Street Life: Your Guide to Hope Street

Liverpool is almost unrecognisable to what it was 15 years ago. We are lucky to have almost every street in the city centre busy with great bars, shops and eateries. So much so it’s difficult to keep track of what is going on where. In this regular column, THE GUIDE LIVERPOOL looks at different streets in our great city and tells you a little about where to go, hidden gems to look out for and some history. This time, we look at HOPE STREET.

Where?
Hope Street is well-known in the city precisely because of it’s location. Bookended by our two amazing Cathedrals, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral at the northern end and the Anglican Cathedral to the south, the street is often spoken of as being significant of religious harmony in Liverpool. While this may be the case, the name doesn’t actually derive from this idea but is rather named after a merchant who built the first house on the thoroughfare. Today it is one of the most exciting streets in the city with new bars and restaurants opening all the time and an epicentre of cultural activity in Liverpool.

For a bevie?
The obvious choice for a drink on Hope Street is The Philharmonic Dining Rooms. With it’s grand exterior and interior it is sure to wow any visitor to the city and is perfect for those wanting to explore new ales by way of an extensive beer menu. Strangely, the gents toilets are a must-see with an ornate marble interior they are known to get travelling coach parties nipping in to have a look! Opposite The Phil is Casa, a socialist meeting point established at the time of the dockers strikes of the 1990s. Still a hive of activity, Casa is a slice of real Liverpool. Equally so, Ye Cracke, situated a little off Hope Street on Rice Lane, is always a lively place to get a very reasonably priced drink.

A bite to eat?
You’re spoilt for choice for restaurants on Hope Street. The Clove Hitch, with it’s seasonal menu and extensive drinks choice is a favourite of The Guide. There is also Frederiks, a laid back place with a fantastic bar menu and regular live Jazz nights in the back room. The newly opened Moose and Moonshine from the folks who brought us Moose Coffee is fast becoming a favourite as well. If you are planning on pushing the boat out, Hope Street is also home to the decadent London Carriage Works, a bastion of international fine dining. Special mention has to go to The Quarter which has been ever present on Hope Street bringing consistently great Italian food for over a decade. The same people are responsible for 60 Hope Street and HOST ensuring the quality of grub on Hope Street stays incredibly high.

Hidden Gem
If you’re still thirsty after your delicious meal at the Clove Hitch, venture downstairs to the basement and you’ll be rewarded with the best craft beer pub in the city. The 23 Club has an ever changing selection of cask ales and a dizzying array of bottled beers. You won’t want to leave.