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Arne Slot, when asked about Mohamed Salah’s future at the club, has said he has “no clue” following the player’s outburst against his perceived treatment by the club.
Slot insisted his authority had not been undermined by the Egypt international’s comments on Saturday that his relationship with the Dutchman had broken down, that someone at the club was trying to force him out and he had been “thrown under the bus”.
Salah, who travels to the African Nations Cup next Monday, suggested Brighton could be his last game for the Reds but he is unlikely to be given that option as although he has not been disciplined, he was left out of the squad which travelled to face Inter Milan in the Champions League as a consequence of his actions.
Asked whether Salah – who started on the bench for the third successive game at Leeds – had played his last game, Slot said: “I have no clue. I cannot answer that question at this point in time.
“I am a firm believer that there is always a possibility to return for a player. I can leave it with that I think.”
It is believed Slot was vague about Salah’s future because the forward brought it into question himself, but having only signed a lucrative contract at the end of last season to make him the highest-paid player in the club’s history there was clearly a long-term commitment from Liverpool’s point of view.
The Press Association understands the club decided to remove Salah from selection for a short period, taken in consultation with – and with the full support of – Slot in the best interests of the player, the squad and the club.
Anything else would have undermined Slot’s authority at a time when he is trying to drag the team out of a slump which has seen them win just four of the last 15 matches.
Slot felt taking the action they had had avoided that scenario and claimed he did not think their relationship had broken down, although he admitted the conversation with Salah to tell him he would not be travelling was “a short one”.
“That is not the way I feel, but he has the right to feel how he feels things. I haven’t felt that at all until Saturday evening, for sure,” said the head coach at a press conference in San Siro.
“When I don’t play someone usually players don’t like the manager that much but he was really respectful to the staff and manager, his team-mates and he trained very hard, so it was a surprise to me when I heard the comments that he gave.
“It is not the first or last time a player who doesn’t play says something similar to what he did.
“But my reaction to that is clear and that’s why he is not here tonight.
“We have let him know that he is not travelling with us. That was the only communication from us to him.
“Of course before Saturday the two of us have spoken a lot, sometimes longer, sometimes shorter.”
Find out the latest in Liverpool here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Metquarter has announced the arrival of Melite Parfums to the centre, a modern fragrance house specialising in bold, character-driven perfumes that blend French perfumery heritage with contemporary scents.
Founded in Liverpool, Melite Parfums has become one of the UK’s fastest growing perfume brands with a loyal online community on Tik-Tok and Instagram, with over 150,000 followers across both social platforms. The new shop opening in Metquarter marks the company’s first retail location, a space where customers can finally experience the brand in person.
Melite Parfums fragrances are developed in Grasse, France, the historic heart of perfumery and all perfumes are manufactured in-house at the businesses own facility in the UK. The fragrances focus on craftsmanship and are designed to offer customers long lasting scents with high concentrations at accessible price points.
Key products to be sold at the brand’s first shop opening include scents such as Intoxicating Masculinity, a breakout Tik-Tok favourite and one of Melite Parfums top performing products, Storm Born Blend, a bold, long-lasting scent and Cognac Oak, the brand’s first ever creation, designed for both men and women, blended with sweet vanilla, cognac, and cinnamon.
Scott Meltcalfe, founder of Melite Parfums said:
“I am beyond excited to be launching our first ever in person shopping experience. I can’t wait for our loyal customers and new faces to get to try some of our amazing scents. The brand was originally launched in Liverpool so of course it feels only right to open our first in person shop in the heart of the city at Metquarter.”
Jennina O’Neill, Centre Manager at Metquarter said:
“We are very pleased to welcome Melite Parfums to Metquarter. As a bold and fast-growing Liverpool brand, they bring an exciting energy to the centre. The brand’s strong connection with the local community makes them a perfect addition to our growing tenant mix, and we’re thrilled that our shoppers will be among the first to experience their unique fragrances in person.”
Melite Parfums is open 10:00AM-18:00PM Monday-Saturday and 11:00AM-17:00PM on Sundays – visit its website here.
Find out more happening at Metquarter Liverpool this Christmas here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Liverpool’s popular Smithdown Litfest will become a year-round festival from 2026, and it’s launching with one of the city’s best-loved writers.
Roger McGough, one of the famous Mersey Poets alongside Adrien Henri and Brian Patten, will present An Evening With in January, the first event in what will be a regular programme throughout the year.
The festival, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2026, has gained a national reputation among authors and publishers since it launched.
Names like Chris Tarrant, Michael Palin, Vera creator Ann Cleeves and Jimmy MxGovern have all been involved in previous years.
Now Ian Skillicorn, who founded Smithdown Litfest, says it feels like the right time to expand it from its usual September dates to a format that makes it more easily accessible for guests and audiences.
He explains:
“Over the years there have been authors who I’ve approached who wanted to take part but just couldn’t do the dates so, although it’s great to have a lot of events together, it also means that if people can’t make a particular date you’ve lost them.
“We wanted to have more flexibility to give authors the opportunity to come when it suits them, maybe when it’s part of a book tour or if they have a book launching at a particular time of the year. That way we can work around their diaries which gives us more options to get more great guests.”
Ian says he’s planning to have at least one Smithdown Litfest event a season, and although the timing of the festival will change, everything else will remain familiar.
“Over the last couple of years it feels like Smithdown Litfest has really started to settle into people’s consciousness. We’ve got an established festival, and we’ve got a good reputation so it makes sense to keep the name.
“We’ll launch in January, there’ll be one around March, one early summer, and one in September to coincide with the actual 10th anniversary.
“We’ll have the same number of events but spread out rather than condensed into one week, and we can use the same venues we’ve always used.
“Every event we do will be part of Smithdown Litfest so we’ll become Liverpool’s year-round literary festival, making Smithdown the home of great stories throughout the year.”
Ian says he’s thrilled to be launching with An Evening with Roger McGough on Saturday January 24. It will be a joint event with JMU’s Research Institute for Literature and Cultural History, which has been a long-time supporter of the festival.
“Roger McGough is a national legend but obviously locally he’s so fondly thought of, people in Liverpool do very much see him as one of their own.
“It’s just a fantastic way to start, and I know people are very excited about welcoming him back to the city.”
Roger, who’s now 88, will be on stage at Ullet Road Unitarian Church, entertaining the audience with his poems and readings, and maybe a few personal recollections. Pritchard’s bookshop in Crosby will be there too, so there will also be a chance to have books signed afterwards.
“This is a rare opportunity for a Liverpool audience to see him performing in his home city,” adds Ian.
“I’ve never personally seen him live but since we knew he was going to do this event I’ve spoken to people who have and they keep saying how great he is, and how nice he was when they met him, so there’s definitely going to be a lot of love in the room for him.”
Book your tickets for An Evening with Roger McGough here.
Find out more about Smithdown Litfest here.
Find more talks and educational events aross Liverpool on our calendar.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas across the city – and all our bars and pubs are looking especially festive this year.
So whether you’re meeting your mates, catching up with family, or getting ready to party with your workmates, you can rely on them to help spread the seasonal spirit.
PINS Social Club Rooftop
PINS has transformed its rooftop into an Alpine-themed retreat filled full of festive vibes, with fire pits and cuddly throws and plenty of gorgeous sparkling lights. From cosy cocktails to proper party vibes it’s got everything you want this Christmas, including karaoke cabins, festive workshops, live music and fab food.
