Updated October 15 2025

Christmas is coming … and it’ll be here before you know it.

So get your diary out because there are loads of experiences and events from carol concerts, to family fun, movie screenings, and more to make sure you get right into the festive spirit.

Featured

Santa’s Secret Forest – (Orrell Hill Woods, Ince Blundell)

Making its debut in the North West from Friday, November 21 through to Wednesday, December 24, Santa’s Secret Forest promises an immersive festive adventure set within 16 acres of woodland with a glittering trail and the chance to board the Tinsel Town Express steam train for a journey through Tinsel Town.

Find out more here.

Sleeping Beauty (Floral Pavilion, New Brighton)

Singer Kelle Bryan from girl band Eternal will be sprinkling some stardust as Fairy Snowfall in this panto full of musical hits which also sees the return of favourite Sean Jones as Lester the Jester. Dec 6 to Jan 4.

Find out more here.

A Scouse Christmas Carol (Royal Court)

The Royal Court has Scousified the great Dickens’ classic in its latest festive offering. Jacob Marley is dead and nobody knows who bumped him off – so Mary Marley tries to track down his killer, and she’s got her sights on Scrooge. Loads of adult laughs (this is for over 18s only). Friday, November 7 to Saturday, January 17, 2026.

Find out more here.

Step into Christmas (M&S Bank Arena)

This cracker of a show’s guaranteed to fill you with cheer; jam-packed with all your favourite Christmas classics, a dazzling set and performances, and a sensational live band. Make a date for your diary – Saturday, December 6.

Find out more here.

Jack and the Beanstalk (Everyman Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto)

Part panto, part concert – total fun – hero Jack battles the greedy giant to grab the gold and save the day. Expect cheeky one-liners, splendid songs and wacky costumes in this always-a-belter traditional city show. Saturday, November 15 to Saturday, January 17.

Find out more here.

Christmas Picnics, Pantomimes and more (Blackstock Market)

As well as Christmas Comedy Specials with Hot Water Comedy Club and Miracle on Blackstock Street Christmas party nights, Blackstock’s got sackloads of festive fun for kids like Dear Santa: The Experience, where young visitors can enter a ‘magic mailroom’ and A Christmas Picnic with the Characters where you can enjoy festive food and surprise visits from Christmas characters. They’ve got two pantos, and you can raise a festive glass to Whisky & Wonder, led by Victorian Whisky Host ‘the Spirit of Christmas’. 

Find out more here.

Enchanted Magical Light Trail (Knowsley Safari)

Always a cracker, Knowsley Safari’s coming alive again after dark and this Christmas it’s ‘bigger, brighter and more magical than ever’ with animal displays, a shimmering lights trail, festive food and all the usual rides and attractions. Saturday, November 22 – Tuesday, December 23.

Find out more here.

Fairytale for Christmas (M&S Bank Arena)

This fantastic celebration promises to combine the merriment of Christmas with the joy of St Patrick’s. A Fairytale for Christmas brings together talented singers, musicians and dancers for an unforgettable Irish Christmas like no other. 

This world-class concert beautifully blends well-known festive music with Irish dance and Celtic hits. Three tremendous sets of cast will spread festive cheer simultaneously throughout November and December, from Dublin to London and further afield in Scandinavia.

Audiences can expect to be immersed in the spirit of Christmas as the cast dance, play, and sing crowd favourites such as I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every day, Step into Christmas, and O Holy Night, alongside Irish Classics from The Irish Rover to Dirty Old Town.

Find out more here.

Storytime with Santa (Floral Pavilion, New Brighton)

Children can listen to traditional and modern stories as well as joining in with festive songs at this fun family experience. Every child will have the chance to talk to Santa and receive a festive gift.  Dec 13 to Dec 24.

Find out more here.

Meet Santa

Story Time with Santa (Liverpool Town Hall)

Father Christmas and Buddy the Elf share festive tales and songs in the cosy surroundings of the historic Town Hall. A sensory-friendly session will also be available. Selected dates from Dec 6 to Dec 24.

Find out more here.

Santa’s Meet & Greet – John Lewis Liverpool ONE

This is a classic Santa experience where little ones get to meet him, share Christmas wish lists and receive a special LEGO® set to take home. There’s also Santa Paws if you want to take your furry friend. Various December dates.

Find out more here.

Santa’s Grotto (Dobbies, Speke)

A North Pole adventure with fun activities – kids get to ice fish with penguins, help polar bears improve their ice hockey skills, shoot snowball hoops, see Santa’s reindeer and meet Santa himself. Nov 23 to Dec 24.

Find out more here.

North Pole Express (Gulliver’s World)

Gulliver’s has lots of Christmas packages including Smasher where kids can enjoy Christmas rides and attractions, then hop on the North Pole Express to see Santa in his grotto and choose their own gift from the Elf Workshop. Dec 5, 12 & 19.

Find out more here.

Story Time with Father Christmas (Sefton Park Palm House)

Children can share favourite festive stories, rhymes, songs and crafts with Father Christmas and his helpers at this enchanting event. It’s free, although families can make a voluntary donation. Dec 7.

Find out more here.

Santa’s Grotto and VR sleigh ride (Sefton Meadows Garden Centre, Maghull)

Head to a winter wonderland for children to meet Santa in his traditional grotto, have a chat and photo and receive a special gift. There’s also a 4D VR Sleigh Ride with a choice of three immersive adventures. Nov 22 to Dec 24.

Find out more here.

Santa’s Grotto and Fair (Parkgate Pony Sanctuary)

See Santa and support a really great cause – Parkgate Pony Sanctuary is having a festive afternoon where families can enjoy Santa’s Grotto, pony grooming, festive stalls & crafts, and meet the animals. Dec 14.

Find out more here.

Santa Paws (Croxteth Hall)

Four legged good boys and girls deserve festive fun too and at Croxteth Hall they can meet Santa Paws at his grotto, get a tasty treat and pose for a photo – Christmassy dress-up encouraged! Dec 13.

Find out more here.

Father Christmas Storytelling (Bluecoat Arts Centre)

Father Christmas is bringing a sack of silly stories to Bluecoat for a family-friendly storytelling session. 60-minute shows include a chance to meet and chat with Father Christmas and take photos. Selected weekend dates from Nov 29 to Dec 21.

Find out more here.

Breakfast with Santa (Thornton Hall Hotel)

Get a taste of the magic of Christmas by having Breakfast with Santa. There’ll be a tasty full English breakfast served along with a special visit to Santa and a gift for little ones. Selected dates from Dec 6 to Dec 24.

Find out more here.

Santa’s Sing-along (St George’s Hall)

Join Santa and his elves for a festive sing-along organised by Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation. Singing will be led by Santa, with the Singing Our Socks Off Choir and Liverpool Theatre School, plus kids will get a Christmas gift. Dec 7.

Find out more here.

Christmas film screenings

Love Actually in Concert (Philharmonic Hall)

Richard Curtis’s star-packed Love Actually is one of the most popular Christmas movies and it also has a fabulous soundtrack. This screening at the Phil will be presented live in concert, with a full orchestra playing the score live-to-film. Dec 1.

Find out more here.

RBO Encore: The Nutcracker (FACT Liverpool)

Part of the Royal Ballet & Opera screenings, which means you can see world class performances as live, The Nutcracker is a visually stunning festive treat for all the family, especially anyone who loves dance. Dec 15. 

Find out more here.

It’s a Wonderful Life (Philharmonic Hall)

Arguably the greatest Christmas film of all time, it’s certainly one that’s stood the test of time, dating back to 1946. James Stewart is George Bailey in an uplifting tale that’ll have you sobbing into your popcorn. Dec 21 & 24.

Find out more here.

The Grinch: Live-Hosted Christmas Movie Experience (The Garden @ WAV)

Step into Whoville at The Garden @ WAV for an immersive screening of the original Jim Carrey film, hosted by a Grinch character who’ll be getting up to mischief before and during the movie. Dec 7. 

Find out more here.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (Philharmonic Hall)

The Muppets’ reimagining of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol, starring Michael Caine as Scrooge with Kermit as Bob Cratchit is absolute film genius and it’s still hugely loved every year. Dec 24.

Find out more here.

Christmas Markets

Christmas Market (St George’s Hall)

This is a biggie every year and 2025 looks like being just as huge – outside St George’s Hall will be taken over by a Christmas market with more than 80 independent traders, food and local artisans, creating a fabulous festive hub. From Nov 15 to Dec 24.

Find out more here.

Makers at the Mansion (Calderstones Park)

The Makers Market is back at the Mansion in time to get Christmas pressies. There’ll be handmade candles, soaps, jewellery, home décor, clothing, art, crafts and more, as well as food.  Nov 29 & 30.

Find out more here.

Christmas Makers Market (Bombed Out Church)

If you don’t mind leaving it a bit late then the Makers Market at the Bombed Out Church could give you some last-minute pressie ideas and you’ll be supporting independent local creatives. Dec 20 & 21.

Find out more here.

Christmas Market at The Lake House (The Lake House Waterloo)

For some pre-Christmas shopping with a gorgeous waterside view, The Lake House facing Crosby Marine Lake is hosting a weekend Christmas Market with over 50 stalls so there’ll be plenty to choose from. Nov 22 & 23.

Find out more here.

Oxton Christmas Market (Oxton Cricket Club)

Oxton is holding its popular Christmas Market again with a variety of stalls offering everything from hot food and mulled wine to handmade crafts, gifts, tasty treats and festive decorations, as well as live music. Dec 14.

Find out more here.

Carol concerts

Carols by Lantern Light (St George’s Hall)

One to warm the Christmas cockles, Professor Ian Tracey plays the Willis Organ accompanied by soloist Danielle Thomas and a classical choir, with carols from ‘Oh Holy Night’ to ‘Silent Night’. It’s on Wednesdays, December 3 and 10 and tickets are £22, on sale now.

