By The Green Parent
03rd July 2023
WALK
Another Place - Perhaps one of the country’s most famous outdoor art installations, Antony Gormley’s 100 cast iron figures, each weighing 650 kilos, have looked impassively out from Crosby Beach across the estuary of the river Mersey from Sefton for over fifteen years. Another Place is a response to the emotions associated with emigration; sadness and hope for the future. It’s a wide, empty spot perfect for wind-whipped walks, and the sculptures punctuate and give purpose to time spent at the coastal spot. Head down to the Hall Road Station part of the beach to explore the incredible remnants of bomb-damaged Liverpool that were dumped here after they were destroyed in WW2. Find old storefronts, debris and architectural features along the shoreline. sefton.gov.uk
Circular Walk - Discover the very best of Liverpool’s attractions, plus a hefty dose of greenery on AllTrails’ 16.3 km loop walk. Stroll along the Albert Dock, through Sefton Park, St James Garden and Liverpool Cathedral and back through China Town. It’s definitely an all-dayer, but you’ll take in the best of the city! tinyurl.com/liverpoolwalk
Sefton Park - There’s a touch of wildness about this 200-acre oasis. Wander its curved paths to explore indigenous trees, drink in the sight of millions of golden daffodils and bluebells, and take a spin on its boating lake. Don’t miss the free restored Victorian palm house, with its constantly changing theatre of plants. palmhouse.org.uk
EAT
Squash - Whether you want to learn how to bake sourdough bread, join fireside chats in the community food garden, watch films or celebrate a pagan festival, Squash is the place to do it. Transforming their L8 neighbourhood into a playful, resilient community and inspiring positive social change, visit to share and buy food, enjoy arts and learn about growing. squashliverpool.co.uk
Purple Carrot - This all-vegan shop sells whole food, sweets, organic fruit and snacks such as vegan sushi and Korean sandwiches. There are a few seats on which to perch if you grab a coffee or sweet treat. facebook.com/PurpleCarrotLiverpool •
EXPLORE
Albert Dock - A wander around this waterside cultural hub is a Liverpool must! These Mersey-side converted warehouses are home to Tate Liverpool, many of whose thought-provoking exhibitions are free to enter, and whose walls often ring to the sounds of child-friendly workshops and events. You’ll also find other museums such as the Maritime Museum, which explores the experiences of Liverpool seafarers and passengers and tells the story of The Titanic, as well as Victorian fairground rides and the thrilling Wild Shore aqua park. albertdock.com
Williamson’s Tunnels - Snaking under the city, these massively extensive tunnels were built in the early 1800s. Some say that their creator, Joseph Williamson was part of an end-of-days cult, but others that he was charitably trying to keep his employees in work during a recession. Find huge halls, narrow passages and miles and miles of damp, bricked passages to explore. There are free visitor tours most weeks of the year. williamsontunnels.com
LEARN
Liverpool Central Library - Contrasting blisteringly new architecture with spectacular Victorian splendour, this palace of the printed word is home to a tourist information centre, roof terrace and archives. Gaze at rare books in the beautiful Picton Reading Room or join storytelling sessions in the colourful and extensive children’s library. liverpool.gov.uk/libraries
International Slavery Museum, Liverpool - Part of the spectacular Merseyside Maritime Museum on Albert Dock (see left), the International Slavery Museum is a small, but excellently curated, set of exhibits that tell the stories of people trafficked around the world. It explores the story and culture of Africa, looks at the brutality of the voyage across the Atlantic, and slaves’ life on plantations, and then at the continuing fight for freedom and equality, racism and discrimination, and the achievements of the African Diaspora. There are regular craft sessions held at weekends. The story of slavery resonates through modern history, and this sensitive, thoughtful exhibit is a great resource for starting to explore its impact with your family. liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/ism
OUR LIVERPOOL - Jo Milligan lives with her husband Andrew and 15-year-old son, Dillon
Lark Lane - A cosmopolitan, buzzing area which is packed with independent places to eat, coffee shops and pubs that include Planet Vegan, Doogle’s Donuts and the brilliant, plant-based chippy-with-an Asian-flavour Woo Tan Scran, as well as enormous vintage stores, galleries and a farmers’ market. Brilliant to wander around at the weekend, it’s also close to the wonderful Sefton Park. larklaneguide.com
Allerton Towers Park - I love the woods here, and there are fun new playgrounds on both the Allerton Farm and Tower sides. liverpool.gov.uk
Otterspool Skate Park - Situated on the banks of the Mersey River and built around a tree, this is a fun place to hang out. It’s near a nature reserve, adventure centre and playground, so there’s lots for kids of all ages to do nearby. liverpool.gov.uk
Bluecoat - This beautiful building, slap-bang in the middle of the city is now an arts centre. Their family activities are amazing, and the garden is a little oasis, perfect for escaping the crowds for a few minutes. thebluecoat.org.uk
