Out & About in Liverpool

Nominated European Capital of Culture in 2008, Liverpool showed the world the best of its cultural attractions and creative thinking. Liverpool is centred on a beautiful area of Lancashire and its culture, arts and entertainment really do deserve exploration. Attractions here offer excellent value and some are even free.

Historically, Liverpool was at the helm of Britain's maritime supremacy. The city was a centre for trade particularly with the new world. Sadly this included human cargoes, slaves, and as well as other cities such as Bristol and Southampton, the slave trade continued for over 100 years. Now, as with the other ports, Liverpool is educating today's generation on the wrongs of the slave trade.

Much of the dockland area is now given over to business, residential developments, retail spaces and entertainment. However, a freight shipping industry still thrives in Liverpool. The city used to be a major passenger port until flying took the bulk of the travel. However, with the resurgence of cruising, the days of sail are coming back. Liverpool's history can be witnessed at the Merseyside Maritime Museum which is housed on the Albert Dock. Underwater Street, in the Cunard Building, is a science and discovery centre for children. Pier Head with the Three Graces: The Royal Liver building and the Cunard and Port of Liverpool Buildings still function after a century of history. A visit is incomplete without a ferry ride across the River Mersey. The Mersey Maritime Museum, part of a Victorian Warehouse, maps out Liverpool's maritime history.

Shopping

In and around the city you can enjoy retail therapy galore! Liverpool City Centre boasts most of the major High Street names. Forty two acres of wasteland in the city centre have been converted into housing, offices, public open space and, most prominently, retail. The area is known as Liverpool One and contains big stores such as Debenhams and John Lewis. There is also a 14-screen Odeon cinema. The project has given Liverpool a high ranking in the league table of British retail destinations.

On Mathew Street is The Cavern Walks. This shopping complex is home to designer outfits including From Me To You which is the official merchandise of the Beatles, as well as others such as Vivienne Westwood and Drome.

Food and Drink

Liverpool is a fantastic place for food and drink and is continuing to evolve with ever-more imaginative restaurants and menus. From tortillas to tapas, from traditional British food to Afro-Caribbean, you could be anywhere in the world when it comes to food. It is a good idea to look at the Taste Liverpool Awards which will help you to make your choice from the best places to eat in the area. In fact, at the recent Hi-Life Dining Awards, Paul Askew from Liverpool won the top prize being voted Best Chef by the members of the Hi-Life Dining Club with its membership of over one hundred and thirty thousand.

Arts and Entertainment

Liverpool Arts Regeneration Consortium - known as LARC - has risen to the challenges presented by Liverpool being nominated European Capital of Culture in 2008. LARC is linked to Liverpool's Visual Arts which is a project whose aims are to secure recognition of Liverpool's place within an international network of visual arts practice and thinking.

The Liverpool National Museums Group comprises the Walker Art Gallery, World Museum Liverpool, the International Slavery Museum, Merseyside Maritime Museum, Lady Lever Art Gallery, the National Conservation Centre, Sudley House and Museum of Liverpool. The International Slavery Museum tells the story of the city's connection to slavery, as well as addressing the legacies of the slave trade. There are tales of rebellion and bravery amongst the slaves - mainly stories which have been previously untold.

Hotels and Travel

Getting around Liverpool is easy. There are train and bus routes leading into the city and around the local areaas well as the Mersey Ferries which carry tourists and commuters across the river.

John Lennon Airport: Liverpool is one of Britain's oldest airports and in 2003 it celebrated its seventieth anniversary. The airport is seven miles South East of the city centre, adjacent to the River Mersey. The main railway station is Lime Street in the city centre.

Whether you wish to find a top class hotel or cheap accommodation, you will have no problems at all. Whatever your demands, needs or budget it is very easy to find the perfect accommodation. You will find the hotels and B&Bs in the city are as friendly and accommodating as its people.