On a recent episode of Coronation Street, Southport was described as the ‘Paris of the North’.
That might be a stretch but there are rumors that Napoleon III visited the town in 1838 during his exile in the UK and was reportedly so enamored by Lord Street he was inspired to rebuild parts of Paris in Southport's image.
Southport is beautiful and, while it may not live up to the grandeur it once had, the architecture is stunning and has a lot to offer. Many move to the area to enjoy its natural beauty.
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In the episode, Brian Packham suggested his cousin visit the coastlines of England. After mentioning a trip to Cornwall, the owner of The Kabin newsagent said there are "wonders up here" and suggests Southport - the inspiration for Paris."
You can see similarities between the Champs Elysee in Paris and Lord Street. It does leave you with a certain sense of pride to think that the seaside town may have played a hand in shaping one of the world's most beautiful cities.
As the story goes in 1838 Nepolean III then a young prince was politically exiled to England, went on a trip to the seaside, and fell in love with Lord Street in Southport - said to be one of the first boulevards in the world. Lined with shops and developments, it was different from the mills and factories seen elsewhere.
Once crowned Emperor Napoleon III, it is rumored that he ordered his architect to replicate the boulevard in industrial Parisian streets. Thus, the connection between the two areas was born.
The fates of both places have not mirrored one another but you can still see the beauty Southport has to offer. From the Atkinson to the Wayfarers Arcade, the city has some of the finest examples of Victorian architecture in the North West.
While the story has never been proven if Neoplean III did come to Southport it is hard to see a world in which he was not inspired by the town. Many who visit are always surprised by the buildings on offer.
Walking down Lord Street does feel like you are stepping back in time and if you take a moment to take in your surroundings you might be surprised at what you find.
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