Liverpool travel guide

Liverpool, with its innovative museums, redeveloping city centre and notable musical heritage, is an exciting place to visit. The emergence of new shops, restaurants and hotels had added to Liverpool's appeal, cementing its place as one of the most vibrant northern cities in England.

As the birthplace of the Beatles, Liverpool attracts many musical pilgrims, but its fascinating social history is also a key magnet for visitors. Situated on the River Mersey, Liverpool's former maritime grandeur - in which it garnered a fortune from cotton and slaves during the 17th and 18th centuries - has left a striking architectural legacy. The Albert Dock and the Port of Liverpool Building are two such examples. Its status as European Capital of Culture in 2008 also helped to plant the city firmly on the tourism map.

Of course, it's impossible to talk about Liverpool without mentioning football; there are two main teams, Everton and Liverpool. Both play in England's top Premier League, and attract a passionate fan base.

But Liverpool's essential character lies in its people: Liverpudlians are bold, famous for their acerbic wit and characteristic 'scouse' dialect, and fiercely proud of their regional identity.