ONE DAY IN LIVERPOOL
- Leigh Maynard
- 5 days ago
- 11 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Staring out across the rooftops of Liverpool at the Liver birds, from my weekend retreat, I have the height and perspective to stop and contemplate this city that is new territory for me. Perching at vertiginous spots atop the Royal Liver Building, the birds are a symbol of safeguarding for this port town. Said, to be based on a mythical bird that once haunted the city shoreline, local legend says that if the male and female pair, affectionately named Bella and Bertie were to mate and fly away, Liverpool would no longer exist. Though these inannimate metal versions were built in the early 1900’s the symbol of the Liver bird dates back as far as 1352 as part of the official seal of the city.
Words by Leigh Maynard.
I’ve come here as part of a series of journeys that take me to places across the globe where I get to know not only an island, town or city, it’s landmarks, history and places to visit, but most importantly, to meet some of the creatives that give each place it’s vibrancy. Liverpool is a city I’ve long wished to visit, not only as it is the home of The Beatles but also because it is, or was the home to so many other talents whio have gone on to succeed in their creative crafts. From the 18th Century painter George Stubbs to singer songwriter Holly Johnson to the La's, Liverpool has a rich creative history. Today, the city is alive with established and emerging talent, across all creative diciplines, and I will speak to some of them as I discover Liverpool.
Long before Paul, George, Ringo and John stepped on stage, Liverpool was a place of much vibrancy for many reasons. Established as one of Lancashire’s boroughs in 1207, this port city situated on the eastern side of the Mersey estuary has seen much and many pass through it’s waters and over its land. From its place in the textile trade or its role as a departure point for immigrants setting sail to America, and it’s part at the forefront of the Industrial revolution, Liverpool has a prominent place in U.K. history. Granted city status in 1880, it has suffered setbacks such as a period of decline in the mid-20th century, though it has found new prosperity latterly with its selection as European Culture Capital in 2008. Liverpool, like the birds is resilient and adaptable, it's people with thier distinctive 'Scouser' accent are friendly but no less hardy. Perhaps it is the wind that blows across the city straight off of the Mersey that has helped shaped it's people, either way, Ithey are people I wish to know better.
Before I begin exploring, I find my base in a space that offers not only a great central location but also a modern take on city stays. The Cove’s next generation serviced apartments demonstrate the company's adaptive approach to accommodation as we change the way we live and stay. Launched in June 2021, with more apartments located across the UK and Netherlands, The Cove’s generous amenities including future-facing technology, spacious rooms, fully fitted kitchens and living spaces, all with clean, modern aesthetics that feel like a true home from home, giving autonomy and lending the perfect base from which to explore. My apartment has generous double aspect views across to the harbour and those Liver birds, and a panoramic start such as this is just the way to begin my adventure. Heading down to The Cove's reception the warm and helpful staff offer some helpful suggestions which I take note of for later.
I begin by stopping off for some breakfast at the recommendation of a trusted friend. The Brunch & Cocktail Club on Duke Street with it's lofty floral ceilings, brick-lined walles, attentive staff and delicious dishes is the perfect start to a walk across the city. With choices such as a hearty Argentinian steak sandwich and favourites like avocado toast with poached eggs or the extra tasty nutrition bowl, there's an option for all and even better, it is close to the city centre.
There are so many areas to explore in Liverpool, from the historic waterfront, the Ropewalks with its pubs, bars and restaurants, to the Georgian Quarter with its impressive archictecture. Still, the lovely team at The Cove suggested the Baltic Triangle area. Flanked by Liver Street, Park Lane, St James Street, Hill Street, Sefton Street and Wapping, this area was once home to timber stores and warehouses that servived passing ships. Today, this creative hub still bares the marks of it's indutsrial past. Old brick buildings and cobbled streets are the backdrop to artists studios, music venues, workshops, design stidios as well as tech businesses and student housing.
I find myself at 92 Degrees, Liverpool's original roastery and coffee shop, it's delicous brew and cosy interiors are an inviting pitstop from the Mersey's blustering winds. Close by I find Sevenstore, for those who love casualwear and sneakers, it is home to urban brands like Adidas, Casablanca, Off White and Moncler, so it's a definate must for clothes and snaker lovers alike.
