Liverpool might historically have been a great point of transit but few would have thought of the city meriting a visit in its own right. Rapidly growing numbers of tourists, however, are making the visitor economy one of the most important sectors.

Well-observed tourist industry trends towards weekend “city breaks”, centred on shopping or cultural attractions, are in Liverpool’s favour. So is the growth of the low-cost airline industry, which has spurred the development of John Lennon Airport. The city has one of the best clutches of museums and galleries outside London; some fantastic sports facilities; and a sparky nightlife.