I’m a 60 year old, gay man visiting Southport, Saefton, England from July 4th to July 7th, 2025. I’m arriving by car with a 71 year old, gay man who like me hads mobitily problems and we’re staying at the Waterfront Hotel on the Lower Promanade. We plan to visit Rufford Antiques fair on Sunday, July 6th and also visit Rufford Old Hall the same day. Can you recommend things to do during the rest of our time. Now there are added issues in the fact that he’s a Chester Silver collector and I’m a Star Trek fan and also I want to watch the British Grand Prix om July 6th.

Welcome to Southport and Saefton! Your trip sounds lovely, and I’d be delighted to provide a detailed itinerary and suggestions that take into account your interests, mobility considerations, and the events you want to attend.

Accommodation and Mobility Notes

Since you’re staying at the Waterfront Hotel on Southport’s Lower Promenade, you’ll be right on the seafront with easy access to scenic walks, cafés, and local shops. The promenade is mostly flat and well-paved, which is excellent for mobility concerns. The hotel is well-placed for easy car access and close enough to many attractions without strenuous travel.

Your Schedule and Interests Summary:

  • Two 60- and 71-year-old gay men, mobility problems
  • Staying in Southport Waterfront Hotel, Lower Promenade
  • Want to visit Rufford Antiques Fair + Rufford Old Hall on Sunday, July 6, 2025
  • One is a Chester silver collector
  • The other is a Star Trek fan
  • Want to watch the British Grand Prix on July 6
  • Visiting July 4-7, 2025

Suggested Itinerary and Activities

Friday, July 4 — Arrival & Gentle Exploring

  • Arrival & settle in your hotel
  • After resting, take a gentle stroll along Southport’s Lower Promenade for some fresh sea air and people-watching. The promenade is wheelchair- and mobility-scooter friendly.
  • Have dinner at a nearby restaurant on Lord Street or Marine Drive, which offer a variety of eateries with accessible options.

Saturday, July 5 — Explore Southport & Star Trek Connection

  • Morning: The Atkinson Arts & Museum
    • Located just a short distance from your hotel (around 10 minutes on foot or a quick taxi), The Atkinson is a cultural center with art exhibits, a theater, and a museum. It often has exhibitions which could appeal to art lovers and collectors alike.
  • Midday: Model Railway Village & Scenic Walk
    • The Model Railway Village is an accessible, charming attraction depicting miniature versions of local landmarks. Since it’s mostly flat and compact, it should be manageable with mobility challenges.
    • Nearby, you could enjoy a gentle walk or rest in Kings Gardens, a beautifully maintained area along the seafront.
  • Afternoon: Visit Adventure Coast Southport
    • Venture to Adventure Coast Southport for some fun without excessive exertion — Viking Landing and Cartoon Boardwalk offer gentle amusements. The area is designed with family-friendliness and some mobility accessibility.
  • Early evening: Explore local shops on Lord Street
    • Lord Street is known for its shopping arcade, boutique stores, and cafés. There may be specialty antiques or collector shops that your friend interested in Chester silver might appreciate.
    • Perhaps stop for early dinner or drinks here.
  • Star Trek fan opportunity: Check for local fan meetups or events
    • While Southport itself may not host Star Trek events this weekend, the nearby large cities sometimes have fan groups. Keep an eye on sites or social media for spontaneous or informal meetups. Alternatively, you can plan ahead to attend one of the Star Trek fan conventions happening later in the year in the UK, like the Destination convention in August or Warp 1 in October.

Sunday, July 6 — Rufford Antiques Fair, Rufford Old Hall & British Grand Prix

  • Morning & Afternoon: Rufford Antiques Fair & Rufford Old Hall
    • Plan your visit to Rufford village in the morning — the antiques fair will be a treasure trove for your companion who is a Chester silver collector. The fair is likely to have a good mix of antiques, including silver pieces.
    • Rufford Old Hall, managed by the National Trust, is nearby and offers a glimpse into Tudor-era manor architecture and gardens. The Hall and its grounds are relatively accessible, but confirm with the National Trust ahead of time to ensure facilities match your needs.
  • Afternoon: Watch the British Grand Prix (Silverstone)
    • The British Grand Prix will be broadcast live in pubs or the hotel. Your hotel or local sports bars in Southport on the promenade would be ideal places to watch the race in comfort.
    • Consider identifying a quiet, accessible pub with good screens and a welcoming atmosphere for a relaxed viewing experience.
  • Evening: Relaxed dinner back at Southport
    • After the excitement of the fair and race, dine at one of the well-rated restaurants near your hotel for a calm evening.

Monday, July 7 — Leisure & Departure

  • Morning: Lakeside Miniature Railway & Hesketh Park
    • For a peaceful final morning, visit Lakeside Miniature Railway, which offers gentle rides and accessible terrain for visitors with mobility limitations.
    • Hesketh Park is another beautiful green space with wide paths suitable for mobility aids. The park includes flower gardens, a café, and seating areas.
  • Late morning or early afternoon: Marine Lake & Beach
    • Take an optional short wheelchair-friendly trip along the promenade to Marine Lake or the beach area for more fresh sea air before you depart.
  • Departure home

Additional Recommendations

Star Trek Enthusiasts Nearby

While there doesn’t appear to be a Star Trek-specific event in Southport during your visit, major fan conventions are scheduled around the UK in 2025:

  • Destination Star Trek UK (August 29-31 in Blackpool) is an option if your trip or future plans allow.
  • Warp 1 Trek Convention (October 10-12 near Heathrow) could be a bigger event to attend later in the year.

You could consider online Star Trek fan sites for any informal meetups or Star Trek-themed gathering points in nearby cities such as Liverpool or Manchester.

Vintage & Antique Collecting in Southport

The region is rich in antiques fairs and shops that might interest your Chester silver collector friend:

  • Apart from Rufford, Southport offers multiple opportunities for antiques hunting, including regular fairs and specialist shops.
  • You could check out any local antique dealers on Lord Street and the Chapel Street area.

Accessibility Tips

  • Southport’s main attractions and the promenade are generally friendly for mobility issues but always confirm ahead with venues for specific access needs.
  • Local taxis and car parks near main attractions generally provide for mobility access.
  • Rufford Old Hall advises checking current accessibility details on their website or by phone.

Summary

  • Friday: Gentle arrival, promenade walk, local dining
  • Saturday: The Atkinson, Model Railway Village, Adventure Coast, Lord Street shopping
  • Sunday: Rufford Antiques Fair, Rufford Old Hall, British Grand Prix viewing in Southport
  • Monday: Lakeside Miniature Railway, Hesketh Park, Marine Lake, departure

This plan balances your mobility needs, interests in antiques and Star Trek, and the British Grand Prix event seamlessly. Southport’s charm, combined with the beautiful natural and historic sites nearby, will make for a relaxing and enjoyable break.

If you need any more detailed advice on transportation, dining, or finding Star Trek fan activities, just let me know!

Information synthesized from multiple sources about Southport attractions, nearby antiques fairs, and 2025 UK Star Trek conventions.
(THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Southport) | (Adventure Coast Southport) | (Rufford Antiques Fair – May and June calendars) | (Destination Star Trek UK) | (Warp 1 Trek Convention)