10 places I can't wait to visit after lockdown
/As lockdown continues across the UK to prevent the spread of Coronavirus, many of us, including myself, have been left dreaming about the outdoors. It has been difficult over the last couple of months not being able to show visitors around our wonderful city, but I know Liverpool will be back to its best soon enough.
The city region has no shortage of incredible places to visit, all of which will need our support once this is over, and since we can’t go out to our favourite places just yet, I’ve put together a list of ten of the places I love, which I’ll be heading to first.
1. The Titanic Hotel
Located in Stanley Dock this stunning 4-star Hotel does our city proud. It’s set within a UNSECO world heritage site and was built by Jessie Hartley, who if you didn’t know also built the fabulous Royal Albert Dock. This once busy warehouse has been restored and transformed into a hotel full of amazing character. Also, for any Peaky Blinder fans, the production company for the series used the area opposite the hotel for filming.
2. Aloft
Another beautiful hotel, situated right in the city centre. It is housed in the iconic Grade II listed building which if you step inside you can see evidence that it was once home to the Royal Insurance Company.
https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/lplal-aloft-liverpool/
3. Hard Day’s Night Hotel
I’ve spent a lot of time in this Beatles-themed hotel. Opened in 2008 it is another one of our city’s a Grade II listed buildings, dating back to 1884. It has 110 rooms all with specially commissioned Beatles inspired artwork in each of the bedrooms. It has themed bars, Blakes Restaurant and is situated on the corner of one of the most famous streets in music history – Mathew Street – the perfect location for a Beatles fan.
4. Shiverpool
You can’t come to Liverpool and not take part in an evening of being spooked by the fabulous Shiverpool Tours. I’m a local and I still go on these tours as they are the most entertaining couple of hours you’ll have! You learn the history behind some of Liverpool’s most interesting ghost stories as you walk along. I can guarantee you’ll have hours of fun, as the Shiverpool Team are such as talented crew.
5. Liverpool Cycle Tours
This is a great way to see our city and feel energised whilst doing so. Phil offers various types of tours about the city, The Beatles, historic pubs and they’re all fab so check them out. He even has electric bikes if you’re not feeling quite so energetic. The beauty of the bike is that you can see parts of the city up close that you can’t see by car, and it’s very eco-friendly.
https://liverpoolcycletours.com
6. Western Approaches HQ
This is one of our city’s hidden gems. There’s so much to see here, make sure you explore this amazing secret World War II underground Headquarters and intricate labyrinth of rooms, which was once a top-secret nerve centre in 1940’s wartime Britain. The staff are so inviting too and all so knowledgeable in this subject.
7. St Peter’s Church, Woolton
Being a Bealtes tour guide I always get a buzz from visiting this special place, it’s the holy grail for all Beatles fans and gives me Goosebumps every time. If it wasn’t for that summer fete on the 6th July 1957, John and Paul might never have met… just imagine! St Peter’s is only available to visit on limited dates throughout the year, but is usually open for Beatles anniversary dates. Make sure to visit when the Village Hall is open to have the chance to see the exact spot where John and Paul first met. The team of volunteers are the friendliest bunch you’ll ever meet too.
8. Strawberry Field
Let me take you down to one of Liverpool’s latest Beatles attractions. The site made famous by John Lennon’s song ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’, features an interactive visitor exhibition, a community café (which has the most awesome cakes ever!) and stunning gardens. This is the iconic site in which John Lennon spent some of his childhood playing in the grounds and is still operated by the Salvation Army who are incredibly welcoming. The development has an amazing positive impact on the local community through it’s ‘Steps to work’ programme.
http://www.strawberryfieldliverpool.com
9. Merseymade
Situated in another unique and historical building once know as the Sailors home and just a 2-minute walk away from the Albert Dock, Merseymade is a fabulous combination of shop, art studios and café. Everything they sell and produce is locally made, and the art studios make it a great platform for local artists to sell their work. The café is one of my favourite spots for relaxing. I’d also recommend the chip butty!
10. The Blue Coat
This is the oldest building in the city. It’s stunning to look at and a lovely attraction to visit. Originally a school for poor and deprived children it later became the Bluecoats Art Society. With the gallery and the café this is another one of Liverpool’s most relaxing spots, you won’t be disappointed when you visit. Make sure to take in the architecture – the original part of the building was built in 1717!
As the lockdown is lifted make sure you take the opportunity visit these wonderful places and many others if you can. If we help each other I know Liverpool will recover and the tourism industry will be busy once again. I can’t wait. See you all soon and stay safe! ❤️