Find out more.
Ma Boyle’s Alehouse and Eatery
The Tower Building’s bistro and bar’s always buzzing and never more so than at Christmas with its three-course Christmas Roast for £36 per person, and its Rum and Rumour Basement Bar ready to rock for your festive party.
Check it out.
Dog & Collar on Hope Street
The amazing decorations alone outside this Hope Street venue will get you feeling all festive, with Santa surrounded by a twinkling garland fest and cascade of beautifully wrapped pressies. It’s sparkling just as much with fabulous decorations inside, it’s got drink and food options galore – the Christmas menu is fab – for its private dining room and tavern, and the taproom’s even open on Christmas Day for drinks.
Take a look here.
The Pen Factory
Further along Hope Street, if Fiona and Dominic’s warm welcome isn’t enough to get the seasonal spirit cracking, the dazzling deccies and the festive menu will. Starters include chilli and ginger king prawns and honey and cider chorizo, while mains to get your mouth watering feature Cornish hake, smoked chicken supreme and spiced 8oz lamb rump – and loads of delish desserts.
Find out more.
The Bridewell
It’s officially Christmas time at The Bridewell after the big switch on, with gorgeous lights around the entrance ‘making us look so cute’ along with a very well-dressed tree! It’s got a Christmas beer, Advent & Tap Pale Ale from Roosters Brewery – which is being sold across The Pen Factory, The Bridewell and Denbigh Castle – and it’s donating 20p from every pint sold to Fans for Foodbanks with Roosters donating 10p.
See more here.
Roxy Ball Room
Roxy’s packed with fun and festive vibes at Christmas and it’s got some amazing packages that’ll really get your party started, including Drink & Sleigh with any drink and a game from £10, to Festive Faceoff for food – think pepperoni pizza with brie, chilli & cranberry jam and sage – a welcome drink, drinks vouchers and game from £50. Tis the season for booze and ballgames!
The Palm Court Bar at Municipal Hotel
The Palm Court bar looks beautiful at the best of times but at Christmas with trees and garlands decked with brilliant baubles, it’s like walking into Santa’s grotto. Along with festive dining, events and spa packages this Christmas at Municipal, the Palm Court Library will host a festive canapé menu with prices starting at £20 for three dishes, and the Palm Court’s got a new collection of Hero Cocktails that capture the spirit of Liverpool in every glass. The Love to Liverpool cocktail menu includes ‘Boss Tha’ with Grey Goose, Cherry Cordial, Absolut Vanilla, Chambord, Lapsang Tea, and Municipal Champagne. Cheers!
Look at the menu here.
The Windmill Bar at Liverpool Christmas Market
Back again this year, the windmill bar’s one of the most magical parts of the Christmas market, with its unique balcony overlooking St George’s Hall. Right in the heart the market, you can grab a mulled wine while listening to Christmas tunes and enjoying the great views.
See it here.
Bar Hutte in Liverpool ONE
We all love celebrating Après Ski Style at Bar Hütte in Chavasse Park and it’s there until December 31. Cosying up in Liverpool ONE’s alpine haven means enjoying its Karaoke Huttes and Party Lodges where you can join friends and family to belt out those festive favourites while sipping on Gluhwein and the mountain classic, Bombardino; there are wreath-making classes, special visits from Santa Claus, and an after-school club – and for your furry pal there’s Bark Hutte with complimentary dog treats.
Find out more.
Hawksmoor Liverpool Bar
Hawksmoor’s got a cracking Christmas cocktail lineup again this year. From New York, to Dublin, to Chicago, and Edinburgh … four cities, four unique cocktails, and four perfect excuses to celebrate. We’re loving the Baked Alaska Martini from New York with Milk-Washed Fords Gin, Green Chartreuse, Fino Sherry, and Orange Bitters.
Take a look at the menu.
The Tavern Co
Santa’s elves have been busy at The Tavern Co, making it look merry and bright in the Smithdown Road hostelry. With bright red bows and baubles decorating the outside it looks like a giant Christmas present – and inside is a glittering gift too. Open every day from 8am, breakfast is served until 3pm when its gorgeous evening menu takes the reins.
Check it out.
Bus Yard at Knowsley Safari
As if Knowsley’s festive Enchanted experience isn’t enough to create magical Christmas memories, the Bus Yard is joining them in the Enchanted village, serving up festive food, quirky Christmas cocktails, boozy hot chocolates, and all the sweet treats you can dream of.
Find out more here.
The Monro on Duke Street
The decorations are up at The Monro and the staff are limbering up for parties, post-work bevvies and Christmas shopping pints. Every corner is dripping with Christmas magic, so it’s the perfect grown-up grotto to ‘sip, sparkle, and celebrate in’.
Take a look.
Spending Christmas in Southport? Here’s what you can do this December.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Christmas is racing towards us now, the first few tubs of Celebrations are long gone, so might as well go full festive.
Here are 14 things to do in Liverpool this week …
Everyman Rock N Roll Panto
This one’s a Liverpool Christmas tradition that’s always as much fun for the adults as it is for kids. The Everyman’s Rock N Roll panto this year, Jack and The Beanstalk, is the usual brilliant mix of hilarious mayhem and great songs, played live on stage by a multi-talented cast. It’s on now until January 17.
Find out more here.
Brewski opens in Liverpool ONE
If you’re looking for somewhere new to eat while you’re shopping or on a Christmas day or night out, head to Liverpool ONE terrace where Brewski’s just opened. It’s got an American-inspired menu and some unreal dishes that go beyond the Christmas usuals, like pigs in blankets with bourbon bacon jam.
Find out more here.
Cinderella at Shakespeare North Playhouse
Cinders goes to the ball every night at Shakespeare North this Christmas season with a Scouse version of the traditional fairytale. Set in the Kingdom of Prescotisia, it’s a five-hander for the whole family that has audiences laughing and rooting for our heroine from the first scene. On until January 10.
Find out more here.
Madness at M&S Bank Arena
Ska and pop legends Madness are on the road again with their Hits Parade Tour, coming to the Arena this Wednesday. It’s shaping up to be an amazing night for fans of the Nutty Boys, with a set full of massive hits including 15 top 10 singles, plus the bonus of special guests Squeeze.
Find out more here.
Carols by Lantern Light at St George’s Hall
You’d be pushed to find a more beautiful setting for carols than this – St George’s Hall hosts its second Carols by Lantern Light in the Great Hall this Wednesday. Professor Ian Tracey plays the Willis Organ, accompanied by soloist Danielle Thomas and a classical choir for a night of Christmas music.
Find out more here.
Beauty and The Beast at The Atkinson
Everyone’s favourite tale as old as time, Beauty and the Beast, is entertaining audiences of all ages at the Atkinson this Christmas. It’s got everything you’d want from a traditional panto – fabulous costumes and sets, lots of laughs and songs, a timeless love story and a great cast. On until New Year’s Eve.
Find out more here.
Icebox at BOXPARK Liverpool
Get your skates on to celebrate the festive season with a few circuits of the rink at the Icebox in BOXPARK. It’s back and even bigger than before, plus there’s a firepit to toast marshmallows, food specials, warming drinks and entertainment as well as guest appearances from Santa every Sunday.
