It might not be the first UK city that springs to mind when you’re thinking of a luxury city break, but Liverpool is a place that promises to surprise you in many ways. From its array of trendy independent districts and high-end eateries, to the extensive maritime history and UNESCO World Heritage Waterfront, it has a lot to offer – and there’s no better time to visit than spring.
Once home to an impressive number of legendary creative talents – the most notable of which being The Beatles – Liverpool boasts a plethora of designer boutiques and high-street stores, with a generous sprinkling of chic waterside cocktail bars which are often frequented by celebrities Add to that the museums and art gallery down at Albert Dock, and there’s plenty to keep you entertained – whether culture is your goal, or splashing your cash on a lavish shopping spree is your game.
14th April sees the arrival of the Grand National in the city, with thousands of visitors set to descend on Aintree for the biggest event of the 2018 racing calendar. Dressed to the nines and eager for a flutter, many will be looking for an opulent stay in the city – so if you’ll be heading to Liverpool this spring, here’s how to get a piece of the action both on the race-track and off.
Where to stay
When it comes to character, it doesn’t get much better than the opulent Hillbark Hotel. Just a few miles outside of Liverpool, this stunning Grade II listed country house hotel sits nestled amid 250 acres of parkland in the heart of the beautiful Wirral peninsula. With a long and fascinating history, it offers sophisticated suites and bedrooms, and the luxurious Riviera Restaurant – taking influences from the Côte d’Azur – serves up simple yet delicious interpretations of French Mediterranean, Ligurian and Nicoise cuisine.
For those looking to stay a little closer to the action, the Double Tree by Hilton is just 0.5 miles from Albert Dock, with other well-known chains such as the Radisson Blu and Marriott also offering accommodation nearby. And if hotels aren’t your thing? Try one of the countless luxury apartments available to rent with views across the river.
Where to eat
If you’re lucky enough to back a winner at the Grand National, then chances are, you’ll want to go out and celebrate – and The Art School provides the perfect venue. Beloved by foodies across Liverpool, it’s one of the city’s very best fine dining eateries, offering up a variety of exquisite tasting menus and a superior wine list which is expertly overseen by the sommelier. Headed up by Chef Paul Askew, it’s the place to be seen – just be sure to dress sharply and be open to trying a creative selection of dishes.
Also in the city is A Taste of France at Malmaison, offering up modern twists on French classic dishes with indulgent options such as lobster, steak, and chateaubriand. There’s also an extensive wine list that will cover all tastes and preferences – so get ready to raise those glasses to a successful day at the races.
Where to shop
Fancy a spot of shopping in your free time? If you’re lucky enough to win big at the races, then head straight to the Met Quarter on Whitechapel – home to a number of big name designer brands like Armani and Hugo Boss – as well as the likes of All Saints, MAC and Jo Malone. Meanwhile Liverpool One is also worth a visit, offering Michael Kors, Reiss, Radley and just about every other high-end high-street brand you could think of.
Bold Street is a great place to hunt down unique designer vintage, with endless rows of boutiques lining the pavements selling high-quality pieces you won’t find elsewhere.
What else to do
The vibrant heart of Liverpool’s historic waterfront, the Albert Dock is the place to play, see, eat, drink and stay – so if you’re yet to plan any of the above then be sure to squeeze in a visit.
Situated in a World Heritage Site waterfront, Albert Dock features the largest collection of Grade I listed buildings in the country, with attractions including the award-winning Beatles Story, which tells the story of four of the city’s most famous residents who shook music and the world forever. The Magical Mystery Tour will take you to Strawberry Fields and Penny Lane – an absolute must for fans of this truly iconic band.
Art lovers should head to the Tate Liverpool – the home of art and culture at Albert Dock. Past collections have included Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock, and with a stream of exciting exhibitions lined up over the coming months, it’s well worth a wander.
We can’t forget the Merseyside Maritime Museum, where you can explore Liverpool’s maritime heritage and learn about Liverpool’s history of slave trade at the International Slavery Museum.
Add to that the endless rows of bars and restaurants, and there’s plenty to keep you entertained during your stay.
At the races
If you’re visiting for the Grand National, then the real luxury is of course at the races, so why not consider booking a private box package at Aintree? With a superior vantage point for all the on-track action and all the champagne and fine cuisine you could ask for, it’s a great way to ensure you have a memorable and truly superior experience.
It would be almost rude not to have a bit of a flutter whilst you’re at it, and with leading bookmakers such as William Hill on hand to give you the best odds on the day, it’s all part of the fun. A luxury visit to Liverpool is easily done – and if you happen to back a winner, then even better!
