Summer in the City

Make the most of the last of the summer with these top tips from Marketing Liverpool’s James Wood.

The buzz in the city has returned in the last few weeks and there are visitors galore from across the country, experiencing all that Liverpool has to offer.

But it’s not just tourists who should have all the fun!

We’re urging everyone who lives – or works in the city – to spend time rediscovering all the delights on our doorstep. We are blessed with a multitude of fantastic things to see and do in Liverpool and across the city region. Even better, many of them are free!

So with a bank holiday looming and a couple more weeks before it’s back to school, here’s my recommendations to enjoy the last of the summer.

Let’s start with exhibitions. I’ve just been to see the ‘Lucian Freud: Real Lives’ at Tate Liverpool.

Freud was a British painter celebrated for his portraits. A very private man, the people he painted were those closest to him – his friends, family, fellow artists and lovers. It’s a stunning and intimate exhibition – one for real art buffs, and I’ll be going back for a second visit. Tickets are £10 each (concessions available) and it’s recommended you book in advance.

And now something for the little ones. Children are given a warm welcome at the Bluecoat with ‘Bluecoat Families’ – a special programme of free activities including making, drawing, playing, talking and lots of fun. While you are there, catch the Liverpool Biennial exhibit which is well worth a look. There’s also free storytelling and songs on Wednesday and Thursday this week. Find out more on their website.

Over at World Museum, the blockbuster ‘AI: More Than Human’ is bursting with interactivity through immersive artworks and scientific developments, giving visitors a thrilling vision of the future. This is a paid-for exhibition, however, there is no cost for children. Also make sure to check out the recently refurbished aquarium (free entry), home to new resident Polpo, who is – yes, you’ve guessed it – an octopus.

Staying with the animal world – if you want to avoid the crowds then a trip to Knowsley Safari could be the answer. Staying in your own car throughout the five-mile journey, you’ll see everything from lions and giraffes to wolves and a cheeky family of baboons! My favourites are the magnificent Amur tigers.

Back outside, The Very Public Art installations – commissioned by Culture Liverpool – are a great way to explore the city. Eight brand new commissions have landed at locations across Liverpool, each one a showcase for local communities and creatives to tell stories and ‘disrupt the every day’. See them all here: https://www.visitliverpool.com/verypublicart

Fancy a beach day? Crosby is easy to get to on the train. It’s perfect for a selfie with the Iron Men and a bracing walk in the sea air to blow away the cobwebs.

After all that walking and fresh air you might be feeling peckish. I’ve just discovered French-themed Bouchon restaurant at the end of Castle Street, which opened earlier this summer. I recommend the French onion soup – it’s delicious.

Another of my favourites is Duke Street Food and Drink Market, where there is something for everyone from all corners of the world. It’s also a great space to meet up with friends and catch up on the goss.

Smoke and Dough is great for the family with its American/Italian menu and, for the best Scouse in town (in my opinion!) head to Liverpool Anglican Cathedral. Combine this with a viewing of the spectacular Peace Doves installationbut be quick, as it finishes on 30 August.

Or perhaps you want to make your own foodie creation? Head to Flour Will Fly on Water Street and join a workshop to learn how to make your own pasta. Buon Appetito!

Whatever you end up doing, enjoy the rest of your summer. For more ideas and inspiration, head to www.visitliverpool.com

James Wood is Marketing Campaign Manager at Marketing Liverpool – part of Liverpool City Council. Marketing Liverpool is the tourism body for the Liverpool City Region.

Liverpool Waterfront