The Guide Liverpool Heroes - VOTE NOW! 
One of Manchester and Leeds’ most talked-about late-night bars is about to make its Liverpool debut.
Behind Closed Doors, famous for its risqué cocktails, plush booths and phones on every table so you can call across the room, opens this Friday 12 September on Colquitt Street.
The concept first launched in Manchester’s Northern Quarter in 2017, inspired by the area’s x-rated video shop history and kitted out with a mix of 60s and 70s living room style, retro glamour and a touch of mischief. A Leeds site followed in 2024, and now Liverpool’s getting its own slice of debauchery.
Step inside and you’ll find velvet booths, moody lighting, a DJ booth made out of trolleys, and the quirky trademark telephones that let you chat (or flirt) with other tables. Add in a cocktail list of both classics and cheekily-named house creations, plus a soundtrack of funk, soul and disco, and you’ve got a bar that’s designed to get people talking – and dancing.
Behind Closed Doors Liverpool is also kitted out with spaces for every kind of night out. Groups of four to six can take over one of the intimate booths, while bigger parties can book the Mayfair Suite or Disco Room for up to 30 people. Drinks packages range from beers and prosecco to cocktail and bottle bundles, with shot trays and birthday specials to really set the tone.
Nick Parr, Director of Behind Closed Doors, said:
“We’re so excited to open our doors in Liverpool. The city knows how to party, and Behind Closed Doors is equal parts sex, rugs, funk and soul. We’ve brought all the signature features people love – the phones, the DJ booth – plus some new touches especially for Liverpool.”
The bar will be open Wednesdays and Sundays from 5pm until 3am, and Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 4am.
To celebrate the launch, Behind Closed Doors is giving away some huge prizes on Instagram – including a trip to Amsterdam for four, private hire of the Liverpool bar with a £500 bar tab, and multiple booth packages. To enter, head to their social media, share the post and tag four mates before 30 September. Winners will be announced on 3 October.
Check out their instagram here.
Get the latest news around 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.
Whether it’s jigsaws and guidebooks, quirky keyrings or classic ‘Scouseware’, the shop at Liverpool Cathedral is far more than your typical gift shop.
It feels more like a standalone boutique – a place where you’ll always discover something unique, thoughtful and perfect for that extra special someone.
So, next time you’re running around town in search of a last-minute gift, here are five reasons why Liverpool Cathedral’s shop deserves to be top of your list.
The perfect present for the Scouser in your life
From mugs proudly declaring ‘Scouser Born & Bred’ to recipe tea towels and hanging hearts, Liverpool Cathedral’s shop is brimming with playful ‘Scouseware’. Each piece celebrates the city’s rich cultural heritage and unique local language, inspired by iconic worldwide hits, famous phrases, and unmistakable Scouse wit. These keepsakes make wonderful mementos for Scousers everywhere, whether they’re ‘born and bred,’ living abroad, or simply Scouse at heart.
Gifts that honour Liverpool Cathedral’s rich history
The designer of Liverpool Cathedral, Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, is also the genius behind one of Britain’s most recognisable icons: the red telephone box, originally created to mark the Jubilee of King George V. Fittingly, Scott’s smallest design now finds a home within his greatest masterpiece: Liverpool Cathedral itself.
To honour this connection, the Cathedral shop offers a delightful range of telephone box–inspired gifts. From keyrings and money boxes to telephone box-inspired tins of tea, these souvenirs make the perfect memento of a visit to the Cathedral or a quintessential keepsake of the UK.
It’s never too early to start Christmas shopping
It’s never too early to start looking for Christmas gift inspiration – and Liverpool Cathedral’s shop is the perfect place to begin. From timeless nativity sets to unique gifts inspired by the city itself, the shop has something to suit every festive wish list. And of course, no Christmas at the Cathedral would be complete without the iconic ‘Freida McKitrick’ baubles. Whether it’s a Liverpool waterfront design, or either of the city football clubs, these baubles are a cherished favourite year after year.
Gifts to mark a special occasion
From christenings and first holy communions to statues, crosses, and rosaries, everyone connects with faith in their own unique way. However that journey looks and feels, the shop at Liverpool Cathedral offers thoughtful gifts to mark life’s most meaningful moments. From a beautiful book of prayers to a first holy communion Bible, each piece is designed to be treasured for years to come.
Experiences that last a lifetime
The Cathedral shop isn’t only about physical gifts, it’s also a gateway to unforgettable experiences. From tower tickets with breathtaking views to exhibitions and special events, the shop makes it easy to access some of Liverpool Cathedral’s most loved attractions. Best of all, every purchase directly supports the Cathedral, helping to keep its doors open for all who hold it dear.
A go-to destination for anyone looking for the perfect gift, the shop at Liverpool Cathedral is absolutely not to be missed!
Take a look at Liverpool Cathedral shop 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.
It took nearly three years to transform a derelict old factory not far from Liverpool’s waterfront into one of the biggest multi-space venues in the UK.
Now Blackstock Market has become a huge success story for the city, thanks to a unique combination of events that take it from early morning family fun sessions to late night rooftop samba parties.
Home to Hot Water Comedy Club, it’s the second largest purpose-built comedy venue in the world, with three separate in-house theatres.
But with live music seven days a week, giant screens showing every Liverpool and Everton match, eight local street food vendors, DJs and events all happening under (and on) one roof, there’s more to Blackstock Market than comedy.
Brothers Paul and Binty Blair, co-directors of Hot Water Comedy, always wanted it to have something for everyone, from day one of the multi-million pound project.
Now less than 18 months since it launched in April 2024, and just five months after completing work to open its roof terrace, Blackstock Market has become an award-winning venue that regularly fills its 1,500 capacity.
On the final day of the last Premier League season, when the Reds picked up the champion’s trophy, it was the busiest it’s ever been – packed and with a queue of 300 outside!
Paul said:
“The reason Blackstock Market exists is because of the comedy club. We knew it would grow beyond that when we created all these different spaces but the actual market itself has grown a lot quicker than we expected.
“Now people find their own space and get involved in what they want to get involved in. We have live music every night in the main market square so people come for that, there’s live music in the Whisky Bar as well and entertainment on the roof.
“You can spend a full 12 hours here and never leave – come in the daytime to an event, have something to eat, see a comedy gig and then go to the Whisky Bar or the rooftop.
“Lots of people end up staying all day because every bar’s got its own aesthetic and identity so you’re literally moving venue to venue without actually leaving the main venue.”
The 220-capacity rooftop has been a major addition since it opened in April, with a chilled vibe from Wednesday to Friday and a full-on fiesta of bongos, sax players, DJs and dancers for Samba Soiree Saturdays from midday to 11pm.
Blackstock Market’s free family fun days in the main market square every Sunday between 10am and 1pm have also proved incredibly popular.
