What to do in Merseyside

Liverpool’s most popular entertainment precinct was once the world’s most sophisticated city port. Built in 1846, the state of the art dock featured one of the world’s first hydraulic cranes and a series of large warehouse facilities. Today Albert Dock has been overhauled and features an intriguing mix of historical sites, fashionable bars and restaurants, and many of the city’s major cultural institutions. Right in the city center, Albert Dock is one of the most popular destinations in Liverpool, and is a great place to base yourself during your stay.

For many locals, this historic stadium is the most important structure in the city. The city of Liverpool is fanatical about their soccer, and the Anfield Road Stadium has been the home of the Liverpool Football Club since its formation in 1892. The stadium itself predates the football club by eight years, but was modernized regularly throughout the 20th century. Those lucky enough to get tickets to a match at the stadium will experience the vigor with which the Brits support their clubs. Visit on a quiet day to discover the history of the stadium and the Liverpool Football Club at the museum. The museum features photographs, videos and memorabilia dating back to the late 19th century, and outlines the history of the Liverpool Football Club. Pick up a cap or flag from the official store, just outside the museum.

Follow the crowds to Liverpool ONE, one of the largest outdoor shopping and entertainment centers in the United Kingdom. Browse more than 150 high street stores, relax at one of the center’s many cafes and restaurants, then catch a movie or test your skills on the adventure golf course.

Ultra-modern Pier Head Ferry Terminal stands before the graceful heritage buildings of the Liverpool waterfront as a symbol of the docks’ revitalization and renewal. Take a river cruise then explore the many attractions that line the waterfront, such as the Tate Liverpool, the Museum of Liverpool and The Beatles Story museum.

This fun and interactive exhibition is the definitive Beatles experience in Liverpool, and one of the city’s most loved attractions. While there are many Beatles museums around the world, The Beatles Story is the only one in their hometown. The city is teeming with stories about the four young boys that came to be loved worldwide, and The Beatles Story has a strong local focus. See the club the band played their first shows in, hear stories from their early days or learn about their childhood in the city. The Beatles Story is a favorite for music lovers, families and Beatles fanatics, and should not be missed on a visit to Liverpool.

Just south of Liverpool’s city center lays this sprawling historic park. With over 235 acres (95 hectares) of sculptured landscape, it is one of the largest green areas in the Liverpool area, and an excellent escape from the city. While the park’s history has its roots in the 15th century, when it was a part of the enormous deer park, it wasn’t until 1872 that the park was designed how it is seen today. The series of circular paths that run around the central lake were the creation of a French landscape architect who won a competition to redesign the parkland. Visit the park to picnic by the lake, stroll through the historic palm house or catch an open-air performance.

Any visit to Liverpool would not be complete without checking out The Cavern Club. Originally opened strictly as a jazz and skiffle club, it soon became the home of Britain’s burgeoning rock ’n’ roll scene (though not without some resistance). This is the place where Liverpool’s pride and joys, The Beatles, perfected their craft, playing a whopping 292 gig at the club between 1961 and 1963.