Stagecoach Gold X2 – Liverpool – Southport – Preston

Journey Overview

It’s a pure gold scenic sojourn on the chic Stagecoach Gold X2 service!

This adventure starts in the heart of Liverpool, but the bus very quickly makes its way out of the city, leaving the iconic landmarks behind. Shops, terraced houses and the brilliance of Bootle, give way to an industrial landscape, but there’s fascinating architecture at every turn – a particular favourite being the incredible art-deco Plaza cinema in Waterloo, being a classic example. So too, this is a trip resplendent with churches, all ornate and with striking magnificence – St. Faith’s Church, Great Crosby with its red-brick structure, on the right hand side of the bus stands out proudly, and there are plenty more with every twist and turn on the trip. Meanwhile, the bus goes close to Marine Football Club, on the left – scene of a famous game against Tottenham Hotspur on live television in 2021 (which Marine lost 5-0 but equipped themselves very well as a non-league side!).

This enthralling journey of contrasts gets better with every stop that’s passed. Into Crosby and there’s a white windmill, transformed into a house, sat right in the heart of a residential area. Tree-lined streets in Formby make way to the flat, open terrain by the Royal Air Force Woodvale premises and before long Southport appears with a white, thatch-roofed cottage neatly catching the eye on the approach. Into Southport and continental style cafes line the streets, below neat looking trees, but first the bus passes the level crossing at Birkdale station – there’s a real rural feel about the scenery, despite this paradoxically being a fairly built up area.

More churches and we’re into Southport, where the ‘UK’s only theatre spa hotel’ is being renovated. The bus stops for a few minutes, where the coastal air can be enjoyed fleetingly before the bus crosses flat, field pastures and the landscape is increasingly remote. Over the River Douglas first before the larger River Ribble is crossed on the outskirts of Preston near the lovely Broadgate Gardens. Preston appears quickly, almost out of nowhere, the grandiose council building is passed and the railway station emerges before the bus finds its way into the Bus Station right in the heart of the town centre with its blend of independent shops, big boutique brands and trendy bars, a great finale to a journey that started in the cultural melting pot of Liverpool and ends in the hotbed of the industrial revolution that is Preston, with its big, perfectly crafted buildings, hustle and bustle. It’s been a long journey, but captivating throughout!

A Fab Day Out!

Start your journey on the X2 bus in the heart of Liverpool, a city buzzing with energy, music, and maritime history. Before boarding the bus or enjoying the sights, treat yourself to breakfast at Bold Street Coffee, a laid-back spot beloved for its rich brews and sourdough toasties. Spend a vibrant morning in Liverpool exploring its rich culture and iconic sights. Start at the Royal Albert Dock, home to the Merseyside Maritime Museum and Tate Liverpool. Stroll along the waterfront and admire the famous Liver Building. Grab breakfast at a local café, then visit The Beatles Story for a deep dive into music history. Wander up to Bold Street for quirky shops and indie vibes. If time allows, stop by Liverpool Cathedral for stunning views from the tower.

Hop on the X2 and roll past the revitalised docklands and into Bootle, where the historic Bootle Town Hall stands as a proud Victorian sentinel. As the urban sprawl begins to give way to sea air, Waterloo offers a serene detour to Crosby Beach, home to Antony Gormley’s haunting and beautiful iron men sculptures gazing out to sea.

Heading into Crosby, you’ll notice a shift to a more coastal charm. Enjoy a wander through the village or detour to The Plaza Cinema, a classic art deco gem saved by its community. A little further along, Thornton passes quietly with leafy lanes and glimpses of old-world cottages, before the X2 whisks you into the vast pine woods and sand dunes of Formby. Here, take a moment to spot rare red squirrels in the National Trust woodland or gaze out across the golden beach at the Irish Sea.

When you reach Southport, it’s time for lunch—stop at Bistrot Pierre, a bistro with sea views and French charm, perfect for a relaxed meal near the Victorian Pier and elegant Lord Street. Stroll down Lord Street, known for its elegant Victorian architecture and boutique shops. Head to the Marine Lake for a peaceful walk or a swan pedalo ride. Visit the Southport Pier—the second longest in the UK—for sea views and a ride on the vintage tram. Explore King’s Gardens or relax on the sandy beach if the tide is out. For nature lovers, the nearby RSPB Marshside reserve offers birdwatching. Finish with a coffee at a café overlooking the sea or gardens.

Back on the bus and this time, it’s all the way to Preston where if teatime beckons, then we’d recommend dining at The Winckley Street Ale House, where hearty seasonal dishes meet a curated selection of craft ales. As evening falls, dive into the city’s nightlife: sip cocktails at Plau, a stylish bar carved out of a 17th-century cellar, or dance late into the night at Evoque, Preston’s vibrant club scene staple. From bustling Liverpool to historic Preston, the X2 isn’t just a bus ride—it’s a rolling coastal adventure filled with character, discovery, and unforgettable stops along the way.