Freeway - Tourism

Tourism – Liverpool

Liverpool, a city that lies on the river Mersey in the NW of England close to the Irish Sea is one of England’s greatest ports. It is famous for many things. Some of them contrast strongly with each other. It is famous as the home of musicians and comedians and for its gutsy character and cheeky charm, but some visitors do not realise that some of the finest buildings in the city were built on the back of the slave trade. Short-listed for the British representative of the European City of Architecture, Liverpool is said to have more listed buildings in its centre than any other city in Europe. The area of the Albert Docks contains the largest group of ‘’Grade 1’’ l isted buildings in Britain and is home to the Tate Gallery, one of Britain’s major Art Galleries. The city’s own museum and Art Gallery have such important collections that they are one of the few outside of London to have National status.

The Beatles

The Beatles – All from Liverpool became one of the most famous and influential bands in the world. They began their performing career in 1961 the famous Liverpool nightclub called the Cavern, where Cilla Black also used to sing. This is now a major tourist attraction. Another attraction is ‘’The Beatles Story’’ museum situated at the Albert Dock.

The River Mersey

During the 19th Century Liverpool was the second most important port in England (after London). Although today it is used mostly by ferries and recreational craft, the River Mersey remains an important par of Liverpool’s history.

History

Until slavery was outlawed in Britain in 1807, Liverpool port played a huge part in the Slave trade. The city is now home to an exhibition about the Slave trade. Liverpool was also the major port where emigrants went to ‘seek their fortunes’ in America. A statue of Christopher Columbus has the words ‘‘The discoverer of America was the creator of Liverpool.’’ inscribed into it.