visual promotion of this wonderful town.😊
Thank you 🙂
I never get people leaving an abusive comment on a channel like this it’s completely innofensive 😂
Great video
We were in Southport at the end of may
Loved it
I’ve just watched this enjoyable vlog of yours on Southport, your first visit. We used to live in Southport, my wife having lived there much longer before we met. Your assessment of the seaside town was positive and refreshing, given a lot of negativity about the place. A few boarded up shops here and there shouldn’t detract from the bigger picture in my humble opinion. I hadn’t realised the long pier was closed as we haven’t been to that part of Southport for a few years since moving to east Lancashire 16 years ago. I’m 73 and have fond memories of occasional day trips to Southport as a child with my parents and siblings. I like your easy, natural style of presentation and your endearing sense of humour. You just got yourself another subscriber sir, thank you 🙏
What a lovely chap Brian in the lawnmower museum is. I will most certainly pay it a visit on my next trip to Southport.
As museums go, they are a cut above the others.
@@ianogden5067 🤣
Thanks for showing Southport in a good light. I live in Southport, and I love living here. The people are friendly. I agree with you that the pier needs repairing. It's a bone of contention because the local authorities neglect Southport, and any repairs seem to take forever. Thanks for your very fair report on Southport.
I think the famous racehorse Red Rum trained on that beach. Its one of the few places where you go on the beach and you're lucky to ever see the sea!
On a heavy tide, it used to flood the road. I drove down it one stormy night and could not see the edge of the road. It was a hairy trip and Marine Drive is the right name for it..
You're right about Red Rum. His stable was just down the road and he'd regularly be seen racing along the beach 😊
that he did, few days before the national ginger and RR would always be on that beach
That guy who runs the museum really mows his stuff! Great vid as always James.
Great upload james very interesting tour, and honest review of Southport
Keep up the great content pal ,look forward to the next one.
Haha Brilliant :-)
He's definitely a cut above.
Imagine being really into lawnmowers and running a lawnmowing museum. What a life
😂😂
Each to their own, glad the man has such a passion in his life
@@redmoon8217 it's what we all should be striving for
I heard a noise the other night at 3 in the morning and went out to investigate as I was awake and as I stood in front garden quietly i heard geese flying over and was making a racket lol
@@christoguichard4311 what are you talking about? What part of my comment implied I don't understand? "What a life" was not sarcastic...
Thank you James,great video of Southport .enjoy your stay.
Well done, poor old Southport needs a good plug. I'm a Scouser like the previous contributor, 70 now and a regular visitor to this lovely seaside resort over the years. It's a classy little town, ideal if you want to avoid the rowdiness that you get in more popular seaside resorts. Now my rant - its's crying out for serious long term investment which you could say about the whole of the North of England. Let's hope the new Labour government gives us some hope of finally fixing the terrible North-South divide. Nice work and thanks again for the excellent video ( and I hope those geese didn't keep you awake!), Cheers, Clive.
Thank you for this positive view of this beautiful place my late husband was brought up there frim the age of 7 when his family moved from Liverpool, we were married there in 1966 and both our daughters were born there, having moved for work reasons we went back often to visit Mum and Dad and remember it being really busy,it's sad to see empty shops but it still looks as lovely and well worth visiting 😊
This comment aged so poorly
Daily express and mail are both so negative. Continually slagging off British coastal resorts and then reporting horror stories of trying to check in at British airports… good god you can’t go anywhere
The mail sun & express, long past their time, garbage.
Well done ... That's the plan 🤯🤔🧂
Tabloids know BAD NEWS SELLS BETTER THAN GOOD
Far left rags.
@@Mounhasmirror fan?
I live in Greater Manchester, but Mum and Dad used to take us to Southport, Blackpool or Morecambe, if he wasn’t at work that weekend, when we were children.
Mum would take a picnic for us.
We’d run all over the beaches having the best fun and then get called back to the car for the picnic. It was great.
We were so lucky.
Happy memories.
