Learn why Wirral is becoming the cultural hub of north-west England

Monday, March 11, 2024

Situated on the picturesque banks opposite Liverpool, Wirral is emerging as a premier cultural destination in 2024, adorned with attractions such as the Lady Lever Art Gallery, Birkenhead Park, and the innovative Eureka! Science + Discovery centre. The area is buzzing with dynamic music and street art, offering an enriching experience for visitors.

In its capacity as the Borough of Culture for the Liverpool City Region this year, Wirral is set to enchant visitors with a comprehensive year-long programme that highlights the region’s rich cultural tapestry. Among the first events to catch the eye is the Craig Easton Exhibition at the Williamson Art Gallery, showcasing Wirral’s multifaceted story through arts, culture, and heritage.

New Brighton, a coastal gem, invites explorers to its unique blend of independent stores, dining options, attractions, and a vibrant street-art trail. A stone’s throw away, the Seacombe Ferry Terminal houses the engaging Eureka! Science + Discovery, a hands-on museum dedicated to igniting young minds.

Wirral’s contribution to the musical landscape is profound, echoing the talents of native artists like Elvis Costello, OMD, and The Coral. A captivating walking trail through Birkenhead pairs with the Left Bank Soundtrack, offering auditory glimpses of the locale, from the historic Birkenhead Priory to Hamilton Square’s architectural splendour, through the music inspired by these landmarks.

The journey from Liverpool to Birkenhead by ferry offers breathtaking views, immortalised in Gerry Marsden’s anthem. Nearby, Birkenhead Park stands as the pioneering publicly funded park, influencing New York’s Central Park, and is currently vying for UNESCO World Heritage Status. In May, it will host ‘Gaia’, Luke Jerram’s awe-inspiring earth installation.

Port Sunlight Village, a short distance away, represents a quintessential 19th-century model village created for Sunlight Soap factory workers by Lord Leverhulme. The village, with its museum and Lady Lever Art Gallery, boasts picturesque homes and verdant spaces. It also carries a Beatles legacy with Hulme Hall marking Ringo Starr’s first performance with the band and has featured in productions like Peaky Blinders and Tolkien.

Wirral’s roster of notable personalities includes Olympic hockey player and presenter Sam Quek, the late Paul O’Grady MBE, and actor Daniel Craig, further cementing its cultural significance.

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