Find out more here.

Festival Carol Service and La Nativité du Seigneur (Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King)

One of many Christmas events, join the cathedral choir and clergy for seasonal music, readings and carols, before a performance of Oliver Messiaen’s monumental organ work, La Nativité du Seigneur, by cathedral organist, Richard Lea. It’s a free event on Sunday, December 21 at 5pm.

Find out more here.

G4 Christmas (Liverpool Cathedral)

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with G4 as they bring unique renditions of traditional carols, sacred contemplations, classical favourites and modern festive hits to this idyllic sacred setting on Tuesday, December 9. Tickets available now from £37.50.

Find out more here.

Christmas Concert with Wavertree Community Gospel Choir (Sefton Park Palm House)

A fab fundraising event for the Palm House on Thursday, December 11, join Hayli Kincade and The Wavertree Community Gospel Choir for a festive evening of Christmas carols and uplifting pop and gospel. Tickets are £14.

Find out more here.

The 39th Annual NHS Carol Concert (Liverpool Cathedral)

Colette Halliday hosts as Cheshire and Merseyside NHS Choir and Liverpool Brass Band get together on Wednesday, December 10 for seasonal readings and rousing carols to celebrate the NHS. 

Find out more here.

Festive experiences

Land of Lights (Gulliver’s World Resort Warrington)

The breathtaking spectacle’s back for the third year running with a one-mile trail of lanterns covering 12 illuminated dreamworlds, along with music, entertainment and street food. Selective dates from from Saturday, October 25 – Saturday, February 31.

Find out more here.

Southport Christmas Spectacular

Families are invited to the ‘Southport Christmas Spectacular’ this November, with a huge kids party and non-stop entertainment throughout the day. This free festive event, organised by Southport BID, will take place on Saturday 15th November 2025.

Visitors can enjoy a huge kids Christmas party in the Town Hall Gardens on Lord Street between 11am and 4pm including a stage show with appearances from famous children’s TV characters, dance schools, and local performers.

People can expect to see:

• Peppa Pig Dance Party
• Bluey and Bingo Activation
• Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures Show
• K-Pop Demons Show from Starkidz
• Popstars Show from Regally Royal
• Spiderman appearance
• Local dance schools performing throughout the day

Following the conclusion of the live acts, don’t miss the launch of a brand-new interactive music show on the LED Christmas tree in the Town Hall Gardens which will animate in colour to music.

Find out more here.

Lanterns and Light (Chester Zoo)

Meet playful puppets, wander through the Ribbon Tunnel and gaze at the stars in this ever popular light trail with, new for 2025, the Airquarium, Bubble Walk and Submergence. There’s seasonal street food and drinks too. Friday, November 14 to Saturday, January 3.

Find out more here.

The North Pole Experience (Otterspool Promenade, Liverpool)

Discover the elves, lend a hand in the bustling Toy Workshop, and cosy up to Mother Christmas in her storybook cabin in this magical world. The fun includes a trip to the North Pole Post Office, the chance to skate under the stars, toast marshmallows and meet Santa, from Saturday, November 29 to Wednesday, December 24.

Find out more here.

Bar Hutte (Liverpool ONE)

Festive celebrations Apres Ski Style are back this year for karaoke, lodge parties, wreath making workshops and cosy kids clubs.  We especially love Bark Hutte, a pup-sized hütte with complimentary dog treats, photo props, and a doggy drinks menu where your furry friend can lick up some paw-secco.

Find out more here.

Santa Cruise (ChesterBoat, River Dee)

The Lady Diana will be spruced up with lights and tinsel for a Christmas one-hour cruise with treats, songs, and fun activities, and all children will get a festive book from the man in red. Santa’s sailing on Saturdays December 13 and 20, and Sunday, December 21 with tickets available now.

Find out more here.

Bronte Christmas Afternoon (The Reader, Calderstones Park)

Part of a huge season of events is The Reader’s brand-new Bronte Christmas Afternoon on Saturday, December 6 where fans are invited to explore a Victorian Christmas through festive scenes from Jane Eyre and The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, enjoy a Bronte themed lunch and rifle through some of Charlotte’s letters in which she describes snowy Yorkshire and traditional parlour games. 

Find out more here.

Santa Dash

The UK’s biggest festive 5K fun run is back on Sunday, December 7 and 1,000 Santas have already signed up. So sort out your suit and get raising cash for charity with the famous BTR Liverpool Santa Dash 5K and 1K Mini Dash.

Find out more here.

Light Before Christmas (Liverpool Cathedral)

The favourite festive spectacular, Light Before Christmas, is back for its fourth year with a brand-new theme, The Gift, transforming one of the city’s iconic landmarks. The immersive light and sound experience runs from Friday, November 28 November to Saturday, December 6.

Find out more here.

Bongo’s Bingo’s Liverpool Christmas Cracker (Content)

Get ready to go bonkers for the ultimate nostalgic Christmas experience Bongo’s style with dodgy Santa Clauses, foil cracker hats, daft dance offs and the maddest bingo show with the best – and whackiest – prizes. Friday, November 14 to Tuesday, December 23.

Find out more here.

Cheshire Oaks Winter Village

Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet’s gearing up for the festivities with its annual Christmas lights and Winter Village event boasting the UK’s tallest Christmas tree, market stalls, food, and other festive attractions like ice skating and Santa’s rides on the Ferris wheel (all while getting your designer pressies). Dates to be confirmed.

Find out more here.

Christmas concerts

A Feeling of Christmas with Rebecca Ferguson (Liverpool Philharmonic)

Rebecca and friends start the celebrations with a mix of Christmas favourites and dance anthems with classics like Santa Baby and White Christmas accompanied by The Syd Lawrence Orchestra, and hits and covers from Rebecca and her band on Saturday, December 6.

Find out more here.

Swing Into Christmas with Down for the Count Orchestra (St George’s Hall)

Guaranteed to leave you in the holiday spirit on Wednesday, December 10, the 32-piece big band recreates music from swing era with classics like The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting), Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.

Find out more here.

LIPA Christmas Concert (Liverpool Philharmonic)

Students from the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) perform for this now annual feel-good, festive family concert featuring the LIPA Big Band, strings, choirs, vocalists, and dancers. Friday, December 12.

Find out more here.

The Spirit of Christmas (Liverpool Philharmonic)

With four fabulous shows on Friday and Saturday, December 19-20, and Monday and Tuesday, December 22-23, the now-legendary concerts are conducted by Matthew Hamilton and hosted by baritone Benjamin Appl bringing classic carols, seasonal readings, audience singalongs and festive fun.

Find out more here.

Christmas Concert with Hope Street Harmonies (Sefton Park Palm House)

The acappella community choir invites you to an evening of festive favourites and a joyful Christmas sing-a-long in this spectacular setting on Thursday, December 18. Tickets are £14, in aid of the Palm House.

Find out more here.

A Christmas Gaiety: A Queer Festive Extravaganza (Liverpool Philharmonic)

Forget those Christmas lights, it’s the Queens shining on stage as Peaches Christ and Le Gateau Chocolat come together with Queen of the West End Kerry Ellis for a Queer Christmas Extravaganza. Serving some Christmas roasts and outrageous fun amid the songs. Saturday, December 13 and it’s for over 18s only.

Find out more here.

A Christmas Carol musical (Floral Pavilion, New Brighton)

A professional cast’s joined by teams of talented youngsters from the area in this musical adaptation of the Dickens’ classic. It’s on from Thursday to Friday, November 20-21 – so chance to get an early sprinkle of seasonal magic.

Find out more here.

Family Concert: Santa’s Christmas Party (Liverpool Philharmonic)

Always a popular one with presenter Alasdair Molloy, Santa Claus is getting ready to throw his elves a Christmas party – and you’re invited! Get ready for seasonal singalongs, dancing, fun and games with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and its children’s choirs. Saturday and Sunday, December 20-21.

Find out more here.

The Christmas Orchestra (St George’s Hall)

It’s beginning to look a lot like … There’ll be all your favourite songs from Christmas films like Home Alone, Polar Express, Love Actually and Bridget Jones’ Diary along with other classics to fuel your festive spirit in the concert performed live by a 16-piece chamber orchestra with a dazzling light show. Thursday, December 18.

Find out more here.

Rob Brydon & His Fabulous Band: A Festive Night of Songs & Laughter (Liverpool Philharmonic)

After a sell out West End performance last year Rob Brydon’s taking his Christmas show around the country, arriving in Liverpool on Thursday, December 11. Joined by his eight-piece band, the Gavin and Stacey star’s got songs, stories and even an impression or two!

Find out more here.

Festive food and drinks

12 days of Christmas burgers at Tempest on Tithebarn

At the heart of Tempest’s Christmas menu are twelve mouth-watering burgers full of invention and flavour, from Two (Turtle) Turkey Doves’ slow cooked turkey crown with sage and onion stuffing, crispy bacon and cranberry sauce served with a side of rich dipping gravy, to A Partridge In A Pear Tree’s delicious Tempest honey glazed pork belly, sage and onion stuffing, pork crackling, pear and apple sauce.

There’s Four Calling Birds’ Beef patty, crispy bacon topped with a goat cheese wheel, cranberry sauce and served with a side of rich dipping gravy. Or for vegetarian options, how about Eight Maids Are Milking which features grilled halloumi drizzled with Tempest’s honey, topped with roasted red peppers and spiced cranberry sauce, or Nine Ladies Dancing with a bubble and squeak patty with sage and onion stuffing.

Topped with a vegan pig in blanket and served with a side of vegan dipping gravy. Then there’s the sensational Six Geese Are Laying with double beef patty topped with a fried egg and red onion relish and many more to choose from. All in all, what’s not to love?

Find out more here.