Find out more here.
Celebrate Christmas in style at Hill Dickinson Stadium
There’s plenty to celebrate at Hill Dickinson Stadium at the moment, and you don’t have to be a Blue to join in. Its Village Street venue has a fantastic atmosphere and this Friday and Saturday it’s hosting all-inclusive Christmas party nights serving unlimited beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks and seasonal street food so if you’ve not sorted your do yet, get booking!
Find out more here.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at M&S Bank Arena
Corrie’s Helen Flanagan brings panto glam to the Arena this Christmas as she has a festive makeover into the Wicked Queen for a glittering production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. She’ll be playing it for boos alongside a fabulous cast including comedy favourite Bippo as Muddles, until December 28.
Find out more here.
Scouse Christmas Carol at The Royal Court
The Royal Court has another show that’s comedy gold, with a Scouse retelling of Dickens’ Christmas Carol. It’s absolutely packed with laugh out loud lines as the story we all know gets turned into a murder mystery with a cast including Helen Carter, Paul Duckworth and Lindzi Germain. Until January 17.
Find out more here.
Land of Lights at Gulliver’s World
Land of Lights is back at Gulliver’s World this Christmas and it’s shining brighter than ever! Take the whole family and you can immerse yourselves in new lantern displays, glowing trails, and magical illuminated scenes – there’s also tasty treats to enjoy and they have dog-friendly nights too.
Find out more here.
Experience Sleeping Beauty at the Floral Pavilion Theatre in New Brighton
Sleeping Beauty is now on at the Floral Pavilion until 4 January and promises to bring dazzling sets, toe-tapping music, laughs aplenty and a brilliant cast, including pop sensation Kelle Bryan!
Let the train take the strain with regular journeys from Liverpool to New Brighton. The theatre’s only a short walk from the station and you can get family tickets, and day savers from £4.80 for adults and £2.40 for children (5-18 years). Also, kids can travel to the theatre for free with Arriva.
Book tickets here.
Have a Christmas Feast at Malmaison Liverpool
Tis the season for eating gorgeous food, and if you’re looking for a proper festive feast, Malmaison has it. Get together with mates, family or office besties and enjoy three delicious courses in Chez Mal from the Celebrations Menu, or festive afternoon teas featuring a Michael Buble tribute, Saturday December 13 & 20.
Find out more here.
Or try the Dog & Collar festive dining menu
Hope Street is looking dazzling right now, with decorations up and down, but nowhere’s done it better than the Dog and Collar which has gone all-out with its deccies this year. Inside’s just as Christmassy, and its gastro pub menu has festive adds including turkey and trimmings, and sticky Christmas pud.
Find out more here.
Festive Cocktails at the Municipal Hotel
Speaking of places that are looking a real wow, The Municipal is fully dressed up and a genuine showstopper. As well as festive dining in the Seaforth restaurant, and festive afternoon teas in the Botanic Tearoom, the Palm Court is a stunning place to have Christmas cocktails under the glass domes.
Find out more here.
For more of what’s on in Liverpool check out our calendar HERE.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
American comfort-food specialist Brewski has arrived at Liverpool ONE offering a huge range of platters and slow cooked meats.
The independent restaurant chain, known for its jaw-dropping sharing platters, slow-cooked meats and creative flavour combinations, is now open on the Terrace facing Chavasse Park.
The new site at Liverpool ONE is Brewski’s fourth UK location since its debut in Chorlton in 2017 and the first location in Liverpool City Region. The new eatery boasts 120 indoor covers, plus an upcoming outdoor seating area from spring next year.
Brewski’s ongoing culinary journey through the United States of America takes inspiration from the steakhouses of Manhattan, dive bars of Brooklyn, taco trucks of California and everything in between, with each venue and menu promising to be better than the last.
James Daly, co-founder of Brewski, said:
“We’re absolutely buzzing to bring Brewski to Liverpool ONE and the response has been incredible – more than 1,000 bookings in the first 48 hours shows how excited people are to have us on their doorstep.
“Liverpool ONE is the perfect home for us. It’s such a vibrant, bustling destination and the leisure terrace location is something special, particularly when we open the outdoor space in spring.
“We’ve had quite a few Liverpool visitors make the trip to Chorlton and Chester already, so we know there’s a real appetite for what we do. Now with our new, 40-strong team, we are excited to welcome the people of Liverpool and deliver the unique, high-quality experience Brewski is known for.”
Brewski updates its menu five times a year, spotlighting different US states and coasts, complemented by a weekly special as part of its ‘52 in 52’ programme. Each month follows a distinct theme, keeping the offer fresh and dynamic.
First up at Liverpool ONE is the festive menu, “Oh Christmas Tray, Oh Christmas Tray”, featuring innovative seasonal dishes including sage and onion stuffing crumbed cauliflower cheese, hot honey glazed pigs in blankets with beef gravy, and garlic butter roasties topped with pulled lamb, deep fried sage and crispy prosciutto.
Even the signature cocktails get their own seasonal makeover, with Christmas in New York-inspired cocktails for winter and a Mardi Gras influenced menu in spring.
Donna Howitt, Deputy Centre Director at Liverpool ONE, said:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Brewski to Liverpool ONE. Their innovative approach to American comfort food and commitment to creating unique dining experiences aligns perfectly with our mission to offer visitors something for everyone.
“The overwhelming response from the local community demonstrates the excitement around Brewski’s arrival. They are going to become an integral part of Liverpool ONE’s vibrant food and beverage offering, and we’re confident their creative menus and exceptional hospitality will make them a firm favourite with visitors from across the region.”
Find out more about Brewski in Liverpool ONE here.
Find more great restaurants to try across Liverpool on our website.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Cinderella has arrived at Liverpool’s historic Epstein Theatre to enchant family audiences this Christmas.
The curtain went up on the captivating production last Friday with a full house enjoying all the magic of the world’s most beloved fairytale and hundreds more theatregoers of all ages flocking to the Hanover Street venue over the opening weekend.
Coronation Street star Katie McGlynn plays the fairytale heroine in the sparkling seasonal show from Regal Entertainments Ltd.
She is joined live on the Epstein stage by panto royalty Leanne Campbell, returning by popular demand, who appears live as the Fairy Godmother, and the One Show and BBC Radio Merseyside’s Kevin Duala as Cinders’ best friend Buttons.
The talented cast also includes Conor Barrie as Dandini, Michael Nelson as the Prince, and Shania Pain and Brenda LaBeau who play Cinderella’s ugly stepsisters.
Beloved by generations as the greatest fairytale of them all, Regal Entertainments smash hit production of the classic tale delivers marvellous magical moments along with spectacular costumes and set, brilliant choreography and a host of singalong tunes to get you up out of your seat.
Cinderella tells the story of a beautiful girl reduced to a life of servitude by her two ugly stepsisters. But when an invitation arrives for a grand ball at the palace, it seems all that could be about to change. With a bit of magic, and help from her loyal friend Buttons, Cinderella is transformed into the belle of the ball. But what will happen when the clock strikes midnight?
The production is directed by Chantelle Joseph, with choreography from Nazene Langfield. Musical supervisor is Callum Clarke.
