Liverpool and Port Sunlight 2025

We depart from Sussex and make our way north. Having made a suitable comfort stop we arrive at The Shugborough Estate NT where we make an extended break over the lunch period. The stories of Shugborough are entangled with the exploits and interests of two brothers, Thomas and George Anson. Their fortunes and their social position shaped Shugborough; understanding the origins of their power helps to interpret the ideas and materials which flooded into Britain throughout the 18th century, furnishing homes, forging fashions and changing culture. In the Georgian mansion, unearth unusual treasures and experience life 'below stairs' in the servant's quarters, then enter a world of glamour and royalty in the apartments of Patrick Lichfield, 5th Earl and fashion photographer.  Mid-afternoon we continue to our hotel.

This morning we are joined by our local tour guide, Julie, for our fascinating coach tour of the city, including places made famous by The Beatles, Titanic White Star Line and much more. We will see the city’s two impressive Cathedrals and The Royal Albert Docks, home to Tate Liverpool.  After our tour there will be free time to explore at your leisure.

Julie joins us again this morning as we make our way through The Mersey Tunnel on to The Wirral and onto Port Sunlight. In 1888, on the banks of the River Mersey, William Lever bought a piece of Wirral marshland and began building a place for the workers at his Sunlight Soap factory to live. He employed over 30 architects to help create his vision, in line with similar industrial worker settlements at the time like Saltaire and Bournville. What set Port Sunlight apart was its radical emphasis on beauty, from its varied architecture to its picturesque landscapes.  Port Sunlight is home to over 900 Grade II listed Arts and Crafts-style houses and public buildings, set in 130 acres of stunning parkland and gardens. We enjoy a tour of this wonderful setting with time to visit the museum and the Lady Lever Art Gallery.  We head back under The Mersey and make our way to Pier Head where we join our 50 minute Mersey Ferry Cruise.  You will learn how the ferries played their part in the First World War and hear more about Liverpool’s maritime history from the expert recorded commentary, which plays throughout the cruise. You'll be captivated as the rich and fascinating history of our world-famous waterfront unfolds before you.

We leave the hotel after breakfast and commence our journey home. Having made a suitable comfort stop we arrive in the lovely Cathedral City of Lichfield, Britain’s seventh smallest city where markets have taken place in the historic market square since the time of King Stephen ! Time for lunch and to explore before continuing back to Sussex where we aim to arrive in the Maresfield area by approximately 19.00