The city of Liverpool has a greater number of public sculptures than any other location in the United Kingdom, aside from Westminster. Here’s a selection of some of the fascinating monuments on display in the city.
1. Bessie Braddock Sculpture
Bessie Braddock was the Labour Party MP for Liverpool Exchange from 1945-70. She was an outspoken campaigner for better health, housing and education for the poor.
She rejected a ministerial post because, like her husband, Council Leader Jack Braddock, she preferred to remain locally-focussed and be a fierce advocate for her home city.
She was affectionately known as ‘Battling Bessie’ and was admired both locally and nationally.
On display: Lime Street Station
2. All Together Now – Christmas Truce 1914
A sculpture commemorating the World War One Christmas truce. Two fibreglass figures, about to shake hands, capture the moment British and German soldiers stopped fighting and played football on Christmas Day 1914.
Titled All Together Now, the statue, designed by Andy Edwards, is on display at Liverpool’s bombed-out church. St Luke’s Church, which faces down Bold Street, is itself a monument to the 1941 Blitz on Liverpool.
The building was almost destroyed by an incendiary bomb in May 1941 and has remained as a burnt-out shell ever since.
On display: St. Luke’s ‘Bombed-Out’ Church Gardens
3. William Mackenzie Tomb
The tomb of engineer William MacKenzie, situated in the graveyard of the former St Andrew’s Church in Rodney Street, Liverpool, is often talked about. It is said that he is not buried there, but instead sat above ground and also that his ghost roams the locality.
Legend has it that he was not buried but sat upright in the tomb. The story goes that McKenzie was supposedly entombed seated at a table with a winning hand of cards in his bony fingers.
Just like something out of a novel, William Mackenzie wasn’t buried in any old tomb. Instead, his burial site boasts a 4.57-metre pyramid-shaped tombstone, embellished with a turquoise placard and inscription. For history, mystery, and architecture fans headed to Liverpool, consider adding Mackenzie’s tomb to your itinerary.
On display: St Andrew’s Church Grounds
4. Bill Shankly Sculpture
Sculptor Tom Murphy’s most popular work and an integral part of the Liverpool Tourist trail. Since its unveiling in 1997, thousands of football fans across the world have been pictured with this Bill Shankly Sculpture which stands at the entrance to Anfield.
Commissioned by Calsberg Internation for Liverpool Football Club, it is cast in bronze, stands 14 feet high off the ground on a plinth of Scottish granite – in deference to Shankly’s Scottish Mining background.
On display: Entrance to Anfield Football Stadium
5. Billy Fury Sculpture
Billy Fury was born Ronald Wycherley in Haliburton Street in The Dingle, Liverpool on 17 April 1940. He first found fame in the early 1960s and is remembered as one of the most famous stars in the history of British rock and roll. His total record sales were on a par with acts such as Elvis, The Beatles and Cliff Richard.
His statue, made by Liverpool sculptor Tom Murphy in 2003, was commissioned by ‘The Sound of Fury’ fan club following six years of fundraising and donations from fans, both members and non members, from home and abroad.
The sculpture was very kindly donated to National Museums Liverpool by ‘The Sound of Fury’ as a lasting tribute to Billy, one of Liverpool’s greatest stars.
On display: Outside of Piermaster’s House, Albert Dock
6. Kitty Wilkinson Sculpture
An Irish migrant to Liverpool, Kitty Wilkinson‘s public hygiene efforts helped curb the cholera outbreak of 1832 and eventually led to the opening of the first combined washhouse and public baths in the United Kingdom.
Her legacy began when the ‘Saint of the Slums’ invited residents with infected clothes or linen to use her boiler – the only one in the neighbourhood – to clean them, thus saving many lives.
In 2012, a marble statue of Kitty was unveiled in St George’s Hall and it remains the only female sculpture in the famous building.
ArtsGroupie‘s play about her life, ‘Kitty: Queen of the Washhouse’ is coming to the hall in October 2023. It celebrates the Liverpudlian pioneer who was a community champion.
Liverpool has a fascinating and rich heritage of theatres and cinemas. These architectural gems stand as a testament to the city’s passion for entertainment and the arts throughout the decades. Here’s a selection of some of the most-loved and celebrated venues in the city.
1. The Futurist
Opened on 16th September 1912, as Lime Street Picture House, the venue was a very upmarket city centre cinema, with a tiled Edwardian façade and circle auditorium, richly decorated with plasterwork in the French Renaissance style.
In 1920, the building was renamed The Futurist, a name the building still held until its demolition in August 2016. The ABC owned Futurist was very popular, despite competition from the huge Paramount and Forum cinemas nearby, which sometimes forced The Futurist into taking off-circuit films.
Eventually, as ABC tripled their main cinema (the ex-Forum directly across the street), The Futurist was closed in July 1982, during a run of Mel Brooks’ Blazing Saddles.
2. Royal Court Theatre
Built in the 18th Century, the circus owner, John Cooke, bought the site for his circus shows, plays, operas and concerts, and it became known as Cooke’s Royal Amphitheatre of Arts. In 1881, the building was redesigned by Henry Sumner as a regular theatre and re-opened as the Royal Court Theatre.
The interior of the building displays a nautical theme, in line with Liverpool’s seafaring traditions. The basement lounge even has its design based on the Queen Mary Liner.
Although the Blitz of World War Two destroyed many of the surrounding buildings, The Royal Court remained intact. Throughout the war, many well-known artists performed in the Royal Court, including Ivor Novello, Margot Fonteyn, John Gielgud and Richard Burton. In 1990, the building was finally listed as Grade II.
3. Rialto Cinema
The Rialto Cinema in Toxteth was a famous landmark throughout the 1950s and early 60s. The Liverpool architects of the building were Gray and Evans of North John Street. They were tasked with designing a complex that would accommodate a cinema, ballroom, billiard hall, a large cafe and twelve good sized shops, all under one roof!
