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 region where 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 the National Collection of Modern Art in 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
The Manchester 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 Spinningfields which offers a wealth of choice for foodies and nights out.
Day 3
Travel to Leeds from 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