Start with the closure, because it is the thing that catches people. The Atkinson is shut on Sundays and on bank holidays, which is when most families are actually free. Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm, for the museum, gallery, shop and cafe. The library runs later on weekdays.
The building is the big Victorian block on Lord Street, and it holds Southport's museum, its art galleries, the library, a theatre and a cafe. Entry to the galleries and museum displays is free. In a town where the seafront attractions all have a turnstile, that matters. Theatre and studio performances are ticketed separately.
For children the Egyptian collection does most of the work, and the programme around it is decent. Craft workshops in the school holidays, Story and Rhyme Time in the library for the pre school end. An hour to ninety minutes is realistic. Nobody is spending a full day here and the building does not pretend otherwise.
There is no car park. On-street pay and display around Lord Street, or one of the town centre car parks, and two Blue Badge bays outside on a first come basis. The station is three minutes away on foot.
What it costs: Free entry to the exhibitions and museum displays. Theatre and studio performances are ticketed and priced per show.
The Atkinson's own panto on Lord Street, Cinderella this year, with magic, romance and wicked sisters. A family ticket for four is £98 to £110, plus £1.50 a ticket in booking fees, and there is a relaxed performance on Saturday 12 December at 1pm. A £10 panto pack of sweets, a drink and a light-up toy can be pre-ordered, which saves an argument at the kiosk.
Worth knowing: Story and Rhyme Time in the library suits under fives. The Egyptian collection lands better from about six.
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