Wine, coffee and books outlet to open this week
A new Liverpool city region hospitality venture combining wine, coffee and books will open its doors this week. Andrew Brown reports
An opening date has been revealed for the much-anticipated new Wine & Words by Watson in Southport.
This new bookshop, wine bar and coffee lounge will open on Lord Street in Southport town centre this Friday (August 15). It opens during one of the busiest weekends of the year for the town, with 55,000 visitors expected over the four days of the 2025 Southport Flower Show.
Owner James Watson said: “The wait is over… Wine & Words by Watson officially opens next Friday. Join us as we open the doors to a space where perfect coffee, great wine, delicious cheese, and meaningful conversation comes together.
“Whether you’re here for a glass, a book, or just the vibe – we can’t wait to welcome you. Mark your calendars — let’s raise a glass to new beginnings!”
Wine & Words by Watson is being opened by former local teacher James Watson, in the two units next door to Connards Jewellers on the tree lined boulevard.
This new venture is described as the perfect place where people can sit back either inside or outside and watch the world go by as they enjoy a good book and a glass of wine or coffee. A selection of cheese and charcuterie will be on offer too.
It is the realisation of a dream by James, who has been a popular figure at Norwood Primary School in Southport for the past 14 years before leaving at Easter.
The former Scout Leader grew up in Rothesay on the Isle of Bute in Scotland before moving to Southport.
He has also spent many years working in hospitality, both in Scotland and here in Southport, with Lang’s Wine Bar in Churchtown Village and The Office on Hoghton Street being just a few.
READ MORE: Queen Anne to return to the Mersey for VJ Day
READ MORE: Victorian Liverpool mansion set for major redevelopment
James has a degree in mathematics, astronomy and planetary sciences and hospitality management, so is the right person to ensure Wine & Words by Watson offers an experience that is “out of this world”.
Last year the dad-of-three married Portia, a fellow teacher at Norwood Primary School.
He said: “Opening Wine & Words by Watson has long been a dream of mine! I am so excited to begin this new chapter. It will have books, it will have wine, it will have coffee – I love all three.”