The ballroom was decorated with large painted murals on the walls, providing grand Venetian views for their customers. The Liverpool Echo even described the interior of the Rialto as staggering.
The Rialto closed in February 1964, with a screening of Doris Day in The Thrill of it All and the venue was later converted into a bingo hall. The historic building was burned down in the L8 uprising of 1981 but has since been rebuilt and now houses offices, flats and shops.
4. Playhouse Theatre
This much-loved Liverpool venue originated in 1866 as a music hall, and in 1911 developed into a repertory theatre. The grand interior was decorated in an impressive Greek Revival style.
The Playhouse is the oldest repertory theatre in the UK and nurtured the early careers of many actors, some of whom went on to achieve national and international fame. Future stars who learned their craft at the Playhouse include Noel Coward, Richard Burton, Patricia Routledge and Anthony Hopkins.
The theatre also helped foster the early-careers of many Merseyside writers, including Alan Bleasdale and Willy Russell. One of the Playhouse’s great successes was a staging of Russell’s Blood Brothers in 1983.
5. The Gaumont Palace
The Gaumont Palace cinema was based in Anfield, a large art deco building, just one hundred metres from the football ground. Central marble steps led customers to five pairs of glazed oak doors, which were complete with stainless steel fittings. The cinema even had gold stage curtains and a movable floor to accommodate an orchestra.
The Gaumont’s heyday was the 1940s but the building has since played an important role within the local community. In the nineties, the venue reopened as the Liverpool Lighthouse, operating an Urban Gospel Arts Centre in the heart of Anfield.
Liverpool Lighthouse still thrives today, with a wide range of activities for the community. They received a Health and Wellbeing award from Liverpool City Region Culture and Creativity in 2023.
6. Olympia Theatre (Renamed Eventim Olympia)
The Olympia Theatre was designed by architect Frank Matcham in 1905. The auditorium boasted three balconies and its ornate interior was decorated with elephants and Indian panelling.
The theatre had a vast stage and was also designed to house circus events – the elephant, horse and lions’ accommodation still survives below the stage. Performing animals would appear in the auditorium by being lifted from the basement where they lived. Evidence of the lift mechanism and living areas can still be found under the theatre.
Since reopening as a music venue, the Eventim Olympia, has played host to some legendary gigs, including Mogwai, The Specials and Ocean Colour Scene.
7. The Epstein Theatre
Liverpool’s legendary Crane Brothers’ music shop had been trading for several years, when they opened a music hall above their store on Hanover Street. Many amateur drama groups staged productions there, and led to its renaming as the Crane Theatre in 1938.
The venue is a stunning Grade II listed building and retains many of its impressive original features. The interior has a proscenium arch-type stage and superb acoustics for music shows. The theatre was renamed The Neptune by Liverpool Corporation in 1967, the new name being a reference to the city’s maritime history.
Since it’s 2011 reopening as The Epstein Theatre, the venue has firmly re-established it’s place as a popular destination for drama, panto and comedy.
8. Everyman Theatre
Originally known as Hope Hall, the building was conceived as a dissenter’s chapel, opening in 1837, but was soon re-imagined as a concert hall, and later as a cinema, known as Hope Hall Cinema.
The cinema’s situation on Hope Street, and its friendly and bohemian environment, meant that it gradually took on another role in the 1960s, becoming an unofficial meeting place for artists, musicians, poets and actors. The people became known in the area as ‘The Liverpool Scene’.
This group of artists eventually took on the task of converting the building into a theatre with a new apron stage, new seating, and new dressing rooms for its artistes. The Everyman Theatre opened in 1964 and soon became the spawning ground for a great many well known names of today.
The Eurovision Song Contest 2023 will be held at Liverpool’s M&s Bank Arena
The Eurovision Song Contest has been one of the most anticipated music events in the world for over six decades, bringing together countries from across Europe and beyond to compete for the title of the continent’s best song. Eurovision always provides a great deal of fun and is renowned for having some jaw-dropping moments. From hardcore rock to bizarre fairytales, the contest seldom disappoints.
With the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest set to take place in Liverpool this May, now is the perfect time to look back on some of the competition’s most memorable performances.
Here’s a selection of historical moments from the competition.
1. Sandie Shaw
The first British Eurovision triumph was Sandie Shaw with Puppet on a String in 1967. A convincing winner but of the five songs she was offered to perform, Puppet on a String was Shaw’s least favourite.
In her own words, ‘I hated it from the very first ‘oompah’ to the final ‘bang’ on the big bass drum’ and even went as far as describing the song as ‘cuckoo-clock’ music.
Puppet on a String won the contest hands down though and became her third number one hit in the UK and a big worldwide smash.
2. Abba
One of the greatest and most iconic performances to ever grace the Eurovision stage. Eurovision had always been popular but it was Abba with Waterloo that lifted it into the pop culture stratosphere.
Their glam-inspired performance in 1974 gave Sweden their first-ever win in the contest. The title and lyrics reference the 1815 Battle of Waterloo, and use it as a metaphor for a romantic relationship.
Abba, of course, went on to become one of the biggest groups in the world and their hits remain part of the cultural zeitgeist to this day, with stage shows and two movies made based on their hit songs.
3. Conchita Wurst
Austrian singer and drag queen Conchita Wurst became famous around the world after winning 2014’s Eurovision with Rise Like A Phoenix.
Stylistically, the power ballad recalls classic James Bond songs, while Wurst’s victory helped make the singer a global gay icon. Conchita was also the first singer to win without backing singers or dancers since 1970.
Using her newfound fame for a good cause, the singer brought attention to homophobia and legal restrictions on gay rights in many European countries.
4. Lordi
Lordi’s 2006 performance was one of the most iconic from the competition. Representing Finland with their song Hard Rock Hallelujah, the costumed rock band blew everyone away and left many others a touch disturbed.
