By Charmaine Hibbert

Having undergone a dramatic transformation over the last decade, Liverpool is now firmly among the top city-break destinations in the UK – just ask Condé Nast Traveller magazine.

Everyone, at some point in their lives, should sample the atmosphere and nightlife of this thriving hotspot. It’s a city that oozes style and passion: you just cannot help but be enveloped in the warmth and love of its inhabitants. It boasts an amazing maritime heritage, too, so make sure you take some time out to take in the historic attractions and spectacular views from the waterfront – particularly the Albert Dock – or perhaps, as Gerry And The Pacemakers once said, take a ‘Ferry across the Mersey’. Talking of which, one can only marvel at Liverpool’s musical history. It’s the birthplace of The Beatles after all…need we say more? It’s also home to two of the biggest football teams in the Premier League, Liverpool (at Anfield) and Everton (at Goodison Park).

The town centre is bustling with an array of trendy shops, bars and restaurants, but if any of that isn’t enough to tickle your fancy, try soaking up a bit of culture. Liverpool has more galleries and museums than anywhere outside of London. A city something for everyone.

Hope Street Hotel

My recent visit to Liverpool was more business than pleasure, but it managed to cater for both. I had the privilege of staying at the Hope Street Hotel, the city’s first luxury design hotel and a little gem sparkling in the heart of its theatreland. A favourite with visiting celebrities, I was struck by its simplicity and contemporary feel. As soon as you walk into the radiant reception you are greeted with the warmest of welcomes, it definitely goes beyond service with a smile.

Just like a kid on Christmas morning I couldn’t wait to rush up to my room and take a peak at what this stunning hotel had to offer – and I must say, it was even more than I’d hoped for. The rooms are beautifully designed to be flooded with natural light through large windows – each with a different view of the city – and the king-size beds are dressed with Egyptian cotton. You will not be disappointed.

The original building dates from 1866, and it was rescued from a semi-derelict state to become today’s hotel in 2004. The London Carriage Works restaurant on the ground floor pays homage to its former incarnation as a place where coaches and carriages were made. In 2007, the hotel expanded and added an extension.

The restaurant’s dining hall is simply wonderful, with exposed brickwork and wooden floors (a theme which runs throughout the hotel). Something else that stood out from my dining experience, apart from the delicious, well-presented food, was the space we had to enjoy such culinary delights: a table for two was, in fact, a table for two, with lots of elbow room. The Hope Street Hotel goes above and beyond to provide the perfect hotel experience. It is hugely recommended as a perfect base from which to take in the stunning courses of England’s Golf Coast followed by great food and sensational nightlife. I can’t wait to go back.

Hope Street Hotel
40 Hope Street
Liverpool L2 9DA

www.hopestreethotel.co.uk