Miss you Mum and Dad 💕
Hi you need to come back to southport we have a lovely all you can eat chinese buffet on eastbank st and 2 beautiful park the botanic gardens and hesketh park. We also have a lovely little village near botanic gardens and then we have birkdale village churchtown ainsdale village and formby village. The fair only opens at weekends and school holiday in season and where you parked first of there is a lovely walk through gardens around the lake. Oh and if you go down the steps near where you was on the pier on hot days we have free live entertainment at the marine lake cafe bar. Thank you for your very positive view of southport. It isn't what it once was but as you said seaside towns are suffering. Really enjoyed your tour and thank you again ❤
Plus right next to all of this is the beautiful Marine Lake (speed boat mentioned previously still in operation) as are paddle boats and rowing boats too! Also a brilliant and free childrens play area, further down a fountain kiddies can play in safely which is set in a tranquil garden area, great for a picnic. Botanic gardens and Churchtown village (same place really) are another fabulous and free day out for parents and kids, there are some stunning walks too. If you make it to Formby pinewoods, another great area for adults and kids, walk down to the beach via the woods to the beach for a great view over to Wales (on a good day) look out for the red squirrels too. Crosby further down has great kite flying, beach and all free again. No need to travel far from Southport as everything on its doorstep if not actually in the town itself!!
Birkdale village in Southport has great bars, Bar N'Ista, Barrique...
i am heading to Southport in a couple of weeks, your video has reassured me after that Media hit piece a few months ago
To be honest I had to turn my head round quickly when I heard the name Southport on the news, such a shock but it appears it is becoming more and more the way of the world, so sad. You cannot and must not let that incident mar your visit I can honestly say Southport is a fab place and if you want some peace and quiet head to the stunning Botanic Gardens at Churchtown-just five mins from Southport by car. Beautiful park/lake/play area/food/toilets etc etc. it is next to the village too with two pubs there and shops. Let us know how you get on, am sure James will want to know.
I think the article you read in the Express is totally incorrect. Southport is a lovely place with many historic buildings and the covered walk way on Lord Street is quite unique and means you can still shop even in inclement weather.
I visit Southport quite regular and always come away having had a good day. It seems to be quite a micro climate as they say in Lancashire, "it's an overcoat warmer".
Glad you enjoyed it and if you get a chance the go again there is a Weather Spoon called The Sir Henry Seagrave and quite a good chippy done the side of the Bold Hotel called the Swan, so maybe check is out next time.
Found your video by chance I went to Southport for a weekend in May thoroughly enjoyed it thanks for sharing
Great video,I live in Southport and the pier is lovely when open……I love it and the Marine Lake.
I recall when the underground toilets on Lord Street were infamous as a cottaging venue, until the Council closed it. Last I saw it had become a cafe.
@@terencejay8845 It became a bar!!
@@deniseroney I haven't been out and about in Southport for a long while now. My mother lived there for 35 years. It's a mix of a place and the many grand old houses are now flats.
@@terencejay8845 Guess you can say that is a plus - if someone is not happy with a place they do not reside there for 35 years! I agree many of the huge detached houses are now flats, not always a good thing either as they usually become single bedsits!
That was lovely--thanks for taking us to a town we might never have seen otherwise. I loved that lawnmower museum--definitely worth a look-see!
I've lived here for 33 years. I have to explain to my teenage daughter that she doesn't live somewhere horrible as these kids tend to believe what they're being told. But it's a great town. Lovely to see someone visiting and not tearing the place to bits for a change!
Charming video! Some people always see the negatives and it drives me crazy! I was brought up to get on with life. We've been living in the Outer Hebrides for three years and we're back in Stafford and have never been to Southport so a trip is on the cards. Nice work mate, new subscriber here. Thanks
It's refreshing to see someone be honest rather than just doing click-bait doom videos.
£5.90 before you get out of your car and only for four hours. No wonder people don't stay longer. Councils are destroying their own towns.