Paul said:
“We have loads of entertainment and themes like princesses and superheroes, there’s facepainting, mascots and characters. And it’s free so families don’t have to spend anything.
“We grew up in Toxteth and we’d have loved to go to something like this but even if it had existed you’d have had to pay so we like being able to offer it free, as something we’d have enjoyed ourselves as kids.”
After a successful 2025 so far, Blackstock Market is already looking ahead and finalising plans for a busy Christmas, hosting events including Christmas party nights, a kids letters to Santa event and panto.
“One of the things I love most about the venue is it’s versatility,” adds Paul. “We can have a family fun day on the same day as a sold-out rooftop event aimed at a totally different audience, a sold-out comedy show that’s a different customer base again and a band.
“I love the fact you can do all of that in one venue and it’s seamless, everything ties together really well. I don’t think there’s anywhere else in the city that can do that like we do.”
Find out more about Blackstock Market 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.
Southport Comedy Festival 2025 has launched its search for the next Southport New Comedian of the Year.
Aspiring comedians from all over the country have been invited to apply to win one of eight places in the grand final which takes place on Tuesday 14th October 2025 as part of the 14th annual Southport Comedy Festival Under Canvas at Victoria Park in Southport.
This year’s event is sponsored for a fourth year by Dragon Soop*, a caffeinated alcoholic beverage that comes in a range of flavours.
“Dragon Soop is delighted to continue its support of the Southport Comedy Festival. We wish every act a Sooper Festival experience!”- Isabelle Kent, Sales & Marketing Director
The Southport New Comedian of the Year competition is open to all comedians who have less than four years’ experience of performing before a paying audience.
Applicants are asked to upload a short promo video onto YouTube. You can find more details on the New Comedian Competition page on the Southport Comedy Festival website.
The winner will be selected by a panel of judges and will be awarded the coveted title of ‘Southport New Comedian of the Year 2025′, in addition they will also receive a cash prize and a trophy kindly provided by Dragon Soop.
Southport Comedy Festival Director Brendan Riley said:
“We are thrilled to have Dragon Soop onboard as our sponsor for a fourth year.
“The New Comedian competition has always been a highlight of our festival.
“With so many big names performing at this year’s festival it is great to offer a night that promotes and encourages new comedians who are starting off in their career.
“A lot of comedians have gone on from this competition to enjoy full professional careers. They come and enter the competition from all over the UK.”
2023 winners The Halls of Ridiculous made up of Phil Allan-Smith & Chris Lumb had this to say of the competition – “The Southport New Comedian of the Year competition is without doubt one of the most fun and well organised competitions we’ve been involved in. It’s a great springboard for new acts, and being in the final was a great experience in front of a brilliant, large, comedy savvy audience.
“We’d encourage any acts breaking into pro line ups and paid work to enter this comp.”
Since their win The Halls of Ridiculous who merge quick fire improvised comedy with high energy character-based sketches have gone from strength to strength on the comedy circuit to include supporting multi award winning comedian and star of TV Russell Kane on his national tour. Russell has called the comedy duo “Absolutely ace”.
The 2024 winner, comedian and full-time NHS doctor Henry Michael had this to say:
“A fantastic competition run by a wonderful group of people in a lovely tent. One of my favourite places to perform in, even when they aren’t bestowing me with awards. I wish all the best to this year’s participants and will look on at this year’s winner with bitter jealousy.”
The Southport New Comedian of the Year event is part of the 17 day Southport Comedy Festival in association with Halliwell Jones Kia with a star studded lineup to include literary phenomenon and ‘Godfather of Punk Poetry’ Dr John Cooper Clarke, high-energy festival favourite Jason Byrne, universally acclaimed observational joke-master Jimeoin, American comedy legend Rich Hall, multi-award-winning comedian and broadcaster Mark Steel, internationally acclaimed Irish star Ardal O’Hanlon of Father Ted fame, Persian powerhouse and star of the silver screen Omid Djalili, comedian and Strictly Come Dancing star Chris McCausland, Irish Comedy Queen Deirdre O’Kane, Host of Smash Hit Podcast ‘Have a Word’ Dan Nightingale, comedy circuit favourite Jenny Collier, star of Britain’s Got talent Jonny Awsum, hilariously outrageous clairvoyant from Phoenix Nights Clinton Baptiste and UK comedy icon Mick Miller, the beloved “bald man with the long hair” and a cherished entertainer for over 40 years. There are also two special Bingo events raising funds for local charities.
Courtesy of Elite Events, this year’s festival will be staged once again in a giant luxury heated and seated marquee in Victoria Park, home of the world-renowned Southport Flower Show, from Friday 3rd October to Sunday 19th October 2025.
The Southport New Comedian Grand Final will take place on Tuesday 14th October 2025. Tickets are just £5 each which are kept low to make the events as accessible as possible.
Tickets for all shows are available from the Southport Comedy Festival website.
Find all the latest Southport 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 first image and details have been revealed for a flagship eco-friendly housing scheme at Liverpool’s Festival Gardens – a project that could see hundreds of new homes created close to the Mersey waterfront.
Liverpool City Council is working with award-winning developers Urban Splash and igloo Regeneration to deliver an innovative, sustainable neighbourhood on one of the country’s largest brownfield sites, transforming what was once a former landfill into a thriving community.
The scheme will showcase 34 different styles of homes designed to suit a wide mix of needs – from co-housing and family homes to retirement living and self-build. Plans include a strong focus on renewable energy and cutting-edge construction techniques to keep its carbon footprint low.
If approved by the Council’s Cabinet next week, a planning application for phase one is expected to be submitted in late 2026, proposing 440 homes – including 80 extra care and 110 affordable homes, well above the city’s usual target. Construction could begin in spring 2027, with later phases bringing the total to around 800 homes.
The project also builds on the legacy of the 1984 International Garden Festival, which helped transform the site into Liverpool’s first new public park of the 21st century. More than 95% of the materials excavated during remediation of the land were recycled, paving the way for this landmark development.
As well as homes, the masterplan will include new community facilities, high-quality open space, and infrastructure to support a growing residential neighbourhood.
Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said:
“We have always wanted to deliver an amazing housing scheme befitting this stunning location. The plans outlined show that ambition can and will be delivered, and we’re excited for residents to have their say as the project develops.”
Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram, added:
“Festival Gardens has the potential to be one of the most exciting and transformational brownfield developments in the country. This is about more than just bricks and mortar – it’s about building a place people are proud to call home.”
Jonathan Falkingham, co-founder of Urban Splash, said:
“Our aim is to create a place for everyone, embracing the spirit of the original Garden Festival with outstanding housing design, healthier living, and community at its heart.”
Peter Connolly, chief executive at igloo Regeneration, added:
“Festival Gardens will create a thriving new neighbourhood for every stage of life, and a lasting impact for the city region.”
