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Archive for October, 2009

Liverpool’s Arts & Culture

Friday, October 30th, 2009

artgalleryIn 2008 Liverpool was named the capital of culture and embarked on a campaign to introduce new theatre shows and exhibitions. This investment led to Liverpool’s new reputation as being a vibrant and multi cultural city. Why not see the transformation in person and visit Liverpool. At Devonshire House Hotel, with some help from local tourist information boards we have put together a list of recommended arts and culture attractions in Liverpool.

Museums

International Slavery Museum – This free museum provides a fascinating and thought provoking insight into the world of slavery. This particular museum looks at Liverpool’s involvement and is open seven days a week.

The Beetles Story – Relive the days of the Beetles with one of Liverpool’s most popular attractions. In the heart of Alberts Dock this museum is full of memorabilia and recreations of pivotol moments in the bands lives.

The Galleries

Tate Liverpool – This fantastic gallery is located in Alberts Dock and has been set within a grade one listed building. The Tate is home to a national collection of modern art and has been open for over 20 years. The collection at the Tate can be appreciated by people of all ages and backgrounds. Well worth a visit.

The Walker Art Gallery – Known for its ever changing display of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts the Walker Art Gallery is a local favourite. The Liverpool cityscape by Ben Johnson is also housed here and again is a free attraction.
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Cycling in the North West

Tuesday, October 20th, 2009

cyclingCycling has become one of the UK’s most popular weekend activities and the north west is home to some of the countries most exciting trails. The area has literally something for everyone with routes for people of all abilities. Routes in the region are also open all year round and make a great day out for families.

If you are coming to the region then there are a couple of trails that you wont want to miss. For example Hadrian’s cycleway offers a fascinating insight into Roman England and stretches over 174 miles. Of course cyclists are welcome to do just small stretches of the trail and the 174 mile trip is a challenge for any hardcore cycling enthusiast.

For those of you who like to be pushed to the limit then you might want to try out the Altura Trail in Whinnlatter Forest Park. The purpose built mountain bike trail spans 19km and was developed by the world renowned Clixbys. If challenging jumps, cork screws, rocks and table tops are your thing then you wont want to miss this trail.

http://www.everydaycycling.com/edc/routes/20080922_altura_trail.aspx

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Things to Pack for a Weekend Break

Wednesday, October 14th, 2009

suitcasePacking is often met with a certain sense of dread as it seems so formulaic and dull in comparison to the excitement and anticipation of the trip that precedes it. In essence packing is boring but something we all have to do. In fact because the idea of packing is often painfully mind numbing many fail to pack the all important essentials. This is why at Venture Hotels we have put together a list of some of the things you should pack when going on a weekend break.

Toiletries:
Probably the most important items you can pack. Typical items include make up and tooth brushes. No trip would be complete without these. Although you should pack essentials like make up almost all hotels will provide soap and shower gel.

Warm Clothes:

Warm clothes are a must in any country as often temperatures at night drop significantly. For a short weekend break it would be a good idea to pack several warm jumpers and in some cases a coat.

Documentation:
Regardless of which country you are in you will need some form of identity. Passports or driving licenses usually suffice. Weekend travellers are also advised to carry a map and a copy of their reservation. We often find its best to store these in one easy to find place such as a document wallet.
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Manchester Comedy Festival 2009

Tuesday, October 13th, 2009

justinManchester’s comedy festival returns with an ever increasing list of headline acts.

Between October 15th and October the 25th Manchester will be home to over 90 shows with old favourites such Jimmy Carr and Brendon Burns returning to the festival. The turn out this year is expected to be higher than ever with new acts such as Michael McIntyre and Arthur Smith making appearances.

If you are unfamiliar with the Manchester Comedy festival then you can expect to see the full spectrum of comedy on show. Traditionally the festival has included films, cabaret, stand up sketches and cartoons and this year should be no different. There is literally something for everyone and is often a festival enjoyed by the acts.
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The 2009 Northwest Food Lovers Festival

Monday, October 12th, 2009

foodIt’s an annual favourite with locals and this years show, hosted at Tatton Park is set to be the biggest yet. In attendance this year are over 80 of the areas finest food producers and of course show delegates get to try some of the fine food.

The Northwest Food Lovers Festival kicks off on the 23rd of October and finishes on the 25th. Tickets for the show are available online and can be bought for around £6. The event offers a great day out for families and visitors are able to purchase some of this fabulous fine food.

Celebrity chefs at this years show include:

Ian Matfin
Simon Rimmer
Leight Myers
Paul Taylor
Andrew Nutter

Of course we have accommodation on offer for the show.

http://www.nwfoodloversfestival.com/

The Guinness Liverpool Irish Festival

Friday, October 9th, 2009

irishFriday 16 October sees the return of the Guinness Liverpool Irish Festival which celebrates the city’s links to its Irish heritage. The festival, which runs until 1 November, showcases a variety of cultural activities with the biggest focus being on heritage and music.

The city of Liverpool has always had a strong Irish influence ever since the migration of over half a million Irish people to the city in the early 19th century. Irish music and culture have long played an important role in the lives of the people of Liverpool. In more recent years, the celebration of this heritage has culminated in the creation of the Guinness Liverpool Irish Festival which is now in its 6th successful year.

The annual event promotes performance, participation, entertainment and education in Irish traditions, music, literature, theatre and art and how these define and contribute to Liverpool’s ‘European Capital of Culture’ status. This year’s festival line up includes music from the Sharon Shannon Big Band, Gaelic football, Heritage walking tours and a traditional Irish dinner hosted by St. Michael’s Irish Centre. With two weeks of celebrations to look forward to, the Festival promises to be a memorable event.
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Manchester: Food Market Metropolis

Tuesday, October 6th, 2009

gene-hutManchester’s specialist food markets are renowned for their variety and attract food-lovers from far and wide. Whether you are a self confessed gastronome or simply enjoy food in any form, there is sure to be something to tantalise the taste buds.

Greater Manchester’s farmers and producers markets celebrate some of the North West’s finest fare from the famous Bury black puddings to local real ale and farm produced dairy ice cream. Farmer’s markets are held frequently in a variety of locations across the Greater Manchester area and are well worth a visit. In addition, by supporting the areas local producers, you can do your bit to help the Greater Manchester area.

During the holiday season, Manchester’s Christmas markets have proven to be one of the city’s top attractions, offering mouth-watering morsels of international cuisine. Combat the Christmas chill with traditional German sausages, Swiss raclette or steaming hog roast, all washed down with piping hot Gluhwein. Manchester’s Christmas markets can be found on Albert Square and St. Anne’s Square and run from late November each year.
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