Located on the river Mersey, Liverpool is England's third largest city - only Birmingham and London are bigger.

There is plenty to do when you visit Liverpool - it's an internationally renowned culture centre and won the title of European Capital of Culture during 2008.

Of course, it was also the home of The Beatles.

Theatre-goers are spoilt for choice with six main theatres to choose from, two of which boast their own theatre companies. So there are always plenty of plays to see if you want a relaxing and cultural evening out.

Every other year during the autumn, the Liverpool Biennial takes place and covers all sorts of arts. In 2004, Yoko Ono caused controversy with the work she exhibited there. Since the phrase "all publicity is good publicity" holds through, this helped to boost the event's public profile. The events take place across the city and many are in public areas, so you can get a flavour of the event.

Sports fans are well catered for. There are two rival Premier League football clubs: Liverpool F.C. and Everton F.C. If you like to support winning teams, Liverpool F.C. are the most successful English club of all time, beating even Manchester United.

Basketball fans may be able to see the Everton Tigers play at home.

Horse racing in Liverpool includes the UK's most famous steeplechase, The Grand National. This is an endurance test for all who take part and is the toughest such race that is held at Aintree Racecourse.

Architecture fans will thoroughly enjoy Liverpool, which boasts more listed buildings than London.

Rather than just staying in your hotel room and watching television, you can take in one of the many international restaurants the city has to offer, featuring cuisines from all over the world.

There are also a wide range of pubs and clubs, ranging from friendly "locals" through to the livelier places often frequented by students and other young people. You're sure to be able to find somewhere to relax or chill out, wherever you decide to stay in the city.

Historically, Liverpool has been a trading city and this is reflected in the importance of the various docks. The most famous of these is Albert Dock, which was opened in 1846 by Prince Albert, which is where it gets its name from. It was the first building in the UK to be made entirely from stone, brick and iron. With the decline in shipping trade, the dock closed commercially in 1972 and went into a period of decay. More recently, it has been completely refurbished and is now a thriving area, full of bars, restaurants, hotels, offices and museums. During the late 1980's and early 1990's, Albert Dock also played host to the popular "This Morning" television show, hosted by Richard and Judy.

Apart from The Beatles, Liverpool has a whole host of famous people associated with it. They include the comedian Ken Dodd, singer and television personality Cilla Black, Craig Charles and former Dr Who star, Tom Baker. Many of these are commemorated on the Wall of Fame which is located opposite the Cavern Club. Whilst you obviously won't be able to see the Beatles play there, the Club is still a thriving rock and roll venue.