Follow all of Liverpool City Council’s news at www.liverpoolexpress.co.uk
Keep up to date with the latest news around the city region here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Liverpool’s most historic venues are getting ready to sparkle this December with a packed programme of festive events at Liverpool Town Hall, St George’s Hall and Croxteth Hall.
From Santa story time and lantern-lit carols to silent discos and even a Christmas grotto for dogs, the city’s landmark halls are pulling out all the stops to make this Christmas one to remember.
At Liverpool Town Hall, little ones can settle in for Story Time with Santa, where Father Christmas and Buddy the Elf will be sharing festive tales and songs in the stunning surroundings of the historic building. Sensory-friendly sessions will also be available, with dates running from Saturday 6 to Wednesday 24 December.
The Town Hall will also host two magical candlelight concerts in November and December, offering a chance to enjoy seasonal music in an elegant heritage setting.
St George’s Hall will once again be at the heart of the city’s celebrations. On Sunday 5 October and Sunday 2 November, St George’s Hall will host its seasonal Christmas market, transforming the inside space into a bustling festive hub with over 80 independent traders and local artisans offering a wonderful selection of art, crafts, homeware, and unique gifts. It will take place from 10am to 4.30pm.
Carols by Lantern Light returns after last year’s sell-out success, taking place on Wednesday 3 and Wednesday 10 December with performances from Professor Ian Tracey, soloist Danielle Thomas and a classical choir.
For something a little different, Silent Night: A Silent Disco Wonderland is back on Saturday 6 December for over-18s only, with three music channels, festive visuals and a huge party atmosphere. Families can get involved earlier in the day with Disco Kids: The Ultimate Family Disco – a high-energy silent disco designed especially for children and their grown-ups.
Over at Croxteth Hall, dogs can join the festive fun at Santa Paws, a special grotto where four-legged friends can meet Santa, grab a treat and a gift, and pose for the ultimate Christmas photo. Santa Paws runs on selected dates from Saturday 13 to Sunday 21 December.
The Christmas programme at Liverpool City Halls is part of the wider festive offer across the city, including the return of Liverpool’s Christmas Markets outside St George’s Hall from Friday 15 November to Tuesday 24 December.
For full event details and booking links, visit the Liverpool City Halls website.
A Christmas Carol is set for St George’s Hall this December – check it out.
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.
Wayne Rooney responses to claims from Michael Owen that he was the better of the two players at the age of 17.
Owen burst on to the scene as a precocious teenager with Liverpool in the late 1990s before Rooney did likewise at Everton a few years later.
Rooney went on to have the more successful career overall of the two forwards, but Owen – in a debate prompted in a recent interview with Rio Ferdinand – feels his achievements in their initial years were greater.
Owen, who won the Ballon d’Or when he was 22, wrote on X:
“At 17 I scored 18 PL goals (winning the Golden Boot), Wazza scored 6. At 18 I again scored 18 goals (again winning the Golden Boot and coming 4th in The Ballon d’Or), Wazza scored 9.
“In our opening 7 seasons, Wazza didn’t outscore me once (117 goals v 80). In which time I became the 2nd youngest Ballon d’Or winner ever.
“Injuries hindered me from then on while he sustained his level. Therefore, he’ll go down as a better player than me. But, at 17, please……”
Owen, 45, scored 222 goals in a 482-game club career which also included spells at Real Madrid, Newcastle, Manchester United and Stoke before retiring at 32 as injuries took their toll. He also scored 40 goals for England.
Rooney, now 39, moved to United at 18 and went on to become their record goalscorer with 253, winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League along the way. He also netted a then-record 53 times for England.
Rooney, speaking on his own The Wayne Rooney Show, said:
“Me and Michael were very different players, different attributes.
“Michael Owen at 17, 18 was incredible. I used to go out on the streets and pretend to be him, I’d pretend to be Michael Owen, even though he played for Liverpool!
“Unfortunately, he did get his injuries and he probably couldn’t adapt his game maybe as well as I could.
“I think his comments are fair. Of course, he’s going to back himself. I’d back myself.
“But, I’d never judge myself against Michael Owen because he’s someone I actually looked up to and had the pleasure of playing alongside.”
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.
Hundreds of kidney patients, families and supporters are preparing to take part in the first ever Kidney Research UK Liverpool Bridges Walk to raise funds for vital research on Sunday 14 September.
Having funded more than £1m of research at the University of Liverpool over the last 10 years, the UK’s leading kidney research charity is bringing people impacted by kidney disease together for a joyful fundraising walk across the city’s iconic bridges.
Participants can choose between a 6.5-mile or 2.1-mile route, taking in the city’s most famous landmarks and waterfront views. All money raised will help Kidney Research UK fund new treatments and transform the lives of people affected by kidney disease.
The walk will also celebrate Liverpool’s growing role at the forefront of kidney research. Scientists here are working on projects that could transform patient care at every stage of treatment. Kidney disease currently affects more than seven million people in the UK – including around 0.5 million people across Cheshire and Merseyside.
Among those taking part in the Liverpool Bridges Walk will be 40-year-old Christy Millar, from Upton, who is currently receiving dialysis while she waits for a third kidney transplant.
She said:
“I can’t wait to do the walk, it’s a great way to meet people each going through their own kidney journey and raise funds for a brilliant charity.”
Christy’s life was devastated when she suddenly became seriously unwell in 2006, just as she finished university. She spent three months in intensive care because of a burst appendix which had caused sepsis and kidney failure. This left her needing a strict routine of dialysis treatment for more than five years, either side of a failed transplant from her husband, Steve.
A transplant from a deceased donor gave Christy nearly a decade without the restrictions of dialysis, but this kidney began to fail last year. She is now once again receiving dialysis and is on the waiting list for another transplant. She hosts her own podcast, Chronically Christy, to connect with and inspire other patients.
Christy says:
“My life is on hold again while I wait for that phone call – to let me know a kidney transplant is available. Dialysis can be very isolating and needing to be in hospital for treatment three days a week prevents me from doing a lot of things I enjoy. I’d love to be able to explore the world and travel again.
“I understand how significantly kidney patients are affected, and that’s why I’m joining the Liverpool Bridges Walk – to make a difference. I’ll be with my husband Steve, my dogs, and a few of my dialysis nurses on the day. I want to raise awareness, meet others going through similar challenges, and support life-changing research.”
Sandra Currie, chief executive of Kidney Research UK, said:
“This is the first time we’ve brought one of our Bridges walks to Liverpool, and we’re delighted to be here. Liverpool is home to some of the most innovative kidney research in the country, and this event will both celebrate that and help fund the next breakthroughs. We’re encouraging everyone – patients, families, clinicians and the wider community – to join us, walk together, and show their support to end kidney disease.”
