Music flows through the streets of this eclectic city, only intercepted by the sound of roaring crowds chanting for their favourite team, be it red or blue. Embrace Liverpool's unique down-to-earth spirit as you explore the treasures packed into its centre, before crossing the city limits and discovering the rural attractions that are within easy reach.
Dance to the beat of the city
A rich musical heritage has resulted in Liverpool being named a UNESCO City of Music. It’s no surprise considering the biggest pop band in the world, The Beatles, called the city home.
See where it all began for the Liverpudlian quartetat The Beatles Story down at the rejuvenated Albert Dock. This musical museum will take you on a journey through time, with memorabilia and a replica of Abbey Road Studio to see.
From the docks, head into the city centre tovisit The Cavern Club, which saw The Beatles’ first performance in 1961 and still remains at the heart of the city's live music scene. Finish off your day by going for a spin around The Beatles hotspots that can be found across the city, including Strawberry Fields and Penny Lane.
Down at the docks
Liverpool’s revamped waterfront has added new life to the city. Art, history and culture are jam packed into the docklands, providing entertainment for all.
Stroll the quayside and feel the sea breeze on your cheeks and taste the salt in the air as you amble from Pier Head to Albert Dock. You’ll pass the grand Royal Liver Building, the iconic Beatles statue and the contemporary Museum of Liverpool on your way, all of which provide highly Instagrammable backdrops.
Once at Albert Dock you have a choice of buildings to explore. Inside the Tate Liverpool you can gaze at modern works from Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol and Claude Monet or learn about the city’s nautical heritage at the Merseyside Maritime Museum. The Maritime Dining Room on the top floor of the museum is the perfect location to refuel, with brilliant views out across the waterfront.
Stretch your legs
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to national parks. Liverpool is close to four of them -the Peak District, Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and Snowdonia.
Take the opportunity to climb two of the famed three peaks - Scafell Pike in the Lake District and Snowdon in Snowdonia. At more than 3,200ft, Scafell Pike is England’s highest mountain, while Snowdon, at 3,560ft, takes the mantle for Wales. Both offer spectacular views of the wild UK countryside that will take your breath away and make the climb more than worthwhile.
Take the scenic drive across the border into Wales and, as well as climbing Snowdon, you can experience one of the many castles that this slice of the UK is famed for. Framed by the peaks in the distance, Harlech Castle is a breathtaking medieval stronghold just a stone’s throw from the Welsh coast. Tour the ancient sandstone complex to really appreciate its might, learn about its history inside the visitor centre and enjoy the extraordinary views atop the ramparts.
Car hire from Liverpool means that once you’ve explored every corner of this city, you can see what else the north of England and Wales has to offer.