The pantomime is one of the jewels in the crown of the historic venue’s inaugural autumn season after it reopened its doors earlier this year, and which features a busy programme of entertainment which reflects the theatre’s century-long role as the home of local talent, national touring productions, music, comedy and pantomime.
Chantelle Joseph of Regal Entertainments Ltd said:
“What a wonderful opening weekend – we couldn’t have asked for a better reception. It’s fantastic to be back at the Epstein Theatre, it’s such a beautiful space in which to create theatrical magic and seeing the look on all the young theatregoers’ faces is the best Christmas present we could wish for.
“Our cast and creative team have worked hard in the rehearsal room to create a show that is full of joy and laughter, music and colour, and I can’t wait now to share this spectacular and spellbinding story with the Epstein’s audiences right across the festive period and into the New Year.”
Book your tickets on the Epstein Theatre website.
Find out what’s on across Liverpool this Christmas.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
The excitement for Christmas is really building and Southport has everything you need to make this year an extra special one for the whole family.
To help you make the most of the season, here are our top picks for what you can do in Southport this December …
The Musical Christmas Tree, The Bear and The Reindeer and Christmas Lights
Nothing is guaranteed to add sparkle to your festive build-up quite like a twinkling light display and Southport’s is absolutely gorgeous. Just walking along Lord Street, under the mile-long Boulevard of Light, is such a lovely Christmassy experience, you’ll want to have your phone handy the whole time for the best pics.
The 60ft LED Christmas tree in Town Hall Gardens outside The Atkinson is a showstopper, dazzling with more than 20,000 colourful LED pixels, and this year it has the added bonus of musical light shows animated in sync with everyone’s favourite Christmas hits. The much-loved giant illuminated The Bear and The Reindeer characters are also back for this year, for another selfie opportunity by the Lord Street Bandstand and in Lord Street Gardens.
Find out more here.
Panto at The Atkinson
Every family Christmas should include a trip to the panto, and this year The Atkinson has a tale as old as time: the classic Beauty and the Beast. If you’re looking for a fantastic show for the kids, this one has all the traditional elements of panto – a love story, lots of laughs, songs and dancing – and some brilliant sets and costumes. It runs from December 5 until New Year’s Eve, with plenty of matinee performances as well as evenings.
Find out more here.
Santa’s Secret Forest
This brand-new immersive Christmas attraction has been wowing families since it launched at the end of November, with everyone blown away by all the incredible features and little details that make it so special. Created in 40 acres of woodland in Orrell Woods, Hightown, it has a stunning light trail and Santa’s Christmas Hub where you’ll see cheeky elves working away to make all those gifts on kids’ wish lists. A first-of-its-kind interactive walkthrough experience takes you through 10 immersive rooms where you can spot real-life reindeer, board The Tinsel Town Express, help fix Santa’s sleigh, and ride the Magic Elevator to meet and greet with the big man himself. On until Christmas Eve.
Find out more here.
Have breakfast, brunch and lunch with Santa, Festive Parties and more Christmas Classics
He’s a busy chap at this time of year, but even Santa has to take a break to eat and there are plenty of opportunities to join him for breakfast, brunch or lunch in Southport.
Spend a festive morning at Silcock’s Funland and Pier Restaurant at Southport Pier this December and you can have breakfast and a festive hot choc, plus a small gift and ride on its famous carousel. If brunch is more your thing, head to Hickory’s Southport for Brunch with Santa on Saturday December 13 between 10 and 2, or there’s a Frozen lunch with Santa at The Vincent Hotel on Sunday December 14, with prizes for the best-dressed Frozen character and a gift for every child.
Southport’s the perfect place to embrace the party season too. The Grand has a packed line-up of festive parties including Kylie, Take That, Celine Dion and Boyzone/Westlife tributes, while The Vincent has Christmas party nights on Fridays and Saturdays through December with a three-course meal and DJ til 1am.
For Christmas movies to get you in the mood, Southport’s award-winning Bijou Cinema is showing classics including Muppet Christmas Carol on December 11, The Grinch on December 19, and Home Alone on December 21.
Find out more here.
Christmas shopping on Lord Street
With all its beautiful lights, Lord Street makes Christmas shopping feel like a treat. There are lots of independents to explore if you want to add some ticks to your list or find a few extras to make your home feel even more festive. Don’t forget to call in to the beautiful Grade II listed Wayfarers Arcade which is bursting with gift ideas and amazing independent shops all under one very impressive roof!
Southport Market
There’s always so many events on at Southport Market, and that’s alongside all the tasty options on offer from the food traders. Get in the Christmas spirit with a Comedy Pub Crawl on December 10, taking in four comedians in four different venues, or get competitive with family or mates in the Play Haus games zone, open from December 17-January 4. If you fancy your chances at games like curling, beer pong, darts or air hockey you could be heading into 2026 as Market Champion! Not only that, but a special guest makes a stop at the Market too, hosting A Jolly Lunch with Santa on December 13, 14, 20 & 21.
Find out more here.
Find out what else is on in Southport this Christmas on our calendar.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Pogue Mahone is celebrating in Liverpool after being bestowed with a very special award.
Located on Seel Street, Pogue Mahone, which is known as one of the city’s finest drinking establishments, has been chosen by Guinness for inclusion in their inaugural The Guinness Harp Guide 2026.
The guide features 35 of the very best Guinness outlets across Great Britain, chosen through social listening, the passionate Guinness community and the exceptional service Pogue Mahone’s provides day in, day out. The team offer an array of craft and independent beers, have live music 7 days per week, show all the main football and sporting events and offer delicious pizza too, on top of serving endless barrels of the very best black stuff, always poured to perfection.
It’s a fantastic accolade for everyone at the venue and DGB Hospitality who own Pogue Mahone. As part of winning, two representatives will go down from Liverpool to The Guinness Harp Guide Conference in January 2026 at Open Gate Brewery in London for brewery tours, unique talks and training sessions with industry leaders, including Meta and Google.
Sean Singleton from DGB Hospitality says:
“We couldn’t be prouder of the team at Pogue’s whose tireless work – and of course serving outstanding Guinness – has got our venue into the prestigious The Guinness Harp Guide 2026. We know we’ve got one of the region’s best proper old pubs, one steeped in history over the decades, and it’s become a true institution for locals and tourists alike who love and understand what a proper pub should be and is. So we’ll all be raising a glass and toasting to this success.”
DGB Hospitality’s other venues continue to thrive in Liverpool, including the Petit Café du Coins, Gloria’s, Motel, Teddy’s, Three Piggies and Loretta’s.
Find out more about Pogue Mahone here.
Check out the best festive pint spots across Liverpool here
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
The first names for next year’s LFC legends fixture against Borussia Dortmund have been revealed.
Pepe Reina, Jerzy Dudek and Sander Westerveld are the opening three players on the team sheet for the charity match, which takes place at 3 pm on Saturday 28 March 2026.
Reina, a firm fan favourite during his eight-year spell with the Reds, will be returning to Anfield for the first time since leaving the club in 2014. His return will no doubt bring back memories for supporters who watched him make almost 400 appearances for the club, winning three major trophies and becoming the first Premier League goalkeeper to win the Golden Glove in three consecutive seasons.
