It’s often said that the only thing Manchester doesn’t have is a beach. Well, Merseyway in Stockport is turning up the heat this summer with the return of Merseybay – the popular free outdoor beach which takes over the shopping centre each year during the school summer holidays.
Launching on Friday 25th July, this year’s beach will be going tropical, transforming Merseyway into a Hawaiian haven, complete with golden sand, beach huts, deckchairs and popular beach toys, including buckets and spades. Located outside Primark, the beach is completely free to use, offering locals the perfect summer break where children of all ages can dig, build and play, while parents relax under the summer sun.
The ultimate beach bash kicks off at the Ohana Summer Launch Party on Friday 1st August, where families can enjoy live music, games and family-friendly activities including flower garland crafting, temporary tattoos, festival glitter makeovers and mystery visits from two of Hawaii’s favourite characters. But the fun doesn’t stop there – each Friday in August the beach will come alive with free themed events.
Event schedule at Merseybay Beach in Stockport
Friday 8th August
Children can visit the coconut shy and take part in a fun trail, collecting fun prizes to fill their very own pencil case, ready to take home.
Friday 15th August
Children will be able to meet the Merseyway Mermaids, who will be on hand to help in fun sea-shell craft sessions.
Friday 22nd August
Get ready to move your feet as the centre hosts interactive Hula Dancing workshops with Urban Hula.
Friday 29th August
Families can expect a fun closing party, featuring a giant roaming tortoise and games on the beach for kids.
Alongside the daily beach fun, visitors can purchase seaside-themed snacks and icy refreshments from the beach huts, or for those who are looking for even more thrills, paid-for attractions like the ever-popular Helter Skelter and surf simulator will also be returning to the centre.
Now in its ninth year, Merseybay has become a must-visit destination in Stockport, offering a vibrant, affordable alternative to coastal travel and costly days out for families during the summer break.
Victoria Nichol, Centre Manager at Merseyway said: “Merseybay brings the joy of the seaside right to the heart of our town. This year, we’re excited to give it a Hawaiian twist – from mystical mermaids to surprise guest appearances, this year’s beach is set to be really exciting, and we can’t wait to welcome families for another summer of fun.”
Cllr Micheala Meikle, Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration and Skills at Stockport Council, said: “Merseybay is a firm favourite with families and draws a crowd each summer. It brings real energy to the town centre and supports our wider regeneration ambitions – driving footfall, supporting local businesses, and making Stockport a destination people want to visit and return to.”
Merseybay Beach in Stockport opening hours
Merseybay will be open daily in line with Merseyway Shopping Centre’s opening hours.
Monday – Saturday 9.00am – 5.30pm
Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm
Bank Holiday Opening 10.30am – 4.30pm
For full details, event updates and opening times, please visit the website or follow @Merseyway on Instagram.
📍 Merseybay Beach, Merseyway Shopping Centre, 52-54 Great Underbank, Stockport SK1 1PD.