Find out more about the Kidney Research UK Liverpool Bridges Walk 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.
Gulliver’s World is set to host a Family Fun Run later this month – and it’s all in aid of Warrington’s St Rocco’s Hospice.
On Sunday 21 September, runners of all ages will lace up their trainers and take on the fun run around the resort before enjoying a full day at the theme park. Entry is just £12.50 for participants, with £2.50 from every ticket going straight to St Rocco’s. Non-runners can join the day for a reduced price too, from £17 per person.
The day kicks off with registration at 9am, a warm-up at 9.30am and the run itself from 9.45am. Everyone who takes part will receive a Family Fun Run medal at the finish line before the rides open at 10.30am.
Craig Clews, resort director at Gulliver’s World, said:
“Our fun runs are always fabulous, colourful events and the buzz around the resort is superb, with lots of runners taking part in our fancy dress competition. Whether you’re a regular runner, new to it, or haven’t done one in a while, book your place early and make sure you’ve got a space at the starting line.”
St Rocco’s Hospice provides specialist end-of-life care for people across Warrington, with most of its £5 million annual running costs raised through donations and community fundraising.
As well as supporting a vital local cause, families heading to the fun run will get to explore all of Gulliver’s World’s 50+ rides and attractions – including new additions for 2025. The brand-new Land of Oz area features the gravity-defying Upside Down House, The Winged Monkeys adventure ride, and Munchkin Motors.
There’s also the Pirate Ship, Desperado Drop, the Antelope Wooden Coaster, Gulliver’s Gears car-themed rides and plenty of animatronic dinosaurs to discover.
For families wanting to make a weekend of it, Gulliver’s World offers themed accommodation, from pirate and unicorn hotel rooms to lodges, tipis and dens at Wilderness Wharf.
The Family Fun Run takes place on Sunday 21 September at Gulliver’s World, Warrington.
For tickets and more information head to the Gulliver’s World website.
Find out more about St Rocco’s Hospice here.
Get the latest news around Liverpool with us at The Guide Liverpool.
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.
Explore the social and cultural power of hair in a brand-new photographic display Curly Blows, Cuts and Curlers at the Museum of Liverpool from October.
From the iconic mop tops made famous by The Beatles to the unmistakable ‘curly blows’ that have defined the scouse look in more recent times, the display explores the connections between hair salons, identity and community.
Through striking photography and rarely seen images from the Museum’s own collections, Curly Blows, Cuts and Curlers is a fun look at Liverpool’s love affair with hair.
The display features the work of renowned photographers, including Alex Hurst, Abdullah Badwi, Paul Trevor, and The Caravan Gallery, each offering a distinct lens on the city’s salons, barbershops, and beloved ‘style queens’. Together, these photographs explore stories of family, fashion, pride, and place in a city that isn’t afraid to glow up.
Kay Jones, curator at Museum of Liverpool, said:
“It’s been a great experience delving into the Museum’s collections revealing amazing photographs which tell a multitude of stories about hair, identity, and the city.
“The images have really been brought to life incorporating the previously untold stories of people featured the photographs alongside the personal insights of the photographers inspired to take the shots.
“What is very apparent is the importance of salons and barbers in our communities bringing people together, whilst helping us to express our unique personal styles overtime, often in fun and outrageous ways!”
From barbers to high-street salons, Curly Blows, Cuts and Curlers is a series of 17 photographs that highlights the power of hair. It opens in the Museum of Liverpool’s Skylight Gallery on 3 October and is free to all visitors.
Find out more information on the Liverpool Museums 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.
Get ready to rev your engines – Back to the Future The Musical has announced its first ever UK tour and it’s stopping off in Liverpool for a four-week run at the Empire Theatre in early 2027.
The smash-hit show, based on the legendary 1985 film, will arrive in the city from Tuesday 12 January to Saturday 6 February 2027.
Currently in its fifth year in London’s West End, the musical has already been seen by more than 2 million people at the Adelphi Theatre and has become a worldwide sensation. Productions are running in North America, Japan and even on Royal Caribbean cruises, with more to come in Australia and Germany.
Producer Colin Ingram said:
“I’m so delighted that the DeLorean will be travelling 88mph to all the main theatre cities in the UK. Audiences are going to have such a fun and thrilling ride in a show which will tour in all its glory and be one of the biggest sets to come out on the road.”
The musical features a book by Bob Gale, co-creator of the original film trilogy, and brand-new music by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard, alongside classic songs from the movie including The Power of Love and Johnny B. Goode.
Directed by Tony Award-winner John Rando, with an award-winning creative team behind the spectacular staging, the show promises to deliver the full cinematic adventure on stage.
The original film, starring Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly and Christopher Lloyd as Doc Brown, celebrates its 40th anniversary this year – making the tour announcement perfectly timed for fans.
Tickets for Back to the Future The Musical at Liverpool Empire Theatre go on general sale at 10am on Wednesday 10 September 2025, with ATG+ members able to book now.
Get your tickets via the website here.
A brand new musical featuring the hits of Steps is heading to Liverpool – check it out.
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.
After two years of IVF, Lauren Bolton was losing hope of ever becoming a mum.
Four miscarriages and numerous failed attempts to get pregnant had taken their toll and, as her marriage to husband Joe suffered, she turned to alcohol to help cope with the heartache and disappointment.
“It’s awful,” she admits. “IVF puts you on the biggest roller coaster of ups and downs, and it’s desperately hard.
“I started partying with my mates, and I put on weight because I wasn’t looking after myself.”
Now though, after turning to Slimming World to lose the excess stones, Lauren, 32, from Tuebrook, is the proud mum of Ethan and Lottie, both born naturally.
And she says:
“Losing weight gave me hope, it gave me my health and confidence … and it made me a mum.”
Lauren got married to Joe, a 32-year-old software developer, when they were both 21.
“We’d known each other since we were 11 and we were best friends at school,” she says. “It wasn’t until we were 18 that we got together though, and we married after we left university (we both went to Edge Hill).”
At first Lauren and Joe, who live in Ormskirk, were busy enjoying their new life together and neither was in a rush to have a baby.
But as time went on it became the natural next step.
“We were about 24 when we started trying for a baby. We’d been really happy being together and then that seemed like the natural progression for us,” says Lauren.
“But it just didn’t happen.
“After about a year of trying we went to the doctors who, because we were both young, sent us for tests, but everything came back normal. We were just told it was unexplained infertility.”
Keen now to start a family, Lauren and Joe started to undergo IVF:
“We were entitled to two rounds, and after the first round we were lucky to end up with 12 embryos which could be implanted.
“But they either didn’t stick or I miscarried. I had four miscarriages, the latest at eight weeks when we’d already told close family, like both our mums, that I was expecting twins.
