Skip to content

The ‘Grandest’ Christmas lights switch on this season!

Over 400 people braved the weather last night as Southport’s hottest new venue, The Grand on Lord Street switched on their dazzling Christmas lights installation.

Over 15,000 twinkling lights, 6,000 baubles, a giant Christmas tree and garlands galore ensured the show-stopping festive decorations drew gasps from the locals as The Grand turned on the festive charm illuminating Lord Street.

Hosted by local radio legend and star of this year’s panto at The Atkinson, Claire Simmo, festivities kicked off from 5.30pm. There were traditional Christmas classics from The Haydock Brass Band, festive tunes from ‘The Southport Singers’ David Browe and Casandra Kotchie. The highlight of the evening was a guest appearance all the way from Lapland by ‘The Real Santa’ who flicked the switch and declared the festive lights open for all to enjoy!

An absolute must visit for your festive diary, the light switch on, which was free to attend, was a magical event for the whole family with live entertainment and mince pies.

Oozing art deco elegance, the all-new Grand has been completely restored and now offers a unique mix of old-time glamour and contemporary style in the heart of the town’s shopping district.

The stunning festive installation will continue throughout the November and December, creating the perfect festive backdrop for drinks in the stunningly refurbished Chloe’s Piano Bar, or a delicious Sunday roast in The Brasserie.

The spectacular Christmas display is set to further enhance the magnificent new venue, creating a festive focal point on Lord Street, which will be perfect for family gatherings, stylish seasonal dining, and memorable Christmas party events.

Speaking about their exciting plans for the Holiday season, The Grand’s General Manager, Eimear Mcelory said: ‘The Grand is all about celebrating in style and after a few lacklustre Christmases in the depths of the pandemic, we wanted to make our first Christmas truly unforgettable. Taking inspiration from some of the world’s most iconic restaurants, we have gone all-out with our decorations, and we can’t wait to see guests enjoying a spectacular Christmas here in the heart of Southport.’

To enjoy this festive first in style, book a table or just call in, enjoy a winter-warmer and get into the Christmas spirt – Grand style!

Visit the Grand’s website here.

Downtown in Business

£76m spent in Liverpool’s food and drink in Q1

Next week Liverpool Restaurant Week begins. Running from 22-28 April over 75 venues are taking part with hundreds of offers for people to download and enjoy. 

The value of the sector to the city centre economy is laid bare in data from Liverpool BID Company (and platform Beauclair) which analyses UK spend data. 

Food and Drink is now the largest economic sector in the city centre, around 37%. UK card holders spent a whopping £76m in just three months in the city centre’s restaurants and bars. 

Read More