Christmas menu at Nova Scotia

The wonderful dockside location will offer three courses of fantastic festive feasting, with plenty of classic choices to choose from. Firm favourites like a classic prawn cocktail and pigs in blankets star alongside pan-friend seabass, turkey crown, slow roasted beef brisket and a lentil and winter vegetable roast.

Christmas at Nova Scotia starts from Monday 17^th November and runs until Sunday 21^st December.  

Find out more here.

Christmas shows and pantos

Matilda the Musical (Empire Theatre)

Inspired by the Roald Dahl classic and with unforgettable new songs by Tim Minchin, it tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, an extraordinary little girl with a vivid imagination and extraordinary powers. Tuesday, December 2 to Sunday, January 4, 2026.

Find out more here.

Cinderella (Shakespeare North Playhouse)

Packed with magical moments, your favourite tunes, and lots of laughter, this age old tale’s been given a Prescot twist. Cinderella’s world’s turned upside down when her mum disappears and her dad remarries – and of course his new wife’s got two dreadful daughters! Friday, November 21 to Saturday, January 10.

Find out more here.

A Christmas Carol (St George’s Hall)

GINIFICENT return to St George’s Hall with a brand-new production of one of the most heartwarming Christmas stories ever as Ebeneezer Scrooge is forced to confront his past in the hope of changing his future. Friday, December 12 to Wednesday, December 24.

Find out more here.

Cinderella (Epstein Theatre)

Panto’s back at the Epstein – oh yes it is – and Corrie’s Katie McGlynn is starring as Cinders, with BBC’s The One Show and Radio Merseyside’s Kevin Duala as Buttons, and Leanne Campbell as The Fairy Godmother. Friday, December 5 – Sunday, January 4, 2026.

Find out more here.

Young Frankenstein the Musical (Liverpool Playhouse)

From the creators of The Producers so you can expect plenty of laughs. The grandson of Victor Frankenstein inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania and with the help of hunchbacked sidekick Igor and leggy lab assistant Inga finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors. Wednesday, December 3 to Saturday, January 3, 2026.

Find out more here.

Beauty and the Beast (The Atkinson, Southport)

The Atkinson’s inviting audiences to be its guest for a gorgeous panto based on the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast. The much-loved fairytale comes to the stage in a show packed with laughter, song and dance. Dec 5 to Dec 31.

Find out more here.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (M&S Bank Arena)

Corrie’s Helen Flanagan heads the cast as the Wicked Queen alongside X Factor’s Sean Smith as the Prince and Ellis Lloyd as Snow White for what’s being billed as Liverpool’s biggest ever pantomime. Dec 12 to Dec 28.

Find out more here.

Elf the Musical (M&S Bank Arena)

The huge hit stage adaptation of the brilliant movie lands in Liverpool with a big cast, live orchestra and classic scenes, including Santa’s flying sleigh and an interactive snowball fight with the audience, all set against film backdrops on a massive LED screen. Dec 6 & 7.

Find out more here.

Dick Whittington (St Helens Theatre Royal)

Theatre Royal panto is always a top family show and this year Dick Whittington has a great cast including Emmerdale’s Matthew Wolfenden as Dick, along with St Helens favourites Lewis Devine as Idle Jack and Timothy Lucas as King Rat. Nov 28 to Jan 11.

Find out more here.

Find more Christmas events 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.

Hollywood actor Bradley Cooper has said his new film about a man who seeks purpose in the New York comedy scene was “directly” influenced by British humour.

Is This Thing On?, which is part-based on the life of British comedian John Bishop, was directed by the US star, 50, who is also known for directing and acting in Oscar-nominated movies Maestro (2023) and A Star Is Born (2018).

The film came to fruition after BoJack Horseman voice actor Will Arnett met Liverpool comic Bishop, who told him that he had found stand-up comedy in the midst of a split from his wife, deciding to do an open-mic night one evening as he did not want to pay the cover fee.

Arnett’s character in the film, Alex, has a similar experience, getting his start at New York’s famed Comedy Cellar.

Speaking at the BFI London Film Festival, Cooper told the PA news agency:

“It’s inspired by John Bishop’s story, so that was the nugget of it and then he (Will) was working on that with John, and he was just telling me about it because we were friends.

“And I just sort of saw this image of him and I got excited about ‘What if we set it in New York, and what if it’s a movie about a relationship?’ .”

Asked how British humour influenced the film, he said: “I think directly, I think all of us have grown up on British humour and love it so yes, it’s indelible.”

Asked if it differs from US humour, he added: “It’s hard to put an umbrella over everybody, the great comics are so unique.”

Arnett, 55, told the PA news agency:

“For me there’s a lot more nuance to British humour. And so we tried to inject some of that.”

Bishop got back with his wife Melanie after a short split, and she attended the London screening with their children.

Bishop, 58, told PA:

“I couldn’t write it because it was too personal, so (a producer) said, ‘Tell Will’.

“So that was eight years ago, and then Will said, ‘Look, I’d love to write it with my friend Mark (Chappell)’.

“And then we spent a bit of time developing it, and then it just became their baby, and it’s an act of faith.

“You’re handing over a part of your life to someone else, and you hope that they’re going to treat it properly, like you would with your child.

“And he’s done more than that. He’s treated it, he’s nurtured it, and he sent it off to college.”

The film is coming to cinemas this December, according to Searchlight Pictures.

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.

The countdown to Christmas is already on and this year it’s going to be more magical than ever – not least because of a brand-new, enchanted wonderland that’s going to take the festive family experience to a whole new level.

Santa’s Secret Forest is a dazzling attraction that’ll transport youngsters – and grown-ups – to an amazing new world, with loads of awe-inspiring scenes and activities.

Just the sound of that will probably get you super-excited and wanting to go, but here’s 10 more reasons why you’ll definitely want to get that visit sorted…

First-of-its-kind enchanted woodland and forest light trail

Santa’s Secret Forest is set to span across 40 acres of woodland, enchanting visitors with a dazzling light trail that’ll sparkle with more than two million multi-coloured lights and breathtaking special effects.

It’s a dazzling attraction that’s close to home

Easy to find and get to, Santa’s Secret Forest is in Orrel Hill Woods on Orrel Hill Lane, Hightown, just off the A565 (Formby Bypass) between Liverpool and Southport.

Meet Santa’s reindeer

You can meet Santa’s reindeer, restingpeacefully in their woodland paddock as they prepare for the big night ahead. See the real-life reindeer up close and get a great family picture to capture the magic and the memories.

Merrywood Market

Merrywood Market is a fabulous food and drink area set in the middle of a woodland clearing and beneath a canopy of twinkling lights, serving festive food and drinks including Yorkshire pudding wraps, bratwurst, pizzas, burgers, brownies, and toasted marshmallows. It’s beginning to look a LOT like Christmas!

Santa’s Christmas Hub

At the heart of the indoor experience is Santa’s Christmas Hub, a 2,700 sqm interactive journey through 10 immersive rooms, from the Grand Lobby where you’re greeted by elves to the Toy Workshop where the toys are finished in time for Christmas, and from North Pole Command – where the mischievous elves keep tabs on who’s been kind – to Santas Sleigh Garage where urgent repairs are needed to get the sleigh flight-ready.

All aboard the Tinsel Town Express

Who wouldn’t love this, the chance to climb on board an immersive magical train carriage that takes you into a storybook world? As festive music plays and the scenery rushes by, Conductor Merryweather welcomes you aboard. But there’s a problem …Santa’s sleigh is malfunctioning, and Christmas Eve is at risk. Can you help fix it?

Send your letter to Santa in the Mail Room

Make a visit to the world’s busiest post office where letters fly through tubes to reach Santa’s desk. Here, at a cosy writing station, you can scribble your letter to Santa and send it down the magical chute, then watch as it races straight to the North Pole to be perused by the man in red.

Be transported back in time

Step into the Time Tunnel to be taken to Christmases past, and wander through magical scenes inspired by the grottos your parents and grandparents once visited. With twinkling fairy lights and festive displays, it’s a heartwarming celebration of tradition (perfect for sharing stories across the generations).

Buckle up for the flight of your life

Families can step inside the Magic Elevators and prepare for a onceinalifetime flight from Santa’s Secret Forest straight to the North Pole. As the doors glide shut and snowflakes swirl past the windows, you’ll soar high above the clouds, heading towards Santa’s snowy home ready for a special visit with the Big Man himself!

There’s plenty of time to treat you and yours

This cutting-edge cracker of a Christmas attraction is creating magic between Friday, November 21, to Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24th with visits available to book in the daytime and evening, and SEN Accessible Sessions on Sunday mornings designed especially for families with children who may benefit from a calmer, and more controlled environment.

Find out more and book tickets on the Santa’s Secret Forest website here.

Find out more plans for Christmas 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.

Updated October 2025

There’s loads of ghoulishly great goings-on in Liverpool to celebrate the spooktacular season of Halloween.

So if you’re frightened of missing out on all the best events, have a look at everything we know so far …

Farmageddon

Let’s start with one of the most well-known Halloween events which is Farmageddon, the annual horror festival in Ormskirk that’ll have even the bravest of souls quaking in their boots.

It’s back from Saturday, September 27 to Saturday, November 1 with The Beast of Terror, The Meat Locker, the Fear Go Round, the Maze of Death, and more – and new for this year is The Facility, where people seeking refuge are being used as medical guinea pigs and left in confusion and zombification.  We’re terrified already.

Find out more here.

Spooky Cinema at The Reader

Open-air cinema returns to Calderstones Mansion for the spooky season with nine hand-picked Halloween favourites from children’s storybook animations to top family-friendly picks, an iconic Hitchcock thriller and cult classics during October half term, Tuesday, October 28 to Saturday, November 1.

Find out more here.