“It was awful, and after a while we both really struggled. I always say I would never put myself through that again to try to have another child, although I know for many it’s very successful. Joe’s cousin got pregnant on the first try!
“But it was the biggest rollercoaster of emotions for us, mentally demanding and, for me, physically too.
“Joe struggled seeing me go through it, and for both of us we had those two weeks of waiting and hope after they’ve implanted one or two embryos – and then you have to pick yourselves up again when it doesn’t work.
“We used our last embryo in July 2018 and we were in a rocky patch. It had taken its toll on both of us, and we’d lost a lot of hope.
“Joe has aways struggled with his weight, and when you are in so much heartache you stop looking after yourself. Joe had piled the weight on, snacking and eating unhealthily, and I used alcohol, going out with my friends … neither of us were feeling great.”
It was Christmas 2018 that the pair decided they needed to make a change, to lose weight – and to save their marriage.
In January 2019 they both joined Slimming World and by May Joe had lost four stones, and Lauren, 2½st.
“I joined as much to support Joe but because I’d also slowly put weight on.
“Joe went from 20st to 16st, and I went from 10½st to 8½st. But it wasn’t just about the weight. We completely changed our lifestyles – and it brought us back together.
“We started swimming, which helped mentally and physically, and we spent time cooking healthy meals from scratch and planning recipes together instead of opening up a jar.”
Lauren, who changed her job as a counsellor and hypnotherapist to become a Slimming World consultant and now team leader, admits any thoughts of becoming pregnant went out of her head.
And then she found out she had conceived naturally with her son, Ethan, who’s now five.
“We were delighted. The anxiety and fear were still there because of the gruelling years we’d been through, but we were over the moon when he was born in December 2019.
“We had just gone into lockdown in 2020 when I found out I was pregnant with Lottie, who’s now four.
“I know a lot of people hated lockdown and it was awful for many. But while not being around family was hard, we could enjoy being our little family and have that quality time together after all the heartache and longing.
“Losing weight, and eating healthily from scratch, put us in the best place possible to have Ethan and Lottie, and I think for the first time in a long time, helped us to feel in control of everything.
“I love being a mum, and I can’t imagine being without my children now (I always say Ethan was the boy who mended my heart after IVF).
“I never taken Ethan or Lottie for granted. I appreciate every day because of what we went through. When it’s hard I remind myself, this is what I’d dreamed of.
“Going to Slimming World changed everything. I lost weight, but I gained my confidence back, my health and my hope – and, like I say, it made me a mum.
“Now if I can give that same hope to someone else, I’ll be happy.”
Lauren will be starting her own Slimming World group on Saturday, September 20, with weekly classes – 7.30am and 9am – at Burscough Cricket Club, School Lane, Burscough L40 4AE. Call Lauren on 07388 110461.
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 Peel Waters Dragon Boat Race returned to Liverpool Waters on September 4th raising over £40,000 for Claire House Children’s Hospice.
The event, proudly sponsored by Anchor Group Services and organised by regeneration specialists Peel Waters, saw dozens of local businesses take to the water in a vibrant display of colour, competition, and camaraderie.
The annual event located within Princes Dock, follows on from a surge of good news for Liverpool Waters with recent planning approvals the first floating Padel tennis courts and clubhouse in Great Britain to be installed within the dock and the expansion of the UK’s first public floating sauna also located at Princes Dock.
The Dragon Boat Race has become a highlight of the Liverpool business community calendar, with teams competing not just for victory on the water but also for the shared goal of supporting local children and families who need it most.
Claire House provides vital support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families across the region. The money raised through the Peel Waters Dragon Boat Race will help fund nurses to deliver Claire House’s vital services for children and families that included a 24/7 Rapid Response team delivering specialist nursing and palliative care in the home, hospital, or hospice; unplanned or emergency care including end-of-life support, and planned care such as respite stays and day groups.
Claire House’s hospice on The Wirral has provided care for children and young people across Merseyside, Cheshire and North Wales since it opened in 1998. Funds from this year’s event will also go towards Claire House’s second hospice facility in West Derby which provide a location in Liverpool for families to use as they navigate the most challenging times.
The participating teams were Anchor Group Services, Anstey Horne, Avison Young, Brabners, CBRE, Colliers, DSG Accountants, Ener-Vate, Equans, Griffiths & Armour, If We Ran The Zoo, Krol Corlettt, Peel Retail & Leisure, Peel Waters, Vital Energie and Walker Sime, each raising a minimum of £875 in sponsorship for Claire House.
During the day, the teams competed in crews of 13 boats fitted with ornately carved dragon heads and tails. Each team took part in three timed races over distances of around 200m before the knockout stages began. Food and drink were provided by local independents including Parkgate Fish and Chips, Dope Crusts, Fellicis Ice Cream and The Bus Yard
Property agents Avison Young and CBRE joined forces to compete together and were crowned the champions after winning all five of their races during the day.
Liza Marco, Assets Manager at Liverpool Waters, said:
“We are proud to once again host the Peel Waters Dragon Boat Race at Princes Dock and to see the community come together for such a fantastic cause.
“Each year the event gets bigger and bigger, with more teams competing, more crowds coming down to cheer on the competitors and with so much to do in Liverpool Waters it’s a really fun day for everyone! Raising a record £40,000 is testament to the generosity, enthusiasm, and team spirit of everyone who takes part.”
Andrew Harper, CEO at Anchor Group Services, said:
“As the event sponsor, we were thrilled to once again support this event and witness first-hand the energy and commitment of all the teams. Claire House makes an enormous difference to families facing the most difficult circumstances, and we are proud that this event helps them continue their incredible work.”
Dan Halliday, Corporate Fundraising Manager at Claire House, said:
“We are so grateful to everyone involved in the Liverpool Waters Dragon Boat Race. The funds raised ensure we can continue providing vital services – from planned respite stays to our 24/7 Rapid Response team, who support children and families in moments of greatest need. Every penny raised will make a real difference to the families we care for.”
Find out more about Liverpool Waters here.
Find out more about Claire House Children’s Hospice 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.
Bathgate Business Finance have helped a new business owner realise his vision for The Bird in Hand restaurant in Guilden Sutton, Chester.
When looking to sell the venue ahead of retirement, previous owner, Richard Bowyer, was approached by The Bird In Hand’s manager, Stavros Nicolaides, who had successfully managed the popular local restaurant for four years, using his 10 years’ experience in the hospitality sector.
The £500k purchase was part-funded through Stavros’ own personal savings, but an additional £312k was needed to complete the deal. With confidence in hospitality low amongst many high street banks, despite positive conversations and Stavros’ considerable experience, the pair were unable to secure finance from their banks but were introduced to Bathgate by Richard’s bank, Handelsbanken.
