Liverpool: Recommended Weekend Getaways

One of the most pleasant places to visit near Liverpool, the Isle of Man is only about 400 sq miles in area, and lies in the Irish Sea, approximately halfway between Liverpool and Belfast in Northern Ireland. The Isle of Man is a green, pretty place, with historical buildings, museums, gardens and nature reserves that are worth a visit (the wildlife park at Curragh is probably the best known). The island is very quaint in some ways- there are horsedrawn carriages along the seafront, and steam trains running across the isle. The capital of the Isle, Douglas, is chockfull of old buildings, churches and museums, and even though the entertainment offered may not be as lively as what you’ll find in Liverpool, it’s at least a nice, relaxing place to visit- if only for a day or two. 

Wirral lies across the Mersey, and can be got to by taking a ferry from Liverpool. It’s a pretty area, with a good country park- typical English woodlands, with rabbits, badgers, hedgehogs and birds- and the main urban area of Birkenhead. If you’re keen on seeing historical sights or enjoying yourself, Birkenhead is the place to head for. It’s got lots of good shops, cinemas, pubs (including some old, traditional ones), and plenty of scope to have a good time. In addition, the city has its fair share of museums and galleries, and a number of old warships that have been excellently preserved.

Among the other urban areas of Wirral are Hoylake, West Kirby and New Brighton- all along the sea and just perfect for promenading which is what the Victorians used them for! Even if you don’t have the time- or the inclination- to visit all of them, it would be a good idea to at least make your way up to the 60ft high cliffs that overlook the Dee Estuary - the view is quite spectacular! If you have a little more time on your hands, and are really enthusiastic, you should take a boat (there are ferries, or you can hire a boat) out to Hilbre Island, which lies offshore, in the middle of the estuary, and has a good bird sanctuary. It also has a rather well-preserved dinosaur footprint, which is the main reason why most people visit it.