Content Produced in Partnership with Virgin Atlantic, VisitBritain and Marketing Manchester
Known primarily for its industrial past and its love for football, the city of Liverpool in Northern England is quickly blossoming into a hub for the arts. No surprises there, of course. After all, this is the city that gave us The Beatles. But, there's more to Liverpool than John, Paul, George and Ringo. Located just a 45 minute train ride away from Manchester, the Gateway to Northern England, it's easy to include the city to any Manchester itinerary. From contemporary art exhibits to stunning architecture, here's how to explore the best of Liverpool in just 48 hours.
DAY 1
BREAKFAST AT 92 DEGREES
24 HARDMAN STREET, LIVERPOOL L1 9AX, UNITED KINGDOM
This cozy coffee shop serves a to-die-for flat white — and that's just the beginning. Liverpool's first combined micro-roastery and coffee shop is located in the heart of the Georgian Quarter. Offering great brews, breakfast fare, and comfy red couches, you'll be hard-pressed to leave.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR OF THE GEORGIAN QUARTER
LIVERPOOL L1 9AX, UNITED KINGDOM
Let the coffee buzz guide you around the rest of the Georgian Quarter. Rumored to be the largest collection of buildings in Georgian style in the United Kingdom (outside London), you'll find yourself surrounded by colorful doors and window boxes. It’s a great opportunity for photos, so keep your camera ready.
GET IN THE SPIRIT AT BLUECOATS
SCHOOL LANE, LIVERPOOL L1 3BX, UNITED KINGDOM
Held from mid-July through late October 2018 in honor of Liverpool's 200 years, the Liverpool Biennenial celebration is the largest contemporary art festival in the United Kingdom. With art exhibits literally all over the city, it can be hard to settle on just where to go first. We suggest visiting the Biennial art exhibit at Liverpool’s contemporary art center. The exhibit, titled Beautiful world, where are you? laments on a period of global uncertainty and also invites us to learn from our collective past.
OH ME, OH MY, IT'S TIME FOR TEA
WEST AFRICA HOUSE, 25 WATER STREET, LIVERPOOL L2 0RG UNITED KINGDOM
What is a visit to England without a traditional afternoon tea? Head over toOh Me Oh My to swoon over their loose leaf tea in a refined, classy space. Set in a former bank, this stunning restaurant features a rooftop garden that's perfect for post-tea cocktails. Call ahead to save a table so you can sip tea and bubbly all afternoon long.
ALL YOU NEED IS TO LOVE THE BEATLES
THE BEATLES STORY, BRITANNIA VAULTS, ALBERT DOCK, LIVERPOOL L3 4AD, UNITED KINGDOM
Attention Beatles fanatics or casual music enthusiasts: as it was with afternoon tea, you’d be remiss not to take a trip back in time and experience the 60s with the Beatles in the city where it all began with The Beatles Story. Located on the historic Albert Dock, several exhibits and replicas are at this museum, tracing the history of the UK's original boy band.
DINNER & DRINKS AT NEON JAMON
12 SMITHDOWN PLACE, LIVERPOOL L14 9EH, UNITED KINGDOM
Neon Jamon serves delightful tapas and dishes inspired by Catalan. Best enjoyed with a group, you'll want to spend several hours sampling the wines and small plates on offer. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu and with an interior that is funky and fun, it's safe to say this is a great place to close out a busy day exploring Liverpool.
DAY 2
TAKE ME TO CHURCH
LIVERPOOL CATHEDRAL, ST JAMES' MOUNT, LIVERPOOL L1 7AZ, UNITED KINGDOM
The UK's largest cathedral took 74 years to complete, but we'd say it was worth the wait. Prepared to be wowed with how large the interior ofLiverpool Cathedral is. This is another great opportunity for photos, and when you’re done looking around inside, don’t miss out on exceptional views from the roof.
REFUEL AT FILTER + FOX
27 DUKE STREET, LIVERPOOL L1 5AP, UNITED KINGDOM
Coffee or cocktail? You don't have to choose at Filter + Fox. Boasting two types of froze (which are both equally heavenly), Filter + Fox's mix of small plates and sandwiches will ensure you're properly fueled for the rest of your day.
TATE IN THE ART
ALBERT DOCK, LIVERPOOL WATERFRONT, LIVERPOOL L3 4BB, UNITED KINGDOM
Head back over to Albert Dock, but this time you're here not for The Beatles but to enjoy the museums and art galleries located on the waterfront. The Tate Liverpool, in particular, is especially impressive as it boasts a series of contemporary and modern pieces from artists across the world. It's important to note most museums in Liverpool offer free entry, including the Tate.
A SPECIAL SEND OFF AT STANLEY'S BAR & GRILL
STANLEY DOCK, REGENT ROAD, LIVERPOOL L3 0AN, UNITED KINGDOM
Cap off day two with this eatery conveniently situated at The Titanic Hotel. While the restaurant specializes in English fare and traditional dishes, we recommend going with the special of the day, which usually includes a special spin on the classic dishes.
HOW TO DO IT & WHERE TO STAY: THE TITANIC HOTEL
STANLEY DOCK, REGENT ROAD, LIVERPOOL L3 0AN, UNITED KINGDOM
You can fly nonstop to Manchester from Las Vegas, Orlando, San Francisco, New York, Atlanta, or Boston via Virgin Atlantic. From Manchester, it's a smooth train ride to Liverpool for an overnight trip to remember. With The Titanic Hotel as your base in Liverpool, you'll be able to embrace the history and spirit of the city. Plus, after a long day of exploring the city, there's no better place the hotel's spa.