Bathgate BDM’s Ian Adams and Chris McLoughlin visited the restaurant to meet Stavros and Richard to understand the business and learn more about first-time owner Stavros’ vision for its future. Immediately seeing the potential, they worked with NatWest to secure a £312k commercial mortgage for the business.
Stavros said:
“I had worked for Richard at The Bird in Hand for four years before he put the business up for sale. I saw the opportunity immediately and had a very simple vision; to make it a lovely place for people and families to come and visit, with delicious food, great drinks and wine, and really friendly service that everyone can enjoy.
“Initially being unable to secure finance was disheartening, but as soon as we met Bathgate, they reassured us that there were other ways. They immediately demonstrated understanding of our circumstance and the people involved, rather than just numbers on paper. They were really supportive and wanted to see our vision realised as we did and showed that they had faith in us.
“Not only did they manage to find a commercial lender, but they were also there to support throughout the 12-month purchasing process. Taking the leap to become a first-time business owner is a scary plunge into the unknown, but Bathgate shared their extensive connections to also help us navigate other non-finance manners related to the business, saving me so much time and effort to find the right people to help me with my business needs. Their knowledge, kindness and expertise will not be forgotten.”
Chris McLoughlin, from Bathgate Business Finance, said:
“We were immediately impressed by Stavros’ plans for the restaurant and extensive experience in the hospitality sector. He started work in a local restaurant at 15 and had two years’ experience as an accounts operator. He has also previously worked with Richard at other establishments managing the Bird In Hand over the last four, and had extensive understanding of the local area, the business, its staff and clientele, which we believed was a recipe for success.
“Right now, securing traditional finance for hospitality is challenging, but it can be done when working with a broker with the right knowledge and network who can advocate for a venture. Working with NatWest we ensured that Richard could hand over his business to a trusted pair of hands, that Stavros had the opportunity to become a business owner and realise his vision, and that Guilden Sutton had a fantastic, family-run business at the heart of its community. We wish Richard a happy retirement and we are excited to see what Stavros, his fiancée Isabelle and the team achieve.”
Now one of the top five restaurants in Chester, The Bird in Hand takes reservations from Wednesday to Sunday, serving outstanding home cooked food made with locally sourced produce. Stavros has a host of exciting future plans, including further internal and external building renovations, introducing lunchtime and breakfast menus at the weekend and organising small events such as live music and wine tasting.
Stavros added:
“I knew it was going to be extremely hard work transitioning into ownership, and putting in 70 hours a week consistently for the last few months has been a challenge. My fiancée Isabelle’s love, support and hard work has been instrumental through it all, and as we grow and continue to succeed then it will all be worth it.
“We are extremely lucky to have such wonderful guests, whether they are first time visitors or those that come in regularly, and I also know I can go to Bathgate for advice and support with our future plans. We’re excited for the future and all that will come with it so watch this space!”
Find out more about The Bird in Hand in Guilden Sutton here.
Find all the latest Chester 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.
A Birkenhead gran is set to complete an incredible triple running challenge for Claire House in memory of her late granddaughter, Hope.
Annette Jones has already run the Chester 10K in March and the Chester Half Marathon in May to raise hundreds of pounds for the children’s hospice.
And next month the 56-year-old is hoping to reach the finish line in her most testing event yet, the Chester Metric Marathon, to say thank you to the Merseyside children’s hospice which ‘is there for people like my family in their darkest times’.
Annette says:
“I enjoy running but I’m not the best – I’ve even been known to be the last!
“But I wanted to give something back to Claire House which is truly amazing.
“It was such a difficult time when my granddaughter passed away at just 10 days old, but Claire House was there, and still are there, to support us and help us through the unthinkable.
“I think many people know about the work Claire House does for children born with life-limiting illnesses,” adds Annette, an operations assistant for United Utilities, “but I don’t feel as many people know about how much after care they offer to people who unfortunately lose a child.
“It was the little things they provided for my daughter Jess, and her husband Owen, like the hand and footprint charms which they would never have thought to get, and which are so precious now.”
Annette’s youngest daughter Jess, 31, already had two young children, Keeley who’s now six and four-year-old Myla, when she became pregnant with Hope early in 2023.
But fears grew for Jess who developed life threatening complications throughout her pregnancy.
“They were anxious about making sure they delivered Hope via a c-section due to the complications,” says Annette, “but there were no concerns about Hope at that point.”
It was when Hope was born in August at 30 weeks and rushed straight to the neonatal unit that the family realised things were wrong. Tests revealed the tiny baby had been born with various complications and had suffered oxygen deprivation throughout pregnancy.
“She was a little fighter, and we thought things were getting better when she passed the 24 hour and then 48 hour milestones,” says Annette. “But although she battled, she passed away at 10 days.
“Claire House was there for Jess and Owen though, doing the footprints and giving worry bears to Keeley and Myla so they can write down and share their worries with them.
“They have been a tremendous support for Jess and Owen and the girls, with therapy, massages, and sibling events like Easter egg hunts, as well as providing the keepsakes that mean so much and organising socials so they realised they’re not on their own.
“I decided to raise money after Owen did the Chester Marathon for Claire House last year and I saw the sense of achievement when he did that.
“A full marathon is beyond me but seeing his commitment and pride at what he’d done inspired me to do something too.
“And I decided to do the Chester Triple so I’d get not one medal but one from each race and a fourth for doing all three,” smiles Annette, who also has a daughter Toni, 34, who’s mum to Paisley.
Annette, who also did the Tunnel 10K with Owen last year, trains three times a week with three runs – a long one on Sundays – and weight-training once a week.
“It’s the hardest thing I have ever done, it’s my biggest challenge yet, but if I can raise funds and help to support people in their darkest times then it’s the least I can do.
“The pressure that Claire House took off Jess and Owen – who went on to have another daughter Aria earlier this year – and the help they gave to help them through the grieving process was incredible and if I can give even a little bit back of what they have given to us, that’s the best thing for me.
“And it’s not just the money, but raising awareness of what they do, so that other families realise there is help if they sadly need it and know that they are not alone.”
Help Annette raise funds here.
Find all the latest Wirral 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 families of three girls who were killed in a knife attack at a Southport dance class hope a public inquiry will leave “no stone unturned”, their solicitor has said.
Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, were killed by Axel Rudakubana when he targeted the Taylor Swift-themed class on July 29 last year.
The 18-year-old, who was given a life sentence with a minimum term of 52 years, also attempted to murder 10 others, including eight children.
The first phase of a public inquiry, which resumes at Liverpool Town Hall on Monday, will examine his history and his dealings with relevant agencies, along with any missed opportunities to prevent what happened.
The families’ solicitor, Christopher Walker, director of serious injury law at Bond Turner, said:
“My clients, the three bereaved families, hope the inquiry will leave no stone unturned in establishing the facts around what led to this day.
