Every now and then, when no one’s watching, Mancunians make the daring trek across the M62 to Liverpool. In truth, it happens far more often than some might admit…
Joking (and friendly rivalries) aside, we’re incredibly lucky to have such a vibrant and dynamic city just a stone’s throw from home.
Earlier this month, we seized the opportunity for a whirlwind visit to our neighbours in Liverpool, to check out the city’s new and exquisite Halyard Hotel.
As you step through the doors, guests are welcomed by attentive staff who remain on hand for your every need throughout each stay, before being introduced to a ‘memorable ritual’.
As part of the Vignette Collection, each hotel in the group offers a unique experience reflecting its local heritage. Given Liverpool’s long history as a thriving port city, the Halyard embraces this past with a nod to one of its most exotic imports – cocoa.
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Guests are treated to a Champurrado short, a rich and velvety Mexican chocolate drink, served in an authentic earthenware clay cup. For those looking to elevate the experience, a splash of local Lost Dock Rum adds a tantalising twist.
The Halyard is an ideal base for all the city has to offer, perfectly positioned near Concert Square and Liverpool ONE.
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The rooms are a masterclass in modern chic – sophisticated, stylish, and effortlessly comfortable – with huge beds ready to give you the best night’s sleep, a fully stocked mini bar, a coffee machine, and plenty of other essentials and creature comforts.
Bedrooms at The Halyard LiverpoolThe view from The Halyard’s balconyBedrooms at The Halyard Liverpool
Although we didn’t have time to use it, the hotel also boasts a well-equipped gym for those looking to stay active during their visit.
One standout feature is the spacious balconies, offering a prime spot for people-watching over the bustling streets below. True to Liverpool’s reputation as a party hotspot, you’ll spot more than a few stag and hen parties revelling in the city’s lively atmosphere. Yet, despite the central location, the room itself was blissfully quiet.
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The Halyard Liverpool has an in-house restaurant, Voyagers, serving small plates and expertly-crafted cocktails. The standout dish? Without a doubt, the soy and ginger glazed pork belly, which melts in the mouth with each bite. The roasted beetroot salad, served with whipped feta, is another highlight – because, let’s be honest, everything is better with feta.
The hotel staff are happy to provide recommendations, and sent us on our way to discover two local gems, The Monro and St. Peter’s Tavern. Each had its own distinctive charm, offering a taste of Liverpool’s eclectic nightlife.
Before checking out the next morning, who can resist a hearty hotel breakfast. A full English and a stack of maple bacon pancakes later, you’ll leave thoroughly satisfied.
Voyagers restaurant at The Halyard LiverpoolVoyagers restaurant at The Halyard Liverpool
From The Halyard’s doorstep you’ll be able to take a leisurely stroll through Liverpool ONE for a spot of shopping (their enormous Zara never fails to impress), before making your way down to the iconic Albert Dock. A morning walk along the waterfront is the perfect way to shake off the previous night’s indulgences.
The Liver Building, standing proudly on the banks of the Mersey, is as breathtaking as ever a reminder of Liverpool’s rich history and enduring beauty.
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You should also visit the Liverpool Cathedral (which I learned is Britain’s largest cathedral). It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience, thanks to the sheer scale and grandeur of the architecture, offering a moment of reflection in the midst of our lively city break.
A stay at The Halyard Liverpool is nothing short of delightful. With its perfect blend of luxury, location, and local charm, it’s a hotel we’d happily return to on our next visit to this incredible city.
The Peak District walk with amazing views, a cosy cafe, and a great pub at the end
Daisy Jackson
If you’re looking for a country walk that’s got a bit of everything – we’re talking views, lakes, history, picturesque villages and, crucially, pints – this is the one.
Step across the Greater Manchester border into High Peak, and you can take on a circular walk that’s got it all.
The walk takes in all the best bits of the English countryside, from rolling hills to proper pubs.
Park in the village of Hayfield, then head out west to join the Sett Valley Trail, which joins Hayfield and New Mills.
The trail itself is 2.5 miles and follows a former railway line – but now it’s a tree-lined trail that’s perfect for a gentle stroll, cycle or even horse ride.
You’ll pass the Birch Vale reservoir, but won’t be following the trail all the way to New Mills.
Get as far as Emma’s Sett Valley Cafe and stop for an early break – indulgent hot chocolates, great bakes, and a decent amount of brunch dishes beneath colourful festoon lighting.
Emma’s Sett Valley Cafe. Credit: The Manc Group
Once you’re fuelled, head slightly back on yourself to skirt Birch Vale Reservoir, cross the River Sett, and walk towards Sitch Lane.
The road will take you to the very edge of the Peak District ready for an uphill climb to the peak of Lantern Pike.
It’s not a giant by Peak District standards (373m compared to Kinder Scout’s 636m) but the views are 360 degrees – fields on all sides and the incredible Manchester skyline in the distance.
Walk straight over the summit and down the other side, walking along the edge of Hey Wood and across fields full of friendly cows, past Little Hayfield and back into the main village of Hayfield.
Views from the Sett Valley trailSummiting Lantern PikePretty views near Little Hayfield
Here you’ll find The Pack Horse, a country pub that’s gained some serious accolades in recent years.
Famed for its seasonal, locally-sourced menu, at this time of year you can expect hearty post-hike lunches like sharing pies, Manchester eggs, and incredible Sunday roasts.
Despite a top-notch menu, the pub is more than happy to welcome in customers (and dogs) who are covered in mud – as all good countryside boozers should.
Sharing pie at The Pack Horse in HayfieldThe Pack Horse in HayfieldTheir famous Manchester egg
You can see a map of the circular walking route at AllTrails HERE.
Huge tunnel through the Peak District linking Manchester and Sheffield moves one step closer
Clementine Hall
Ambitions plans to build a tunnel beneath the Peak District to connect Manchester and Sheffield has moved a step closer.
The proposed tunnel, which could completely transform travel between the two cities, has received a major £500,000 funding boost.
Picture the Eurostar, but plonk it going across the Pennines instead of London to Paris.
If it all goes ahead, journeys between South Yorkshire and Greater Manchester would be much quicker and easier, cutting times by up to 30 minutes, The Sheff reports.
The whopping £500,000 funding has been secured by infrastructure group Future Works, which is behind the proposed Trans-Pennine Connect scheme.
The money will be used to carry out technical and environmental feasibility studies to establish whether the project could actually go ahead.
The plans would see a 14-mile dual-carriageway tunnel built underneath the Peak District, potentially running between Langsett in South Yorkshire and Hollingworth or Tintwistle in Greater Manchester.
Michael Dnes, Future Works co-founder, said: “We’re very excited to be working with UK Dynamism Fund to unlock the next stage of our project.
“This funding will let us complete the technical and environmental feasibility studies needed to get the right outcomes for people and the Peak District as we deliver better transport connections across the Pennines.”
South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard has previously voiced his support for the proposals, describing them as a “really exciting opportunity”.
Speaking at a South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority meeting back in September, he said: “We all know the frustrations of travelling between two of the North’s biggest and best cities.”
He also stressed that any plans would need to take environmental considerations very seriously, particularly the impact on wildlife in the Peak District.
The project is still in very early stages, and the funding doesn’t indicate that planning has been approved. We’ll keep you updated with any updates as and when we know.
So, what do you make of this proposal? Would you be keen for a drive through the tunnel?
Will Kendrick -
19th March 2025 
