ITINERARY
FOR:Travel Trade
MARKET:Germany
AUDIENCE:Discoverers
DURATION:3 days
THEME:Modern North
Constantly changing, constantly refreshing, the North’s towns and cities have a way of reinventing themselves. Aside from an endlessly fascinating heritage, the North offers visitors a bold and rich contemporary experience. It’s in the regeneration of waterfronts, the architecture and changing skylines of its cities. You can sample it in the restaurants, shopping experiences and find it in the diverse arts events across the region. There’s plenty to see in the North of England, so much so, that three days is simply not enough.
See how new life has been breathed into this glorious regionwhere museums and galleries, shopping and eating out can be enjoyed in some of the most exciting and surprising town and city locations.
Day 1 / Arrive Liverpool from Liverpool Airport (approx.30 mins by bus)Liverpool is a thriving capital of culture with world class museums and galleries for every taste, many of which are free to explore.
There are more museums and galleries than any other UK City Region outside of London, attracting leading international exhibitions. The Museum of Liverpool, World Museum Liverpool, Walker Art Gallery, International Slavery Museum (the only one of its kind in the world), and Merseyside Maritime Museum, are just some of the gems to explore – all of which are open seven days a week and free to enter.
Home to theNational Collection of Modern Artin the North, Tate Liverpool is located in the city's Albert Dock and is one of the most visited galleries outside of London.Displaying famous modern works alongside cutting-edge contemporary art, the gallery is a must-see for any fan of the arts visiting the city. FACT (Foundation for Art and Creative Technology) is the UK's leading media arts centre, based in the centre of Liverpool. Offering a unique programme of exhibitions, film and participant-led art projects, it makes for a fascinating visit.
Take an opportunity to relax and enjoy the views of Liverpool’s waterfront, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on the world famous ferry across the River Mersey.
Albert Dock, formerly port warehouses, is now graced with bars, restaurants, unique shops and museums. See what’s on at the theatres – Everyman and Playhouse, the Empire and FACT, all renowned for their eclectic programmes of performances. Liverpool One, the largest open air shopping centre in UK, is just a short walk from Albert Dock.
Stay overnight in Liverpool to enjoy the warmth of the Liverpool welcome. Try a pan of ‘scouse’ – a local delicacy at one of the many restaurants or alternatively one of the unique cocktails invented in Liverpool. You can catch live music at the Cavern and many other bars across the city.
Day 2 / Arrive Manchester from Liverpool (approx. 30 mins by train)
Get on the tram and head down to The Quays for a year-round programme of events and activities for visitors of all ages and interests.
Incorporating attractions as diverse as The Lowry Arts Centre, Imperial War Museum North and BBC Tours, The Quays is Greater Manchester’s waterfront destination. From world class art installations, sporting events, exhibitions and shows, to walks and tours, boat trips and family-friendly activities: the former inland port is now home to a vibrant visitor experience a world away from the industrial depiction created by LS Lowry. The Quays is also just a stone’s throw away from Old Trafford, home to Manchester United Football Club, and the allegedly haunted Ordsall Hall.
Spend the afternoon in the Northern Quarter, Manchester's vibrant, urban heart, with its fantastic array of vintage shops, cafés and bars. The Northern Quarter in Manchester’s city centre is a uniquely ‘Mancunian’ neighbourhood: alternative, bohemian and creative. Home to countless independent bars, cafés and restaurants, visitors can spend hours browsing its boutiques and vintage stores.
Afflecks is the area’s most famous shopping emporium, with four floors dedicated to independent designers and traders. You can pick up unique handmade gifts at TheManchester Craft and Design Centre, housed in the beautifully restored former Fish and Poultry Market.
The Northern Quarter is also one of the best places in the city for a night out. Taste locally-sourced produce at TNQ restaurant and bar before heading to Apotheca to sample its range of quirky and inventive cocktails. Alternatively head to Spinningfieldswhich offers a wealth of choice for foodies and nights out.
Day 3 / Travel to Leedsfrom Manchester(approx. 30 mins by train) and head 9 miles north to Harewood House.
If the walls of this 18th century historic house could speak they’d tell many a captivating tale. Filled with fine art and surrounded by Capability Brown-designed gardens, Harewood House is a cultural and historical treasure trove – and is officially one of ten Treasure Houses in England .
Since it was built in 1771 it has reflected the views, tastes and lifestyles of its inhabitants, from its original use as a gentleman’s country house to a Victorian family home, a royal household and a wartime convalescent home.History is brought to life through the immaculately preserved state rooms and servants’ quarters where you can learn about the property’s royal connections and admire an extensive art collection.
Harewood’s perfectly landscaped grounds and exotic gardens are just as impressive. A tranquil lake is home to Chilean flamingoes and there’s a penguin enclosure where you can help with feeding.
For lunch, dine at The Oldest Fish & Chip Shop in the World in Yeadon. Some will tell you this comforting dish is best served with lashings of salt and vinegar, others insist the only way to eat it is with gravy but one thing is certain: the Leeds town of Yeadon is home to the longest running fish and chip shop in the world.
The town of Yeadon is just 20 minutes from Harewood House
Travel back into the city centre for a last bit of shopping in the beautifully restored Victorian shopping arcades in Leeds’Victorian Quarter and browse its luxury shops. Synonymous with style and fashion since Harvey Nichols opened their first store outside London, many designer stores have followed such as Church’s Shoes and Louis Vuitton.
Depart Leeds Bradford Airport