Dudek, remembered forever for his heroics in the 2005 Champions League triumph in Istanbul, will also be back between the posts. His double save and decisive penalty stops in that final are some of the most replayed moments in Liverpool history. The former Poland international played 186 time for Liverpool and remains one of the club’s most iconic big-game figures.
Completing the goalkeeping lineup is Westerveld, who played a key part in Liverpool’s treble-winning campaign in 2000-01. The Dutchman made over 100 appearances during his time at the club. His standout moment came in the League Cup final in Cardiff, where his decisive save in the shootout against Birmingham City sealed the trophy and delivered Gérard Houllier’s first piece of silverware.
As always, one hundred percent of the proceeds from this fixture – supported by AXA and held in association with Forever Reds – will go directly towards the work of LFC Foundation, Forever Reds, and the BVB Foundation. This year, funds raised will support LFC Foundation’s employability programmes, which help people across the community to find work, gain qualifications and develop new skills through mentoring and training. The game will also contribute to the Foundation’s long-term strategy and its ambition to support 500,000 people a season by 2030.
Tickets for the charity match are priced at £29.50 for adults, £19.50 for concessions and £9.50 for juniors.
Book your tickets on the LFC website.
Find out what’s on at LFC here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
£300,000 funding boost secured by Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner and Merseyside Police to be used to help improve safety in Liverpool City Centre.
The Hyper-Local Policing Fund, awarded by the Home Office, will support a series of targeted interventions in four high-priority zones – Chavasse Park, St George’s Quarter, Ropewalks and Mathew Street – focused on preventing knife crime, violence and robbery, while improving public safety.
The funding will support a new hyper-local approach and will see a range of problem-solving initiatives put in place, including:
- Dedicated police operations focused on pursuing offenders and proactively targeting intelligence to disrupt criminal activity.
- Environmental upgrades like improved lighting and community clean-up operations.
- Installing speakers in hotspot areas to play classical music as a proven tactic to discourage loitering, vandalism and graffiti.
- Youth outreach and diversion initiatives, including Positive Pathways, aimed at reducing youth crime, building emotional resilience, and creating safer, more connected communities.
- Technological interventions such as extra CCTV cover and operators, working in partnership with City Watch
- Night-time economy safety measures, including taxi marshalling during busy night-time hours and spiking prevention.
- A ‘Village Angels’ street-based intervention led by the LGBT Foundation who patrol, triage and stabilise vulnerable people.
- Additional support put in place for vulnerable individuals, including training for bar and door staff to help make the night time economy safer through Operation Halo, particularly for women and girls.
The initiative will also introduce cross-zone safety infrastructure, such as Help Points linked to City Watch CCTV systems and improved signage to provide rapid support and reassurance in high-footfall areas.
The programme will look to build on and enhance the work being delivered with funding from the Hotspot Action Fund, which last year resulted in a 28.8% reduction in serious crime in 25 key areas across Merseyside.
Latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (23 October 2025) show knife-enabled crime in Merseyside fell by 8% in the year ending June 2025 – down to 1,179 offences from 1,276 the previous year. Nationally, knife-enabled crime dropped by 5%.
First launched in 2021, this policing initiative is now running in 29 areas across Merseyside after the Police and Crime Commissioner, Emily Spurrell, and Merseyside Police secured a further £2.39m to continue the work during 2024/25. This funding will support more than 21,000 hours of high-visibility patrols by uniformed officers and PCSOs in areas identified as having the highest levels of violent crime and antisocial behaviour.
The funding boost coincides with Merseyside Police’s Winter of Action operation, running throughout the festive season and into the New Year. This proactive campaign targets crime, reassures communities, and ensures high streets remain safe and welcoming for all.
Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell said:
“We are determined to ensure Liverpool city centre is a safe, welcoming space for everyone. This new Hyper-Local funding will help us to build on our successful hotspot policing initiative and gives us the opportunity to do even more to prevent crime.
“With this new investment, we are going to put in place targeted, practical measures to tackle the issues that matter most to people right in the heart of the city.
“By working closely with our partners, we’re putting long-term solutions in place that protect people, support retailers and businesses, and create a safer environment. Together, we’re making sure Liverpool city centre remains a vibrant place where residents, businesses, and visitors feel safe and proud.”
Find out whats on across Liverpool on our calendar.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
The childhood home of George Harrison of The Beatles is now open to visitors for the first time ever through scheduled guided tours.
Located at 25 Upton Green in Speke, the family home of George Harrison played a formative role in the ‘quiet’ Beatle’s early life and musical development, serving not only as his family residence from 1950 to 1962 but also as an early rehearsal space for The Beatles in the years before Beatlemania.
The experience has been developed and will be delivered by Dale Roberts, tour guide and co-owner of the property, who has spent over a decade sharing Beatles history with visitors from around the world. He became co-owner of the Harrison family home a year ago, after Ken Lambert asked him to come on board as an owner. Ken won the house at auction in 2022 in a well-publicised purchase of the property, Ken would turn into an Air BnB for guests to stay in.
Dale says:
“George’s story is a Liverpool story”
“This house is a reference point to a local Liverpool musician who would just so happen to be part of a phenomenon that changed the world. There has been huge interest globally in where The Beatles came from, and 25 Upton Green has always felt like a missing piece of that wider cultural experience. Making this accessible to the public on a regular basis feels like the right next step for The Beatles Industry”
25 Upton Green was the Harrison family’s home for twelve years, during which George Harrison attended Dovedale Primary School, then the Liverpool Institute for Boys, the same school attended by Paul McCartney, another resident of Speke. George and Paul would meet each other while getting the bus together from the area towards Penny Lane.
In the late 1950s and early 1960s, George and Paul would play music together in the living room at Upton Green and it became a regular meeting and rehearsal space eventually for The Quarrymen, the band that evolved into The Beatles. It was here George’s musicianship developed rapidly as an individual playing Skiffle and early rock ’n’ roll, then later alongside Lennon and McCartney in this house, helping to lay the groundwork for what would become the most successful band in history.
Despite its significance, the house has remained privately owned for its entire history. In recent decades, only occasional private tours or media access have been possible. When Ken Lambert opened the house as an Air BnB it paved the way for tours to become the next avenue to tell the homes story. The new tour of the 25 Upton Green means that 3 out of 4 Beatles now have tours of their childhood homes available to the public.
The new 1.5-hour guided tours are delivered in small groups, offering an intimate and informal way to explore the history of the home and George’s formative years.
Visitors have the opportunity to:
• Access the house interior and explore all rooms.
• Hear stories and insights about George’s upbringing and early musical development
• Learn about the role of Speke and South Liverpool in the roots of The Beatles
• Play the instruments that are inside the house
• Take photos and videos throughout the property
Dale emphasises authenticity above all:
“Our aim is to preserve the feeling of a real family home. It isn’t a museum, it’s a lived-in space where George laughed, lived and rehearsed. People can experience a real Beatles home and rehearsal space, stand where The Quarrymen played, and get a real sense of what life was like here for George and his family.”
Many people visit Liverpool every year, of which a huge amount of those visitors want to experience the Beatle childhood homes and landmarks made famous by the band, such as Penny Lane and Strawberry Field. The inclusion of George Harrison’s childhood home as a regular public experience strengthens a key part of the city’s heritage offering, ensuring that most of the band have a publicly accessible childhood home connected to their history that is available for tours.