Newsham Scream Park

The abandoned Newsham Park Hospital is regularly cited as one of the UK’s most haunted buildings and it’s host to Newsham Scream Park for the third year with a month of mind-bending terror. Running from Wednesday, October 1 until Friday, October 31 there are four new scare mazes and a brand-new Horror Selfie Museum, and it’s definitely one for those who don’t frighten easily.

Find out more here.

Halloween Family Day at Aintree Racecourse

Aintree Racecourse is teaming up with Liverpool charity Nugent for a Halloween Family Day packed with racing, entertainment and spooky fun on Sunday, October 26. As well as live racing, there’ll be loads of Halloween-themed activities and frighteningly good food.

Find out more here.

Spooky special events at Blackstock Market

There are four free Halloween Family Fundays at Blackstock on Sunday, October 26, and from Wednesday, October 29 to Friday, October 31, with creepy face painting, spooky mascots, Halloween movies, live music, dancing, and plenty of eerie surprises; as well as The Upside Down Halloween Party with a Stranger Things theme on Friday, October 31 and Saturday, November 1. There’ll be live shows every hour and a free party from 5pm until midnight with dancers, drummers and the haunting beats of 80s’ classics.

Find out more here.

Spooky Welly Walk – Sefton Park

On Saturday, October 25, the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation is turning Sefton Park spooky with its ever-popular Halloween-themed two-mile fundraising walk, and they’ll be keeping your little monsters entertained with games, creepy crafts, a freaky funfair, menacing mask making, the Bugfest Beaty Parlour, and more. The Spooky Welly Walk event opens at 10.45am and the fun doesn’t stop until 4.30pm.

Find out more here.

Murder Mystery at The Everyman

Inspired by the historical ‘Witch Hunt Craze’ and the city’s dark history you’re invited to be the jury in this interactive Halloween Afternoon Tea Special, The City of Curses – A Murder Mystery by Trial. In the midst of civil war, hunger and incurable sickness, witchcraft haunts the streets of Liverpool, and you can join the secret trial held underground on Hope Street where a witch accused of sorcery, seduction and murder must prove her innocence. It’s happening on Friday, October 31 and Saturday, November 1.

Find out more here.

Psycho City at Moloko

Dress to distress on Thursday, October 30 when Moloko invites you to prepare for your worst nightmares at Psycho City. There’s a Haunted House of Horrors, a Psycho Carnival and Psychic Tent, a funfair featuring creepy clowns, along with three ‘terrifyingly haunted arenas of music’, and more.

Find out more here.

Halloween at the Plaza Community Cinema

The Plaza Community Cinema in Crosby is hosting a series of Halloween classics throughout October including The Shining and The Addams Family.

Find out more here.

Halloween Party Fright Night at Novotel Liverpool

Check in for night of spooky fun, music and Halloween vibes at the ALL ACCOR Halloween Party on Friday, October 31. Entry is £2 and there’s themed food and drink – think ghostly sliders, bloody cocktails and more – a costume contest, and live music from 7pm. 

Find out more here.

SMEC Ghost Train

Chuff into the all-new SMEC Ghost Train – a spine-tingling, family-friendly adventure like no other. The experience will use live steam and diesel battery electric operated locomotives to pull up to 7 passengers per train.

The team have reimagined the experience for 2025 to become a fully immersive spooky railway journey packed with surprises.

Find out more here.

The 80s vs 90s Halloween Day Party at Level

Not everything goes bump in the night! The 80s vs 90s Halloween Day Party is coming to Liverpool at Level Nightclub in Fleet Street on Saturday, November 1 from 3pm-8pm. Expect loads of fearful fun from Halloween classics and 80s & 90s club anthems, ghoulish performers and scare actors, and themed cocktails and potion bars, along with tricks, treats and haunted giveaways.

Find out more here.

Halloweenville at Partridge Lakes, Warrington

Previously known as the Halloween Lakeside Trail, Halloweenville is an enchanted land where you can immerse yourself in a spooky storybook setting. On from Friday, October 3 to Friday, October 31, this year’s theme takes visitors ‘under water’ to the haunting depths of the Gold Lake where ghostly sea creatures, sunken secrets and the skeleton pirates spring to life.

Find out more here.

Farmer Ted’s Pumpkin Festival

Get ready for a bewitching tedventure at the annual Farmer Ted’s Pumpkin Festival, with dinosaurs, a dead scary maize maze, a pumpkin carving zone, fancy dress competitions, spooky stories and more, between Sunday, October 5, and Friday, October 31.

Find out more here.

Fear by the Pier

This Halloween themed event will take place at family attractions at Kings Gardens in Southport between 11am and 5pm on:

Friday, 31st October 2025

Saturday, 1st November 2025

Sunday, 2nd November 2025

Children will be able to meet at Silcock’s Pier Family Restaurant on the Promenade, where they will be able to enjoy a Spooky Kids Meal and grab a ghoulish Goody Bag.

They can take a ride on the famous Silcock’s Carousel, and play 18 holes of crazy golf at Masters Putting Green.

Tickets are £10 each.

Find out more here.

Old Skool Bingo Halloween Special at Modo

Billed as the Ultimate Spooky RnB Takeover, you’re promised a high-energy night packed with scary vibes, RnB anthems, stacks of surprises and the wildest bingo experience. It’s at the Concert Street venue on Friday, October 31.

Find out more here.

Fright Fiesta at Gulliver’s World

Families are invited to enjoy a freakily fantastic time during Gulliver’s World’s Fright Fiesta this Halloween season.

Fright Fiesta is a festival-style event brimming with colour, costumes and music, running over selected weekends in October and then for half-term week from October 25-31.

This year there will be a few new frights and delights for guests to enjoy with the Gulliver’s team ready to put the scares on visitors young and old, and of course lots of fun thrown in for good measure!

The park is open 10.30am-4.00pm for Fright Fiesta, with tickets priced from £19 per person, and children under 90cms going free.

Find out more here.

Eastham Ferry Hotel Children’s Halloween Party

Get ready for a spooktacular evening of fun and fright as Eastham Ferry Hotel hosts its Children’s Halloween Party on Friday 31st October from 5pm to 7pm!

For just £10 per child, youngsters can enjoy a magical night that includes a mini buffet, a lively disco and a thrilling pumpkin hunt.

The hotel will be transformed into a Halloween wonderland — complete with spooky decorations, fun music and plenty of treats.

Find out more here.

Masons Ultimate Halloween Bottomless Brunch

Masons invites brave souls to its Ultimate Halloween Bottomless Brunch — a celebration guaranteed to raise the dead (and your glass).

On Saturday, 1st November, from 1pm–7pm, guests will step into a realm of eerie elegance, where ghostly décor, haunting beats, and endless drinks flow freely. For just £49.50 per person, partygoers can feast on a devilishly good main and side, while indulging in 90 minutues of bottomless drinks that promise to keep the spirits high — in more ways than one.

Find out more here.

Flight Club Brunch Special

Flight Club Liverpool is serving up a bottomless Halloween brunch this October that’s so good it’s scary. The two-hour Halloween Brunch Weekender is available on Friday 31st October through to 2nd November, so whether you’re a Friday-night ghoul or a Sunday-funday spirit, you won’t miss out.

Expect some Halloween-themed tunes from the resident DJ, a devilish cocktail on arrival, a bottle of prosecco for every guest, frighteningly good bottomless pizza paddles and an hour at the oche throwing sharp pointy things (otherwise known as Social Darts!). Come dressed up and be in with a chance to bag some treats! 

Book tickets here from £33 per person.

Find out more about Halloween in Liverpool by checking 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.

The team behind PINS Social Club in Liverpool have now confirmed plans to open the biggest new hospitality venue in Manchester. 

Building on the huge success of PINS Social Club in Liverpool, the new 25,000 sq ft venue will span three floors, offering a next-generation social and entertainment experience in one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings.

Located in the Grade II-listed, Art Deco Sunlight House, which is currently undergoing a large refurbishment into grade A office space, the new PINS will be a place where guests of all ages can arrive as fans and leave as players – whether that means immersing themselves in live music and late-night entertainment, competing against friends or enjoying the atmosphere of live sports.

Plans for the venue include a main stage on the ground floor for its electric half time shows, tenpin bowling including VIP private lanes, a gaming mezzanine with tech darts, pool, shuffleboard, beer pong, and karaoke, plus a dedicated sports bar to cater to Manchester’s sports mad crowd. Food will be served all day, from breakfast through to late-night, ensuring guests are fuelled to enjoy their experience to the fullest.

The new venue will be located in the basement of Manchester’s Grade II-listed, Sunlight House, which has undergone a £35million restoration by the building’s owners, Karrev. It is set to become a dynamic hub fostering creativity, collaboration, and productivity, offering a variety of Grade A office spaces. The refurbishment is set to complete in October, ahead of PINS’ grand opening.

The company was founded by friends Daniel Gillbanks and David Scowcroft, who opened their first social club in February 2020. The aim was to pioneer a new entertainment concept, by elevating the combined experiences of competitive socialising and a design-led bar centred around sports heritage. 

Daniel Gillbanks explains:

“The vision for our business is centred around the guest – delivering an immersive experience in a venue that spans numerous common offerings. Providing a bar that unites competitive socialising, live entertainment and a strong programme of sports –with the core focus of creating an ‘arena- like’ experience for guests to be a part of.”

Daniel Kelly joined the team as Managing Director at the start of 2024 to expand the PINS brand, whilst also adding the newly launched Dog & Collar Pub in Liverpool and the recently acquired fan-favourite brand, Almost Famous to the D2 portfolio. 

Daniel said:

“Manchester is a city that thrives on energy, culture, and community – everything that PINS is about. This new venue will be our biggest yet, offering a bold and exciting social space that’s purpose built for entertainment, competition, and ultimately, having a great time. We can’t wait to bring our concept to Manchester’s incredible social scene. Keep an eye out for more details coming soon.”

