Welcome to Day 7 of our UK road trip, where we find ourselves in the dynamic city of Liverpool. For those just joining us, or if you’re curious about our previous adventures through England and Wales, then start from our day in Oxford and Bath. Today, we’re set to explore the vibrant streets of Liverpool, a city renowned for its rich maritime history and an incredibly diverse food scene, especially on the famous Bold Street. Let’s dive into the heart of this bustling port city and experience the unique flavors and stories that Liverpool has to offer!
A Taste of Bold Street
As evening fell on Day 6 of our UK road trip, we found ourselves in the lively heart of Liverpool. Eager to explore, we checked into our Airbnb and immediately headed to Bold Street, a culinary hotspot buzzing with excitement. This vibrant street was a food lover’s paradise, lined with restaurants offering an array of global cuisines. From Italian to French, Indian to Mexican, and Greek, the choices seemed endless. Amidst this bustling array, we were drawn to Crust Pizza for our dinner. Their authentic Italian pizza and pasta were not just a meal but an experience, perfectly capturing the essence of Italy and rounding off our day beautifully.
Bold Street’s energetic atmosphere was contagious. As we strolled, the diverse array of eateries on both sides of the street showcased a world of flavors, each inviting us in with the promise of a new culinary adventure. It was a delightful representation of Liverpool’s multicultural spirit, making Bold Street a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to taste the world in one place.
Liverpool Cathedral
Day 7 in Liverpool began with bright skies and a sense of anticipation. In the comfort of our Airbnb, generously equipped with kitchen essentials, we embraced the thrifty traveler’s life. A homemade breakfast of eggs and toast provided the perfect fuel for a day of exploration.
After breakfast, we headed to downtown Liverpool. We parked in a public space and prepared to explore the city the best way possible – on foot. Walking is an excellent way to truly experience a new place. With backpacks slung over our shoulders, we set off, eager to absorb every detail of Liverpool’s vibrant streets.
Our first destination was Liverpool Cathedral, a 15-minute walk from where we parked. This grand architectural marvel is not just a place of worship but a symbol of Liverpool’s rich history and culture. The cathedral, known for its striking red brick construction, dominates the city’s skyline with its sheer size and intricate design.
The history of Liverpool Cathedral is fascinating. It’s the largest cathedral in the UK and the fifth largest in the world. The building began in 1904 and took 74 years to complete, a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of those who built it. As we stepped inside, the vastness of the grand hall was awe-inspiring. The towering arches and beautiful stained glass windows created an atmosphere of reverence and wonder. It was a humbling experience to stand beneath the towering ceilings, feeling small amidst the grandeur of this historic structure.
Our hour spent in the cathedral was a journey through time, with each corner revealing a piece of history and artistry. We finished our visit with a stop at the souvenir shop, a chance to take a piece of this magnificent place with us.
One of the best Indian tea??
By 10:30 am, our cravings for a quintessential Indian tea experience led us back to the lively Bold Street. We had noticed ‘Chaiwala‘ the previous night, and its promise of authentic Indian tea was too tempting to resist. As we sipped the tea, we were instantly transported to the crowded, vibrant streets of India. The flavors were spot-on, capturing the essence of tea from the skilled vendors of our homeland. It was incredibly satisfying to find such authenticity so far from home. Interestingly, I later discovered that ‘Chaiwala’ had opened a branch in Mississauga, Ontario, not far from where we live. A visit there was certainly on my list.
Refreshed and re-energized by the tea, we resumed our walking tour. Bold Street had shown us its culinary diversity, and now it was time to delve deeper into Liverpool’s downtown. As we wandered, the contrast between the city’s areas became apparent. The further we ventured from Bold Street, the more modern the cityscape became, juxtaposed against the historic charm we’d experienced earlier. This blend of old and new gave Liverpool a unique character, a city where history and modernity coexist seamlessly.
Discovering India on Bold Street – Lunch at Mowgli
As lunchtime approached, our appetite for authentic Indian cuisine led us back to Bold Street, where we had earlier noted a highly-recommended restaurant – Mowgli. Known for its exceptional Indian street food and with a popular branch in London, Mowgli had garnered quite a reputation, and our curiosity was piqued.
Upon entering, we were promptly shown to our table. The restaurant’s ambiance was immediately inviting, with warm lighting and a cozy atmosphere setting the perfect backdrop for our meal. To test Mowgli’s authenticity, we ordered golgappe or pani puri, a classic street food from North India. These are small, hollow crisps filled with chickpeas and spiced water or sweet chutney. The golgappe at Mowgli was a delightful experience, each bite bursting with flavor and melting in our mouths, truly capturing the essence of this beloved street snack.