Their masked stage-act was heavily inspired by the band Kiss and vocalist Gene Simmons became a fan of Lordi, even offering to publish their music.
They did more than enough to secure victory for their country with a score of 262 – which was a record at the time and only surpassed in 2019 by the Netherlands.
5. Dustin the Turkey
Another unforgettable Eurovision moment was Dustin the Turkey taking to the stage in 2008 to represent Ireland in the competition. Dustin had first appeared on the television show The Den with madcap Irish puppet duo Zig and Zag.
The song of choice was called Irelande Douze Pointe, which did not persuade the judges to hand out that many points, sadly for Dustin. The performance did not go as well as Ireland would have hoped and they failed to make it out of the semi-finals that year.
Undeterred, Dustin made a surprise comeback in 2005 on a duet of Patricia the Stripper with singer Chris De Burgh, reaching #3 on the Irish charts.
6. Bucks Fizz
Bucks Fizz’s classic 1981 performance of Making Your Mind Up was Eurovision at its best. The upbeat song and colourful performance captured many of the contest’s endearing qualities.
The act was even slightly risqué for the time, with the velcro-ripping moment in their dance routine raising a few eyebrows at home and all over Europe. Bucks Fizz went on to become a major 80s chart act, with three number one singles and sold over 50 million records worldwide.
Three of the original band members are now back performing under the name The Fizz and playing live in 2023.
7. Dana International
The Dana International win was an iconic moment and an important one that paved the way for inclusivity in the contest.
Dana International’s Diva was the first ever transgender winner of Eurovision, when she successfully competed in the 1998 contest on behalf of Israel. Her performance reinforced the message that everyone is welcome in Eurovision, and her win was celebrated by people all over the world.
Dana had many chart hits before and after Eurovision, and even wrote the 2008 entry for Israel in the competition.
8. Buranovskiye Babushki
Some performances are just too surreal to forget, which more than applied to Buranovskiye Babushki (The Grannies from Buranovo) and the bizarre show they staged for Russia in 2012.
Dressed as local villagers, the eight elderly women took part in some baking, as they all danced around an oven performing their song Party for Everybody. In an attempt to add some clarity, a member of the ensemble stated ‘We sing about lighting the oven, kneading the dough and spreading the tablecloth’.
It almost did the trick though as Russia came second that year!
9. France Gall
Penned by the notoriously controversial French songwriter Serge Gainsbourg for Paris-born singer France Gall, this winning entry for Luxembourg brought a touch of French yé-yé to Eurovision in 1965.
Mixing chanson with an upbeat song inspired by British beat music, Poupée De Cire, Poupée De Son – whose title translates as Wax Doll, Rag Doll – inspired a host of toy-themed Eurovision efforts from 60s pop artists, including, Sandie Shaw’s Puppet On A String.
With its charm and addictive melody, Gall’s song went on to sell more than half a million copies in her French homeland.
For full information on this year’s contest, see the Eurovision 2023 website
Merseyside has some excellent spring walks to explore, ranging from city trails around Liverpool to scenic walks in areas such as Wirral Peninsula and Calderstones Park.
Formby Beach
1. Rimrose Valley Country Park
Crosby’s Rimrose Valley Park sits by the side of the Leeds Liverpool Canal and includes the delightful Brookvale Local Nature Reserve.
As Sefton’s only non-coastal reserve, Brookvale provides a unique green oasis amongst what is otherwise a heavily populated and industrialised area. With its interesting network of pathways and raised boardwalks, Brookvale and Rimrose Valley as a whole, provide opportunities for quiet countryside walks in an area where those activities are scarce.
The site now boasts a mosaic of several habitats including Reed-bed swamp, Rimrose Brook, a hand-built pond system and Willow Carr woodland.
Rimrose Valley Country Park: 29 Parklands Way, Liverpool, L22 3YX.
2. Bidston Hill
This walk in Birkenhead explores 100 of acres heathland and woodland with historic buildings and ancient rock carvings. The Bidston Hill park includes a 16th century windmill, the grade II listed Bidston Observatory and Bidston Lighthouse. The hill rises to 231 feet so there are fantastic views of Wirral from the summit.
The park is a great place to walk and you will find lakes, woodland and pretty gardens to visit on a series of surfaced footpaths. There’s also a number of Grade I listed buildings to see.
Bidston Hill: Boundary Road, Wirral, CH43 7PD.
3. Calderstones Park
Lovely Calderstones Park in Liverpool covers nearly one hundred acres of land. There’s easy to navigate footpaths taking you to woodland, lakes and a beautiful botanical garden. The area is also home to 4000 species of plants with vibrant colours in the summer months.
The park is named after a number of ancient megaliths that are said to be older than Stonehenge. Other highlights include a 1000 year old tree, a peaceful Japanese garden and a park cafe.
The Trans Pennine Trail runs past the northern edge of the park. You can pick this up to continue your walking in the area and heading west will bring you to Sefton Park.
Enjoy waterside walking and cycling along Britain’s longest single canal, the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. The canal runs for 126 miles across the Pennines, passing many villages, towns and cities with a fascinating heritage and industrial history. There are also many scenic locks, viaducts and some wonderful countryside to enjoy.
Walkers can enjoy the whole route from Leeds to Liverpool, while there are several sections for cyclists too. Near Burscough, you’ll pass the wonderful Martin Mere Nature Reserve where you can look for otters, flamingos, beavers and thousands of water loving birds.
5. Liverpool City Walk
This long circular Liverpool City Walk, through the centre of Liverpool, visits the most famous sights. You’ll visit the waterfront, Albert Dock, Liverpool Festival Gardens, Sefton Park and Princes Park on this ten mile trail. The route uses the waymarked Trans Pennine Trail and is also suitable for cyclists.
The walk starts at St John’s Gardens where you can view The Gladstone Monument dedicated to the memory of W. E. Gladstone, a former Prime Minister, who was born in Liverpool and died in 1898.
