We called into the Historic City of Chester on our run north. If you are into Tudor buildings then this place is for you. Whole city blocks have been preserved with these striking black/white fronted buildings. The city cathedral and city gates are also well worth a look. We were however being drawn to Liverpool so our time was short. Liverpool did not disappoint. The name itself conjours images from shipping & industry to Architecture, football to Rock & Roll. We tried to fit as much as possible into the time we had available and were very fortunate in having local friends who kindly shepherded us around the main city features. The 'Three Graces' on Albert Dock, the Gothic styled Anglican and contemporary styled Catholic Cathedrals (incidentally nicknamed 'Paddy's Wigwam') and the ornate Philharmonic Bar are several fine Architectural examples.
Being teenagers in the sixties the Cavern and memories of the Beatles early years formed our main images of Liverpool. The Cavern has been rebuilt mostly in its original location and with the same bricks forming the famous vaults. It is still a live music venue and bar so it was great sipping on a pint and listening to live music - Beatles renditions of course.
Saturday 26 May had long been flagged in our calender as Isle of Man crossing day. It is hard to describe the excitement this conjours - remember sitting in a packed grandstand waiting for the players to run out onto the field in a Rugby Test, State of Origin League game or AFL final ? Well the feeling is similar. You wake up like a kid at Christmas. Time passes slowly, you are packed early. Down to Albert Docks and join the line of bikes. Stories are exchanged and all the time the excitement is building.
The massive Mannanan Ferry (built in Tasmania) arrives in the Mersey and backs up to the dock and lowers its 'boomgate' to discharge the returning passengers. Slowly the lines of bikes are directed on board. Then it is our turn. Easy does it on the wet steelwork. Not the place to drop your bike. Get the bike into its slot. Engage gear, rest on side stand and she gets lashed to a cushioned rail. We are told that the Steam Packet Ferry Co (a monopoly to the IOM) have 11,200 bikes booked to be taken to the IOM in 2012 - a recent record. The seas are benign and the sun bright, we are on our way. Farewell Liverpool, you have been great.
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