Julien Buronfosse, Managing Director at Karrev, added:

“We’re thrilled that PINS, a renowned name in leisure and hospitality, has chosen Sunlight House as their first location outside of Liverpool.

“The PINS offering is diverse, dynamic and will provide tenants and the local community with an unparalleled leisure experience. We wanted to work with an operator that understood our vision of breathing new life into a historic building, contributing to the new era that Sunlight House is entering. The building has ambitions to be much more than Grade A office space, with a specific emphasis on community building. The addition of PINS to Sunlight House will contribute greatly to that.”

Find out more information on the PINS Social Club website. 

Find more great days out across Manchester 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.

For the family behind Liverpool costume institution Lili Bizarre, there’s no such thing as a quiet time for dressing up.

It could be stags and hens who decide they want an impromptu theme, footy fans coming here for European nights or kids getting ready for World Book Day at school.

But there’s one day of the year that’s crazy like no other.

Halloween for Gary Wakefield and his sister Lorna, who’ve run the family business for the past 25 years, actually begins in Feburary.

That’s when they put their first orders in for costumes which take over the two-floor city centre shop throughout October.

Every inch of the 3,000sqft downstairs on Tarleton Street, just off Church Street, is crammed with Halloween costumes and accessories to buy. And they’ve already paused their usual year-round rentals from upstairs to create more space for stock.

Gary estimates that between now and the big day they’ll sell thousands of outfits, from Wednesday Addams to Beetlejuice and the classic Scream Ghostface.

He said:

“Halloween is definitely our busiest time of the year. Christmas is obviously big but it’s steadier because everyone has parties and Nativities at different times so it’s spread out rather than focused on one day. 

“For Halloween the whole shop gets changed over which takes a while and we spend months preparing for all the stock to arrive.

“As soon as New Year comes we’re looking at what we can get, we order in February and start taking deliveries from June.

“In October we’ll open on Sundays which we don’t normally do, and me and my sister don’t get a day off for about a month in the run-up to Halloween but we really enjoy all the excitement. It’s nice to be part of people’s celebrations.”

Gary and Lorna are the second generation running Lili Bizarre. Their mum Lili first started the business back in 1985, as a vintage shop called Bizarre in Quiggins.

Gary explained:

“It was only when some students were doing a bad taste party and they didn’t want to buy the clothes so they asked if they could rent them, that the idea formed,”

“That was in the mid-late 90s, then more and more bad taste parties and student nights started happening so we did a lot more rentals. Me and Lorna were helping out initially and in October 2000 we joined full-time and created Lili Bizarre.

“We had about 300 costumes at first, just to rent, and we’d sell accessories. When that got to about 800 costumes, we outgrew Quiggins and moved to Hardman Street in 2003, then to the city centre where we are now in 2014.”

As its reputation has grown, Lili Bizarre has built up a network of suppliers across the world, including Europe, the US and China, as well as sourcing from independents in the UK. It’s also a stockist for Smiffy’s, which closed its Liverpool store on Bold Street at the end of last year.

With around 2,000 costumes to rent upstairs, and a massive space downstairs filled to capacity with more for sale, Gary says he and Lorna are always on the lookout for dress-up trends.

Not surprisingly, a lot of them are celebrity or character led.

“Cowboy hats are still really popular, Harry Styles started that and we still sell loads, and Taylor Swift of course.

“There are some classics which we see every year, and then a few which we get asked for which we wish we could get but just can’t, like The Warriors film from the late 70s and a proper version of Hocus Pocus.”

Gary says he and Lorna will be looking forward to a quieter few weeks after Halloween, before the Christmas and New Year party season rush kicks in.

There’s on person who’s happy not to take a break though. “Our mum is 84 now but she still works here on Fridays and Saturdays. People love coming in and seeing her here, they’ll always go over and ask, ‘are you Lili?’ and start having a chat.”

Find out more about Lili Bizarre here.

Find all the latest Liverpool news 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 Zanzibar Club, based in Seel Street, will close its doors on November 1st this year ahead of planned changes and refurbishment.

The Zanzibar band performances will move a few hundred yards aways to the basement of Heebie Jeebies – also on Seel Street in Liverpool City Centre. A new name for this live music basement venue at Heebies will soon be announced.

The basement at Heebies has been a popular spot in the city for live music 2-3 nights a week already and investment will now be made into making this accessible even more across each week.

The Zanzibar itself is going to be refurbished and more information will also be announced in the very near future.

Zanzibar closed in 2020 after the devastating economic effects of the pandemic. However a local Liverpool independent stepped in to ensure that Zanzibar continued to contribute highly-prized value to the city’s musical and cultural heritage. 

As has been widely publicised a large number of grassroots venues have closed over the past 4-5 years and the nighttime economy is completely different now to the way it was 10, 15 or 20 years ago. From redevelopment and drinking habits to the cost of living. The UK nighttime economy has evolved and businesses need to evolve with it to now survive.

Liverpool has a unique musical heritage and reputation around the globe, and The Zanzibar Club has been an integral part of that for thirty years. 

Find out more about Zanzibar here.

Find more great nights out in 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.

A powerful initiative is helping Merseyside’s young people to tackle hate crime from the classroom up – thanks to funding seized from criminals.

To mark Hate Crime Awareness Week, Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner, Emily Spurrell visited Anfield Road Primary School today to see first-hand how the ‘Hate Makes me Feel’ project is transforming attitudes, tackling hate crime head-on and building safer, stronger communities.

Delivered by Powerfull Beyond All Measure CIC, the initiative uses interactive activities, storytelling, and discussion to help children as young as seven understand the impact of hate crime, recognise it when it happens, and feel confident reporting it through age-appropriate and emotionally engaging sessions.

The project is one of 22 successful recipients of the Police and Crime Commissioner and Merseyside Police’s Community Cashback Fund – an initiative that reinvests money seized from criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) back into local communities, to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, strengthen community resilience, and support vulnerable members of the community.

This year’s funding round focused specifically on projects that improve community integration and cohesion, and tackle hate crime, following the violence and disorder seen across the region last summer.

As well as workshops for the young people, the programme also provides training for school staff, as well as informal sessions for parents, including coffee mornings tailored to those with English as an additional language. These sessions aim to equip adults with the knowledge and confidence to identify and report hate crime, fostering safer school and community environments.

Delivered in partnership with Merseyside Police’s Community Engagement Unit, the initiative has reached nearly 2,000 pupils and 50 trained professionals across schools in Merseyside.

Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner, Emily Spurrell said:

“At a time when division and intolerance are being amplified across society, it’s critical that we take action to stop the spread of hate. Initiatives like ‘Hate Makes Me Feel’ are doing just that—empowering young people to understand the impact of hate crime and giving them the tools to challenge it.

“By reaching children early, we’re helping to build a generation that values empathy, respect and inclusion, and ultimately creating safer, stronger communities for everyone.

“It’s more important than ever to show that Merseyside stands united against hate in all its forms, and I’m proud to support grassroots organisations like Powerfull Beyond All Measure CIC who are leading the way in making that vision a reality.”

Detective Chief Inspector Yoseph Al-Ramadhan, Merseyside Police said: 

“We’re proud to have partnered with Powerfull Beyond All Measure CIC to deliver these educational training sessions that help young people understand the impact of hate crime on individuals and communities.

“Education is one of the most powerful tools in preventing hate and promoting inclusion, and through this initiative, we aim to empower the next generation to recognise, challenge, and stand up against all forms of hatred and prejudice.

“Collaborating with our partners in this way strengthens our collective commitment to ensuring that everyone in Merseyside feels safe, valued, and respected.”

Danielle Azanuwha, Director Powerfull Beyond All Measure CIC said: 

“Our partnership with Merseyside Police began four years ago with a shared goal—to engage migrant communities in North Liverpool and address the underreporting of hate crime. We recognised that many individuals, especially those whose English is a second language, didn’t feel confident or safe enough to report incidents.

“Through community hubs, awareness sessions, and trusted relationships, we’ve worked to break down those barriers and build trust between the police and the communities they serve. In 2022, following a spike in hate crime among our service users, we realised we needed to act preventatively. That’s how ‘Hate Makes Me Feel’ was born.

“The response to these sessions so far has been incredible. This work is vital—not just to educate and empower—but to ensure every child and adult feels safe, supported, and part of a community that stands firmly against hate.”

The Brain Charity is looking for a new Chief Executive Officer to help lead the charity’s next phase of growth and impact.

This follows the departure of former CEO Pippa Sargent, who moved on from her role earlier this year. 

As a respected voice and national resource for individuals and families affected by neurological conditions, The Brain Charity is at an exciting juncture. Building on a 30-year legacy of innovation and compassionate care, the incoming CEO will be instrumental in shaping and delivering the organisation’s future strategy. 

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) will provide strategic leadership and direction for The Brain Charity, ensuring its mission is embedded in every aspect of the organisation’s work. This is a rare opportunity to guide a well-established and ambitious national charity into its next chapter, shaping a sustainable future for services that support people across the UK. 

Working closely with the Board of Trustees, senior leadership team, staff, volunteers, and external partners, the CEO will lead the development and delivery of the organisation’s strategy, drive income generation through fundraising and partnerships, and oversee effective, values-led operational management. They will also represent The Brain Charity publicly, cultivating influential relationships across the health, social care, voluntary, and private sectors, and ensuring the highest governance standards, transparency, and accountability. 

The role demands a compassionate, inclusive, and forward-thinking leader with a proven ability to build and nurture high-performing teams and deliver lasting social impact. 

This is a challenging and rewarding leadership role for someone passionate about creating an inclusive society where people with neurological conditions are understood, supported, and empowered. 

Applicants will need a strong track record in leading similar organisations. Health and Social Care and/or social science qualifications at NVQ Level 4 or above and/or a relevant professional qualification are required. A commitment to equality, neurodiversity, and inclusive practice is essential. 

