Things to do - Merseyside

Merseyside is a fascinating and diverse region in the North West UK covering some 300 square miles with a population of around 1.5 million. Incorporating the vibrant city of Liverpool, the seaside resort of Southport and more rural parts like the Wirral Peninsula, Merseyside is split in two by the famous River Mersey immortalised in the hit song 'Ferry Across The Mersey'.

The history of Liverpool as a major port stretches way back to the 1800s. The volume of trade passing through the port helped with the rapid growth of the city and even today the docks play an important part both as a tourist attraction and a testament to history, architecture and culture. During the 1960's Liverpool was most well known throughout the world for the vast array of show business talent that emerged. These talents included the Beatles, Cilla Black and Ken Dodd. After a short period in the doldrums during the 1980s, Liverpool has flourished and continues to do so.

The Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City was granted status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. Featuring places like the Albert Dock, The Pier Head and The Cultural Quarter, this status has helped to promote Liverpool and Merseyside as a great place to take a short city break or a longer holiday. There are some important landmarks like the Royal Liver Building and the Cunard Building as well as museums such as the International Slavery Museum, the Walker Art Gallery and the Museum of Liverpool Life. Many of these museums are free and they provide an interesting and educational insight into the history of this great city. In 2007 the city celebrated its 800th anniversary and in 2008 it was named as the European Capital of Culture alongside Stavanger in Norway.

With a huge variety of accommodation and things to do and see including the two Roman Catholic cathedrals, Liverpool and Merseyside make a fine destination for visitors who like culture, music, visual arts, architecture, history, nightlife and sport.

The best way to get to know Merseyside is to take a tour but first you need to secure somewhere to stay. Self catering apartments are readily available both in the city and on the outskirts. You can choose from a luxury flat in the heart of the renovated docks or go to the other side of the river and rent a farm cottage on the Wirral. The city has many hotels which range from modestly priced modern rooms to more luxurious accommodation which may feature spa facilities, a gym and top notch restaurants and bars. Another option is to go for a bed and breakfast room either in the city or further afield.

One of the latest and most popular choices is the Peaky Blinders Accommodation and Bar which is located in Southport. Open all year round, this 1920's styled accommodation features all the modern comforts like flat screen TVs and WiFi but in a unique setting.

Once you have decided where to stay you can start to get to know Merseyside. Liverpool has many great tour companies. Brilliant Tours Ltd arrange private guided days out in luxury licensed V-class Mercedes People carriers for up to 6 people. They are qualified Blue Badge Tourist Guides and licensed Driver/Guides and offer days out to North Wales, Liverpool, York and Yorkshire, Lake District, Peak District and offer a door to door service. Whichever you choose, you will have a really fun day out and learn a lot about the locality.

If you are coming to Liverpool because you are a Beatles fan then the Liverpool Beatles Magical History Tours are a must. They offer daily guided walking tours in small groups with a qualified local guide and private 90-minute Ticket to Ride tours in luxury licensed V-class Mercedes to see Penny Lane, Strawberry Field and outside the Beatles childhood homes for up to 6 guests.

Liverpool and the surrounding area of Merseyside has so many interesting sites and events and one of the best ways to see them all is to take a trip with Liverpool Cycle Tours Ltd. Based at the bottom of Jordan Street, the company offers varied tours that take in parks, the coastline and sea front and there is the opportunity to go to a specific area of your own choice. Fans of the Beatles can opt for the 3.5 hour tour with sights including Penny Lane, Strawberry Fields and the grave of Eleanor Rigby. There is a city centre tour and, if you prefer to go on foot, you can go walking and drinking taking in three famous pubs and all the highlights of this iconic city port. Cycling tours are taken at your own pace and for the Beatles Tours you can use one of the latest electric bikes. A fun and eco way to see one of the finest cities in Europe with tours starting from just GBP15.

With so many places of interest in Merseyside you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to exploring. Football fans can go to see Anfield or Goodison Park. Lovers of history can indulge their passion at Croxton Hall or Speke Hall. With a wonderful city and surrounding area that is renowned for being welcoming and friendly you may well find yourself returning more than once to the delightful neighbourhood of Merseyside. #uktravelandtourism #visitMerseyside


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