Tours of Paul McCartney’s and John Lennon’s childhood homes are already established fixtures, operated by The National Trust. The opening of 25 Upton Green introduces greater representation of George’s story at a time when interest in his legacy continues to grow worldwide.
Tours are available monthly to the public, and privately upon request, with additional dates to be added throughout the year based on demand.
Tickets are £17 per person (plus a £1 booking fee).
Guests make their own way to the meeting point at 25 Upton Green, Speke and are encouraged upon booking to respect the residents and spend locally.
Advance booking is essential due to limited group sizes.
Tickets and further details are available here.
Further casting for the brand new films about The Beatles has just been announced, find out more here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
An emotional tribute will take place this weekend at Hill Dickinson Stadium as a special flag honouring the Owen McVeigh Foundation is raised aloft in the South Stand.
Organised by Everton fan group The 1878s, the tribute comes on a significant weekend – marking 10 years since the passing of Owen McVeigh, a young boy whose bravery and spirit inspired the creation of the charity that now proudly carries his name.
Earlier this week, the Club welcomed Owen’s father and Foundation founder, Mark McVeigh, along with Evertonian Eddie Hincks – whose son overcame cancer – to preview, for the first time, an Everton-inspired version of the charity’s iconic logo that will be displayed inside the stadium.
The Owen McVeigh Foundation supports children across Merseyside who are suffering from cancer, as well as their families – helping them navigate the immense challenges of treatment, worry and uncertainty. Through unforgettable experiences and cherished family moments, the Foundation is dedicated to creating magical memories that last a lifetime.
Founder Mark McVeigh said:
“It’s 10 years this weekend since Owen’s anniversary, so this tribute feels incredibly fitting.
“Our work focuses on looking after children and their families suffering with cancer – giving them the support or respite they need. The backing we’ve received from across the city has been incredible. Owen’s grandad is a proud Evertonian, so to have the blue half of the city honouring him – especially this weekend – means the world to us. We are truly grateful.”
The tribute will hold deep personal significance for Eddie Hincks, who now works for the Foundation after witnessing first-hand the impact it has on young people during his own son’s cancer battle. The pair now continue to attend matches together as Season Ticket Members.
Eddie said:
“I first connected with the Foundation both as a parent and through my work at Alder Hey on the children’s cancer unit. I saw the joy and hope it brought to families right when they needed it most.
“To stand there on Saturday with my son – who came through his own battle – and see Owen remembered this way… it will be incredibly emotional. What this charity gives can’t be put into words.”
The 1878s felt that the first lone flag raised inside Everton’s new home should champion a cause that reflects the values of the Club, the city and its people. The blue version of the charity flag — featuring the powerful message “All Together Now” – will be held proudly by Shea, one of Owen’s closest friends and an Everton Season Ticket Member.
Katie Carter of The 1878s said:
“Owen’s story has touched countless people. With this weekend marking 10 years since his family lost him, we wanted the first 1878s flag raised at Hill Dickinson Stadium to honour the Foundation that continues his legacy – and to show that this isn’t about being a red or blue. It’s about a city coming together to support children when they need it most.”
The Foundation has supported many young Evertonians in recent years – including Ben, who will proudly lead the team out as mascot at Everton’s final home game of 2025 against Arsenal on Saturday 20 December, through the involvement of the Foundation and the Club’s Official Stadium Naming Rights partner, Hill Dickinson.
Saturday’s moment is one of many occasions where the Club and supporters come together to highlight a special cause. Saturday’s tribute follows a series of activities celebrating compassionate causes, including last weekend’s unveiling of a memorial “talking bench” in memory of former captain Gary Speed – developed in partnership with the Everton Fans’ Forum.
The lone flag in the South Stand will ensure Owen’s name, spirit and the joy he brought to others continues to shine brightly – at the heart of Everton’s new home.
Find out more about the Owen McVeigh Foundation here.
Find out what’s on at Hill Dickinson Stadium here.
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From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
The epic four-part Beatles biopic will be released in 2028
Sony Pictures’ massive four-part Beatles biopic just got a whole lot bigger as a host of new cast members have been announced.
If you haven’t heard about this already, director Sam Mendes is taking on one of the most ambitious music film experiments ever attempted. Four separate feature films, each told from the perspective of a different Beatle. Instead of squeezing their entire story into one movie, he’s breaking it into four connected chapters that will eventually add up to a huge Beatles universe.
All four films are currently set to land in April 2028, which means fans might end up with the most binge-worthy movie event ever released in cinemas.
The main cast was announced earlier this year and instantly set the internet buzzing. Harris Dickinson is stepping into the shoes of John Lennon, Paul Mescal takes on Paul McCartney, Joseph Quinn becomes George Harrison, and Barry Keoghan rounds out the Fab Four as Ringo Starr.
The latest cast additions focus on the people who shaped the band long before the stadiums and the mania.
David Morrissey has signed on to play Jim McCartney, Paul’s father, which suggests we will get a deeper look at Paul’s early life and musical beginnings.
Liverpool actor, Leanne Best joins as Aunt Mimi, the strict but supportive guardian who raised John Lennon and helped guide him through childhood.
We also now know who will be playing some of the most influential figures in the Beatles’ career. James Norton will portray Brian Epstein, the manager who polished the band’s image, championed them before anyone else did, and helped launch them into global stardom. Harry Lloyd will step into the role of George Martin, the producer who became the band’s creative partner in the studio and shaped their sound in ways that changed popular music.
Several key members of the Beatles’ inner circle are joining the cast as well. Liverpool’s Bobby Schofield will play Neil Aspinall, a longtime friend who later ran Apple Corps. Daniel Hoffman Gill will play Mal Evans, the gentle roadie who witnessed more Beatles history up close than almost anyone. Arthur Darvill is set to play Derek Taylor, the group’s press officer and one of the wittiest figures in their orbit. Adam Pally will portray Allen Klein, the tough business manager whose arrival near the end of the band’s run sparked major tensions.
If today’s casting news is any indication, Mendes is building something much bigger than four isolated biopics. He is recreating the entire world that surrounded the Beatles, from family to friends to the complicated business figures who shaped their journey. At this point, the project is starting to feel like one of the most exciting music related film events Hollywood has taken on in years.
Let us know what you think about the Beatles biopic cast on Threads HERE.
Delve into The Guide Liverpool’s Beatles archives and get the latest updates about the band and its legacy HERE.
The multi award winning Bentley, on the world famous Liverpool waterfront, are planning their biggest year to date for 2026!
Since opening its doors eight years ago, The Bentley has firmly established itself as one of the region’s premier wedding and event venues, thanks to its stunning waterfront views of Liverpool’s historic skyline, including the iconic Three Graces They are also known for fantastic service and putting on some of the best shows and events across the Cunard and Port of Liverpool suites. So much so that for three years running now the venue has won ‘Best Venue in Merseyside/Wirral’ at the County Brides North West Wedding Awards.*
Now General Manager Jay Harris is laying down the gauntlet to announce Bentley’s biggest programme of events ever, for 2026.