Traffic wardens are like vultures in Southport. Delivery here regularly and have been done several times in the last 18 years.
@@robertmcnicol3280 Yes they do have a reputation but I always ask a friend where I can park for free or actually park where it is not illegal!!
New subscriber. You came up on my feed & so pleased you did. Great chanel and thank you for all your hard work. Can't wait to binge watch your past videos. Regards from rich :-)
Spent a couple of days there last week. It’s a shame so many shops are closed , but the resort still retains its class.
URGENT NOTICE
The Daily Express Rag is in absolutely Seriously Severe Decline 😂😂😂😂
That and the sun and the mail, all garbage.
Mirror readers.
Thanks for showing the positive side of our town - if you come back have a look at the work of the hard working gardening volunteers in Rotten Row, Botanic gardens Churchtown and Birkdale Village . Some of the media just promote negativity and disregard how much work communities put into their towns and villages .
Thanks for the video, I have lived in Southport all of my life, I'm originally from the birkdale area, I now live near hillside in Southport. I remember when Southport town centre used to be a bustling, lovely place to visit, everyone used to make an effort to look their best and make a day of it, walking down lord street was a lovely experience, especially at Christmas time, where the atmosphere was magical. Businesses have suffered over recent times and the town centre is now a shadow of it's former self. I rarely visit the town centre these days, I haven't bothered much in years. But there's still lovely parts of Southport to visit, I enjoy living here.
Totally agree... used to love going to The Kingsway and Palm Court clubs back in the late 80' and early 90's.
Though think that online shopping has done for a lot of the high street shops there (like many other town centres).
We still go there occasionally to do shopping, as its not too far away.
Hi James... thank you so so much for your vlog on Southport... My husband and I are about 20 mins drive away...this was our club stomping ground ehen we were youthful.. late 50,s now. So many memories... James I could be here all day....love your vlogs... my husband thinks Helen is lovely, she is... but your not so bad yourself.... thank you for showing a nice side of Southport xxx
Thank you Debra :-) xx
When I was growing up in the 1970's /1980's I spent a lot of time in Southport as my Grandparents there, waking up and going fishing on Ainsdale beach was brilliant or doing 18 holes of golf in ChurchTown , Southport has always been a nice place to visit I'm 57 yrs old now I've travelled and lived all over the UK but visiting Southport and its surrounding villages like Ainsdale & Churchtown etc are a joy to visit and its safe to swim in the sea at Ainsdale as well I used to do that as a child, Back in the early 1980's the beaches were packed at Ainsdale with locals and day trippers etc.
The Daily Express Newspaper you mentioned the journalist obviously has never been to the town because if they had they would not have written what they did, the Southport County Council and its Business Executive need to get in touch with the Daily Express and get the paper to print a retraction and get the reporter to actually visit the town and do a comparison on Closed shops in Southport compared to other Seaside Towns I bet there's less in Southport compared to the rest of the UK !!!!!!!!
Regards
Mark
Always found Southport be a lot of fun with great bars, pubs, restaurants and its a seaside town for families. Your video has reminded me to go again. And van life is what you make it, I lived in my motor home for 6 months, that was enough but had used it every week for 10 years prior.
Hi James , thanks for that , it's my home town & I was going to suggest you visit, but over the last couple of years there's been so much negativity around that I thought it's not a good place to go . So really glad you enjoyed it , however where you parked for the night , you were a short walk from what used to be ( 40 odd years ago ) a really good fish & chip shop , "The Swan "........ just checked & yes it's still rated the best. Thanks for taking me back "home" ............so many happy memories ......you're a star James ....cheers fella .
Spot on James, try and talk him into coming back again, lol!
Stirring my memories again. lost my partner Jayne 5 years ago, And we used to drive to southport for the day occasionally. We would park up have some fish/or pie chips n peas and take the train to the end of the long pier. And have a slow walk back. was just over an hours drive or so from were we lived. Was always quite busy. But got no idea now as aint been there for years. As usual ive been trawing your past vids and enjoying the memories they occasionally stir in my mind. Thank you.
