Third largest of England’s cities, Liverpool grew in wealth and influence over the 18th and 19th centuries to become a powerhouse of trade and industry. Such is its significance in national history that the city was the first outside London to be awarded blue plaques by English Heritage, which recognised the “significant contribution made by its sons and daughters in all walks of life.”
Among these famous Liverpudlians (or “Scousers”) are Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison and Ringo Starr. Beatles tourism has blossomed in the proud city, where tours of significant sites such as former residences are available in abundance. Modern Liverpool is not content to rest on its laurels, however, and its buzzing music scene draws acclaimed groups and artists from throughout the globe to perform at its many excellent music venues. The Echo Arena, for instance, seats up to 10,600 attendees of concerts by internationally-renowned musicians or events such as the MTV Europe Music Awards or the Davis Cup tennis competition.
The arena opened in 2008, which was the year that Liverpool was granted the title European Capital of Culture, an accolade which raised the city’s profile within England and internationally. With a buzz surrounding its nightlife and restaurant scene as well as a greater selection of listed buildings, museums, theatres, and galleries than any city other than the capital, there has never been a better time to book Liverpool flights and see the city for yourself.
Typical of England’s temperate climate, July and August are usually the warmest months and January and February the coolest. Rainfall occurs throughout the year, but the winter months are likely to be the wettest.
Central Liverpool is small enough for most major sites to be reachable easily on foot. There are also a multitude of picturesque and easy cycle routes through the city.
Buses, managed by Merseytravel and running from the city centre outward, are also available, with two main bus terminals: Queen Square, serving mainly southbound routes, and Liverpool One in Canning Street, which serves mainly north or eastbound routes.
There is also a train service operated by Merseyrail, with the three main central stations being Moorfields, Lime Street, and Central Station. Moorfields and Central offer Wirral Line and Northern Line services, and Lime Street offers City Line services, while other lines are available offering routes to Wigan, Warrington, Crewe, Preston and other locations outside the city.