Since its founding as the Mersey Neurological Trust in 1992, The Brain Charity has evolved into a UK-wide support hub for people living with neurological conditions and their families.

Its services include: 

• Specialist information and diagnosis support 
• Emotional well-being services, including counselling and coaching 
• Practical support with benefits, legal advice and advocacy 
• The Neuro Gym: adapted fitness and rehabilitation programmes 
• Community-building initiatives such as The Brain Food Café 
• National training and consultancy promoting neurodiversity 

The charity has received national recognition for its work, including the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. It is known for its values-driven approach, which centres on kindness, commitment, courage, authenticity, and optimism. 

Find out more information and apply on The Brain Charity website.

Find all the latest Liverpool news 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.

165 supporters spent a memorable night under the stars for Everton in the Community’s ‘Stadium Sleepout’, which was hosted at the Hill Dickinson Stadium for the first time. 

Blues were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime experience as they settled down at the Blues’ new home, with all funds raised from the evening supporting EitC’s ‘Home Is Where The Heart Is’ (HIWTHI) programme, which provides vital support to vulnerable young people at risk of homelessness.

The night began with a moving Q&A featuring former HIWTHI residents Zahraa and Moyaed, who shared the transformative impact that the programme has had on their lives. 

Guests also heard from EitC CEO Sue Gregory, who expressed her heartfelt gratitude and highlighted how vital events like the Sleepout are in sustaining the charity’s life-changing work.

As the night continued, participants set up their sleeping spaces on the concourse and had the chance to visit EitC’s ‘One Stop Shop’ to learn more about the charity’s wide range of community programmes and services.

Supporters were also treated to a warm evening snack and a hearty breakfast in the morning – generously provided by Aramark.

A special thank you goes to Castore, the Club’s official kit supplier, who kindly donated 200 training tops for all guests to take home as a souvenir.

Reflecting on the success of the event, EitC CEO Sue Gregory said:

“Our first Stadium Sleepout at the new ground marks a truly special milestone for Everton in the Community.

“It was inspiring to see so many supporters come together, braving the cold night to stand in solidarity with young people facing homelessness.

“Nights like this remind us of what makes the Everton Family so unique – compassion, unity and an unwavering commitment to our community.”

EitC’s first Stadium Sleepout at the new ground represents a landmark moment in the charity’s history.

Though the Club has moved to a new home, EitC remains deeply rooted in the heart of L4, continuing to build on Everton’s strong community legacy and providing ongoing support to local residents and the wider community.

You can still support the Stadium Sleepout here.

Find all the latest Everton FC news 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.

National Museums Liverpool has launched a call for an artist (or collective) to co-design the cast iron panels of International Slavery Museum’s monumental new Entrance Pavilion. 

Opened in 2007 on the third floor of the Maritime Museum, International Slavery Museum has never had its own front door. The new Entrance Pavilion, designed by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, which gained planning permission in October 2024, will announce International Slavery Museum to the world, asserting its rightful place and prominence on Liverpool’s historic waterfront. 

The newly designed panels will be the visible ‘skin’ of the Entrance Pavilion, symbolically transforming iron, once used in chains and manacles, and deeply ingrained in the infrastructure of transatlantic slavery, into a material of remembrance and resilience.  

The chosen artist will work collaboratively with International Slavery Museum colleagues, architects, structural engineers, fabricators, and community partners to reflect the histories, legacies, and lived experiences represented at the museum. 

This is a once in lifetime opportunity for an artist to play an integral role in creating a permanent and powerful public artwork, that sits at the heart of the museum’s wider transformation. 

The successful artist will receive a £30,000 fee with additional costs and expenses covered. 

Michelle Charters OBE, Head of International Slavery Museum said:

“This is an artist call unlike any other, for a museum which is the only one of its kind in the world. The finished artwork will be a deeply meaningful feature of the striking design for our new Entrance Pavilion, ensuring the story of transatlantic slavery and its legacies is no longer a hidden aspect of our history, but unapologetically prominent on Liverpool’s waterfront. 

“We are looking for an exceptional artist (or collective) who will bring not only their own vision, imagination and expertise, but can also demonstrate how this will engage and inspire our community stakeholders to participate in its creation. The artwork will be made of iron, a material that once represented our ancestors’ oppression, but by boldly reclaiming it as a symbol of remembrance and restitution, the artist will create work that represents the ambition driving the International Slavery Museum’s transformation.”  

Kossy Nnachetta, Partner, Lead Architect at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios said:

“The fabric of the Entrance Pavilion was always envisioned as the work of many hands. 

“We are thrilled that National Museums Liverpool are able to send this wide-reaching call-out for an artist, maker, or any creative soul, to interpret the spirit of decades of community conversations, and embed that into the design. 

“This project is so important to the world, and the Entrance Pavilion is so important to the project, it feels right to open it up to world. We’re excited to see what comes through this.” 

International Slavery Museum is now closed for redevelopment. It is expected to reopen to the public in 2029:

Artist fee: £30,000 (plus additional expenses covered) 

Call for entries period: 13 October – 17 November 2025 

Artists from the Global Majority, or with lived experience of the legacies of slavery, are encouraged to apply.

Watch a short film on the vision for both International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum: 

Artist brief and application.

Vision for International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum’s redevelopment: 

Led by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios (FCBStudios), the redevelopment of International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum will sensitively respond to the existing Grade I-listed buildings: Hartley Pavilion and Dr Martin Luther King Jr Building (previously the Dock Traffic Office). 

A monumental new entrance for International Slavery Museum will be worthy of its position as the only national museum in the world dedicated to transatlantic slavery and its legacies. This bold and striking intervention on the historic landscape, responds directly to community stakeholder feedback for designs to feature not only an accessible front door but one that also claims its rightful place on Liverpool’s waterfront.   

A new contemporary link bridge will connect Hartley Pavilion and the Dr Martin Luther King Jr Building and create a ‘pause-point’ with panoramic views across the docks, where visitors might consider how the stories within the galleries relate to the place they currently stand.   

International Slavery Museum will become a home to the National Centre for Teaching Black History. The re-developed second floor of Dr Martin Luther King Junior Building will be dedicated to the learning outputs and outcomes of the centre and its programming will connect with collections and representation across all National Museums Liverpool’s museums and galleries. 

Ralph Appelbaum Associates are leading on the exhibition design for both museums, and the project will see new galleries, as well as shared spaces for community uses, research, learning and events. 

The Maritime Museum will see significant regeneration and enable the museum to show a more comprehensive and coherent vision of Liverpool’s maritime story. A new entrance will create a more welcoming arrival for visitors, new galleries will explore conflict, global connections and migration, while the popular ‘Titanic and Liverpool’ gallery will be revitalised. 

Find out more about the International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum’s redevelopment here.

Find all the latest Liverpool news 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.

BBC Gardeners’ World presenter confirmed as first special guest at Southport Flower Show for 2026

Southport Flower Show are delighted to confirm that Adam Frost will be joining them at next year’s show on Thursday 20^th August.

Adam is an award-winning British Garden Designer and presenter on Gardeners’ World (BBC2). He regularly presents the BBC’s coverage of multiple RHS Flower Shows and has featured on The One Show and DIY SOS (BBC 1), The Alan Titchmarsh Show (ITV).

In 2016 he won ‘Best New Talent’ at the RTS West Awards. Since 2007, Adam has amassed 7 gold medals at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. He regularly lectures on a wide range of horticultural topics, both nationally and internationally and is a regular contributor to Gardeners’ World and other horticultural magazines.

Adam’s first book Real Gardens was published in 2015, followed three years later by How to Create your Garden. In March 2022 he published The Creative Gardener, an incredibly personal book of garden projects created during lockdown. Autumn 2022 saw his first Gardener’s World tie in book published – How I Garden.

Adam is trained in horticulture and landscape design and began his professional career in the mid-1980’s with an apprenticeship at the North Devon Parks Department. Adam later moved to Rutland where he began working with Geoff Hamilton at Barnsdale Gardens where he helped design and create many of the 38 small gardens which are still on show to the public today.

In 2014 Adam set up The Homebase Garden Academy with the specific aim of helping Britain’s next generation of horticulture students kick-start their careers, by teaching them about garden design and landscaping. As well as running his own garden design and landscape business he also sits on the board for the Horticulture Trades Association, is an RHS Ambassador and until 2022 he ran The Adam Frost Garden School where he hosted masterclasses on design and other gardening courses.

Alan Adams, General Manager of Southport Flower Show said:

“We are looking forward to having Adam back at next year’s show. He’s been the show many times before and is a real hit with the visitors”.

The show which is a registered charity (charity no. 1000698) is the largest independent flower show in the country and will return next year on Thursday 20^th – Sunday 23^rd August 2026. Early bird tickets are now on sale.

Visit the Southport Flower Show website to find out more. 

Find all the latest Southport news here.

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Strictly Come Dancing legends Brendan Cole, James Jordan, Pasha Kovalev, Vincent Simone and Ian Waite have announced they will be returning the Liverpool Empire.

After two highly successful tours – Legends of The Dance Floor in 2024 and The Return of The Legends in 2025 – Vegas: After Hours brings the five Strictly legends back together again for a breathtaking brand new show that captures all the glitz, glamour and excitement of Las Vegas, where the dance floor never sleeps!

With their incredible female dance partners, the five Strictly legends will bring the spirit of Sin City to life through stunning routines and nonstop entertainment, all set to a soundtrack inspired by the greatest Las Vegas performers of all time.

Neon lights and electric nights, roulette tables spinning, glamorous showgirls, dazzling casinos, desert sunsets, lavish pool parties, whirlwind weddings, iconic hotels and world-class entertainment, Vegas: After Hours captures it all in one unforgettable evening.

The 30-date tour starts on 3rd October in Fareham, and will weave its way across the UK before ending in Dartford on 10th November. 