General Manager Jay Harris says:
“For the last couple of years we have beaten off some fantastic venues in Liverpool , from the Titanic Hotel to the Palm House in Sefton Park, as the best venue in Merseyside/Wirral. For 2026 we want to up our game even further with some of the best live shows around. From powerhouse vocals to iconic legends – 2026 is going to be our biggest year yet!“
A line up that will feature incredible tribute nights to:
- Whitney Houston – The voice defined a generation
- Tina Turner – Simply the best!
- Amy Winehouse – Soulful, raw, unforgettable
- Elvis Presley – The King lives on!
- Freddie Mercury – Rock royalty in all his glory
- Cilla & the 60s – A retro rewind you’ll love
- PLUS many more jaw-dropping, show-stopping acts being added!
Whether you love soul, rock, old-school classics, powerhouse divas, or electrifying live performances there will be a show for everyone.
Jay concludes:
“As we enter December all eyes for most people are on Christmas, but for us we are already nearly booked up for 3 days of Mothers Day events and are booking in event after event for the new year and we have so many new live shows to add. 2026 looks like being our busiest yet.”
The Bentley is based on Liverpool’s iconic waterfront at 50 Brunswick Street Liverpool L2 0PE.
Explore all currently announced 2026 shows here.
The Bentley was crowned best venue in Merseyside earlier this year, read more here.
*Every year the County Brides North West Wedding Awards pay recognition to wedding suppliers across the North West who really go the extra mile. The annual awards are voted for by the brides and grooms who had outstanding experiences. 2025 being the 15th anniversary for the awards. This year saw over 3000 nominated companies with 35 venues in Merseyside/Wirral whittled down to just 10 finalists.
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Guide Dogs has teamed up with The Beatles Story Museum at Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock to help young puppies experience new sights, sounds and environments inspired by the world’s most famous band.
Puppies Janie, Sirena, Milo, Jonas, Kian, Gia, Nya, Kenzie, Toby, Eddie, Smithy, Ibson, along with their volunteer Puppy Raisers, were invited for a very special visit to highlight the importance of preparing young pups for a future as a life-changing guide dog.
The Beatles Story, which has just announced its brand new Fab4 VIP Experience for 2026, opened its doors to host the unique training session, giving the pups the chance to explore the immersive museum while ensuring their introduction to bustling public attractions is positive and comfortable.
Accompanied by their volunteer Puppy Raisers, the puppies explored the exhibitions, encountered new sounds and unusual objects, navigated themed rooms and experienced a gentle version of the sensory elements visitors enjoy every day.
The internationally recognised attraction takes visitors on an interactive journey through the history of The Beatles – featuring an impressive collection of artefacts displayed within recreated sets including The Cavern Club and Abbey Road Studios, with music, lighting, memorabilia and scents creating a fully immersive experience.
Sam Williams, Puppy Development Advisor at Guide Dogs, said:
“We partnered with The Beatles Story to give our puppies the opportunity to experience a busy, sensory environment, but in a safe and controlled way so they’re not overwhelmed.
“Early socialisation is vital for helping them learn to navigate unusual situations calmly and confidently. Places like museums, with different lighting, sounds and layouts, offer brilliant real-world training experiences.
“This may be the pups’ first visit to a major attraction, and by introducing them gradually to new and unexpected things, from Beatles music playing through speakers to themed lighting and unfamiliar objects, we’re helping prepare them for the variety of environments they’ll encounter as working guide dogs.
“Every pup handled it brilliantly. They took in the new surroundings with curiosity, and our Puppy Raisers did a fantastic job supporting them, rewarding calm behaviour and building their confidence. We’re incredibly grateful to The Beatles Story for being so welcoming.”
Victoria Leyshon-Matthews, Guest Experience Manager at The Beatles Story, said:
“We are a team of dog lovers here, so we have been so excited to welcome the puppies to our attraction. Witnessing them exploring our museum to develop their skills navigating new sights, sounds and smells has been a very rewarding experience. We are so proud to be supporting guide dogs and people with sight loss in this way, and we look forward to building on our partnership with Guide Dogs in the future.”
Guide dog puppies spend their first year with a volunteer Puppy Raiser. When they’re around 12 to 14 months old they begin their Guide Dogs training. If successful, they go on to become a guide dog, helping people with sight loss lead independent, active lives.
Discover more about The Beatles Story here and Guide Dogs here.
The Beatles Story has just announced its new VIP experience, find out more here.
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Liverpool’s giant game of The Elf on the Shelf has begun as Mish’Elf, The 15ft tall Elf, spotted in two locations around the city.
The Elf will be appearing at locations across Liverpool until Christmas Eve and is spending a few days at each one.
She began the week at The Plaza, in the heart of the Commercial Business District, where there was a special market and songs from the BID Choir. Time for a little culture after that, and she headed up to Hope Street to visit Liverpool’s Everyman Theatre.
Organised by Liverpool Business Improvement District, Mish’Elf has a busy weekend planned, she’ll be at the M&S Bank Arena from 5-7 December. Next week, she moves to Princes Dock on 8-9 December.
In certain locations, she will also be collecting Christmas gifts for children at Alder Hey. You’ll be able to drop off any gifts with a full list of drop off points on the BID website below.
The Elf on the Shelf is an annual festive tradition originating in a 2005 picture book, written by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell.
Liverpool’s The Elf on the Shelf is the creation of prop and puppet-maker Jenny Simmons, Liverpool BID Company and The Lumistella Company’s official The Elf on the Shelf teams in the UK.
You can find out The Elf on the Shelf locations on the Liverpool BID website.
Find out what else is on across Liverpool this Christmas.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
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The UK’s largest Shared Reading charity is looking to raise £10,000 to help recruit, train and support more Reading Heroes volunteers.
Liverpool-based charity The Reader has also released the first in a series of short films highlighting the experiences of care-experienced children, carers and volunteers taking part in a life-changing Shared Reading project, as part of its 2025 Christmas appeal.
The new film features the words of care-experienced young people who have taken part in the project spoken by actors. One of the children says:
“I didn’t like reading before, but Kathryn, my Reading Heroes carer has made it fun now.”
Since it launched a week ago 45% of the appeal target – £4,501 – has already been reached thanks to the incredible generosity of local people, the charity has revealed.
Last weekend (29 and 30 November) The Reader’s 2025 Christmas Appeal received a huge boost following the charity’s Christmas Makers at the Mansion market at the historic Mansion House in Calderstones Park with two events, a Bookflood and Reader’s Knit and Natter group, raising a record total of just over £3,400.
The Bookflood saw The Reader give away hundreds of brand-new books, donated to the charity by publishers – for free – with an optional donation. It was inspired by the Icelandic Christmas tradition of ‘Jólabókaflóð, where people exchange books on Christmas Eve and spend the night reading.
Reading Heroes has been running since 2016 and current partners include Virtual Schools across the North West and London – in Liverpool, Sefton, Bury, Oldham and Tower Hamlets.
Rachel Bourke, Reading Heroes Coordinator at The Reader, said:
“Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far to our Christmas Appeal – we are now 45% of the way there.
“I’ve seen firsthand the difference that Reading Heroes makes – I’ve seen reluctant readers turn into children brimming with enthusiasm and joy for the session each week, the connection they have with our amazing volunteers giving them so much self-confidence and pride. I know because the carers tell us that Reading Heroes has a lifelong positive impact on the children they look after.”
