The Atkinson Southport: footprints, pharaohs, femme fatales and a fabulous free day out!

The Atkinson combined art centre was completely revamped a decade ago, and now incorporates museums, art galleries and live music, comedy and theatre performance areas. Throughout the year it plays host to household names, exclusive exhibitions and sought-after art.

We’ve pulled together ten reasons to add this to your day trip calendar, so you don’t have to miss out on a magical moment.

A pharaoh’s treasure

Explore an amazing private collection of eclectic Egyptology, courtesy of Mrs Anne Goodison, a Victorian collector whose passion for all things ancient saw her pull together a small but exquisite selection. Mrs Goodison – whose husband’s name adorns the home of Everton FC – previously kept her collection in her own home. Now displayed at The Atkinson, this fascinating insight into the lives of both the rich and the poor is an Egyptologist’s delight.

Go back in time!

Between Land and Sea offers a fascinating journey back through time along the Sefton Coast, from the prehistoric footprints found at Formby Beach to the Bootle Blitz, with true stories recounted from local people. Other museum displays explore the history of golf in Sefton, Red Rum and Aintree Racecourse, Southport Flower Show, the adventures of Dan Dare Pilot of the Future, and much more.

Meet Lilith, a local beauty

This fine painting by John Collier is one of 3,000 pieces of fine art held by The Atkinson, which are displayed on rotation throughout the year. Such is femme fatale Lilith’s appeal that she’s a magnet for visitors from around the country – she does, occasionally, go on international travels, so best check she’s safely at home!

Explore big names and touring art

The Atkinson works in partnership with the gallery community around the UK, and regularly exhibits works from other collections. This includes the Harris in Preston, the Victoria Gallery & Museum, Liverpool, and the Open Eye Gallery, also on Merseyside, among others. Independent artists don’t miss out, with regular interesting exhibitions, recently including the works of Gordon Cheung.

Start your own collection

As well as four art galleries within the arts centre, which host a collection of contemporary, traditional and visiting art, The Atkinson has gallery space for local artists and exhibitions. These pieces are available to buy, and any purchase over £100 is eligible for the national ‘Own Art’ scheme, which allows the buyer to spread the cost over 12 monthly payments, interest free. It’s a fabulous way to make art ownership affordable and accessible to all.

Get stuck in

There are plenty of interactive elements to a visit to The Atkinson – perhaps you want to play dress up, get gloopy with paint, send a digital postcard or take part in a toddler story time at the library; there’s always something going on.

Other fun events for younger visitors include magic shows, music and dance, as well as stage adaptations from best-selling authors.

All the world’s a stage

And at The Atkinson, there are two of them, a 400-seater main theatre and a 300 seater adaptable studio. Recent touring productions include Jane Austen’s Sense & Sensibility, plus local theatre and pantomime (it’s not just for Christmas, watch out for Easter and summer shows too). Top music acts, including The Christians, China Crisis, Marti Pellow and outstanding tribute shows like The Mersey Beatles and The Everly Brothers Walk Right Back, regularly appear. The tribute shows come with backing dancers and a live band, and are not to be missed.

You’re having a laugh

Imagine a venue where the likes of Jason Manford tests his new material, and household names like Mark Watson, Justin Moorhouse and Ivo Graham regularly appear on the bill, together with a monthly stand-up comedy night. from the renowned Hot Water Comedy Club.

An hour is not enough

You’ll want to devote a good few hours for free entertainment at The Atkinson … the combined art, museum and library may not be the biggest, but that means you get to see exhibitions ‘up close and personal’, without the risk of museum fatigue. Small, but perfectly formed!

Affordable, accessible entertainment

One of the big draws at The Atkinson is that almost everything is free – museums, galleries and exhibitions are all totally free of charge, though you will probably want to buy a delicious bite to eat or cuppa in their own award-winning café, A Great Little Place.

Only ticketed theatre and comedy events come at a cost, but there are a range of ticket options to help keep costs affordable.

Ready to re-discover The Atkinson? Find out what’s on and where to find them at https://www.theatkinson.co.uk/