For our main course, we chose a dish familiar to many: butter chicken, served with roti. The UK’s reputation for excellent butter chicken was well justified here, although we found it slightly sweeter than what we were accustomed to. However, the taste and quality were undeniably impressive.
What also stood out at Mowgli was their choice of serveware. In an effort to evoke nostalgia and authenticity, they served our golgappe in a typical steel lunchbox, reminiscent of tiffin dabbas used in Indian schools. This touch of tradition brought back fond memories of childhood. The main course was served on typical steel plates, mirroring what you’d find in an Indian home. Even the cutlery storage was creatively repurposed from an old ghee container. This attention to detail not only added to the sustainable aspect of the restaurant but also complemented their theme perfectly, enhancing our dining experience with a blend of taste and tradition.
Time Travel in Liverpool with John
After our flavorful lunch at Mowgli, we were ready for the next chapter of our day in Liverpool: a walking history tour led by John, a history professor we discovered through Airbnb Experiences. His tour promised an in-depth exploration of Liverpool’s rich history and culture, making it an irresistible choice for us.
John’s tour, titled “A Walk Through Time: History of Liverpool Walking Tour,” is designed for those eager to dive deep into the city’s past. With his extensive academic background, including a Master’s Degree in Liverpool History and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Education, John’s expertise was evident. He specializes in bringing over 800 years of Liverpool’s history to life, from its origins in 1207 to the present day.
The tour promised to be not just informative but also interactive and engaging. John’s approach involved asking questions and encouraging participation, making it a perfect learning experience for individuals, groups, and families. His aim was to leave his guests not only entertained but also well-informed about Liverpool’s historical and cultural significance.
Starting at the iconic Royal Liver Buildings, the tour included visits to major historical sites such as the Three Graces, St. Nicholas’ Church, the Town Hall, Castle Street, Liverpool One, The Old Dock, and Albert Dock. This comprehensive journey promised to take us through the city’s evolution as a global port, unveiling its mysterious and significant past.
John’s passion for Liverpool’s history and culture was clear from his profile. As a seasoned tour guide, he has managed tours for National Museums Liverpool and has extensively studied and written about Liverpool’s history and culture. His academic credentials and experience in creating and performing tours made this an opportunity we couldn’t miss – a chance to understand Liverpool through the eyes of a local expert, deeply rooted in the city’s past.
The Golden Pineapples Tour
Our experience with John’s historical tour of Liverpool was both enlightening and engaging. While I won’t delve into all the rich details and stories he shared – as they’re best experienced firsthand – there was one fascinating tidbit that stood out: the significance of golden pineapples atop the city’s royal buildings.
John explained that these golden pineapples were more than just decorative elements. They symbolized wealth, hospitality, and status during the times when pineapples were rare and expensive fruits in Europe. This bit of knowledge suddenly brought a new perspective to our surroundings. As we continued the tour, our newly informed eyes began to spot golden pineapples adorning various major buildings across Liverpool. This revelation was a testament to the city’s history of wealth and prestige during its maritime heyday.
John’s tour, rich with such insights, transformed the way we viewed Liverpool. It wasn’t just about seeing the city; it was about understanding the layers of history and symbolism behind its architecture. This newfound awareness made our walk through Liverpool even more intriguing, adding depth to our exploration of this vibrant city.
Goodbye Liverpool: Ending on a High Note
Our day in Liverpool, filled with delightful food, rich culture, and intriguing history, drew to a close, leaving us with unforgettable memories. It was, undoubtedly, the highlight of our entire UK trip – a day that outshone even the wonderful experiences yet to come. From the authentic flavors of Mowgli to the fascinating insights of John’s tour, every moment in Liverpool resonated with us deeply. This vibrant city had given us a perfect blend of culinary delights, historical knowledge, and cultural immersion.
As we bid goodbye to Liverpool, our hearts were full of gratitude for the experiences we had enjoyed. It was a day we wouldn’t have changed in any way, a testament to Liverpool’s unique charm and richness.
Checkout the highlights of Day 7 here:
With these cherished memories, we set off towards our next destination: the Lake District. Ready to immerse ourselves back into nature, we looked forward to the tranquility and beauty of the lakes and mountains, eager for the hiking adventures that awaited us. Liverpool had set a high bar, but the serene landscapes of the Lake District promised a different kind of wonder, one we were excited to explore.
