A new family-friendly interactive trail is encouraging children to discover the people, places and stories behind one of Liverpool’s famous streets.
Unpack Hope, delivered by Hope Street CIC and Liverpool Business Improvement District, connects venues across Hope Street through a free trail exploring the history of its theatres, cathedrals, cultural attractions and community spaces.
The trail takes inspiration from artist John King’s sculpture A Case History, which stands at the top of Mount Street on Hope Street.
Commissioned by LIPA in 1998, the renowned artwork features more than 30 suitcases, each bearing the name of a famous person connected to Liverpool.
Families can begin Unpack Hope at Liverpool Cathedral, where they can collect a worksheet before visiting ten locations across the Hope Street area.
Stops include Blackburne House, Hope Street Hotel, Frederiks, Free State Kitchen, Victoria Gallery & Museum, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Liverpool Everyman and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall.
Each location reveals the story of a person associated with the venue or the surrounding area.
Figures featured along the trail include Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, who designed Liverpool Cathedral, and community and social activists Lady Margaret Simey and June Henfrey, whose stories are connected to Blackburne House.
Families will also discover more about celebrated author Charles Dickens, conductor Malcolm Sargent, railway pioneer Henry Booth and social reformer Josephine Butler.
Liverpool’s literary heritage is represented by the Mersey poets Roger McGough, Brian Patten and Adrian Henri.
Children can check off each destination as they complete the trail, collecting items including stickers and pots of paint along the route.
Participating families can also access special offers, with those completing the full trail able to enter a prize draw.
Unpack Hope forms part of Liverpool BID’s Celebrating Summer programme, which is bringing a series of free events and activities to locations across Liverpool city centre.
Events are taking place around Bold Street, Hope Street, the waterfront, St George’s Quarter, Derby Square and the Commercial District, encouraging people to explore new parts of the city, spend time outdoors and enjoy free family activities throughout the summer.
The events programme will be available here.
The Very Revd Dr Sue Jones, Dean of Liverpool, said:
“Unpack Hope is a wonderful invitation for people to discover not only Liverpool Cathedral, but also one of Liverpool’s most iconic streets, celebrating the rich history, culture and community that make it so special. With Liverpool Cathedral standing proudly at one end and the Metropolitan Cathedral at the other, Hope street is more than a destination – it’s a symbol of the hope and partnership that have long defined our city. We look forward to welcoming visitors through our doors this summer as they begin their journey exploring everything this city street has to offer.”
Mark da Vanzo Chair of Hope Street CIC, said:
“What a great way for families to experience what our wonderful street, businesses and institutions have to offer. The Summer is the perfect opportunity to spend time in our cathedrals, museums, cafes and restaurants. The Hope St CIC, as the representative body for businesses on the street and wider area, is delighted to work with Liverpool Business Improvement District on the trail, building on the success of last year’s UN Day of Hope celebrations. Our members have put together some fantastic offers to support the trail. We look forward to welcoming families to our amazing part of Liverpool.”
Bill Addy, CEO Liverpool BID Company, said:
“Hope Street is not only one of Liverpool’s most famous streets, it is also one rich in history. We’re always on the lookout for things to do during the summer holidays, and a chance to delve into the heritage of Hope Street is both fun and free. Thank you to those businesses who have developed special offers to make it even more affordable for those planning days out this summer. We always believe as much as we can offer for everyone on the doorstep, the better it is for everyone in the city”.