After exploring the gardens, the route leads to the Cavern Club and then heads towards the waterfront passing Liverpool ONE. The area includes the attractive Chavasse Park and a chance to enjoy a walk along the Liverpool Canal Link on Mann Island.
6. Billinge Hill
Climb to the highest point on Merseyside and enjoy fantastic views as far as Snowdonia in Wales, on this Billinge Hill walk in St Helens.
The walk starts in Longshaw, where there is a footpath into the woods of the Billinge Plantation. Follow the woodland trails south and you will gradually ascend to the hill summit on the other side of the plantation.
The hill stands at a height of 587 ft, with excellent views towards Great Orme in Wales, Blackpool tower, Greater Manchester, Winter Hill and the Derbyshire Peak District. You’ll also see a beacon tower at the summit and several large transmitter masts nearby.
Billinge Hill: Billinge, St Helens, WN5 7NW.
7. Formby Beach
Explore the beaches, sand dunes and woodland in this beautiful nature reserve at Formby Beach. The area is famous for its wildlife, with the natterjack toad and the red squirrel being the major highlights.
The reserve is run by the National Trust so you will find a series of well laid out footpaths and waymarked trails. There is a squirrel trail through the lovely pine woodlands, where you can look out for the growing population of red squirrels.
There’s also an asparagus trail where you can learn about Formby’s asparagus heritage. The trail also passes through farmland with Hebridean and Herdwick sheep.
Formby Beach: Victoria Road, Formby, Liverpool L37 1LJ.
There’s a fantastic range of things to do in Birkenhead. From the grand architecture of its Victorian landmarks to the serene expanses of its parks and gardens, here’s a closer look at the top things to do in Birkenhead. We’re uncovering the best attractions, activities, and hidden corners, including including innovative venues such as Future Yard and Make Hamilton Square, Additionally, there’s the excellent Williamson Gallery and Museum and the beautiful Birkenhead Park, plus much more.
Future Yard
1. Future Yard
Future Yard brings some of today’s most exciting new national and international artists to Wirral, whilst providing performance opportunities and training for emerging local musicians.
The venue is run on a non-profit basis and is committed to a goal of becoming the first carbon-neutral grassroots music venue in the North of England.
Future Yard CIC have also recently set up Future50, a scheme where organisations can pledge to support their Neighbourhood Fund. The scheme will fund free and subsidised training and events for local people.
Upcoming live shows include, Badly Drawn Boy, Steve Mason and legendary Liverpool band The Stairs.
Read more about Future Yard’s Propeller Programme, launching on November 13, 2024, offers free mentorship, business support, and workshops to music creators in the Liverpool City Region, empowering both early career and established artists to develop their projects and navigate the music industry with the help of funding from Wirral Council and PRS Foundation.
In 2019 Make CIC worked with Wirral Council to open a community creative hub in Birkenhead, Make Hamilton Square.
The vibrant urban growing space, services an in-house cafe with seasonal produce and honey from their busy bees. The space is also home to fifty businesses and makers, alongside an incredible programme of workshops and activities.
Make continues to support many creatives to run classes and start businesses. They provide space for people to affordably host shows and exhibitions, often for the first time.
Make Hamilton Square: 2 Cleveland Street, Birkenhead, CH41 6ND.
Their wide-ranging permanent collections include painting, sculpture, furniture, prints and decorative arts. They are also home to the largest public collection of Della Robbia pottery in the UK – Birkenhead’s contribution to the Arts & Crafts movement.
Meanwhile, their superb ship models celebrate the region’s fascinating maritime history. They also host a range of temporary exhibitions and events.
Williamson Art Gallery: Slatey Rd, Oxton, Birkenhead, Prenton, CH43 4UE.
4. RAWD
Ten years ago, a disabled theatre company was set up with a focus to enable, enhance and engage disabled artists across Wirral, through weekly sessions.
In their 10th year, RAWD has got a little bigger, with more members and a wider outreach. They continue to champion disabled artists and put them centre stage in theatres and festivals.
RAWD explore new and innovative ways to turn-up disabled voices in the arts as a whole; with fun and inclusivity at its heart.
Birkenhead Priory is a unique family outing – experience the history, wonder and beauty of this 850 year old site. As the oldest standing building on Merseyside, the Priory offers a unique insight into the town of Birkenhead, and its historical and spiritual importance in the North West.
Now surrounded by factory units and shipyards, the Priory is an oasis of calm in a busy world. Head along and explore the site with the whole family- there are things to do for the entire family to enjoy! Climb the 101 steps to the top of St Mary’s tower for spectacular views of the Mersey and local area.
You can even bring a picnic to enjoy in their grounds!
Birkenhead Park. Credit: Ryan Warburton via Unsplash
6. The Hive/Wirral Youth Zone
Wirral Youth Zone, named by young people as ‘The Hive’, is a purpose-built facility for young people aged 8 – 19, and up to 25 for those with disabilities.
Young people have access to fantastic facilities for a cost of £5 for an annual membership and 50p per visit. The facilities include a climbing wall, boxing gym, music suite, art room and sensory room.
The Youth Zone provides a safe environment where young people can come and enjoy themselves and enables them to raise their aspirations and confidence.
Back when Birkenhead was a pioneering industrial town it was the first place in Europe to adopt a street tramway. The trams ceased operating in 1937, but visitors can ride on original fully restored heritage trams, see their collection of preserved local buses and view their ongoing restoration projects in the museum.
They also have a huge working model railway, ideal for keeping the whole family entertained!
Wirral Transport Museum and Heritage Tramway: 1 Taylor Street, Birkenhead, CH41 1BG.
8. Convenience Gallery
Convenience Gallery is a community-centered arts organisation providing opportunities for local communities to engage, create and work in the arts. They take art out into public spaces and mental health settings, rather than traditional environments, working with local people.
The gallery are advocates for artists fair pay, mental health, wellbeing and inclusion. They are dedicated to championing the arts and artists.
