Cross The Mersey

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 230
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10 years ago not many people would recommend visiting Liverpool. It was where people lived and worked and that was it. But after a decade of progressive regeneration, new building and cultural development, Liverpool has emerged as a thriving and attractive city. So much so that in 2008 it was crowned European Capital of Culture, following in the great footsteps of cities like Stockholm, Brussels and Prague.

We all know about its musical heritage, namely the Beatles, but also Frankie Goes To Hollywood, The La''s and The Lightning Seeds. The Beatle''s Story museum traces the path of the Liverpudlian four piece and their impact on pop music around the globe.

Its historic waterfront is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and its museums, of which there are many, are free. The stunning architecture on the waterfront is no longer used as warehouses and shipyards. It has now been transformed into the city''s cultural hub. Here is where you will find Tate Liverpool, the northern arm of the London art galleries, which is carving out a reputation of its own as a world-class art gallery.

The International Slave Museum and ...
... Merseyside Maritime Museum are also both found on the waterfront. Charting the history of slavery, the International Slave Museum also looks at contemporary feelings towards this dark past. The maritime museum focuses on Liverpool as one of the UK''s major shipping centres for trade and commerce.

Other museums include the World Museum Liverpool with treasures and interactive exhibits showcasing pieces from across the globe. The Walker Art Gallery, which has an impressive collection of paintings, drawings, sculptures as well as decorative art from the 14th right through to the 20th century.

The Foundation for Art and Creative Technology (FACT) is one of the first museums of its kind. It wants to promote visual artists especially in film, video and new media.

The UK seems to have a bad reputation for food on the international level, but quite unfairly so. A trip to Liverpool should change even the most hardened of foodies out there.

Eclecticism is embraced through both the traditional ?Lancashire hot pot ? and the modern ? sushi. Gastro-pubs in Liverpool serve up posh pub grub from some of Britain''s most up-and-coming chefs.

The hotels in Liverpool are just like the restaurants, a mix-match of tastes, styles and prices. They are mostly very affordable though, but tend to exclude breakfast. Most are on the large side of life, but there is a spattering of boutique options to choose from too. Bonny Kominek is a freelance writer with a particular liking for the Beatles, who was inspired to write this article by Octopustravel.com where you can book a variety of hotels including Liverpool hotels.