I had lots of reasons to visit Liverpool: my grandmother is originally from the city and my dad religiously supported the football team when he was younger. More obviously, in 2008 Liverpool was recognised as the European Culture capital and the abundance of art and music throughout the city is immediately noticeable. There is a real lack of press coverage about this destination and I felt it was my duty to blog about Merseyside. I always intended to visit whilst spending three years at Manchester University, but never got round to it so I was delighted to have the chance to travel up north and investigate. Often considered in the shadow of its neighbouring city, Manchester, I wanted to visit and discover the unique places that represent this city’s character and culture.
To Stay
Hard Day’s Night Hotel – there is no escaping that Liverpool is the Beatles’ hometown and where they gained worldwide fame. This hotel is a tribute to the renowned boyband with quotes and photos adding colour and spirit to the otherwise corporate-style hotel. Centrally located and very comfortable, HDN Hotel caters for guests young and old, business and pleasure.
Hope Street Hotel – this beautifully designed boutique hotel has been fashioned from The London Carriage Works building which was built in the 1860s in the style of a Venetian Palazzo. The design and décor is sophisticated and chic, making use of the majestic pine beams and natural materials. There is also a great restaurant on site if you can’t be bothered to venture out.
To Eat
Camp & Furnace – This impressively huge venue was once the Baltic Triangle’s engine room and has now been transformed into a hip and happening music and food venue. We went along on a Saturday evening when the weekly Meatmarket disco and dining carve-up was in full swing.
Slims Pork Chop Express – the ultimate weekend brunch hang-out, we devoured the popular waffles with buttermilk chicken and maple syrup.
Salt House Bacaro – This civilised restaurant was recommended by numerous Liverpool locals. A warm and welcoming restaurant inspired by the eateries of Venice this eatery serves tasty tapas-style Italian food. Go for the £12.50 lunch menu.
Delifonseca – So much more than a deli, this Liverpool institution serves great and generous lunches. Try the herby ‘Drunken Chicken’ or the indulgent Chicken and Chorizo burger, accompany with a carafe of carefully chosen wine and a homemade brownie to finish.
To Drink Daytime
Bold Street Coffee – undoubtedly the best coffee in Liverpool. Bold Street kicked off the cool artisan coffee craze in this city and produces deliciously creamy coffee using the high quality ‘Has Been’ beans.
Leaf – an afternoon tea hotspot, choose a delicate speciality loose tea and relax. I tried a variety of black tea that was very soothing with a comforting buttery flavour.
Duke Street Espresso Bar – Trained up by the Bold Street team, Duke Street is of a similar ilk. Ideally located close to the shops it is the perfect place to grab a caffeine kick when the shopping fatigue hits.
To Drink Nighttime
Berry & Rye – a tiny trendsetter cocktail bar with plenty of style and substance. A scruffy plain black door leads to a magical exclusive bar serving innovative drinks made with precision and care. Sit at the bar to see the mixologists at work.
81 Ltd – My favourite cocktail bar in Liverpool, 81 Ltd is craftily hidden upstairs from Salt Dog Slim’s, only accessible with a door code by text message from the bar staff. Aside from the exciting speakeasy vibe, the barmen here really know their stuff conjuring up immaculate drinks. The brilliant Jake made us two enchanting cocktails: El Presidente and Captain Monkey’s Tail Curler.
El Bandito – A basement tequileria inspired by Mexico, tucked away beneath Santa Chupitos bar. This is a sanctuary for cocktail fans who like tasty Tequila-based drinks.
Jenny’s Bar – Run by the Berry & Rye crew this cocktail bar is housed in the legendary Jenny’s Seafood Restaurant on Fenwick Street, and is easily missed. The clever bartender create seasonal cocktails to please even the fussiest crowds.
To Shop
Utility – A brightly coloured mix of contemporary furniture, lighting and gifts… it is easy to spend hours in here.
Cow & Co – A tiny little café and design store with a carefully curated selection of items from socks to coffee cups. I wanted everything on the selves, including the stuff that wasn’t for sale.
Pillbox Vintage Fair – Head upstairs in Leaf on Sundays to find the Pillbox Vintage Fair. There are some fab outfits available at bargain prices, fill up a small bag for £15 and spend the rest of the weekend dressing up.
To Do
Beauty Bazaar – this luxury beauty retreat is a must on the itinerary of any girl visiting Liverpool. Get prepped and preened from head to toe and leave Liverpool feeling fresh and rejuvenated.
Beatles Museum – Learn the facts and stories behind the most famous boy band of all time. This clever underground museum has recreated the Cavern club, recording studio, and café where the Beatles spent so much of their early days. Leave feeling full of love and admiration for this great band.
To See
Tate Liverpool – This art gallery displays British and international modern and contemporary art, and hosts a range of exciting exhibitions and events. I was pleased to tick off the final Tate from my list, as I have now been to all four. Tate Liverpool is currently showing the ‘Transmitting Andy Warhol’ show.
Museum of Liverpool – A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Merseyside from football to music. Definitely worth visiting to understand an overview of this interesting city.
FACT – Liverpool’s Foundation for Art and Creative Technology is a progressive mix of new media and arthouse exhibitions. You can also visit the cinema here to see the latest films.
Many thanks to the Liverpool Tourist Board for their help with this trip.