They always aim to create high quality, diverse, educational and challenging programming.
9. There are plenty of things to do at Birkenhead Park!
On Easter Monday 1847, the gates were opened to the very first publicly funded park in the world. Designed by Joseph Paxton – Birkenhead Park was created to be the People’s Garden – a place where the lowliest peasant to the British Monarch could enjoy a piece of the countryside in the city.
In 1850, Fredrick Law Olmstead visited the park and with its inspiration, then went on to design and create what is arguably the most famous public park in the world – Central Park, New York.
In 2004 Birkenhead Park underwent an £11.8million restoration returning it to its former glory. Today, Birkenhead Park is a Grade I listed landscape, it caters for all visitors with a number of sports such as football, cricket, bowls, angling and cycling, as well as providing an onsite visitors centre.
Birkenhead Park: Park Drive, Birkenhead, CH41 4HY.
10. Bloom Building
Bloom is a great space to for all types of creative events. They have previously opened their doors to festivals, electronic nights, film screenings, book launches and immersive exhibitions.
They hold a range of monthly events at Bloom such as Open Mic nights, Life Drawing, Open Mic poetry nights and a weekly choir. Bloom also hold coffee mornings with Mencap and Positivitree weekly.
The venue is available to hire for community projects and private bookings.
The Birkenhead Youth Club started life as The Birkenhead Boys Club in 1932, the prime mover in its establishment being the late Harry France, a Senior Probation Officer, in the town.
The club is for anyone aged between 8 and 24. They have an extensive range of sports facilities, from an indoor 5-a-side pitch to squash courts and trampolining. Admission is just 50p per night.
The facilities are also available for hire at very reasonable rates.Opening times are 6-9pm, Monday to Friday.
Wirral MakeFest is a free community event that aims to cultivate the public’s engagement with makers, inspiring future careers, hobbies and skills in the community and raising the visibility of local makers through the event and its accompanying website.
The event takes place 3 June 2023 at both Birkenhead Central Library and Williamson Museum and Art Gallery.
MakeFest is a fusion between art, science and technology. Their makers are from a wide range of arts and sciences, from crafts and drama to VR.
Have we missed anything in this article? Let us know! Get in touch with Clare at clare@culture.org.uk. We strive to make our features as inclusive as possible, so we’re keen to hear your suggestions.
St Helens, in the Liverpool City Region, offers plenty of exciting things to do. Explore its rich heritage at the North West Museum of Road Transport and the World of Glass, or enjoy a peaceful walk around Carr Mill Dam. Art lovers can dive into local workshops and events, while nature enthusiasts can relax at the Dream sculpture. For live entertainment, catch a show at St Helens Theatre Royal, or unwind with a visit to Inglenook Farm. Discover all the best things to do in St Helens for your next day out!
World of Glass
Things to do in St Helens:
1. North West Museum of Road Transport
This engaging Road Transport Museum is based in the old town centre bus depot, which dates back to 1881. The museum is home to a fleet of historic buses, previously in operation across the whole region.
Head along on weekends and Bank Holidays, to view their collection of single and double-decker buses dating back to the 1930s, all decked-out in their original livery.
The museum also displays other fascinating vintage vehicles, including a fire engine from the 1950s, and a range of historic cars.
The Old Bus Depot: 51 Hall St, Saint Helens WA10 1DU.
2. Heart of Glass
If you’re looking for things to do in St Helens that celebrate creativity and community, Heart of Glass is a community arts organisation in St Helens. They believe that art has the power to bring us together and create real change, for the people of their community. Through collaboration and conversation, they bring amazing art projects to the most surprising of spaces throughout St Helens, Knowsley and beyond.
Their community projects have included creating colourful murals to cover concrete buildings with the help of young families in supported accommodation (Sphere of Nature), or working with colleagues across Europe as a founding partner of the Collaborative Arts Partnership Programme, a four year programme of artist exchange, research and learning.
Their philosophy is simple: art belongs everywhere, to everyone. Discover their upcoming events and workshops here.
Haydock Street, St Helens, WA10 1DD
3. Wonder Arts
Wonder Arts (previously Citadel Arts Centre) is a children and families organisation operating exclusively in non-traditional spaces in St Helens. They provide high quality arts experiences for children and family audiences who would not otherwise engage with arts venues.
They operate as a building-free organisation and offer experiences different from the norm. The team work in the public realm, in communities and in outreach settings delivering their unique arts activities. Find out about their upcoming events here.
Dentons Green Lane, St Helens, WA10 2QB
4. Car Mill Dam
A lovely place to stroll around with an option of a scenic drink at a waterside cafe. Ideal to relax and watch the local wildlife, which includes Goldfinch, Blackbirds and Grey Herons.
The four hundred year old Carr Mill Dam is also a great spot for water sports enthusiasts and anglers, the lake is crossed by the impressive Nineteen Arches Bridge and there are well made footpaths around the entire dam.
The site also contains the only tract of ancient woodland in St Helens.
Carr Mill Dam: Billinge, St Helens, WA11 7LX.
5. World of Glass
For a unique cultural experience, the World of Glass museum is one of the top things to do in St Helens.
Pilkington display their World of Glass collections at this excellent canal-side museum, located on the site of the former glass factory.
You can view the collections of ornate studio glass and discover the history of St Helens’ glassmaking trade, from its 17th-century inception to a heyday in the 19th and early 20th century.
Their Glass Roots Gallery looks at the wider history of glass, displaying pieces going back to Ancient Egypt. Glassmaking demonstrations are held every day, and you can even try your hand at a glassblowing course.
World of Glass: Chalon Way E, St Helens, Saint Helens WA10 1BX.
6. St Helens Theatre Royal
Dating back to the early 1900s, St Helens Theatre Royal was designed by renowned theatre architect Frank Matcham, and was later revamped in the 1960s.