Well get yourself back there then-have a bit of Summer sun on the Prom pre the long Winter setting in!! I am sure it will also trigger some happy memories for you too!
Thank you so much for your positive and fun video about Southport.
As the local MP '92-'97 and then living in the 'resort', I know how hard the local Council and I worked for the huge £millions to develop the sea front and sea defences from central Gov. The town is still a lovely place to visit and being optimistic and positive as you have been is vital. Much to do to continue to attract visitors and make it an even better place to live.
What does the council need to do to obtain the funds to repair arguably the town’s main attraction? And what can be done to fill the empty units in the town? Are the rents too high?
Bruh
@alexhoward93 Alex, sorry, I've only just seen this.
To try and give a positive answer, I would lobby the new MP - he probably needs a big project - and with the fact that the PM et al have all been in Southport recently a good campaign, with the support of the Council who are his political friends could achieve something.
I persuaded John Gummer then Environment Sec, to help release over £40m for the sea front and sea defences.
"Be lobby fodder, but DO something" for Southport I'd say to him. You never know until you try.
Thanks so much for doing such a good job in such a short time, i live in Ainsdale and love Southport so many places of interest and things to do, so much history to be had. next time come when the sun is out or sunny weekend you'll see Southport in a new light. enjoy
Thanks for a lovely walk through Southport,it's as nice as Lytham St annes. On a side note i don't think that pub is the smallest.i think that is the signal box in cleethorpes which you and Helen went to last year .hate seeing piers left to rot like that too.
I’m so thrilled I came across your channel I really like theses kind of videos that give one an insight of towns and places as it gives one ideas of places to visit one’s self . I personally love Southport as a Sandgrown’n myself from just across the water, one might say, there are good and bad in every place across the UK but like you mentioned in your video, I hate to see people bring places down because of a boarded up shop as an example. This town has character without a doubt it’s not full of new stuff it’s full of nostalgia from the past and a Main Street ie Lord Street with lots of on street bars and great shops to browse round. It’s my first visit to your channel and look forward to watching many more…….Keep up the good work and I really like your van conversion.
Good video, positivity is what people need, not rubbish from newspapers.
RIGHT...I've had to stop that at 26 minutes because I need to vent TOO James 😂
It does my HEAD IN...the way the media and TH-camrs SLAG OFF beautiful towns like this!
It's just completely irresponsible to the people who live there, and the businesses that are trying to make a go of it there.
Bloody "nere do wells"..."moaning minnies"..."malcontents"...
It makes me want to 😱
I will say, without equivocation, that...
SOUTHPORT LOOKS LIKE ONE OF THE NICEST PLACES YOUVE EVER VISITED!
So...what are they whinging about?!
How anyone can slag off that beautiful town is beyond me!
As you know James, I live on the Kent coast, but have lived in over 40 different places in my 63 years, so I've seen a few things in my time, and I can hardly think of a single resort in Essex, Kent, Sussex, or Hampshire...that compares.
And...I've been to them ALL...because I used to be a long distance haulage courier.
The only resorts that could compare down this way, are maybe...Brighton, Eastbourne, and Portsmouth/Southsea.
I think Southport looks ABSOLUTELY GLORIOUS!
WTF are those muppets whinging about???
ONE rundown shop facade?!
Jesus...🙄🙄🙄
I could go on and on...
But I won't.
I'll get me coat...😂😂😂
I completely agree Chris, the thing is 'poverty porn' and controversial videos do really well on TH-cam. It's just a sad reflection of society. I also dislike all the new wave of pretend journalists who just make videos filming homeless people and drug addicts. I think its exploitative.
100% mate 😢 @@bythecurb
This comment aged so poorly. Turned out they were right about southport
I am totally with you, yes the town has gone into a bit of a decline but tell me where hasn't suffered of late. Its also had the most shocking event of late but we won't go into that. I am wondering if all of these moaners would like to get their behinds up to Southport and help the many volunteers who work within the town and gardens to help keep it looking as it does......we won't hold our breath hey!!
