Churchtown is a tranquil, historic village on the northern fringe of Southport, featuring stunning thatched shops and cottages through the village centre.
With bijou buildings, thatched cottages and a pretty village green, Churchtown feels like a place where time has stood still, not at all in an undeveloped way, but in a delicate manner that is a rarity in modern life and needs to be preserved. It's the epitome of a chocolate-box village where the gravity of its historic past can still be felt in its atmospheric spirit.
A designated conservation area, visitors have the opportunity to explore award-winning parks, charming cafes and open fire traditional gastropubs. A popular family location with highly regarded local schools and a lovely mix of property types. Very much an increasingly popular destination with excellent recent investment and an ever-growing thriving community.
It may not possess the bright lights and touristic charisma that nearby Southport does, but this small village is in its own right, a sight to behold for those who have an appetite for old-school British charm. As a Southport estate agent, perhaps we shouldn't have favourites but when it comes to Churchtown, there is something about this delightful village that makes it a firm favourite amongst the Ball & Percival team.
1In 1575, a ship ran aground on the coast of Churchtown. The ship’s cargo contained potatoes from its international dealings. From this, Churchtown became the first place in England to grow potatoes. 2Meols Hall, based on Botanic Road, was originally built in the twelfth century, before Roger Fleetwood-Hesketh reconstructed most of the building. The family owned many properties in Churchtown.3The popular Botanical Gardens of Churchtown was once where the Southport tram terminated its service. Visitors are still able to see the circular turning circle near the beginning. 4There is evidence of a church on the site of the current St. Cuthbert’s, which dates back to around 1154. The current church was built in the 1730s. 5The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) have a reserve at Marshside. Here, an array of wildlife can be found, from Pink-Footed Geese, Lapwings and Black-Tailed Godwit.
Lifestyle & Activities
The Botanic Gardens of Churchtown are mightily impressive in all their floral glory, boasting such stunning scenery that they have attracted green-thumbed fans from across the country for well over a century.
Catering for the Victorian residents of the village, the Botanic Gardens are a maze of pathways and lakes, surrounded by colourful floral displays that provided a luxurious haven away from the fledgeling residential area. Despite having been opened for over one-hundred-and-forty years, the gardens still serve a purpose today, providing the local residents with a place to escape from their everyday life and enter a world that is altogether more peaceful, beautiful and free.
Located near to the Botanic Gardens is another Victorian gem that was once owned by one of the most influential families of Southport. Hesketh Park was part of the Meols Hall estate, owned by Reverend Charles Hesketh, who donated part of his land for the benefit of the public. As one of the largest parks in Southport, Hesketh Park attracts many local families with its gardens, fountains and lakes. With various areas to visit, nature trails and a children’s play area, there is no doubt that the park would become a family favourite if a move to the area was on the cards.
For those who are fans of golf, there is no better place to play than in Southport. However, with the famed Royal Birkdale soaking up much of the attention, the other stunning courses often fade into the background.
Churchtown is home to two golf courses, Southport Golf Links and the Hesketh Golf Links. Established in 1885, Hesketh Golf Club is the oldest club in Southport and offers beautiful scenery that has become synonymous with the Sefton coastline. With a variety of membership packages available for all the family, joining Hesketh Golf Club is the perfect way to relax and socialise with family and friends whilst enjoying the best of the outdoors.
Schools
Despite its small size, Churchtown is home to three primary schools including Lakefield Primary School, making great pickings for parents with younger children, who often opt to move to the area prior to their children beginning their schooling.
Located near St. Cuthbert’s Church, Churchtown Primary School may not be a church school but does work closely with the church of many community events. Having been rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted in its most recent inspection, the school is a popular choice amongst the local parents who enjoy the friendly environment. Under a national initiative, pupils are able to take part in Children’s University, which allows children to have access to a range of museums, sports clubs, libraries and theatres, with a passport that rewards the pupils who participate.
For parents who are looking for church school education for their children, the St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Primary School in the heart of Churchtown is a popular choice. With close links to the churches of St. Marie and St. Patrick, pupils at the school are able to get to know their local parish, with ministers taking part in school discussions, collective worship and special holiday events. The school has been rated as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted and seventy-six percent of pupils are meeting the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Mathematics.
Bars & Restaurants in Churchtown
The Hesketh Arms
Having been a core part of the Churchtown social scene for over two-hundred years, there is little wonder as to why the Hesketh Arms is considered to be one of the most popular pubs in town. With its rustic décor filled with large comfy chairs and warm open fires, the Hesketh Arms is a wonderfully inviting place set in the most scenic of settings that overlooks the historic grounds of Meols Hall. Guests can enjoy a menu that is decorated with seasonal dishes, traditional pub classics and a few appearances from the hearty American cuisine.
Address: The Hesketh Arms, Botanic Rd, Merseyside, Southport PR9 7NA
Telephone: 01704 509548
Peaky Blinders Bar & Accommodation
The smash hit series of Peaky Blinders seemed to ignite an inner desire across the country to resurrect the underground speakeasies. It is very rare that news of a small-town bar travels far, however, Churchtown’s Peaky Blinders Bar is so popular that many travel from across the region to enjoy a taste of the peaky lifestyle. Fans can descend on the bar to enjoy a range of drinks from whisky and gin to cask ales and cocktails, whilst soaking up a great atmospheric ambience. With accommodation above, guests don’t have to travel too far to relax after a great night out.
Located in the heart of Churchtown Village, Botanic Road Eatery is as stylish as it sounds. Stunning floral arrangements welcome guests, paying homage to the area’s love affair with botanical gardens and floral delights. Inside, a beautiful modern interior awaits, oozing elegance and class that make it the perfect venue to celebrate that special occasion. Guests can enjoy a delightful menu of small plates that make the perfect choice for sharing with friends, from meats and fish dishes to vegetarian feasts, there is so much to offer in this small but hearty eatery.
Remedy brings a whole new dimension to the quintessentially British village of Churchtown, adding a bold and lively twist to the social scene. As Southport’s first specialist gin, whisky and coffee bar, Remedy shifts effortlessly between day and night, from coffee and cake to cocktails and concoctions that set the perfect scene for a great time. Each night, music fills the small but atmospheric room as groups of friends enjoy their favourite tipple. The perfect place to enjoy a relaxed but wonderful evening.
Southport is known for its many tea rooms, a favourite Victorian pastime that has yet to leave the heart of the modern British interest. The Vintage Tea Room, based on the Botanic Road, is a local favourite, where residents go to soak up the whimsical and quirky atmosphere whilst enjoying an afternoon tea, complete with the most delicious cakes. Also appealing to the savoury palate, the Vintage Tea Room have light bites available of an evening, with crackers, a range of tasty cheeses and wines that ignite the taste buds of all those who are lucky enough to live close to this treasured gem.