Southport’s 2026 season of headline events has received a major boost with the announcement of special £2 return Merseyrail tickets (£1 for children).

Travel from any Merseyrail station

Residents and visitors can use the money-saving offer to travel to Southport from any station across the Merseyrail network.

Available from Merseyrail ticket offices and via Tap and Go, the ticket offer will be in place for following events,

• Cristal Palace - Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th April.
  
  
• Big Top Festival – Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May.
  
  
• Southport Food & Drink Festival – Friday 29th to Sunday 31st May.
  
  
• Southport Flower Show – Thursday 20th to Sunday 23rd August.
  
  
• Southport Air Show – Saturday29th and Saturday 30th August
  
  
• British Musical Fireworks Championship - Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th September.
  
  
• Books Alive – Saturday 24th to Saturday 31st October.

Save as much as 70%

The reduced-price tickets are being paid for by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority from funds recovered from train manufacturer Stadler. The mean that passengers can save as much as 70% on normal fares.

You can find out more at www.merseyrail.org/southport.

Sefton Council Leader Cllr Marion Atkinson said: “We really welcome this initiative, which will give families a chance to visit our wonderful town and experience some of our really exciting events that we have lined up.

Investing in Southport’s regeneration

“We have really been investing in Southport’s regeneration, and I am really looking forward for people to take advantage of the discounted train fares and make the most of Southport.

“With something on nearly every month as part of our Elegantly Eccentric cultural programme, there is really something for everyone to enjoy.

“These affordable train tickets are helping encourage everyone to take the train to Southport and experience the programme of events that promise to keep the town buzzing.”

Jewel

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram said: “Southport is one of the jewels in our region’s cultural crown. But for too long it hasn’t had the attention – or ambition – it deserved. Thanks to devolution, and determined leadership from Cllr Marion Atkinson, we’re now working better across all levels of government to change that.

“Alongside the restoration of Southport Pier, we’re investing in the town’s future – from the £17m we’ve committed to the new Marine Lake Events Centre, to the £2.5m we’re investing to transform the Town Hall Gardens. And now, with a packed calendar of major events coming up, we want to make sure as many people as possible can be part of it.

“So, we’re cutting the cost of train fares for these big events to try and make it cheaper and easier than ever to hop on the train and enjoy everything has to offer. You too can play your part – bring the family, support local businesses, and come and be part of what’s set to be a fantastic year for Southport.”

The pocket friendly fares form part of a wider drive to help Southport rebuild confidence, attract more visitors, and boost its local economy, ensuring the resort remains a vibrant destination for major events throughout the year.

Leaders across the city region have emphasised the importance of supporting Southport not only in terms of its regeneration and economic ambitions, but also in nurturing its cultural identity and strengthening community wellbeing.

Accessible and affordable

Suzanne Grant, Deputy Managing Director at Merseyrail, said: “The £2 fare is a great way for us to support Southport’s visitor economy by making travel to events more accessible and affordable for people across the Liverpool City Region.

“Combined with £1 child fares and the convenience of Tap & Go, this offer encourages more people to enjoy the town’s flagship attractions and contribute to the local economy.”

Vibrant cultural scene

Tony Hall CBE, Lord Hall of Birkenhead – Chair of the Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership said: “The programme of events will showcase the very best of Southport from our beautiful coastline to our vibrant cultural scene. The special Merseyrail tickets unveiled by the Mayor today are a great way of encouraging visitors to travel in and enjoy everything the town has to offer.

“By attracting people throughout the year, we’re helping to support local businesses, boost the visitor economy and strengthen Southport’s reputation as one of the region’s leading destinations.”