The Best Things to do in Merseyside

You’ll find no shortage of Fab Four-themed tourist attractions in Liverpool, ranging from the genuinely informative to dubious-value tourist traps. The Beatles Story sits at the premium end of the range, and is worth a visit for casual fans and hardcore music nuts alike. Situated on Albert Dock, this award-winning exhibition offers an interactive look at the universally appealing story of four local lads who changed the course of popular music forever. Recommended by local insider Matthew Caffrey

Liverpool Gin is one of the most established names on the UK craft gin scene – you’ll find it served almost everywhere in the city’s bars and restaurants. Take a distillery tour with a difference at the city-centre premises, which offers a “create your own” gin experience alongside the typical tour and tasting package you’ll find elsewhere. There’s a bar and kitchen attached so make an evening of it with a spot of dinner, or take on some extra-curricular tasting activities once your visit has formally drawn to a close. Recommended by local insider Heather Forshaw

A relaxed Sunday morning stroll along the Otterspool Prom is the morning ritual of many a Merseysider, whether to spend quality outdoor time as a family or to walk off one too many the night before. Keep an eye on the water as you walk along the banks of the Mersey to spot resident seals and harbour porpoises, and perhaps check out the picturesque Festival Gardens as you make your way along the river. Recommended by local insider Heather Forshaw

Liverpool One, the city’s massive modern open-air shopping and dining complex, offers more restaurant options than you’ve likely had hot dinners. Consider skipping the big chains and heading to Lunya, a Catalan-inspired restaurant and deli with a tapas menu to die for. Their regular events – think quizzes, gin evenings and wine and cheese tastings – are popular. Book in advance, or perhaps check out the equally exciting sister restaurant, Lunyalita, on the Albert Dock. Recommended by local insider Heather Forshaw

If you’re going to take only one sightseeing tour of Liverpool, make it the Mersey Ferry – how better to experience the city’s Unesco-listed waterfront than via one of the city’s best institutions? The 50-minute boat tour takes you through the history of key landmarks while offering views across the river. Hum the Gerry and the Pacemakers song You’ll Never Walk Alone to your heart’s content and remember to bring a jacket – it gets chilly up on deck. Recommended by local insider Matthew Caffrey