The Sir Henry Segrave - JD Wetherspoon
Cocktail Bar | Southport | England | United Kingdom
Cocktail bar and pub in Southport
"The Sir Henry Segrave - JD Wetherspoon" is a cocktail bar and pub of the well-known British Wetherspoon chain, located in Southport, a coastal town in Merseyside, England. The name of the pub honors Sir Henry Segrave, a famous British racing driver who set the land speed record of 152 miles per hour on Birkdale Sands in Southport in 1926 with his Sunbeam "Ladybird." Segrave, who was later knighted for his accomplishments, died in 1930 while attempting to break the water speed record on Lake Windermere. This historical connection is reflected in the name and adds a touch of local heritage linked to Southport's motorsport past when the town was a hub for car racing in the early 20th century.
Historic pubs in Merseyside
The interior of "Sir Henry Segrave" is typical of Wetherspoon pubs: spacious, functional, and focused on affordable comfort. The area is expansive, featuring a mix of high and low tables, along with some central seating booths that create a casual atmosphere. The decor is simple yet well-maintained, with dark wooden furniture and subtle nods to the local heritage through understated details. There is no beer garden, which is not unusual in an urban setting, but the bar offers plenty of space for guests, although it can fill up quickly on busy days. Cleanliness is often highlighted positively, as is the staff's ongoing effort to clear and clean tables—a point that leaves an impression on visitors.
Wetherspoon pub with local heritage
The beverage selection is extensive and reflects the Wetherspoon approach of offering variety at reasonable prices. There is a wide range of real ales, including standard beers like Ruddles or Doom Bar, as well as rotating guest ales from regional breweries, often ranging from 3.1% to 6% alcohol content—occasionally reaching up to 7% during beer festivals. Craft beers and draft options like Brewdog are also available, along with freshly ground Lavazza coffee. The cocktail bar itself focuses on classic, straightforward drinks without a strong emphasis on elaborate mixology, with prices—often as part of food deals—being a significant draw. The menu features traditional British dishes such as fish & chips, steaks, and pies, complemented by international options like pizza or chicken wings, as well as daily specials—like Steak Club on Tuesdays or Fish Friday. The quality of the food varies according to guests: some praise the speed and flavor, while others criticize cold dishes or a lack of consistency.
Affordable cocktails and food
The clientele is diverse, including tourists visiting Southport's attractions like Pleasureland or Lord Street, as well as locals and groups who appreciate the affordable prices and central location. The bar is family-friendly, welcoming children until the evening, and offers modern conveniences such as ordering via an app, which speeds up service, though there can occasionally be delays or technical issues. The noise level can be high on weekends or during events like the Southport Air Show, making the atmosphere lively but not necessarily relaxed. The staff is generally described as friendly and efficient, although they may appear overwhelmed on busy days, and there are occasional complaints about service or long wait times—especially when drinks are served well after food.
