Southport is a seaside city that became beautiful when they took beauty seriously, and retains that beauty today.

It’s full of interesting places to go and things to see. This little street is reflected perfectly in the windows on one side.

D&F picked us up and took us to Martin Mere Wetland Centre which, until it was drained, was the largest body of fresh water in England. They are knowledgeable birders. We really appreciated seeing hundreds of pink footed geese fly in from Greenland or Iceland to winter there. The sound was amazing. Some years as many as 30,000 geese arrive.

The habitats for the birds at Martin Mere feels natural and happy.

They have two kinds of flamingoes.

And nenes, which are also called Hawaii geese. Actually Hawaii screwed up and let the mongoose kill theirs, so Martin Mere exports nenes to Hawaii. (This comment has not been verified by anyone who actually knows, like D&F).From the hides you can watch wild waterfowl being themselves.

A lovely visit followed by a lovely lunch.

Did you see the little guy peeking over the building in the last picture? This is what he really looks like.

There’s a garden donated by RBC and a cabin that looked much too much like home.

Later we walked down the Southport Pier and enjoyed some games of chance and beautiful scenery.

In the evening we had a marvellous dinner where the restaurant owner lives on the same street as D&F and genuinely cares that his guests are happy. The food was delicious.

A good time was had by all. Thanks for your hospitality.

Now awaiting our flights home.

Keep smiling.