@@bythecurb Definitely! We have put many complaints on their sites and put some incorrect facts right, strangely enough none answered then the sites seem to disappear.....mmm wonder why!!?
Thanks for a lovely video. I was born and bred in Southport and my great uncles are sadly listed on that war memorial. Very proud of living here but sad that Sefton Council have let it go downhill, preferring to pour money trying to revive the Strand shopping centre in Bootle.
Brian at the lawn mower museum is a cut above the rest. Great video Southport looked very clean and well looked after gardens etc.
Thanks James..for showing my home town..I luv living in Southport..lots of folk say about decline..but as you point out..its everywhere.. there's plenty of nice places to visit..The town hall.. Atkinson art gallery are on Lord street..lots to see in there..great vlog..👍
yeh its a load of bollocks, go to church town, birkdale or ainsdale, there's nothing wrong with the place.
Thank you for doing such a lovely vid on Southport. I grew up only a few miles away from Southport and yes it has dramatically changed but it still has a lot to offer and is deffo not the hell hole media make it out to be at all!! I spent a couple of days in Morecombe 2yrs ago and Morecombe still had a lot of beauty left and wonderful people too. My nan and grandad used to take me to both places for the outdoor pools and beautiful beaches. Thank you again, !st time ive watched and look forward to watching more😊
Loved the vid 👍👍I live in Southport and appreciate your honest comments…… also learned stuff I hadn’t known. So glad you enjoyed your visit. If you come back check out Masons Arms pub, Hesketh Park, Churchtown and the Botanic Gardens….. you also missed The Grand next door to Peaky Blinders! On Lord Street there’s also the Wayfairers Arcade and The Atkinson museum and gallery….both worth a visit. Was sorry you had an early night….all the trees on Lord Street are lit up at night and it’s very different to daytime. Hope this doesn’t sound critical, it’s not meant that way at all…..hope you come back and do another 👍👍👍
I agree with you, shame that he was stood next to The Grand and just 5 mins from Lord St at night, however he did do alot and positive info too!
We recently bought our new (to us) car from Southport and even though we weren't there long, I thought it was a lovely place. That beach is amazing. I've been to worse places. 'If you have eyes to see and ears to hear' you'll find beauty in anything. Thank you for such a brilliant and honest review... I'm going to go there again with my hubby xxx
Thanks for the great video. I’ve lived in Ainsdale for almost 50 years. Weird to see our lovely beach on your channel. Southport definitely isn’t what it was for shopping but plenty of factors why (internet shopping, Liverpool One etc). Facebook community groups really surface the worst opinions of locals, making it look like no one in Southport actually likes the place.
Enjoyed your considered take on the place. Means a lot as you travel to many similar towns. Bought you a beer. Wished I’d have been in town and bumped into you in person.
Yes, he did a great and considered report. I so wish I could talk with him as there is so much more here too. I have put a couple of comments on so hope he sees them.
God bless you! You are a fabulous guy supporting our seaside in the UK! Thank you x
Thanks so much 🙂
I love driving to Southport and have been going for 30 years now man and boy and I take my son now. It’s a disgrace what’s happened to the pier but it’s a lovely place and it’s only people who have never been that jump on the bandwagon I’m so glad you went James to judge it for yourself another really good video 🎉
Had many a family holiday in Southport in the 80s , saw Ken Dodd live 3 years in a row...happy days.
Ross , Dundee. 🏴
Great video lovely Southport when the sunshine is out ❤❤ we go a few times in the summer time xxxxxx
Looks lovely! Many years since I've been to Southport - does it still have the flower show? Town looks clean and plenty of shops - and bigger than I remember. Thanks for posting!
Awwh, that brought back some lovely memories. My late husband and I rowed about going in 'The Lawnmower Museum', I used to call him Inspector Gadget! We went in and indeed it is very interesting. Loved Southport, thanks .