Theatre Royal has a wide and interesting programme of events. This year, their programme features comedians such as Sarah Millican, pantomimes, musicals and Dinosaur World Live events for kids.
The venue hosts appearances by sports personalities, many relating to Liverpool FC, and popular cultural figures. In the school holidays, kids can also watch colourful science demonstrations and children’s shows adapted from books and TV.
St Helens Theatre Royal: Corporation St, Saint Helens WA10 1LQ.
7. Dream
Dream is an impressive sculpture and piece of public art by Jaume Plensa. In 2008, St Helens took part in Channel 4’s The Big Art Project along with several other sites. The project culminated in the unveiling of Dream, a 66-foot-high sculpture located on the old Sutton Manor Colliery site.
The council and local residents (including 15 former miners from the colliery) were involved in the consultation and commission process through which Dream was selected. The plans involved a full landscaping of the surrounding area on land previously allowed to go wild after the closure of the pit.
Sutton Manor, St Helens, WA9 4BE
8. Things to do in Inglenook Farm
The farm is ideal for a relaxing family day out, kids will love the farm’s animals, which include a pair of Shetland ponies, goats, ducks, peacocks and chickens. The land is also used to grow chamomile and lavender for essential oils, which are distilled on site.
There’s a host of local businesses based at Inglenook Farm’s courtyard, a craft beer shop, a vintage bike restorer, a pet groomer, and a garden room designer.
Visitors can also drop-in to their legendary farmhouse cafe for cooked breakfasts and lunchtime bites.
Inglenook Farm: Moss Nook Lane, Rainford, St Helens, WA11 8AE.
To discover events happening across the Liverpool city region visit our What’s On events listings.
Have we missed anything in this article? Let us know! Get in touch with Clare at clare@culture.org.uk. We strive to make our features as inclusive as possible, so we’re keen to hear your suggestions of things to do in St Helens.
Runcorn and Widnes, located in the heart of the Liverpool City Region, are packed with exciting things to do. From exploring historic sites and scenic parks to enjoying family-friendly attractions, these two towns offer a perfect mix of culture, nature, and entertainment. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing day out, Runcorn and Widnes have something for everyone. From exploring historic sites to enjoying scenic parks, there’s no shortage of things to do in Runcorn and Widnes. Here are the top 8 activities to add to your list!
Credit: Norton Priory Museum & Gardens Facebook Page
1. Norton Priory Museum and Gardens
For history buffs looking for things to do in Runcorn, Norton Prioryis a must-visit. Known for being the most excavated monastic site in Europe. The site boasts the priory ruins, and an 18th century Walled Garden, it is located within an oasis of 42 acres of tranquil woodland and wildflower meadows. The Brindley Theatre is a popular spot for things to do in Runcorn.
The museum includes two exhibition galleries which explore the site’s history, including the archaeological digs which took place in the 1970s and 1980s. Thousands of artefacts from Norton’s 900 year history are on display, including the 14th century statue of St. Christopher, which features in Lucy M. Boston’s classic children’s book, The Children of Green Knowe.
Norton Priory: Tudor Road, Runcorn, WA7 1SX.
2. The Brindley Theatre
Located by the Bridgewater Canal, the centre is named after the canal’s engineer, James Brindley. It opened in autumn 2004. The Brindley Theatre has won several awards for its architecture including the Architectural Award from the Royal Institute of British Architects.
The venue plays host to touring productions, a professional pantomime each Christmas season, local amateur shows and in-house productions. A separate studio space serves as a single screen cinema, an exhibition and gallery. The venue’s bar and café overlook the scenic canal.
The Brindley Theatre: High Street, Runcorn, WA7 1BG.
3. Halton Castle
If you’re looking for things to do, look no further than Halton Castle. The castle is one of the two surviving Norman castles in Cheshire and stands on a rocky hill overlooking the Mersey River above the former village of Halton. This location is a clear choice for it’s elevation and potential as an observation post.
At Halton Castle, there are a number of fascinating features such as the sally port, garderobe and tower. The castle itself is opened for special events and tours several times a year, however it is accessible to walk around the castle walls at any time of the year. A must-do for visitors looking for things to do in Widnes.
Halton Castle: Castle Road, Runcorn, WA7 2BE.
4. Wigg Island Community Park
A community park and local nature reserve, Wigg Island was originally Runcorn saltmarsh. A community park was opened in 2002 by the Mayor of Halton and celebrity birdwatcher Bill Oddie.
The nature reserve covers 57 acres and is very popular with birdwatchers. There are a number of bird hides and long views over the Mersey estuary, with plenty of wide open spaces and things to do. It’s also great for dogs and there’s woodland walks with trolls and sculptures, Bee Orchids are amongst the wild flowers found there.
The area has a cycle path leading from Wigg to Port Warrington and Moore Nature Reserve as well as a visitor centre and a wind turbine.
Wigg Island Community Park: Expressway A553, off Astmoor Industrial Estate, Runcorn, WA7 1LU.
Credit: Catalyst Science Discovery Centre Facebook Page
5. Catalyst Science Discovery Centre
Catalayst makes science exciting and accessible to people of all ages and abilities, explore the award winning galleries, visit the stunning interactive theatre, experience fun activities in the lab or travel 30m above the River Mersey in the external glass lift to the glass walled observatory gallery.
The museum regularly hosts family shows and hands-on workshops to help get everyone involved in the world of science. The centre also has an Elements cafe with scenic riverside views.
Catalyst is normally open Tuesday to Sunday and has free car parking.
A nice area for a short walk, free parking, plenty of grassed areas to explore and to see the lovely wild flowers and birds. Pickerings Pasture is a beautiful, relaxing, local riverside walking spot. The site was many years ago the local council’s household refuse tip but has been brilliantly reclaimed.
A Green Flag Award winning local nature reserve with acres of wild flower meadows and a fabulous view across the upper Mersey estuary.
Both indoor and outdoor, Widnes Market offers the shopper traditional value in a modern setting.
