Founded in 1207, Liverpool Merseyside is the fourth largest city in the United Kingdom. It started out as a small borough it became a major port by the eighteenth century. The busy port l attracted a lot of shipping and with it a large number of people from the black and Asian community came over to the country and decided to settle in Liverpool. Liverpool is now home to the largest Black community in the United Kingdom, and the largest Chinese population in all of Europe.

Liverpool is also a popular tourist destination for music lovers as it is the home town of the world famous 1960's band the Beatles.

Since the Beatles helped to put Liverpool on the map, a good place to start is the Liverpool musical scene. Liverpool is home to several different annual musical festivals. The Eclectica Music Festival is a free festival that is held every year. Held in St. Helens this festival brings together several different live acts.

The Liverpool Irish Festival is also a popular music festival that many people enjoy. Since Liverpool is often considered "the capital of Ireland" it brings the culture of Ireland to the English shores. The festival features not just music but art and literature of Ireland.

Liverpool is also home to several different points of arts and culture for visitors to enjoy. The World Museum of Liverpool has almost over a thousand exhibits. Exhibitions include World Cultures, aquariums and a bug house. It is also home to the Clore Natural History Center.

Another interesting museum is the International Slavery Museum gives visitors a unique exploration of the history of slavery. It addresses issues such as human rights, freedom, identity, cultural change and racial discrimination and also explores Liverpool's involvement in the slave trade. This is the first phase of the museum's development. Visitors can get a thought-provoking tour through Liverpool and its slave trade history.

Families can find plenty of fun in Liverpool too. A good stop for those who like all things creepy and crawly is the Bugworld Experience. Visitors start their tour with a short film that introduces them to the wonderful world of bugs. Once the film is over, visitors will be guided through different simulated environments that will encourage visitors to take an interactive take on the exhibits. You will find set ups that range from the typical British home to the tropics. It's a unique take on the little world of the bugs.

Another great hands-on place for families with kids ages two to ten is the Underwater Street. Here there are six zones for families to "play" at. Wall climbing, science shows and craft tables are just some of the things that kids and families can enjoy. There is also a dress up area and a real car to paint. It is a fun-filled day for the whole family.

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