Looking for a day out this autumn? Here’s 10 reasons why you should give Liverpool a try, as suggested by Rebekka O’Grady.
Twilight Thursdays
October 3, 10, 17, 24
If you want to see Liverpool from a different perspective, why not take in the view from the top of the UK's highest cathedral? Until the end of October, Liverpool Cathedral is offering visitors the chance to enjoy 360? views of the city and beyond as the sun goes down and the lights go up. Soak up unrivalled panoramic views and share your snaps with #tweetfromthetower
Tickets: £5.50, family ticket: £15. Liverpool Cathedral, St James' Mount, Liverpool, L1 7AZ. liverpoolcathedral.org.uk
LEAP 2019
October 3-12
Charity and dance development organisation, MDI, host their annual festival of all things dance. Now in its 26th year, there will be 15 performances from seven major touring companies and brand new for 2019, a free two-day Fringe Festival. Visitors can enjoy a programme drawing on cabaret, music, comedy and traditional theatre.
Tickets: performances individually priced. Various venues. mdi.org.uk/leap-2019
Les Misérables
October 9-26
One of the world's most popular musicals takes to the stage in Liverpool. Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption.
Liverpool Empire, 1 Lime Street, Liverpool L1 1JE. atgtickets.com/liverpool-empire
Liverpool's green spaces
The parks in Liverpool are stunning places to explore during the autumn months.
From Sefton Park and Princes Park near the city centre, to Calderstones and Croxteth Park a little further afield, Liverpool boasts plenty of green space for when you need to escape the hustle and bustle. Watch as the leaves turn golden, lose yourself in woodland or take a stroll around a lake - the perfect way to spend an afternoon.
Throughout Liverpool. liverpool.gov.uk/leisure-parks-and-events/parks-and-greenspaces/
Northern Lights Dinner
October 14
Liverpool is not short of delicious places to eat, but this October some of the best chefs in the North West are gathering to cook up a storm in aid of Hospitality Action. On this evening of gastronomic delights, you'll enjoy a five course dinner from Simon Shaw of El Gato Negro; Ellis Barrie of Marram Grass; Oli Martin of Hipping Hall; Tom Parker of the White Swan at Fence and Adam Reid of The French. Tickets: £125
Hilton Liverpool, 3 Thomas Steers Way, Liverpool, L1 8LW. hospitalityaction.org.uk
Liverpool Irish Festival
October 17-27
Save yourself a flight and experience a taste of Ireland in Liverpool. This ten day festival celebrates the rich Irish contribution to Liverpool's cultural identity and heritage. Since 2003 this annual event has showcased various performances, entertainment and education in Irish traditions, music, literature, theatre and art around multiple venues in the city. Keep an eye on the website for an exciting programme of events.
Various venues. liverpoolirishfestival.com
Tudor Hallow-tide
October 26- November 3
This free event is an ideal way to spend a day entertaining the children during October half term. Explore the dark and creepy side of Tudor life at Speke Hall with spooky storytelling, a 'dark woods' trail and superstitious crafts. This iconic National Trust property and its garden is a beautiful destination to visit during Autumn. Normal admission charges apply.
The Walk, Speke, Liverpool, L24 1XD. nationaltrust.org.uk
Scouse 5k
October 27
Get your running shoes on and don a colourful wig - it's the Scouse 5k! This fun route takes in the sights and sounds of the city centre. Walk, skip or run, it's a great way to get active with the family or set a personal best. This year's official charity partner is the Royal Liverpool University Hospital's R Charity, which is fundraising for new equipment to help care for breast cancer patients.
Registration: Adults, £20, under 15s, £13. merseyraces.co.uk/echo-scouse-5k
River Explorer Cruise
All year
Wrap up and get out on the open water to see Liverpool's world-famous waterfront. The year-round cruise runs from the Pier Head over to Seacombe and Woodside - meaning you also get a chance to enjoy time in the Wirral on your trip. Often Mersey Ferries also put on special events including themed music nights and RSBP bird watching; check their events page for more details.
Pier Head, Georges Parade, Liverpool, L3 1DP. merseyferries.co.uk
