Luxury on the waterfront

James Fisher enjoys a short break by the sea in Southport

Boasting the largest man-made lake in the UK and the second longest pier in the country, Southport is accustomed to breaking records.

Sitting proudly on the Irish Sea, this thriving tourist attraction is awash with top bars, restaurants and shopping venues.

Famed for attracting some of the world's bravest thrill-seekers, who used the 22-mile coastal line to break all manner of land and water speed records, the Lancashire town now prides itself on a more laid-back vibe.

The Grade II listed Southport Pier, the oldest iron pier in the country, has been standing for more than 150 years. A stroll down the four-star rated attraction gives fantastic views of the town and is the perfect way to walk off breakfast or an evening meal.

On a clear day neighbouring Blackpool and North Wales can be clearly seen, or visitors can delve into the town's history through a small exhibition while playing traditional penny slot machines at the end of the 1,216 yard walkway.

Southport is no stranger to adapting with times either. When a continued build-up of silt meant the sea was vanishing from the coastal line, the locals decided to take action and created the country's largest lake.

Today the lake is used for a choice of water-based activities, with pedalos and motor boats available to hire.

The nearby nature reserve is perfect to visit during autumn and winter when 40,000 pink-footed geese stop by during their migration from Iceland.

Swans are fed from the new discovery hide everyday from Raines Observatory and more than 100 types of rare and endangered water-birds can be seen all year long.

If you want to learn more about Southport's rich history, a free trip to The Atkinson is a must. The new home for music, theatre, art, poetry, literature and history is in the middle of Lord Street and offers a step back in time.

It also boasts a permanent exhibition, Discover Ancient Egypt, an exhibit that had previously remained private for 40 years.

The interactive museum, Between Land & Sea – 10,000 years of Sefton's Coast, follows Southport's growth from pre-historic times to the modern day.

After sampling some of the history, a trip to one of Southport's many boutiques, markets and shops will be in order.

Wayfarers Shopping Arcade is a striking Grade II listed building, which first opened in 1898. More than 30 individual shops and cafes are set on two floors.

Independent retailers sell everything from designer fashions, shoes and unique handbags, to traditional sweets, baby and children's clothing, and homeware,

Wayfarers is also home to a bronze statue of steeplechasing legend and three-time Grand National winner, Red Rum, who was trained on the Southport sands.

The Royal Arcade at the south end of Lord Street is a haven for collectables, antiques and nostalgia.

Southport's choice of eateries is second to none. Its very own tapas restaurant was even once occupied by the town's public toilets but rather than concrete it all in, the owner instead opened up the stylish El Rincon restaurant, which sells more than 25 authentic Spanish tapas dishes to suit all tastes.

Scores of bars and pubs are available for those who fancy a tipple such as Remedy, which has replaced the old mock-Victorian tourist information centre and turned it into a stylish café serving specialist coffees, fine malt whiskeys and artisan gin.

For real ale fans the Guest House in Union Street sells more than 15 varieties at very reasonable prices and for a bit of nightlife The Victoria is loads of fun.

There is also plenty for those who want to venture out of Southport, including the ancient Churchtown, which dates back to Saxon times and has been listed in the Domesday Book.

Situated two miles outside of Southport, the town boasts its very own Victorian Fernery, park, museum, boating lake and aviary.

When it comes to staying the night, Southport's Ramada Plaza Hotel is the jewel at the heart of the promenade waterfront development with stunning views of the lake.

The four-star hotel has 133 luxury bedrooms and its Marine Brasserie offers a comprehensive menu. The salmon and the lamb main courses, for instances, were delicious.

All in all, for a relaxing and enjoyable breakaway, a trip to Southport is a must for your calendar.

Travel facts

Prices at the Ramada Plaza Hotel start from £160 for a double room. A room with two double beds starts at £177 rising to £211 for a double bed suite. Dinner, bed and breakfast costs up to £290.Recipient of the 2015 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award and Hall of Fame Award. Enjoys views over Marine Lake in the heart of the town's waterfront development.

Its Marine Lake suites feature floor-to-ceiling curved windows and balconies, offering panoramic views of the coast.

The hotel is just a few minutes away from New Pleasureland, SplashWorld, Vue Cinema, and Premier Bowl and Laser.

Guests can dine in style at the Ramada's Marine Brasserie restaurant.

Meeting and banquet facilities are available capable of hosting up to 250 guests.