Stallholders provide fresh fruit, fish, vegetables, flowers, fresh and cooked meats, a wide range of clothing and furnishings, hardware, telephone accessories, Cafe, and even haircuts! Wednesdays there’s a flea and collectors market selling second hand goods, from books to vacuum cleaners and coins.
Open every day except Tuesday and Sunday, they offer free parking, next to the bus station and near the central shopping area.
A lovely local, canal side walking area, situated at the end of the old St Helens canal, on the edge of the River Mersey. It is an artificial island between the Sankey Canal and the estuary of the river. The area plays host to a range of waterfowl and friendly swans. There are also short hiking trails you can take, with a suggested duration of 1-2 hours.
The island is also famous for being the site of the legendary Stone Roses one day festival in 1990. The gig briefly turned Spike Island into the coolest place in the country.
Spike Island: Upper Mersey Rd, Widnes WA8 0DG.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local shopping, there are plenty of things to do in Runcorn and Widnes. These two towns in the Liverpool City Region offer a diverse range of activities that cater to all interests. Be sure to explore these top attractions and make the most of your visit!
To discover events happening across the Liverpool city region visit our What’s On events listings.
There’s a host of festive activities and events for children this December, from Christmas singalongs and crafting to pantomimes and Arctic-themed workshops.
Singalong with Santa
1. Christmas Incy Wincy Rhymers
Celebrate Christmas with some special Festive Incy Wincy Rhymers this December. The Reader’s sessions are for little ones, 1-4 years old, and their families.
They’ll explore Christmas stories, festive favourites and seasonal nursery rhymes through storytelling and sing-a-longs. Under ones are free but will still need a ticket. The sessions last for 70 minutes.
The Reader, until 21 December, various times.
2. Up Close With: Nature In The Snow
World Museum are going out into the wild! Each month the Participation team are set loose on Gallery, bringing their handling collections out for you to explore and enjoy. Keep your eyes peeled for their team and their trolley full of incredible stories and specimens.
This December, the team explore the Arctic and other snowy habitats to learn about the incredible animals and plants that survive in the snow.
This year, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Children’s Choirs have something very special lined-up for Christmas. This fabulously festive performance contains all the magical ingredients for the perfect family Christmas celebration.
The singalong will feature Christmas favourites such as Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree and Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, plus a host of seasonal surprises, so get ready to sing your heart out!
Take the opportunity to create something festive in the Maritime Museum’s fun, child-friendly art and craft session. Their facilitators will help you to make something fantastic to take home.
The workshops are free and held in the morning and afternoon so drop in and get creative with them!
Take the whole family to Aladdin, an action-packed pantomime staged in The Atkinson’s traditional theatre. TV and film actor Patsy Kensit stars as the Genie of the Lamp!
Joining Patsy on stage are a fabulous cast of panto professionals. Merseyside dancer and actor Dominic Gore plays the hero Aladdin and Southport’s very own Tom Burroughs is the evil Abanazer.
The Atkinson, Southport until 31 December, various times.
6. Craft and Create – Christmas
Enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of the city centre and make something unique to decorate your home or to gift to someone special.
These craft workshops are free and ideal to fire youngsters’ imaginations, all in the wonderful surroundings of the Walker Art Gallery for inspiration!
Ormskirk, a charming market town nestled in West Lancashire, offers a delightful mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re cycling through the scenic countryside, exploring vibrant art galleries, or enjoying a family day at a farm, Ormskirk promises a variety of fun-filled things to do for everyone. From historical sites to cultural experiences, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Ormskirk.
Credit: NT Rufford Old Hall Facebook Page
6 Things to Do in Ormskirk
1. Cycling Through West Lancashire – Explore Things to Do in Ormskirk’s Countryside
Cycling is one of the best things to do in Ormskirk if you want to immerse yourself in the stunning countryside. Most of the area is flat and there are many quiet lanes, which are great to cycle on, with splendid views over the West Lancashire Plain.
Use your bike to get to attractions like Ainsdale Nature Reserve for a day out. West Lancashire also has some wonderful churches and monuments steeped in history, with the oldest, St Michael’s Church in Aughton dating back to around 850AD. This route offers an insight into the churches, their grounds and their history, riders can join the route at various access points, including Ormskirk, Aughton Park, Town Green and Burscough Bridge Railway Stations.
Location: Various access points including Ormskirk, Aughton Park, Town Green, and Burscough Bridge.
2. Chapel Gallery – Cultural Things to Do in Ormskirk
For art enthusiasts, the Chapel Gallery is one of the must-see things to do in Ormskirk. Chapel Gallery’s diverse programme includes internationally regarded artists, such as David Hockney and Peter Blake, while bringing innovative contemporary art and craft from across the UK to the region, and supporting local artists in the development of their careers.
From art clubs and school holiday activities to adult learning music and cinema, there are plenty of creative things to do, whatever your age or ability.
The gallery is also home to a cafe and their craft and design shop.
3. Farmer Ted’s Adventure Farm – Fun Things to Do in Ormskirk with Kids
For nature lovers looking for things to do, look no further than Farmer Ted’s Adventure Farm.
Farmer Ted’s Adventure Farm is a large farm geared around children with plenty of fun on offer. They offer free tractor rides around the farm, Birds of Prey, pony grooming, ferret racing, guinea pig handling and a jungle themed mini-beast centre.
The farm is also the venue for the legendary Pumpkin Festival at Halloween, now running throughout October, and their Christmas Adventure walks. It’s an ideal spot for animal lovers and families looking for things to do in Ormskirk that are both fun and educational.
4. Ormskirk Market – Classic Things to Do in Ormskirk
Ormskirk Market is renowned for being one of the UK’s oldest and most traditional outdoor markets. Granted a Royal Charter in 1286 by King Edward I, this popular and well-loved market has been held in Ormskirk ever since.
