2008 Capital of Culture “be a Brit different” in Liverpool

Liverpool will “be a Brit different” next year as the city celebrates the 2008 European Capital of Culture.  The city will present travelers in the know with a year long celebration of activities to highlight its rich heritage as it pertains to architecture, art, maritime, music and sports. 

To help travelers be a part of this excitement, VisitBritain, the national tourist office for England, Scotland and Wales, is pleased to suggest the following top 11 “be a Brit different” adventures for the 2008 European Capital of Culture.

11.        New Culture, New Media

Visit FACT (Foundation for Art and Creative Technology), a multi-media complex, and see newly commissioned films, videos and spectacular multi-media art forms.  As the first purpose built creative arts space in the city, FACT showcases an emerging definition of visual culture and has been recognized as a major force in Liverpool’s new cultural and economic renaissance.  Next year, FACT will have a festival of new films in a 10 day extravaganza bringing an amazing range of the edgiest, challenging, must-see international films and new media art to the city.

10.        Gallop For Your Meal

Experience the rare opportunity to dine at the Sefton rooms at the Aintree Racecourse and watch the horse race from your own private balcony overlooking the winning post at the world famous Grand National.  For those with a little less cash, though an enthusiasm for the world of equestrian racing all the same, purchase a day ticket for this prestigious event and feast on the numerous food stands to provide your own race side meal.

9.         Bombed Out

Gain an insight into World War II, as Liverpool has many unique and infamous sights all offering a glimpse back to the past. Take a trip to the Church of St Luke, also known as the “bombed out church” which today stands as a burned out shell, having been hit by an incendiary bomb in 1941. The churchyard is now a public park and a recent memorial has been dedicated to all those who perished in the Irish Famine.

8.         Golf With A View

Play a round of golf on some of the best links on some of the best golf courses in Britain.

Liverpool boasts seven golf courses with impressive coastal geography and views including the Wallasey Golf Course with a stunning World Heritage waterfront.

7.         Highlighting The Past, Spotlighting The Future

Visit the International Slavery Museum and learn the history surrounding the transatlantic slave trade.  The museum, which has opened in August 2007, tells the story about one of the greatest forced migration in history.  Expect a harrowing yet interesting visit and realize the exhibition also emphasizes the fact that there is now a pressing need to tell a bigger story because of its relevance to contemporary issues that face us all.

6.         Soccer Addicts Ultimate Experience

Travel to Anfield Soccer Stadium and take an Anfield Experience -- a behind the scenes VIP tour of the soccer stadium to gain an insight into the celebrated world of soccer.  Soccer fanaticism sums up life for most Liverpool residents and Anfield plays host to Liverpool’s premier soccer club. 

5.         Synagogue Serenade

Learn about the original Jewish community of Liverpool by visiting the Princes Road Synagogue which has been established in 1874.  Known to be one of the warmest and most friendly synagogues in the country, in this spectacular listed building, visitors should take this incredible opportunity to feast their eyes on opulent interiors and listen to music heard in no other synagogue.

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