I’ve just got back from Southport and I couldn’t believe how beautiful it was. There was tons of tourists loads of Victorian architecture. Lots of public amenities, it was awesome compared with Blackpool.
Southport looks lovely, not bad at all. Great video James.
Awww I loved this J… I live half an hour away so know Southport well. You did a great and honest review, you covered all the hotspots and I knew straight away where you were headed… I’ve been to that museum about 20 years ago and I agree, it’s a hidden gem!
Cracking vlog, keep up the good work… we are all sick of moaning naysayers… it’s nice to see the positives in all these places you visit!! 🙌
A lovely vlog we live about twenty minutes away from Southport, we always go to Weatherspoons when we are there and have the fish chips and mushy peas, the fish is lovely.
Try going to the smallest pub or the one at the Marine Lake then walk to Swan Chippy its 5 mins from either pub, think the smalles pub is nearest to be honest!
I go to Southport quite often, my brother used to live there. It isn't a dump. Not as busy as it used to be and it's shame that the pier has closed down due to structural issues. Hopefully they will fix it. Still much nicer than Blackpool (which is a dump) and some other seaside towns in the North.I know you are not into motorbikes but on a nice Sunday the area in front of the pier is absolutely rammed full of motorbikes.
I went to Skegness today for the first time in 50 years. I only went because I'm attending a workshop for The Sovereign Project in Leicester tomorrow.
I'm shocked at the change in what was once quite a smart resort. It was teeming with zombies on electric carts and also others on foot. After about half an hour , I ready to leave. I found a nice lay-by outside the town, but I've no idea where I am at present . I'll set off for Leicester in the morning .
I have some old black and white photos of a holiday in Skegness in the sixties, I think I found the spot where the photos were taken but it's completely different except for the famous clock in the background.
I’m a Londoner studied in Liverpool in the eighties and often took the train to Freshfields was blown away by the space, beauty and beaches……
Fabulous place.
Thanks for the reminder :)
No “s” on the end of Freshfield!
Freshfield approx 5 miles from Southport? nd don;t forget the pinewoods with the rare red squirrels there!!
Brilliant video, the music, the rants, just showing us out and about. "What time do Geese get up in the morning?" 🤣🤣
3.45 ish?
I lived in Southport for 12 years.
It is a wonderful place!
Thank you for highlighting this lovely place.
Thanks James ….that place doesn’t look that bad at all in fact I liked the shopping area where you could walk under cover with those lovely Victorian balcony thingys!!
As you said they could do with a lick of paint but I’ve seen worse places!
I hope the geese left you alone, you do make me smile…..when you have a good moan..
Loved the gorgeous wide beach I bet that’s crowded when the school hols start.
Reminded me a bit of Holkham in Norfolk, I think you would like it there as you love history and Holkham Hall is fabulous..
Thanks Judy, I did have a good sleep thank you
There is an even more stunning arcade across the road (literally) called Wayfarers arcade, if its architecture you like get yourself there!! Not as many shops as there was but still worth a visit and use it as a cut through to The Promenade!
I have lived in Southport and live near Southport all my life.
It had more character when I was young with the outdoor baths, zoo and shopping experience.
But then where has kept the top class it once had.
Going out in the town late at night at weekends round the bars is still great for the young at heart.
Southport still has a lot going for it.
The Marine lake, fairground and many parks can fill days for tourists.
Easy link by train to the centre of Liverpool.
The pier is a long walk and last time I walked it before Covid. It was like new, so surprised to find it closed.
Awww I love Southport many many fond memories over the years. I still Enjoy A day trip & have been know to go all the way from Wigan to Southport for fresh doughnuts
I a live near Edinburgh and am now a caravaner. I visited Southport as a stopover on the way back from Devon 30 years ago and the town was tidy and maybe a wee bit upmarket for a seaside town. Returned in 2021 and agree it is not as good as it was but it is still a
good destination with plenty to do with decent pubs and restuarants. Like you have spent a rainy afternoon in the lawnmower museum and for £3 it is a bargain. I stayed at the CAMC
site more than £5 per night but still ok value and close to Victoria Park and Birkdale Village.