Whilst Liverpool has many redeeming features, there can be no legacy greater than that of its music, with those four internationally renowned artists taking the world by storm in the 1960’s the sounds that played in the city’s now iconic Cavern Club will be forever etched in our hearts and minds. Standing in this bunker-like venue that launched the famous four, one can almost hear the faint echoes of a screaming audience who could not contain their excitement. Today, the club continues to showcase acts and is one of many great music venues across the city.
Whilst The Beatles work may be hard to emulate the city’s music scene still has that same vibrancy with fresh talents emerging constantly to show what the city has to offer.
One local who recognises the need to champion homegrown talent is Tom Williamson. Formerly of Universal Music Group, Tom’s new independent label Ripe Records is offering a space to showcase Liverpool’s music talent within a nurturing and sustainable framework. After years of working for a major label Tom decided to head back to his hometown to share his industry knowledge with his fellow Liverpudlians as well as those artists who now call the city their home.
Having worked with such a prominent label Tom explained why he chose to make the jump to running his own.“I love the creative freedom that starting up on my own has brought, I now only have to answer to the most important people I work with - the artists! Being completely independent has its challenges when trying to compete with the big guns but I truly believe artists on my roster get a service equal to the best a major can offer - effort, determination, focus and passion.”
And though perhaps with such history it may seem easy for new artists to thrive in Liverpool Tom recognises that perhaps there are musicians who are just as talented but who don’t always fit the expected sound Liverpool was once known for.
“Having been close to the music scene for a long time I was hearing so many incredibly talented artists who didn't fit the stereotype of 'Liverpool' music - for too long the city has been misdiagnosed as only producing indie bands and dance producers - it's a melting pot of talent across all genres from all backgrounds - locals and students who choose to stay in the city create a special place to develop as an artist - the pull of London for musicians trying to 'make it' is not as strong as it was and the more labels that pop up across the UK can only be a good thing - it's where local scenes can develop their uniqueness to stand out from the crowd in a global market. We Scousers are known for being friendly, chatty, and having a great sense of humour.”
And as his label gains traction and helps bring recognition to well-deserved artists across the city, Tom explaines why he is compelled to foster talent of all music genres and help continue Liverpool's music legacy.“We have a wall on Mathew Street [opposite the Cavern Club] that showcases all the No.1 singles to have come from Liverpool artists [and I think I'm right] that the city has only added x3 records to the wall since 2000 [Atomic Kitten, Hillsborough Charity Record and most recently The Beatles] - for a city proud to call ourselves the 'city of pop music' we need to be doing more! A new plaque on the wall would be incredible but I want musicians/artists in my city to have the belief that a career making music is possible - music isn't just for the privileged few.”
Tom’s roster of musicians span the full musical spectrum. Ni Maxine is one artist Tom works with who is quickly garnering recognition for her work having already been named 'Breakthrough Act of the Year' at the 2025 Jazz FM Awards and numerous sold-out shows and major festival appearances. This Liverpool-based, neo-jazz artist has gained attention for her soulful and thought-provoking lyrics exploring themes around identity, belonging and self-worth. Ni Maxine's beautifully soulful songs have not only moved her many music admirers but also music stations across the country with air play on the BBC and other stations offering her the opportunity for international reach. As part of the 60th Anniversary Celebrations of The Beatles ‘Love Me Do’ Ni was invited to record her debut single Strange Love in the very same room where it was recorded so many years before in Forthlin Road. One can only imagine just how meaningful such an opportunity would feel but Ni’ Maxine's soulful performance is the ultimate expression of gratitude and talent.
What stands out most about Tom’s commitment to reinvigorating the city’s music scene is his inclusive approach from incredible talents like Ni’s to promoting the work of Queer singer songwriter Mickey Castillo, who’s recently released single ‘Take it Easy’ taking listeners on a journey from Mickey’s early days on a council estate to his recognition as an artist today. The single not only resonates with his LGBTQ+ listeners but is for a wider audience who can all empathise with this songwriter’s core message. “Take It Easy is about creating a space where listeners can escape, feel confident, and embrace the moment,” says Mickey. “Life can be tough, but we can all find our way through it. My music is for anyone who needs a reminder that it’s okay to dream big, but it’s also okay to take a breath.”
