Why Birkenhead should be in the guidebook, according to The Guardian

When reading most guidebooks for places to visit around the UK you may not expect smaller towns to get much, if any, recognition.

However, in an article published by The Guardian this week, a day out to Birkenhead was described as the best alternative way to enjoy what the Mersey paradise has to offer.

Jump the ferry

Ferry across the Mersey

First up on the list was taking a ferry from the Pier Head across to Woodside Ferry terminal, costing £3.70 to return and 10 minutes to cross.

Take in the architecture

The first stop on the list recommended to travellers was visiting the Grade II listed Woodside Ventilation Station.

Designed by Herbet Rowse and built between 1925 and 34, The Guardian describe it as “a brilliant expression of form meeting function”.

Woodside Ventilation Station

More of Rowes’ shaft “staid brown brick” buildings are also recommended to visitors which can be seen on Sidney Street and Taylor Street. While the described as “better known” George’s Dock Portland stone building can be spotted across the water.

Take in the coastal views

Described as “awash with maritime memories” the East Wirral Coastal trial comes recommended next.

According to the Guardian: “From the Cammell Laird shipyard, to the U-boat Story to the steps and jetty of Job’s Ferry – the 12th-century precursor of the trans-Mersey service to “the place I love”.

Hamiliton Square

“A few paces inland is Birkenhead Priory – the oldest building on Merseyside – and the Georgian masterpiece that is Hamilton Square, second only to Trafalgar Square for the number of Grade I-listed buildings on a single site.”

Enjoy the green spaces

The final thing mentioned on the Guardian’s guide to Birkenhead is one of Wirral’s most popular destinations, Birkenhead Park.

Birkenhead Park

Built in 1874, this must-see green space is the first park to be built with public money.

The Guardian's guide said: “It was laid out by Joseph Paxton, best known for work at Chatsworth House, and offers native and exotic trees, lodges, ponds, rock gardens, serpentine paths, bridges, a cricket crease, “probably the oldest brick-built cricket pavilion in the world” and a boathouse.

“American landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, visiting in 1850, took ideas from Birkenhead when designing Central Park in New York.”