Albert Dock is Liverpool in a nutshell – the world’s biggest collection of Grade I listed buildings, transformed into a cutting-edge centre for eating, drinking and partying. As well as hundreds of big name and boutique restaurants and bars, the Dock is home to the Tate Liverpool; the International Slavery Museum; the Merseyside maritime Museum; and the Beatles Story. By night, Albert Dock is thronged with merrymakers. Pick the place that fits your mood. There are comedy clubs, swanky bars, high end restaurants, pizzerias and night clubs. And the whole thing is only a stone’s throw away from the Liverpool ONE and Echo Arena venues.

Great for: Nights out

Visiting Liverpool and not paying homage to the Fab Four would be like going to Paris and refusing to look at the Eiffel Tower. They’re everywhere you go, and nowhere shows them off better than the Beatles Story on Albert Dock. Transport yourself back in time to the era of miniskirts and mop tops, as John Lennon’s sister regales you with tales of wild nights and unparalleled fame on the audio guide. Experience a recreated Casbah, visit a replica Cavern Club and check out the paths of each Beatle’s career once the awesome foursome called it a day. Plus you get hard to find official merchandise in the onsite shop. Groovy.

Great for: History

Forget London’s Museum Mile – the World Museum in Liverpool does the whole thing under one amazing roof! Five fabulous floors take you from the ground level of the extraordinary 19th century edifice, and they’re packed with exhibits living and ancient. Bug out in the bug house, where real live insects creep and crawl; splash down in the aquarium for some up close and personal encounters with denizens of the deep; and explore space on the top floor thanks to a range of brilliant interactive exhibits. The Museum is free to visit, and runs loads of free exhibitions and themed activities during the school holidays.

Great for: Day trips