Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Stretton

"Albert Dock is evocative of Liverpool’s rich industrial history, made up of docks and warehouses along the waterfront. Standing since 1846, Albert Dock was the first non-combustible warehouse system in the world, as the complex uses iron and brick in place of wood. Albert Dock has historically been one of the foremost and innovative docks in the world, and a front runner in technology such as hydraulic cranes."

"We’ve learned appreciate our city like never before, and this stunning location is one we’ve all missed. Take a walk, run or jog, while enjoying the unmistakable atmosphere and spectacular views, and this month, as Royal Albert Dock has seen more incredible stores and eateries reopening, so it’s well worth treating yourself to a tasty takeout. Further details here"

"If you are looking for one place that incorporates the essence of Liverpool then head to Albert Dock!. From museums and shops to restaurants and bars, Albert Dock has it all. The rare urban melange is perhaps just as perfect as its location- the serene water amidst all the buzz is sure to keep you entertained for hours."

"Discover a symbol of Liverpool and gain insight into the city’s history with a visit to the National Heritage-listed Liverpool Cathedral. As the largest religious building in Britain, the Anglican cathedral boasts neo-Gothic architecture, distinctive artwork, and a 328-feet (100-meter) tower that provides sweeping views across River Mersey."

"Head to the top of this Gothic church for unbelievable views of the city, all for free. Churches can be rather chilly so this gives you that movie moment where a jacket is offered to the chillier of the pair, opening up the possibility of a kiss."

"Although there has been a parish church building on this site since the late Anglo Saxon or Early Norman period, the cathedral we see today looks nothing like the building that would have stood there all those years ago. The cathedral has been modified over the years after structural damage caused by the Civil War, damage caused by a German bomb during the Manchester Blitz in the second World War and further damage caused by the IRA bomb of 1996. In the thirteenth century a stone parish church was constructed in the parish that was to become Manchester, serving people in a 60 mile radius."

"Standing proud since 1421 when Henry V signed a royal charter granting permission for a collegiate church to be built, the iconic Manchester Cathedral has survived world wars, bombings and the industrial revolution first hand. Admire the beautiful stained glass windows and carved ceilings as you wander around the building and listen to the sound of choristers and jazz that is often playing. If you want to learn more about the building there are guided tours every day at 11 am and 2 pm Monday to Saturday."

"You might find one cathedral that is worth visiting on your travels around different cities, but how often do you find two world class cathedrals?. Either end of Hope Street, the Anglican Cathedral and Metropolitan Cathedral are stunning examples of architecture and dominate the city skyline. The Anglican is the fifth largest cathedral in the world and is an amazing place to walk around and inside, with so much detail and regular events."

"The Catholic Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral reflects the high proportion of Liverpudlians of Irish origin living in the city. During the Irish emigrations of the 19th and 20th centuries, Liverpool was the principal port of embarkation for the United States, and many emigrants ended up settling in the city. Building began in 1928, although it wasn't actually completed until 1967."

"If you think you’ve seen all styles of cathedrals throughout your travels, think again!. The Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral has been nicknamed by locals as “Paddy’s Wigwam”, and when you first lay eyes on it you’ll understand why. The architect who designed this unique cathedral won an international competition in 1962 and the building was completed and opened in 1967."

"Live music starts at 12pm every day at the Cavern Club, and goes on well into the night. Considered by many as the home of The Beatles, the club offers guided “magical mystery tours” of the city in a custom tour bus, as well as regular shows from resident tribute act “The Cavern Club Beatles”. Budding musicians can even sign up for lessons at the Cavern Rock School, with the chance to take part in a yearly showcase on the famous stage of the Cavern Club itself."

"We can’t really make a list of the best pubs in Liverpool without featuring one of the most famous clubs in the world, can we?. In 1957 the Cavern Club opened its doors on Mathew Street, and it didn’t take long until rock ‘n’ roll took over!. From the Beatles to Oasis to Stevie Wonder, musical legends have won crowds over at this funky little venue."