Brenden Cole said:

“Anyone who saw our last two shows will tell you that a Vegas-themed show is the perfect next step for us. We are the Rat Pack of dance, and we’re going to have a Vegas-style party. It’s going to be a riot.” 

Vincent Simone said:

“As if I haven’t got myself into enough trouble every single night of our last two tours together, our brand new show is inspired by Sin City. What could possibly go wrong? I can’t wait for everybody to find out!” 

James Jordan said:

“We spent the last two years proving to everyone that we’ve still got it, so as long as my body holds up, I look forward to bringing our most dazzling dance spectacular yet, with my brothers in dance, to audiences across the UK.”

Ian Waite said:

“After having an absolute blast on tour with the guys, it’s now all about Vegas: After Hours for 2026. Maximum glitz, maximum glamour. I’m already there.”

Pasha Kovalev said:

“Vegas, baby! Can’t wait for this tour. The Legends shows have been such a blast, but I’ve got a feeling Vegas: After Hours is going to top them all!”

From Strictly to Sin City, Vegas: After Hours is the ultimate dance spectacle!

Book tickets for Vegas: After Hours here.

Find more theatre shows across Liverpool on our calendar.

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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 Lake House is set to become Liverpool’s ultimate destination for festive fun this year with a full calendar of Christmas events for the whole family to enjoy plus Santa’s enchanting Grotto, and this year, the lakeside retreat with welcome the launch of Winter Wonder-Lawn.

Brand new for 2025, Winter Wonder-Lawn will see The Lake House’s iconic lawn transformed beneath a spectacular heated and covered tent. Guests can enjoy a host of festive events in comfort, alongside Christmas street food, delicious seasonal drinks and cosy winter charm.

From Christmas parties to an Elf Pantomime, Drag Queen Christmas bingo, a Frozen meet and greet with Elsa and Anna and a magical Christmas Eve family evening with live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy whether it’s family, groups of friends, colleagues or couples, and what’s even better is The Lake House has 13 welcoming hotel rooms for those wanting to leave their car behind and continue the festivities.

Alongside the events, The Lake House will also transform into a magical wonderland complete with Santa’s Lakeside Grotto as well as delicious Christmas dishes including loaded fries packed with turkey, bacon, cranberry sauce, brie and fresh sage, moreish brie balls, bratwursts and Yorkshire pudding wraps packed with sliced turkey, stuffing and gravy.

Guests can wash their festive dishes down with Christmas inspired cocktails and winter warming hot chocolates and mulled wine.

The Lake House’s events calendar:

• The Christmas Do is perfect for office parties with a festive arrival drink and three delicious courses, a Lakeside party atmosphere and DJ on all evening. Dates available: 28th and 29th November, 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th and 19th December.
  
• On Sunday 30th November, from 11am-1pm there will be a visit from Santa himself! With plenty of festive cheer and photo opportunities with the man himself inside his magical Lakeside Grotto and guests can choose to also enjoy breakfast first or stay for lunch after at The Lake House. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
  
• The Elf Pantomime will entertain the whole family on Sunday 7th December outside on the highly anticipated Winter Wonder-Lawn.
  
• On Thursday 11th December, it’s Drag Bingo in Winter Wonder-Lawn with plenty of laughs and prizes!
  
• Families can escape the cold with a Frozen meet and greet in Winter Wonder-Lawn on Sunday 21st December.
  
• Before the big day, The Lake House will welcome families for a magical evening of live music from 6-8pm on Christmas Eve to get everyone in the festive spirit.

Josh Roberts, Managing Director of The Lake House, said:

“Christmas at The Lake House is always an incredibly special time, but this year marks the launch of Winter Wonder-Lawn; a new festive retreat on the lake that’s fully heated and covered and packed with a variety of Christmas themed events to get everyone into the spirit before the big day.

“From office parties to pantomimes, Santa’s Lakeside Grotto and more, we can’t wait to welcome groups of friends, families and colleagues alike to enjoy plenty of festive cheer, complete with Christmas food specials and much-loved winter warmers including mulled wine and a range of indulgent hot chocolates. Tickets are limited for each event so please secure yours in advance to make sure you can join us on your preferred date.”

Visit The Lake House website here.

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.

In 2021, Demi Morris, from Wrexham, was 17 when she was working her way through her final A-level exams when she suffered a bleed on the brain.

Rushed to The Walton Centre for lifesaving surgery, the initial procedure was deemed too risky, reverting to an open brain operation instead.

It was discovered that Demi had an Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM), which is a tangle of blood vessels in the brain or on the brain surface. This causes blood to bypass the usual network of vessels and flows directly from arteries to veins. Demi’s AVM ruptured massively, causing haemorrhaging.

Demi said: “I’d just finished an eight-hour shift at the chip shop I worked at near home with a bad headache. I blacked out and woke up in intensive care at The Walton Centre. I couldn’t believe it, but I understand now how bad it was. The bleed was described as catastrophic.”

The surgical team at the specialist neurosciences hospital attempted to embolise. This procedure is where a catheter is used to deliver special materials like medical glue or particles into the abnormal vessels. This blocks blood flow to the AVM, reducing its size, helping to protect against bleeding, but this was deemed too risky. After monitoring, the team decided to perform a bifrontal craniotomy in order to excise the AVM. 

Demi said: “The operation took 12 hours, but ultimately they were able to remove the AVM. I was able to recover and go back to college to complete my A-levels. At this point I had already been inspired to pursue a career in nursing. I was blown away by the level of care and professionalism I received at The Walton Centre.” 

Fast-forward to the summer of 2022, Demi had a check-up scan, which revealed the AVM had returned.

Demi continued: “I was on a family holiday when I got the call from the hospital to return as soon as possible. We cut the trip short and came to The Walton Centre the next day. I was devastated, but I knew it was something that could happen.”

Demi’s clinicians ruled out further surgery owing to the risky area of the brain her AVM was in. The Trust referred her for stereotactic radiosurgery at Sheffield Teaching Hospital. The procedure involves targeted therapy which could significantly reduce or even eliminate the AVM and risk of it returning.

Demi said: “This procedure involved having a metal frame drilled to my head. The frame is crucial to the treatment and forms the basis for accurately identifying the position of the AVM. It was cumbersome wearing a metal frame for 13 hours at a time, but ultimately, they eliminated the AVM. I’m so grateful!”

Now, Demi has completed her nursing degree at Wrexham University, and has taken up a nursing post on a surgical ward. She said: “I’d rather not have had something like an AVM happen to me, but the big positive I’ve taken from it is that it’s inspired me to become a nurse. I feel so proud to have achieved my goal of completing my nursing degree. I would love to work in neurology one day. I want to care for people who are going through what I have experienced.

“I also think it’s important to show people that there is life after brain injury. That, despite setbacks, you can do anything! I will be forever thankful for the care I received at The Walton Centre. It literally changed my life.”

Visit The Walton Centre website here.

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.

A new photographic exhibition in Liverpool telling the story of Toxteth’s Black musicians of the 1950s and 1960s, whose influence reached The Beatles and beyond, has now opened

Running until 1st August 2026 at the University of Liverpool’s Victoria Gallery & Museum, Toxteth: The Harlem of Europe is a free exhibition featuring portraits by Liverpool photographer Ean Flanders. Alongside striking new images of musicians from that era, Flanders also captures portraits of their descendants.

Presented in partnership with local charity Mandela8, arts development organisation Northern Roots, and the VG&M, the exhibition draws on the knowledge and memories of community figures such as singer Ramon “Sugar” Deen and Carol Phillips – daughter of Harold “Lord Woodbine” Phillips, and elders who were active in the area during this era.

Toxteth: The Harlem of Europe celebrates Toxteth’s Black musicians from across two decades, telling the story of a generation whose talent and innovation helped shape the sound of modern British music.

Legends from Liverpool’s music scene feature, including: Chris Amoo and Dave Smith from The Real Thing, Garry Christian from The Christians, Ramon “Sugar” Deen from The Harlems, Joe Ankrah and Alan Harding from The Chants, female harmony group Distinction, and reggae artist Ramon Judah, who continues to champion Liverpool 8’s rich musical tradition today.

Nicola Euston, Head of Museums and Galleries at the University of Liverpool, said:

“We’re delighted to host this exhibition at the Victoria Gallery & Museum, helping to shine a spotlight on this significant moment in not only Liverpool’s history but that of the global music scene. As signatories of the Liverpool Arts and Culture Race Equality Manifesto, we are committed to ensuring our programmes reflect the diversity and richness of the communities we serve. It has been a pleasure to work once again with Ean Flanders, and to collaborate with Northern Roots, Mandela and L8 community members on a project that is both celebratory and deeply rooted in Liverpool’s cultural heritage.”

The exhibition will examine how out of the racial inequality of 1950s and 60s Liverpool emerged a rich, dynamic music scene centred on the vibrant nightlife of Toxteth in L8. Clubs such as the Whitehouse, the Palm Cove, and Dutch Eddies became hubs of creativity and musical excellence. Complementing Flanders’ portraits will be a selection of archival images, bringing to life this time in L8’s history.

Key figures included The Chants – backed at times by The Beatles – The Harlems, The In Crowd, “The Godfather” Odie Taylor, Derry Wilkie, and Lord Woodbine (Harold Phillips), a Trinidadian calypsonian who first sampled Liverpool nightlife whilst serving in the RAF during WW2 before returning to the UK on the Windrush. Woodbine, known affectionately as “Woody”, formed the Royal Caribbean Steel Band, mentored The Beatles, promoted them at his New Colony Club, and helped drive them to Hamburg for their first major break.

In 1964, when The Beatles refused to play for segregated audiences in the US, Paul McCartney said:

“It wasn’t a political decision – we’re from Liverpool – all the bands, Black, white, we all just played together.”

