Liverpool youth guide
About Liverpool
The city that gave the world the Beatles still knows how to have a good time. Liverpool’s historic port was the departure point for over nine million emigrants heading for North America and Australia and today celebrates its heritage as well as offering visitors a warm welcome. In recognition of this the city has been crowned European Capital of Culture 2008.
Like the rival city of Manchester, Liverpudlians – also known as Scousers – take huge pride in their football teams achievements, and if you can’t get along to a match it’s worth being in a pub when a match is on – it’ll introduce you to the friendly and witty locals as well as give a window on everyday life in this fast-changing city.
For more info, check out Liverpool Tourist Information (www.visitliverpool.com) or visit our Liverpool city guide.
Seeing
Must Do
The Beatles may be long gone but a stroll down Mathew Street, home of the original Cavern Club (www.visitliverpool.com/site/attractions/cavern-club-beatles-p8968), is the perfect introduction to their legacy. If you’re a big fan, the Magical Mystery Tour takes you here, there and everywhere!
The giant Albert Dock is most visitors’ first stop in the city. It’s an impressive place, with restored warehouses and giant cast-iron columns surrounding a huge expanse of water. Check out the art at the Tate Gallery Liverpool as well as the various bars, restaurants and shops.
The Western Approaches Museum was the secret command centre for the Battle of the Atlantic in WW2. It is perfectly preserved and utterly fascinating.
Liverpool’s Metropolitan Cathedral (www.liverpoolmetrocathedral.org.uk/) is a fascinating building that was originally planned to be larger than St Peter’s in Rome. What actually transpired is a striking 1960s church known locally as ‘Paddy’s Wigwam’.
Off The Beaten Track
The National Trust, preserving their Beatles-inspiring interiors for future generations, owns John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s childhood homes. 20 Forthlin Road (Paul) and Mendips (John) can only be visited as part of a guided tour which departs from Albert Dock.
Insider Info
There are two classic views of Liverpool. From the top of the Anglican Cathedral on Hope Street where you can see the whole city and River Mersey. The other is from the Mersey Ferry (www.visitliverpool.com/site/attractions/mersey-ferries-p8264) which leaves from Pier Head near Albert Dock. Look out for the Royal Liver Building topped by a Liver Bird, the city’s symbol.
Shopping
As well as all the big names you would expect to find, there are lots of small, fashionable shops selling clothes, crafts and jewellery in places like Cavern Designer Shopping Centre and Clayton Square.
A train ride north from the city centre is Southport with its distinctive Victorian shopping arcades. Liverpool is close to one of Europe’s largest designer outlet villages: Cheshire Oaks.
Eating
Liverpool has some interesting options for places to eat. If these choices don’t appeal, the area around Slater, Hardman and Bold Sts has many more to pick from.
Number Seven Cafe
Popular restaurant with a mixed menu of fish, meat, salads and various vegetarian options. Tel: +44 (0)151 709 9633; 7 Falkner Street.
Lower Place
A fashionable treat of an eat. Tel: +44 (0)151 210 1955; Philharmonic Hall.
Far East
Your best bet in town for good Cantonese food. Set menus and dim sum are good value. Tel: +44 (0)151 709 3141; 27-35 Berry Street.
Blue
Enjoy comfortable couches, a view of the dock and a selection of good continental dishes. Tel: +44 (0)151 709 7097; 17 Edward Pavilion.
Nightlife
Scousers really let their hair down at weekends but you’ll have fun on any night. Wander around Mathew Street and southeast to Bold, Seel and Slater Steets and you’ll stumble upon an amazing array of pubs and clubs for every taste. Look out for the free monthly guide In Touch.
Philharmonic
One of Britain’s most extraordinary pubs, resplendent with etched and stained glass, wrought iron, mosaics and ceramic tiling. Tel: +44 (0)151 707 2837; 36 Hope Street.
Modo
One of the coolest bars in town with a great mix of people. Tel: +44 (0)151 709 8832; 23-25 Fleet Street.
Bar Ca Va
An unpretentious watering hole that pulls in a mixed crowd of students, office types and anyone in search of a good night out. Tel: +44 (0)151 709 9300; 4a Wood Street.
Cavern Club (www.visitliverpool.com/site/attractions/cavern-club-beatles-p8968)
The Cavern Club isn’t as cheesy as you may think, hosting great dance nights and live acts. Tel: 0871 222 1957 UK only; 5 Mathew Street.
Sleeping
Liverpool is well-served by all types of accommodation. It’s worth booking ahead if there’s a big sporting event on, especially when nearby Aintree racecourse hosts the Grand National, one of the world’s great horseraces. Late August’s Beatles Week is another busy time.
Embassie Hostel (www.embassie.com/)
An excellent and welcoming place. Facilities include a laundry and TV lounge. Tel: +44 (0)151 707 1089; 1 Falkner Square.
YHA Liverpool
In a purpose-built facility across the road from Albert Dock, 600m south of James Street station, and very good value. The four- and six-bed dorms are all in pristine condition and rates include breakfast. Tel: 0870 770 5924 UK only; 25 Tabley Street.
YMCA
Plain but comfortable B&B. Tel: +44 (0)151 709 9516; 56 Mount Pleasant.
Campanile Hotel
Purpose-built hotel with modern, comfy rooms, just opposite the Albert Dock. Tel: +44 (0)151 709 8104; cnr Wapping & Chaloner Streets.