'''Birkenhead''' is a town on Merseyside, England, situated on the Wirral peninsula in the historic county boundaries of Cheshire, just across the River Mersey from Liverpool. It is not a tourist destination in its own right but can make for a rewarding afternoon trip from Liverpool, and is well worth a couple of hours of anybody's time.
Get in
Trains arrive from Liverpool's main stations every few minutes on the subterranean Merseyrail network, taking no more than 5 minutes. There are 5 stations, Hamilton Square being the best for the riverside, square and museum, Conway Park the best for the shopping district and Birkenhead Park the best for the famous park. Birkenhead can also be reached by the Mersey tunnels from Liverpool (toll payable) or the M53 from Chester. Alternatively, the famous Ferry cross the Mersey deposits you in the riverside area of the town.
Get around
Frequent and reliable Merseyrail services operate between the town's stations. There is alsoan extensive bus network. A Saveaway ticket is valid on all public transport in Birkenhead.
See
'''Tranmere Rovers Football Club'''. Although this club has always lived in the shadow of Liverpool it has a long tradition and a great family atmosphere - well worth a visit.
Hamilton Square, a beautiful Georgian Square with gardens in the middle designed by James Gillespie Graham.
'''Birkenhead Park''', the first publicly funded park in Britain and the inspiration for the design of New York's Central Park.
'''Birkenhead Priory''', a scheduled ancient monument, parts of which date to the 12th century.
The '''riverside''' by the Mersey affords an excellent panorama of Liverpool city centre including all of its iconic buildings. There is also a wealth of interesting industrial buildings in this area, reflecting the town's shipbuilding heritage.
Do
Explore '''Birkenhead park'''. The first public park and the inspiration for Central Park, New York. It is larger than most parks and has some beautiful wooded areas and duck ponds. Especially popular in the summer months.
The '''Ferry cross the Mersey''', immortalised in the Gerry and the Pacemakers song, is considered by many to be essential on any trip to Liverpool, and by definition involves a trip to Birkenhead.
The '' Wirral Museum''' is on Hamilton Square (see above) and is well worth an hour of your time. It tells the story of the town and the distinctive peninsula on which it lies. Note the civic grandeur of the architecture, including the neo-classical frontage and impressive staircase.
The Pyramids Shopping centre. Shopping centre that has all commodities and has some great deals
Buy
Birkenhead has the usual unexciting array of British high-street chain stores for your everyday requirements. Those seeking specialist shops or anything a cut above the norm should head across the water to Liverpool.
Williamson Art Gallery. located near to Birkenhead park on Slatey Road, has some great artwork
Birkenhead Central Library. Birkenhead Central Library, which was opened in 1934 by George V was the country's first public library in an unincorporated borough
Eat
Drink
Birkenhead has one must-visit pub for the pub architecture/real ale fan, The Stork Hotel. The Edwardian tiling, mosaic floor and etched windows make for a sumptuous drinking experience. There is always a selection of real ale and cheap hearty food is served at lunchtimes. 200yds from Hamilton Square.
Sleep
'''Bowler Hat Corus Hotel''', 2 Talbot Road, 15 1652 4931. Now closed.
'''Yew Tree Hotel''', 56 Rock Lane West. Approx __49.50.
'''Leasowe Castle Hotel''', Leasowe Road.
Get out
Port Sunlight, William Lever's model village, is a few minutes away and is easily accessed by rail or road.
The Wirral Coast has some excellent walking opportunities, including the Wirral Way. The ancient walled city of Chester is 30 minutes away by road or rail.