England 12/08/2013 – When travellers think of luxury they rarely think of Liverpool first, however, the city is changing and today it is actually a great five-star destination.
There are more four and five-star luxury hotels in Liverpool than ever before, and more high-end hotel beds are being added all the time. In recent years, the city has undergone somewhat of a transformation. It has gone from being seen as a mainly industrial city to being seen as a centre of culture and the arts.It is a change that has been going on in the backgroundfor some time, but it has really gained momentum since the city was given European city of culture status in 2008.
The city has bucked the trend of falling visitor numbers and has seen tourism increase by over 23% in just five years. Many visitors to the city are there to enjoy the sights and sounds for which Liverpool is famous. It is known as the ‘world capital city of pop’, and with good reason. Dozens of successful groups have their roots in the city including The Beatles, Gerry and the Pacemakers and more recently Echo and the Bunnyman and Frankie Goes to Hollywood. It also has a strong maritime history, which means visitors are attracted to locations such as the Pier Head and Albert Docks. Several areas of the city have also been granted World Heritage site status by UNESCO.
However, those that are staying in the city’s luxury accommodation are usually there either on business or to shop. The designer shopping centre, Liverpool ONE, attracts thousands of people, looking for designer bargains, to the city every year.
Luxury spas, bars and restaurants
The influx of wealthy visitors has provided the opportunity for local businesses to go upmarket. Today there are dozens of spas, luxury bars and high-class restaurants to choose from. The city already has two Michelin starred restaurants, with many new chefs coming to the city to open their own high end restaurants more are sure to follow. The bar and restaurant at 62 Castle Street is an excellent example of the kind of experience the new Liverpool has to offer luxury travellers. It is located in a grade 1 building. The restaurant offers stunning, gourmet, meals and cocktails for the weary traveller and local residents alike.