Every High street is suffering from out of town retail parks and internet shopping.
You provided a great informative video and I am now a subscriber.
Still one of the best places to live in the north of England!
And also the best town for golf anywhere in England by a mile! Great video
It looks like a nice town centre, well maintained and I love all the covered walk ways, Southampton needs more of those.
The problem is that in all honesty and straightforward talking we the British tax paying public cannot afford to holiday in these wonderful resorts because in comparison if you go abroad to get the warm sun with the beach and that is cheap it keeps dads and kids busy having fun in the warmth yes you have lunch still to buy and an ice cream etc .
But here you can go to one of our wonderful resorts, no flight costs but crazy hotel ,digs prices go to the beach and it# raining or simply bloody freezing so then it’s money money money paying for and finding things to do whilst trying to keep dry ,warm and positive.
It’s quite simply all far far too expensive and bloody cold more often than not.
Thank you for a positive video about the Southport. I’ve lived here for 3 years and I really like the place, it gets so much much bad press but it’s not as bad as some would like us to believe.
Great review, Just spent 2 days in Southport…love it
I'm Catalan and went to Southport on 7th April 2000 in an old orange Wolksvagen Beetle driven by its owner, Ralph James from Bootle, a friend of Tony and Vicki Moore, much-loved animal advocates. Tony wasn't there at the time and there was a leaflet in the shop window announcing a memorial service for Vicki at Liverpool Cathedral. On the other hand, I like your honesty, simplicity, sense of humor and open and friendly nature.
Amazing stone in the columns of that Church. A long time since I have been to Southport, it's not looking too bad at all, bloody express not exactly a paper for telling the truth.
Well done James
Keep up the good videos. Love watching your channel. Best wishes to you both from Thailand 🇹🇭
Had some lovely times in Ormskirk and southport good memories. Thank you ❤
Come to Blackburn. You might be surprised.
Another great video. Southport looks like a lovely place to visit and i think I would have really enjoyed the lawnmower museum😊. Never believe everything you read in the press!! Better to visit these places, see for yourself and make your own mind up.
I went to the lawn mower museum expecting it to be a bit of a joke but to be fair I quite enjoyed it. That chap had put his life and soul into it so I respect him for that.
they are fixing up the arcade at the moment the one by the BHS building, southport airshow this weekend, its a great vibey town
So right that we have to support these places.I m sure I read that the Lakeside Pub was owned by Albert Pierrpoint after he retired from being a hangman.
Yep, he lived in there, the Lakeside Inn AKA the smallest pub in the town
What a lovely review…Southport is beautiful. Went to Crosby beach last week to see the Antony Gormley 100 statues. Stunning 🏴
James I think Bury st Edmunds has the smallest pub and in my opinion Bury could well be worth a visit.
Another great video. We never miss one it's so refreshing to listen and see a couple so down to earth. How were you able to play Fleetwood Mac without TH-cam taking it out ? ❤
I paid to licence the song!! I'm such a nerd!! 😂
You’d never have got out of that lawnmower shop with Helen, signs, looks a nice town
We visit Southport practically every week, we used to love walking up and down the pier, it’s terrible how they are leaving the pier to rot. Lots of lovely place in the daytime where you can have a snack or a meal, Kings Garden Tea Room on Marine Drive make a lovely bacon barm, Nostalgia Tea Rooms on Lord Street (the place you were looking up at when you said you’d paint it if you had a shop there. There’s also Walkers on Wesley Street and they do a fab breakfast.
Do you remember the outdoor pool then? That was left to rot, as the Lido in Ainsdale, the cyclone, think this is the new idea, leave it to rot then tell the public it couldn't be saved and demolish same!!
@@deniseroney yes, I have photos of my hubby in the outdoor pool. They built the entertainment centre and car park where it used to be.