Tom’s work with Ripe Records extends to dance with Liverpool-based producer Superlate’s ‘Better Than You’, bridging guitars and electronica. For his latest release Superlate has combining forces with another talent from the city, esteemed Liverpudlian singer Jazmine Johnson. "Having hailed from Cornwall originally but now calling this northern city his home Superlate explained, “My music is all about evolution, I’ve always respected artists who push their sound forward rather than repeating the same formula. I want my listeners to be part of that journey, to explore with me, and hopefully, they enjoy the ride.”
One artist of a different discipline who calls the city her home is Journalist and fashion design graduate Saghar Khalid. Whilst many who call Liverpool home were born close to the Liver birds, Saghar’s story is a little different. “What first brought me to Liverpool was immigration. Moving to a new country and a new city is never easy, but I feel truly grateful that my journey led me here. Over time, Liverpool has become much more than just a place to live it has become a real home for me.
I am surrounded by some of the kindest and warmest people. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed and supported, I carry many beautiful memories because of them.”
But Liverpool is more than a home to Sagar, it is a place where she began to re-explore her creativity. “When I first arrived in Liverpool, I brought with me my background and passion for journalism. Writing has always been an important part of who I am, and in the early days of living here I had the chance to collaborate with several media outlets, share my own story, and work on different projects. These opportunities gave me confidence and allowed me to connect with the city in a very personal way.
After a year, I decided to follow another lifelong dream of mine: studying fashion design. This opened a whole new chapter for me. I learned so much and found incredible opportunities that allowed me to grow creatively. What makes Liverpool special for me is that it gave me the chance to bring both of my passions together journalism and fashion. One of the highlights of my journey has been working on a major project with a fashion magazine, which became one of the best experiences for me. I feel that with the opportunities and inspiration Liverpool has offered, along with my own persistence and determination, I have been able to build something meaningful. This combination has allowed me to keep moving forward and turn my dreams into reality.”
For Saghar as with many others her new home in this northern city is one that has left an indelible mark, not only through the achievements that she hoped to make but also as a place that, perhaps not in temperature, is otherwise as warm and generous as it’s other inhabitants. “Liverpool feels like home, a place I chose, and one that has given me happiness, support, and many unforgettable memories. I enjoy living here every day, and I am always looking for new opportunities to grow, succeed, and give my best. What I love most about Liverpool, the city I call home, is its people. They are friendly, warm, and welcoming, which has made me feel at home from the very beginning. There’s a positive energy here that makes the city feel alive and up lifting. Liverpool is now a city where I feel I truly belong. It has given me peace, inspiration, and a sense of safety.”
Before heading to dinner I take a walk with Saghar around the horbour. From Tate Liverpool, National Museum Liverpool and the Maritime museum, the area is filled with restaurants and museums showcasing Liverpool's rich history and the work of its talented artists. I take a moment to walk through thr National museum and discover so much about the city's past, a huge Chinese dragon dances through th central attrium, celebrating the local Chinese community, a reminder of the city's open and inclusive ethos.
For an evening meal, my local photographer friend Robert Holmes has recommended The Art School, a Michelin restaurant headed up by Paul Askew. Here, Paul creates classsic and innovative fine-dining whilst mentoring many young chefs to acheive his exacting level of gastronomy. With a sustainable and season-driven menu for meat lovers, pecatarians, vegetarians and vegans, The Art School has gained a reputation with locals and visitors alike, and is a testement to Paul's 'field to fork' philosophy and his dedication to highlighting the rich talent and creativity that the city is home to.
After dinner, I follow the recommendation of some local music students. The perfect spot for a lively evening drink is El Bandito. Head to Slater Street, down some steps into another cavernous venue (even smaller than the orriginal), this time with less live music and more animated chatter, with beams on it's low ceiling decorated by locals, this is a great spot for late night drinks with good selection of tequilas.
As the evening draws to a close, my time in Liverpool feels indeed too short. And while my last hours are spent looking back across the city from my apartment at The Cove, I reflect on the conversations, experiences, the warmth and extreem generosity of its people. There is so much to discover here and I feel I have only scrathed the surface. It is a place that requires more time; time to listen to it's talented musicians, admire it's stunning artworks and sample its culinary delights. My only hope is that Bella and Bertie stay where they are, as Liverpool is a place worth protecting and very much worth returning to.
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