“As both the chair and the Prime Minister have said, Southport must be a line in the sand, and this inquiry must lead to change.
“We already know that the attack was preventable. What is important to establish now is how and why.
“This is clearly going to be a traumatic process for everyone involved, and it is my role to ensure my clients are fully supported and we assist the chair in establishing the truth in order to effect change.
“We are committed to bringing about change and ensuring that the legacies of Elsie, Alice, and Bebe are of hope and joy.
“Our three families cling to the hope that if they tread this painful path of discovery and uncovering the truth, no other families will have to again.”
This week, the inquiry is due to hear impact statements from families of surviving children, who cannot be named, dance teachers Leanne Lucas and Heidi Liddle and businessman Jonathan Hayes, who was stabbed when he left his office after hearing the attack.
Chairman Sir Adrian Fulford described the incident as “one of the most egregious crimes in our country’s history” in his opening statement in July.
Four impact statements from families whose children were in the class, in the studio on Hart Street, were read to the inquiry before it was adjourned over the summer.
The first phase of the inquiry is expected to hear details of previous incidents where Rudakubana was found with a knife and of three referrals made to the Government’s counter-terror programme Prevent.
His involvement with the criminal justice system, his education, his engagement with social and health care services and his relationship with his family are all expected to be analysed.
A second phase of the inquiry is expected to look at addressing the risk posed by young people who have a fixation with extreme violence.
Find more Southport 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 Guide loves sharing the stories of the incredible people who make our city region what it is.
They are the individuals, businesses, charities and organisations who do Liverpool proud.
That’s why we launched The Guide Liverpool Heroes, to shine a spotlight on their efforts and give them the credit they deserve.
We asked you to nominate your local heroes and you certainly delivered – we’ve received so many fantastic nominations from across the city region.
And now it’s time to vote for yours HERE.
Voting will be open until Tuesday September 30 ahead of The Guide Liverpool Heroes awards ceremony which takes place on Friday November 21 at Titanic Hotel.
It doesn’t matter if you didn’t get chance to nominate, we still want you to have a say in deciding who the winners are – just choose your favourites from our shortlists and make your vote count.
Awards will be presented on the night in lots of different categories, covering everything from fundraisers who go above and beyond for a cause close to their hearts, to grassroots projects making a difference in their local communities, and not forgetting the emergency services who so often risk their own lives for others.
We’ll also be recognising businesses and their owners who have made an exceptional contribution to Liverpool.
Winners will be honoured in these categories: Charity of the Year, Child of Courage, The Courage Award, Emergency Services Award, Community Project, Community Hero, Business of the Year, Business Hero, Sports Hero, Unsung Hero, Sustainability Award, Influencer Award and The Inspiration Award.
The evening will culminate with us revealing who has been named City Region Superhero. This award, selected by our panel of judges, will go to a person who’s shown an outstanding contribution to Merseyside by significantly enhancing the region’s reputation.
Managing director of The Guide Liverpool Jay Hynd said:
“We are really overwhelmed with the amount of nominations we have received, with the bulk of them all worthy winners in our eyes.
“We have read incredible stories of courage, heroism and kindness within the nominations, but it’s now time for our audience to choose their winners.”
It’s going to be a very special night, honouring a lot of very special people, so vote now to help us find our worthy winners.
Cast your vote for The Guide Liverpool Heroes 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.
The Queen Mary 2 is set to return to Liverpool later this month.
It’s a year since Cunard’s luxury ocean liner was last in the city after making the Atlantic crossing from New York for the 400th time in 2024.
The QM2 will be here for two nights – and here’s everything you need to know.
When is the QM2 next in Liverpool?
The flagship Cunard vessel will be in Liverpool from Wednesday, September 17, and depart on Friday, September 19.
What time will she arrive?
QM2 is set to arrive on the Wednesday evening.
Why is the QM2 here?
It’s visiting as part of a 12-night round-trip cruise exploring the British Isles and departing from Southampton. It will stop at Cobh in Ireland so passengers can visit Cork and, after Liverpool, the Isle of Mull in Scotland before berthing at Oban; Invergordon in the Scottish Highlands; Queensferry for Edinburgh, and then back to Southampton.
Not only that!
While QM2 is in Liverpool this month, travel agents will be invited on board to receive the cruise line’s famous White Star Service with drink receptions, training workshops, and a speciality dining experience designed to showcase the luxury Cunard has to offer.
When was QM2 built – and what makes her so special?
Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique and designed by a team led by naval architect Stephen Payne, Queen Mary 2 launched in January 2004 after being christened by her godmother, Queen Elizabeth II. It was launched as the world’s largest passenger ship and remains the largest ocean liner ever built. She is the world’s only ocean liner offering regularly scheduled transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton.
QM2 underwent remodelling and modernisation in 2016.
How big is she?
She is 1,132ft (345m) in length with a width of approx. 131 ft (39.92m) and has a gross tonnage of 149,215.
How many passengers can the cruise liner carry?
QM2 can carry 2,691 passengers and has a crew of around 1,173.
Staterooms and suites
Fourteen-decks tall, Queen Mary 2 has 1,353 staterooms, 983 of which have private balconies. There are 11 stateroom types, including 172 suites and penthouses, as well as two Grand Duplex apartments, each measuring 685.5 sq ft (209m²). Queen Mary 2’s aft Grills Suites – Balmoral, Sandringham, Windsor, Holyrood, and Buckingham – are all named after residences of the British Royal Family, whereas the forward suites – Queen Mary, Queen Anne, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth – pay tribute to the four Queens from the past millennium. Since Queen Anne joined the fleet in 2024, these names also reflect the four Cunard ships.
Special features
QM2’s Queens Room is the location of lavish gala evenings and soirees held on board and boasts the largest sprung wooden dance floor at sea.
Illuminations is the ship’s luxury 3D cinema and lecture venue.
The Carinthia Lounge, an addition during the 2016 remastering, is a bright and spacious venue on deck 7. By day it’s the place for social events, quizzes, meet-ups, or a simple coffee and cake, and by night guests can gather for live music. It boasts a long wine list and an extensive port collection!
Pets are welcome
Queen Mary 2 is home to the only kennels at sea and is the only liner to carry cats and dogs across the Atlantic. Staffed by a dedicated kennel master, the kennels are fitted with a lamppost that was originally pitched outside Cunard’s former world headquarters in Liverpool, and a New York fire hydrant to make pets feel more at home.
Dining luxury
Queen Mary 2 has no shortage of dining experiences but the Britannia Restaurant is one of the most impressive main dining rooms on board, spanning two decks linked by a grand staircase. The focal point of the room is a giant tapestry of the liner in a tickertape departure from New York by Barbara Broekman.