More than 23,000 children and young people were living in care in England in 2024. For many, adverse life experiences result in challenges at school, struggles with mental health, and heightened risk of homelessness and unemployment compared to their non-care-experienced peers.
Reading Heroes addresses these barriers by promoting a love of reading and the development of strong and wholly positive social bonds. The project, which involves weekly sessions across six to nine months, has real and lasting positive effects, with children and carers reporting significant changes including:
- 82% greater confidence
- 79% higher self esteem
- 74% improved wellbeing
- 79% increased enjoyment of reading
- 84% something to look forward to
After their 1:1 reading sessions end, each child is invited to take part in an ongoing programme of activity. This consists of a book posted to their home every two months for the next year so they can develop their own personal libraries.
Reading Heroes includes a Meet the Author events programme for care-experienced children. Over the last 12 months this has included award-winning author A.F. Steadman discussing her No.1 bestseller, Skandar and The Unicorn Thief; comic writer and artist Mark Bradley on his graphic novel series Bumble and Snug, and Fablehouse author E.L. Norry.
Cardiff-born E. L. Norry, who spoke to children about her own experience growing up in the care system, said:
“I am passionate about diversity and inclusion and showing children that authors can come from different backgrounds.”
Donations in aid of the Christmas Reading Heroes Appeal help support the lifelong gift of reading for pleasure:
- £8 buys a book for a young Reading Hero
- £30 supports onboarding costs for a volunteer
- £50 helps us find and recruit volunteers for our Reading Heroes
- £70 trains a volunteer to read with a care experienced child
- £350 recruits, trains and supports one volunteer over a Reading Heroes placement
To find out more about The Reader’s Christmas Appeal 2025 and how to make a difference to the lives of care-experienced children please visit here.
Find out what’s on across Liverpool this Christmas here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Hundreds of guitarists will come together at Mountford Hall on Thursday 11 December as The Big Guitar-In Fundraiser returns, aiming to set a new record and raise vital funds to save community classes at The Florrie.
Last year’s record saw 602 guitarists perform together. This year, organisers are preparing for 603 players to take to the stage, including GCSE student Olga Fitz, who will be the youngest performer on the night.
Many taking part first picked up their instruments at The Florrie’s long-running weekly guitar classes led by the Tea Street Band’s Timo Tierney.
The event is now in its fifth year and will showcase some of Liverpool’s rising talent including Louis Gibney, Credits and The Sway, alongside well-known names such as Space, Crowded Scouse and Brian Nash from Frankie Goes to Hollywood. More guests will be announced in the lead-up to the event.
Olga first performed at The Florrie at the age of 12 during an open mic night, quickly becoming a popular part of the venue’s growing community. She went on to complete her work experience there last summer, gaining insight into the work involved in keeping community activities alive.
Timo Tierney, The Florrie’s community hub co-ordinator, said: “This year we’re especially proud to give young Liverpool artists the chance to shine on a stage with so much history. Olga is unbelievably talented and keeps getting better. She’s doing her GCSEs and has the world at her feet. It’s a privilege to be part of her journey.”
The fundraiser plays an essential role in helping The Florrie continue offering free community classes. Rising costs, fewer grants and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis have put pressure on the services, which support people across the region with skills development, social activities and wellbeing.
For the first time, The Big Guitar-In is taking over Mountford Hall, a venue that has hosted legends including Queen, The Who and Liverpool’s own Elvis Costello. The 603 guitarists will take to the same stage, with chord sheets available on The Florrie’s website for anyone wanting to practise ahead of the night.
The event is open to everyone, from experienced musicians to beginners learning their first chords. The Florrie Guitar Group meets every Tuesday at 6pm, and new members are welcome to join ahead of the event.
Tickets for guitarists and a limited number of spectators are available now, with early bird tickets already sold out and the remaining allocation selling fast.
Get your tickets here.
Check out how to keep classes at The Florrie free.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
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Ryanair has announced a sixth based aircraft at Liverpool John Lennon Airport for Summer 2026 and allows for 3 new exciting destinations.
This additional aircraft will deliver 250,000 additional seat, 3 new routes to Marrakesh, Tirana, and Warsaw, and extra flights on 11 popular existing routes to Alicante, Barcelona, Faro, Ibiza, Kaunas, Kraków, Malaga, Malta, Porto, Reus, and Sofia, taking their total number of destinations served from Liverpool to 34. Ryanair’s annual passenger throughput at Liverpool are expected to grow to 2.4 million.
Ryanair’s record Summer 2026 schedule offers customers in Liverpool and the North West even more choice at Europe’s lowest fares whilst also supporting over 2,000 local jobs.
To celebrate Ryanair’s sixth aircraft and 3 new routes at Liverpool in Summer 2026, the airline has launched a limited time seat sale with fares from £29.99 available only at Ryanair.com.
John Irving, CEO Liverpool John Lennon Airport, commented:
“As our longest serving airline partner of nearly 40 years with around 40 million of their passengers having chosen to travel via Liverpool in that time, firstly I’d like to thank Ryanair for their continued support and for this latest commitment.
This news highlights Liverpool John Lennon Airport’s strategic importance for the City Region and wider North West and North Wales and will bring more jobs, more investment and more choice for the region’s travellers as well as for those from overseas visiting the region via the airport too.
As 2025 draws to a close, on what has been one of Liverpool Airport’s busiest years ever, Ryanair’s decision to base a 6th aircraft at Liverpool in 2026 with an additional 250,000 seats on sale, is likely to help the airport go on to break all previous passenger records.”
Ryanair’s CCO, Jason McGuinness said:
“We are delighted to be in Liverpool today to celebrate more Ryanair investment and record growth for the Northwest, with the announcement of a sixth Ryanair aircraft at Liverpool for Summer 2026 as well as 3 new routes to Marrakesh, Tirana, and Warsaw. Ryanair will also add extra flights on existing popular sun and city break routes, like Alicante, Barcelona, Faro, Ibiza & Kraków, driving 2026 traffic above 2.4m passengers p.a.
Ryanair’s supercharged investment and growth at Liverpool (US$600m) will deliver more than 2m low-fare seats to 34 European destinations, offering customers in the Northwest more choice at the lowest fares in Europe, while simultaneously driving inbound tourism. While Ryanair is growing at Liverpool next Summer, other regional airports across the UK are being hamstrung by Rachel Reeves idiotic decision to increase APD. If the UK Govt is serious about delivering growth, they should abolish this penal and damaging APD tax, which makes the UK (particularly regional airports) uncompetitive compared to EU countries like Sweden, Hungary, Slovakia, and regional Italy, which are abolishing aviation taxes and lowering access costs to stimulate traffic, tourism, and jobs growth.
To celebrate Ryanair’s new aircraft and 3 new routes at Liverpool this Summer, we’ve launched a limited time seat sale with fares from £29.99 available only at Ryanair.com.”
Ryanair’s latest commitment to the City Region was also welcomed by the region’s business community too. Paul Cherpeau, CEO at Liverpool Chamber added:
“Ryanair’s continued investment and expansion at Liverpool John Lennon Airport is a fantastic endorsement for the airport and the wider city region as a positive place to do business.
“It also reinforces our deep and historic commercial and leisure links with Ireland and hopefully allows us to build even more tangible business connections between our two locations.”.”