The market is now hosted every Thursday and Saturday, 8am-4pm. The pedestrianised streets around the famous clock tower offer around 100 stalls, attracting a variety of shoppers each market day.
The stalls offer everything from clothing and bedding to fresh meat and vegetables. They’re also well worth checking out for stocking-filler gifts that won’t break the bank!
5. National Trust Rufford Old Hall – Historical Things to Do in Ormskirk
Follow in Shakespeare’s footsteps and visit one of Lancashire’s finest Tudor buildings, Rufford Old Hall, which was built in the 1530s.
You can discover something different every day, from the changing fortunes of the family who lived there, to Shakespeare’s connections with the house. At the centre of the building there’s an enchanting cobbled 18th Century court to explore.
You can also enjoy a stroll outdoors in their formal Victorian and Edwardian garden, take a walk through the tranquil woodland or along the Leeds/Liverpool canal. f you’re looking for things to do in Ormskirk that combine history, nature, and beauty, this is a fantastic spot.
6. The Arts Centre, Edge Hill University – Cultural Things to Do in Ormskirk
The Arts Centre at Edge Hill University offers a full programme of things to do, from cutting-edge drama and dance to poetry and some brilliant stand-up comedy nights.
Past performances include shows by James Acaster, Katherine Ryan, Joel Dommett and Russell Kane. The venue also presents talks by famous guest speakers and the latest cinema releases.
Hosting two theatres and a café bar, The Arts Centre provides a year-round programme full of diverse and inspirational performances for visitors to Ormskirk.
Why Visit Ormskirk? A Treasure Trove of Things to Do in Ormskirk
Ormskirk is a fantastic place for a family day out, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, rich history, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re cycling through picturesque countryside, enjoying a fun day at Farmer Ted’s Adventure Farm, or soaking in local art at the Chapel Gallery, there’s no shortage of things to do in Ormskirk. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and diverse attractions, Ormskirk is the perfect destination for a memorable trip.
To discover more exciting things to do across the Liverpool City Region, be sure to check out our What’s On events listings.
To discover events happening across the Liverpool city region visit our What’s On events listings.
Liverpool has a renowned history of comedic talent, comedy that made us laugh and challenged the ideas of what humour could be. Here’s a selection of legendary comedians from the region.
1. Alexei Sayle
Best known for his cynicism and political awareness, Alexei Sayle also developed his own unique brand of physical comedy. Much of his humour is in the surreal tradition of Monty Python and his style led to various roles in the classic 1980s comedy The Young Ones. The success of the show was followed by appearances in Doctor Who and Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade.
Alexei Sayle also forged a side-career as an unlikely 80s pop star, his most successful single was the suitably unhinged Ullo John Gotta New Motor which made the Top 20 in 1984. The single was recorded with hit producers Clive Langer and Alan Winstanley, who worked with Madness and Elvis Costello.
2. Chris Cairns
Chris Cairns has gained a reputation for being able to handle the toughest of rooms with his sharp put downs and a fine eye for a cutting remark.
He is a regular compere at Laughterhouse venues in Liverpool and is known all over the country as a friend to the audience but a deadly foe to the heckler. He was awarded Eric Morecambe Comedian of the Year and Liverpool Comedian of the Year in 2011.
As well as performing stand up comedy, Chris is also educating the next generation of stand up comedians as a tutor on Stand Out, the comedy course for 14-18 year olds in the North West.
3. Kenny Everett
From a Catholic family, Kenny Everett attended the local secondary modern school in Crosby, now part of Sacred Heart Catholic College. Born Maurice Cole, he started his career with spells on pirate radio in the mid-1960s and was one of the first DJs to join BBC’s newly-created Radio 1 in 1967.
The Kenny Everett Video Show was his big comedy breakthrough and a vehicle for Everett’s characters such as the infamous Sid Snot and Cupid Stunt. Various pop and TV stars made cameo appearances on the show, including Kate Bush and Freddie Mercury.
In the first three series, all the animated segments were created by the fledgling Cosgrove_Hall partnership, later responsible for the children’s cartoon series Dangermouse.
4. Faith Brown
One of the earliest female comedians to break into television in the 1970s, Faith Brown attended Walton’s St Francis De Sales School and was a singer in vocal group The Carrolls with her brothers, before using her talent for mimicry to switch to comedy impressions.
She became known for her impressions of Hollywood stars and eventually presented her own primetime show, regularly attracting millions of viewers. As her profile grew, she appeared as a guest on Blankety Blank and is another surprise veteran of Doctor Who, Faith played an alien in the 1985 story Attack of the Cybermen.
In recent years, she made a comeback on the reality show I’m a Celebrity…Get Me out of Here! and worked as a children’s presenter at the BBC.
5. Arthur Askey
Askey was born in Moses Street, Dingle in 1900, he was known for his short stature, distinctive horn-rimmed glasses, and his playful humour.
In the early 1930s, Askey appeared on an early form of BBC television— The Spinning Disc invented by John Logie Baird that scanned vertically and had only thirty lines. Askey had to be heavily made up for his face to be recognisable at such low resolution.
When television became electronic, with 405 horizontal lines, Askey was a regular performer in variety shows such as The Good Old Days and subsequently starred in several comedy films as part of the Second World War effort.
6. Ken Dodd
No comedy list would be complete without the legendary ‘Doddy’. A lifelong resident of Knotty Ash, Ken Dodd’s career as an entertainer started in the mid-1950s.
His performances would run for several hours, frequently past midnight. He earned a place in The Guinness Book of Records for the world’s longest ever joke-telling session: 1,500 jokes in three-and-a-half hours (7.14 jokes per minute).
His surreal gags were supplemented by his infamous tickling stick and the legendary Diddy Men. He interspersed the comedy with songs, both serious and humorous, which led to several hit singles in the 1960s. He even appeared in some dramatic roles, including a part in the 1996 film of Hamlet, directed by Kenneth Branagh.
