Southport has been shortlisted as the UK’s most ‘Coach Friendly Destination’ in the British Coach Tourism Awards 2019 (BCTA) – just two years after winning the same award.



The BCTA recognises excellence across destinations, visitor attractions, coach operators and tourism suppliers. The award for ‘Coach Friendly Destination’ recognises the way a town, city or region has enhanced the welcome it gives to coaches, coach groups and coach drivers.



















This year Southport faces stiff competition from Bournemouth & Poole, Burnham-On-Sea, Newmarket and Wells.


Cllr Marion Atkinson, Sefton Council’s Labour Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, said: “In 2017 we saw off competition from across the country to win this prestigious award and since then we haven’t been resting on our laurels.


“In 2018 we launched ‘Southport Pick ‘n’ Mix’, a new product for groups that offers a selection of inspirational ideas for a 4-night group-friendly itinerary based in the town. The product was very well received by tour operators and group travel organisers.


“Over the last few years Southport has become well known for the Coach Welcome Hosts that meet and greet coaches in the town centre, and for our secure coach parking at the Eco Centre on the Promenade. Being shortlisted for this prestigious award is testament to the work that the Visit Southport team is doing to attract more visitors to the town.”



The winners of the BCTA 2019 will be announced on March 20.