It’s often said that the only thing Manchester is missing is a beach. Well, luckily for little Mancs, they haven’t got far to get to one, as Merseybay – Stockport’s favourite free town centre beach – is back to save summer, offering a fun, affordable alternative to travelling to the coast.
Launching for the summer holidays, this year’s beach will have a superhero makeover complete with golden sand, beach huts, deckchairs and popular beach toys. Located outside Primark in Merseyway, the beach is completely free to use, giving families the perfect place to relax, play and enjoy the school summer holidays without breaking the bank. Children of all ages can dig, build sandcastles and enjoy classic beach games, while parents kick back and soak up the summer atmosphere.
Alongside the daily beach fun, visitors can purchase seaside‑inspired snacks and refreshing drinks from the beach huts, while those looking for an extra thrill can enjoy returning pay‑for attractions including the Helter Skelter and surf simulator.
A superhero takeover at Merseybay
Adding even more excitement to the school break, every Tuesday throughout August the beach will host free superhero‑themed events for little heroes to enjoy. The fun begins on Tuesday 4th August, where families can meet Spider Hero and Spider Ghoul before taking part in a free craft session to create their own superhero keyring to take home.
On Tuesday 11th August, Superhero Girl and Bat Hero will swoop into Merseybay for meet and greets, while children can design their own superhero kite. The adventure will continue Tuesday 18th August when Green Giant and Rock Man arrive for photo opportunities, while young recruits can also take part in a free stationery hunt trail around the shopping centre, collecting useful goodies for the new school term.
The summer of heroes comes to an epic finale on Tuesday 25th August with the Superhero Academy Party, featuring superhero appearances, interactive entertainment and surprises as Merseybay celebrates another unforgettable summer.
Merseybay gives “families a free and affordable way to enjoy the holidays in the town centre”
Cllr Micheala Meikle, Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration and Skills at Stockport Council, said: “Merseybay has become a much‑loved part of summer in Stockport, giving families a free and affordable way to enjoy the holidays in the town centre.
“This year’s superhero‑themed beach is set to bring even more fun, helping create lasting memories for local families while supporting town centre businesses. Events like this help make Stockport a vibrant destination where people want to spend time, shop, eat and enjoy everything the town has to offer.”
Merseybay Beach in Stockport opening hours
Merseybay will be open daily in line with Merseyway Shopping Centre’s opening hours.
Monday – Saturday 9am – 5.30pm
Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm
Bank Holiday opening 10.30am – 4.30pm
For full details, event updates and opening times, visit the Merseyway website or follow @Merseyway on Instagram.
Merseybay Beach, Merseyway Shopping Centre, 52-54 Great Underbank, Stockport SK1 1PD.