"Buile Hill Park is, for many, the pillar of the Salford community. Situated in Seedley and Pendleton, it is the largest park in the city, and also the second oldest behind Peel Park. The park as we know it today was opened in 1903 when, what was known as Seedley Park, and the grounds of Buile Hill house were joined together by the closure of the ‘dog entry’ path which had separated them."

"Buile Hill Park is a Grade II listed public park and hall and is the second oldest park in the city, after Peel Park. The park is also the largest in the city, as well as one of the most popular. Buile Hill Park has a significant history, with close links to the artist LS Lowry, as well as being used as a military base in both world wars."

"Travel back in time to the industrial revolution at the Quarry Bank Mill. Oozing with heritage, you can experience the ‘sounds and smells’ of steam and water-powered engines, explore the cotton mill to learn about spinning, weaving, the production of material, and the history of the textile industry, tour the Apprentice House for a glimpse into the lives of pauper children, stroll the beautiful gardens, or walk the Styal Estate, filled with woodlands and streams. Interactive, engaging, and educational, the museum exhibits and friendly and knowledgeable staff make Quarry Bank Mill a great day out for all ages."

"Liverpool Comedy Cellar has been voted the best venue in Liverpool by The Guardian – which considering the number of incredible venues in the city is some accolade!. This comedy venue specialises in bringing only the best line-ups to the city every Saturday night and boasts an impressive number of sell-out shows in its history. The Comedy Cellar also offers pre-show meal packages, with more information available at their website."

"One of the best outdoor restaurants in Manchester, The Ape & Apple is an ideal pitstop after a long day of exploring the city. With friendly locals, monthly-changing ales and a secret terrace out the back, this place ticks all of our alfresco dining boxes."

"One of the first places to open up in the now uber-trendy Northern Quarter the Frog and Buckets plays host to Manchester's longest-running comedy club. Not only some fantastic homegrown talent, but comedy greats also pass through from all over the world. There are two opportunities every week to enjoy a giggle, their 'Barrel of Laughs' night and also their open mic night 'Beat the Frog'."

"Not many people know of this bar as it is not too easy to find if you don’t use maps. However, once you are in there you will be transported to the 1920’s whilst being spoilt for choice when it comes to what drinks you would like. So, if you are fancying a throwback whilst treating yourself to some drinks then Prohibition will be great for you."

"The well-known Watergate St really is home to some of the best bars in Chester. However, Prohibition is impossible to find if you don’t know where to look, and that’s exactly the point. This independent bar is situated at the top of the steps next to Lono Cove and harks back to the age of the roaring 20s."

"Macclesfield is in the orbit of the Jodrell Bank Observatory, founded in 1945 and part of the University of Manchester. The primary telescope at Jodrell Bank is the colossal Lovell Telescope, built in 1957 and still the third largest steerable dish radio telescope in the world, at 76.2 metres in diameter. Amateur astronomers come a long way to savour this immense structure, which along with the rest of the station has been mooted for World Heritage Status."

"The municipal museum was founded in 1848 and moved into its purpose-built Neoclassical home in 1857. This is one of the UK’s oldest town museums and the building has kept its original character. As with the best municipal museums, the collection is a big jumble of local industrial artefacts, Egyptology, Roman archaeology, coins, ethnographic displays, items from the Civil War and zoological and botanical specimens."

"Contemporary Six – The Gallery is a leading independent art gallery located in the heart of the city centre of Manchester opposite the beautiful Town Hall. Established in 2010 by Alex Reuben, the gallery is known for offering a warm and friendly welcome to art enthusiasts, collectors, and new visitors and explorers to the city. Specialising in original paintings, landscapes, portraits, abstracts handmade prints, sculptures, and ceramics."

"From Darrell Evanes’ scrap metal sculpture to Matthew Bourne’s natural abstracts, Contemporary Six’s repertoire is all encompassing. Having outgrown its former location of Royal Exchange Arcade, the gallery - founded by Alex Reuben in 2010 - now occupies an airy space on Princess Street, where it represents around 40 artists. Best feature: Contemporary Six offers the Own Art Scheme, which allows buyers to pay in monthly instalments"