There are so many great things to do and see across Merseyside.
The Liverpool City Region (which covers Liverpool, Halton, Knowsley, Sefton, St Helens or Wirral) boasts some of the top restaurants, hotels and attractions in the country.
However the region also has hundreds of hidden gems - places that are off the beaten track and not as well-known as the obvious tourist spots.
Hidden beauty spots that are well worth seeking out in Liverpool, Wirral and beyond
This year, the Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards announced that there will be a new category this year - the Hidden Gem.
This category has been voted for by the public and will recognise the region’s best kept secret.
Award organisers asked the people of Merseyside to nominate their favourite hidden gem and independent judges then drawn up a shortlist of 10 (that are listed below).
25 delicious little places in Liverpool you really NEED to know about
The final 10 have now been put up for a final public vote and the winner will be announced at the Liverpool City Region awards ceremony on Thursday, May 16.
Here is the shortlist for the best Hidden Gem category:
Birkenhead Priory, Wirral
The oldest standing building in the city region, which comprises of a chapel, museum and refectory.
Bluecoat Gardens, Liverpool
Behind the Bluecoat Arts Centre the gardens have space for outdoor performances alongside a woodland area.
Friends of Williamson Tunnels, Liverpool
A labyrinth of tunnels and underground caverns in Edge Hill and preserved by this group of volunteers.
Hobo Kiosk, Liverpool
Small friendly pub in the Baltic Quarter with selected local beers, unique design and warm atmosphere.
L20 Restaurant, Sefton
Created by Hugh Baird College in 2003, the restaurant provides training, work experience and inspiration for students taking their first steps into the catering industry.
Old Dock Tour, Liverpool
Liverpool’s Old Dock – the world’s first commercial enclosed wet dock – has been carefully preserved under Liverpool One and has free tours available.
Red Brick Hangar, Liverpool
An independent market in the Baltic Quarter with over 50 businesses under one roof – it also supports local artists and start-ups.
Squash Café, Liverpool
An eco-friendly community led food space in Toxteth, which incorporates a food shop, café and catering space.
St Peters Church, Liverpool
An Anglican Church in Woolton Village with strong links to the early days of The Beatles.
Zap Graffiti Arts, Liverpool
A unique graffiti art focused venue providing classes, workshops for schools and custom artwork.
For more information, visit www.liverpoollep.org/award