Other restaurants include the Britannia Club restaurant which has the same elegance but with an open dining club atmosphere; the Princess Grill, and the Queens Grill. There’s also Steakhouse at The Verandah; Kings Court which offers buffet style dining along with an area transformed into an alternative dining venue featuring menus matching the destinations Queen Mary 2 sails to, and The Golden Lion which is Queen Mary 2’s traditional British pub.
Staying fabulous and fit
Queen Mary 2’s Mareel Wellness and Beauty spa has steam rooms and a thalassotherapy pool and offers massage and specialist treatments. There’s a salon offering manicures and pedicures in addition to haircuts and blow-dries, and a barbers’ offering beard trims and shaves.
Queen Mary 2 has a fully equipped gym as well as two swimming pools (plus the Minnows pool for children). If you prefer to exercise in the open air, her Promenade Deck is almost 1,968.5ft/600m long and a perfect place for a stroll while at sea.
Fun facts
* With 14 decks, Queen Mary 2 reaches about 62m above the waterline – equal to the height of a 23-storey building
* There are more than 50 nationalities among the crew
* Queen Mary 2’s library is the largest at sea with more than 8,000 hardbacks, 500 paperbacks and 200 audio books
* Queen Mary 2 has two 2.1m-long whistles attached to the funnel, and the starboard whistle is an original from the first Queen Mary
* QM2 has four stabilisers, each weighing 70 tonnes and extending 6.2m from the hull, which together can reduce the ship’s roll by 90% making it one of the most stable passenger ships in the world
* Every ship is required to carry spare propellers and Queen Mary 2’s are found at the front of the ship on the Promenade Deck. They are affectionately known as the ‘Captain’s cufflinks’ and guests often mistake them for a modern art sculpture.
Find out more about the Queen Mary 2 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.
A brand new event in Liverpool is bringing together amazing female-led brands and inspirational women to empower young girls, and help boost their confidence and resilience.
Scouse Girl Social will feature a pop-up market covering fashion, make-up and skincare and wellness, with big favourites like Charlotte Tilbury, Red Run, and Peaches & Cream. There’ll also be interactive workshop sessions, female DJs, catwalk shows and live performances showcasing local talent.
Taking place at BOXPARK on October 12, it has line-up of guests who’ve all become successful in their own fields, from Liverpool fashion designer Francesca Kearns to world champion boxer Natasha Jonas.
Scouse Girl Social has been created by Girls With Dreams Club, a Liverpool-based CIC which runs events in the community to help girls to feel empowered, equipping them with the tools and strategies to navigate life from teenage years into adulthood.
GWDC was the idea of businesswoman Nicola Byrne, founder of Urban Calm beauty business and Mini Madams, a first of its kind spa for girls.
She teamed up with co-director Sarah Worsley who works in schools and colleges as a counsellor.
Sarah explains:
“For last 18 months I’ve been working with girls, so I see behind the scenes of what the issues are as well as what we think they are.
“For example I can see the damage that having a mobile from a very young age can do. Comparison is the thief of joy and unfortunately kids aren’t born with critical thinking skills, it’s something they develop as they get older.
“One of the things at GWDC that we discuss with girls is when you go to bed at night you’ve got to feel happy with yourself. You can’t be dependent on external validation, it doesn’t matter about the number of likes you got.
“We focus on building resilience, confidence, community and knowing they’ve got choice – we really want them to find a sense of belonging because that’s what can be missing.”
Sarah says it’s important that girls have positive role models, which is why they wanted to put together such an eclectic line-up of successful women as guest speakers for Scouse Girl Social.
“The event is for pre-teens and teens up to 18, but we’re starting from age 10 because that’s when they start to pull away from their parents and it becomes more peer to peer.
“Research shows the earlier the intervention, the better the outcome. Kids are going to be listening to people no matter what so we need to get them hearing the right people, and have those positive influences.
“When we were inviting speakers to the event we thought, who do we feel is going to inspire, who has a story about having to develop resilience, where they’ve faced challenges or negativity and overcome it?
“It’s about showing that it doesn’t come easy, running a business or having a successful career is hard, and often young girls don’t see all of that. They don’t realise what it’s taken to get there.”
Nicola and Sarah hope this Scouse Girl Social will be the first of many and, with profits going back into Girls With Dreams Club, it will enable them to carry on holding events that create a lasting impact on girls in Liverpool.
Sarah says she hopes it will leave girls feeling seen, supported and celebrated.
“I hope the girls walk away with an ‘I can do it’ attitude and parents think that finally something’s connecting with their kids,” she adds.
Find out more about Scouse Girl Social 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.
Andy Robertson believes Liverpool players may never get over the death of team-mate Diogo Jota.
The football world was shocked when Jota and his brother Andre Silva were both killed in a car collision in July.
Robertson had considered his future at Liverpool in the summer but all of his concerns became insignificant when he heard the news about Jota, who was 28 at the time of his death.
The 31-year-old left-back said:
“It was the most difficult thing we’ll ever go through.
“It was such a surprise, such a shock. It was devastating for his family, first and foremost, but also devastating for us as a group of lads.
“Football, I don’t think anyone could care less about football. When things like that happen it puts life into perspective as to what’s important, like spending time with your family and spending time with your kids because you never know what’s around the corner.
“Like I say, it’s the toughest thing we’ll ever go through. Losing one of my closest mates, for me, was hugely difficult.
“It’s something we’ll probably never get over but it’s something we have to carry with us.
“We’ll carry the memories we have from our time with him. And as long as we continue to do that, he’ll always be in our thoughts and he’ll always be in our hearts.
“That’s all we can do.
“It didn’t influence my decision. The decision was already made before the tragedy but I knew in that moment that the club needed me.
“I know I am one of the leaders in the team and I have obviously been made vice-captain now.
“It’s going to take a lot this season. I know football was irrelevant but if you take the football out of it even as lads in the changing room we are all going to need help during the season.
“We’ve already had difficult moments in terms of the first time in front of fans, having to go to your team-mate’s funeral which is absolutely madness to even say, and everything else that followed after it.
“I know the leaders in that changing room have got a big job to do this season in terms of trying to help everyone as a club and even Diogo’s family through this massively difficult moment.
“It won’t get easier but maybe we can numb the pain a little bit as time goes on. It’s up to as leaders to try and guide us guide us through that.”
After being a regular starter at Liverpool since signing from Hull City in 2017, Robertson has lost his place at Liverpool to following Milos Kerkez’s arrival from Bournemouth and he admits it has been “difficult for different reasons.”
He said:
“I’m used to playing pretty much every game.
“I’ve had eight years at Liverpool where – apart from at the beginning – I’ve always been a starter.
“I’ve always played. Obviously in the first few games this season I’ve found myself on the bench.
“But I had time to think over the summer about what I wanted. I made a decision and I still believe if I keep doing what I’m doing I’ll play a lot of games for club and country.”