Liverpool may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of a suitable holiday destination. It may not have the glamour of London, the romance of Paris or the style of Milan but that isn't to say it's not a fabulous place to visit. Indeed, having previously being granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status, Liverpool sits amongst some rather illustrious company. This modern, metropolitan city is completely unrecognisable from the one depicted in the lazy stereotypes that have long clung to Liverpool and its inhabitants and, as a tourist destination, is one of the best in the United Kingdom.
Here are some of the things you should be doing when holidaying in this wonderful city:
Cruise
Situated on the banks of the Mersey, Liverpool's relationship with the river is one immortalised in Gerry and the Pacemaker's love letter to Liverpool 'Ferry 'Cross the Mersey'. The river and the city's histories are so intertwined that it is impossible to reference one without the other so, with that in mind, why not spend some time getting to know the famous waterway that Liverpudlians hold so dear? Cruises from Liverpool are becoming more and more popular with major cruise lines such as Fred Olsen and Cruise and Maritime departing from the city and going as far afield as the Caribbean. Don't worry; you can always opt for a 2 or 3 night mini cruise if you don't fancy going that far!
Cathedrals
A trip to Liverpool would not be complete without a visit to at least one of the city's two cathedrals; both of which are spectacular in very different ways.
Commencing at the start of the 20th Century and taking some 74 years to complete, the building of the Liverpool Cathedral was certainly worth the wait. At a height of 101m, it is the largest cathedral in the UK and the fifth largest in the entire world. Having survived two world wars, the Liverpool Cathedral is worth a visit for its breath-taking stain glass windows and stunning workmanship alone.
The Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral is the largest Catholic cathedral in England. Designed by the late Sir Frederick Gibbard, the cathedral is certainly hard to miss, resembling a huge wigwam! Having recently undergone a £3million refurbishment, the Metropolitan Cathedral should be a main fixture on any tourist's itinerary.
Football
As well as being a city of two Cathedrals, Liverpool is also a city of two football teams and, as the city's second religion, football is somewhat unavoidable. Situated at opposite ends of Stanley Park, Liverpool and Everton football clubs enjoy a world famous rivalry of similar proportions to Glasgow's infamous Old Firm derby or Milan's Derby Della Madonnina. Despite being one of the most successful football clubs in history, Liverpool FC has become a sleeping giant in recent times whereas, across town, Everton (affectionately known as The Toffees) are enjoying a revival of late, inspired by the now manager of Manchester United David Moyes. Both clubs are steeped in footballing history and tradition and are well worth a visit. Museum and stadium tours are available at both grounds.
Beatles
We couldn't mention Liverpool without reference to its most famous export of all; the Beatles. Whilst far from ground-breaking, the Beatles Story attraction is a must for any Fab Four fan. From full scale replicas of the Cavern Club, where the Beatles performed their first gig, and Abbey Road Studios, where they made their first recordings, to Fab 4D, a film that brings the band's songs to life in 4D, there is something for all the Beatle-loving family!