Ean Flanders said:

“It is a pleasure to be working once again at the Victoria Gallery & Museum. My involvement in this project grew from hearing the many stories of the artists and musicians of that era, and the struggles and inequalities they endured. I feel it is vital that these pioneers are acknowledged, not only for the influence they had in Liverpool, but also for the impact they made far beyond the city.”

Co-Founder of Northern Roots, Adam Collerton said:

“This exhibition features legends from the Liverpool music scene, Chris Amoo and Dave Smith from the Real Thing, Garry Christian from the Christians, Ramon “Sugar” Deen from the Harlems, Joe Ankrah and Alan Harding from the Chants, Distinction who carried the legacy through into the 1980s and reggae artist Ramon Judah who has carried the torch of Liverpool 8’s musical heritage into the present day.

“Liverpool is home to Europe’s oldest Black community, this being mainly due to the city’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. The early Black community included sailors, previously enslaved people from the Americas and the sons of African rulers, all of whom contributed to the rich cultural heritage of the area where many of them settled – Toxteth in Liverpool 8.
 
“This exhibition celebrates the enduring impact of these inspirational artists and the resilient, creative community of Toxteth that gave rise to them.”

Chair of Mandela8, Sonia Bassey said:

“Liverpool is home to one of Europe’s oldest Black communities, rooted in the city’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade and its global maritime connections. The earliest Black presence included enslaved and formerly enslaved Africans brought to Liverpool by ship captains, as well as Black seamen who settled after working on merchant and naval vessels.

“Over time, the community was also shaped by African-Caribbean migrants and the sons of African rulers sent for education, all of whom contributed to the rich cultural heritage of Toxteth on Liverpool 8, the area where many of them settled. This exhibition celebrates the enduring impact of these inspirational artists, and the resilient creative community of Toxteth that gave rise to them.”

The exhibition will be accompanied by an events programme including a performance from KOF + Jazz Gittens at the Tung Auditorium on Wednesday 29 October 2025 (1-1.50pm).

Toxteth: The Harlem of Europe is curated by Ean Flanders, Northern Roots and Leonie Sedman, Curator of Heritage and Collections Care at the University of Liverpool.

Prostate Cancer UK is the exhibition’s charity partner. It is working with Toxteth, The Harlem of Europe to raise awareness of prostate cancer and the importance of early diagnosis. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with1 in 8 men diagnosed in their lifetime. The risk is even greater for Black men, who face double the risk.

Find out more about ‘Toxteth: The Harlem of Europe’ on the Victoria Gallery & Museum website here.

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.

Yasmin has filmed with Sue Johnston and John McArdle as her character Esme, who resides in Brookside Close, is the daughter of heritage Brookside character, Jacqui Dixon, played by Hollyoaks Actor, and Yasmin’s mum, Alex Fletcher.

As Esme bids Later to her fellow Brookside residents, she heads to a Liverpool nightclub where she gets up to some fun with a few Chester teenagers…

Talking about her Hollyoaks appearance, Yasmin said:

“I’ve absolutely loved being a part of the Brookside and Laters episodes. 

“There has been such a nostalgic energy on set, and I’m really looking forward to seeing it all come together to celebrate 30 years of Hollyoaks.” 

Yasmin Davies is currently filming season 3 of BAFTA nominated G’wed and recently finished working on a two-part story in Silent Witness with Emilia Fox. She played Suranne Jones’s daughter in Maryland. 

Credits also include The Gathering and The Tower. Yasmin is about to start a BA course at the prestigious drama school RADA.

Talking about working with Yasmin, BAFTA winning director Martin Smith said:

“Yasmin is such an exciting actor and a joy to have on set. I directed her in the upcoming series of Silent Witness in a challenging role that she embraced and shone in. A delight to work with, she is a real livewire and a talent to keep an eye out for. 

“Not only a resourceful actor, she is a natural on the film set, and a real team player whose enthusiasm was infectious. I can’t wait to see what she does next and being a huge fan of Brookside back in the day, am really looking forward to seeing her in this new role.”

You can watch the Hollyoaks and Brookside Crossover on Channel 4.

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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.

Hollyoaks can now confirm that Brook Debio and Chloe Atkinson will also be joining the Hollyoaks cast, taking over the roles of Ant and Dee Dee Hutchinson, previously played by Lacey Findlow and William Thompson. 

Chloe, Leo and Brook will make their Hollyoaks debut on Monday 20^th October, during the Channel 4 soap’s 30^th anniversary week – as their characters attend their parents, Tony (Nick Pickard) and Diane (Alex Fletcher)’s wedding. Aubrey Burgess continues her role as Tony and Diane’s youngest daughter, Eva Hutchinson.

Talking about her new role, Chloe Atkinson said:

“I am so excited and grateful to be joining the cast of Hollyoaks as Dee Dee Hutchinson. My time here so far has been truly amazing, and I cannot wait to continue the journey. The rest of the cast has welcomed me with open arms. I couldn’t finish this message without mentioning Lacey Findlow and how lucky I feel to show you a different side to the character she brought to life and played so incredibly well.”

Brook added:

“It’s been so exciting joining the cast of Hollyoaks as Ant Hutchinson – it’s a real privilege to be part of a well-established and welcoming family. Filming has been a blast- especially with some of the intense scenes we’ve been shooting. I’m really grateful to have been trusted with such an important storyline…”

Brook has previously appeared in a special episode of Coronation Street earlier this year as a young Kit Green.

You can watch Hollyoaks on Channel 4.

Find all the latest Liverpool news 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.

Celebrate Christmas at the Palm House in Sefton Park announces another incredible programme of events to suit young minds, party animals, super shoppers, festive foodies and music lovers alike.

From story time with Father Christmas to party time with friends and colleagues, this beautiful, iconic venue, which marks its 130^th anniversary next year, continues to be a focal point for events and a free community programme, taking Christmas hosting to another level.

Kate Johnson, CEO of Sefton Park Palm House said:

“Christmas at the Palm House is something really special as our huge conservatory brings the outside in, allowing visitors to enjoy December’s beautiful wintery weather and the mental benefits of being surrounded by plants and greenery, while being safe and dry indoors. It really is unique.

“We have worked with our local partners to put together a programme of wonderful free events this December, along with some not-to-be-missed ticketed events to give people some great opportunities to celebrate Christmas with friends, families and colleagues. These include our Christmas Party and Disco Nights and musical evenings with a variety of renowned choirs, with all proceeds going towards supporting the Palm House and our ongoing community work.”

Give the gift of a Palm House Christmas…

As a charity run by Sefton Park Palm House Charitable Trust, buying tickets to any paid for event supports the free community programme, the preservation of the botanical collection and keeping the building open and accessible year-round, for free. As a gift to the City of Liverpool nearly 130 years ago, the Palm House has been bringing joy to visitors ever since, and is the perfect gift this Christmas, either for yourself, or another.

Book a special afternoon tea for a pre-Christmas catch up or pop into the Little Frost Fair the weekend before Christmas to pick up some last-minute gifts. But don’t forget that plants, cuppas and cake are on sale all year round for the perfect gift of self-care to you or someone who needs it most.

A beautiful new print has also been created by Penny Lane’s A Slower Space which can be purchased directly from the Palm House, as a gorgeous Christmas gift for someone who loves this unique Liverpool landmark, as so many people do.

Find more information on the Sefton Park Palm House website.

Find your ultimate guide to Christmas 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.

Southport Bid will be hosting the the ‘Southport Christmas Spectacular’ this November and its completely free!

Families are invited to the ‘Southport Christmas Spectacular’ this November, with a huge kids party and non-stop entertainment throughout the day.

This free festive event, organised by Southport BID, will take place on Saturday 15th November 2025.

A packed programme of festive activities in the town centre will open the Christmas calendar in Southport in style!

Visitors can enjoy a huge kids Christmas party in the Town Hall Gardens on Lord Street between 11am and 4pm including a stage show with appearances from famous children’s TV characters, dance schools, and local performers.

People can expect to see:

·         Peppa Pig Dance Party

·         Bluey and Bingo Activation

·         Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures Show

·         K-Pop Demons Show from Starkidz

·         Popstars Show from Regally Royal

·         Spiderman appearance

·         Local dance schools performing throughout the day

Following the conclusion of the live acts, don’t miss the launch of a brand-new interactive music show on the LED Christmas tree in the Town Hall Gardens which will animate in colour to music.

At intervals throughout the day, there will be opportunities for people to get pictures in a brand new ‘Character Zone’ with Bluey & Bingo, and Peppa Pig, Mummy Pig and baby sister, Evie.

Facepainting, craft stalls, and further activities will provide even more fun at the event.

The fun doesn’t stop there!

Following on from the stage show in the Town Hall Gardens, the festivities start in the Northern Quarter at The Grand on Lord Street.

The Big Christmas Sing show, hosted by Regally Royal Parties, can be enjoyed between 4pm and 7pm.

People will be entertained by DJs including Nick The Lunatic and Sunset Ali, with The Atkinson Choir also performing.

Also at The Grand will be a mini food and drink market outside where you can expect Bellinis, sandwiches, hot chocolate and mulled wine.

The Big Christmas Lights Switch On at The Grand takes place at 7pm.

There’s also plenty of events happening around town centre on Saturday 15th November, including an Artisan Market at Southport Market which will be followed by Big Fish Little Fish Children Rave; the original family rave.

The Atkinson is also hosting Santa’s Christmas Parties, and lots more events are yet to be announced.

Southport BID CEO Rachel Fitzgerald said:

“We’re delighted to be able to bring an unmissable day of acts that children and families will love!

“This is a fantastic free festive event for families with so much to take in.

“It will be a vibrant and exciting time to be in Southport town centre with lots of reasons to come and visit local shops, restaurants, cafes, bars and attractions.”

Find out more on the Visit Southport website.

Find more great days out in Southport 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.