Thursday 4 December 2014

"Magical Mystery Tour"


Liverpool 4th December - 5 Miles or more


Walkers :- Martin, Paddy, Vic, John R, John W, Mike, Anthony  Tony (guest)



After river, hill and seaside walks an urban walk was an obvious next choice as the weather began  to  turn wintery. So, after a certain amount of deliberation, Liverpool became our chosen destination,  Setting off at our usual time and deviating to pick up John R in Penwortham and a brief stop to pick up Tony Edwards (a guest) in Aughton we eventually arrived at the station in Old Roan. From here the train took us speedily into Liverpool disgorging us at Central Station. A short walk took us up to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King. We climbed the expansive steps and entered "Paddy's Wigwam" (not our Paddy you understand). The glow of the stained glass dimly illuminated the vast interior of the circular building as we walked slowly around the edge looking at the works of art and the smaller side chapels. We were soon back at the entrance. Paddy here opted to descend into the crypt and attend the mass being celebrated there. Mike and Martin disappeared into the Cathedral and John R generously sat and waited for them. The remainder of the group left the cathedral and walked down the steps towards the cafe. Lunch was partaken at the foot of the steps where the missing members soon joined us. Anthony and John opted to visit the cafe for a hot drink. 
With Paddy restored to us we left the Catholic Cathedral and headed along "Hope St" Towards the towering bulk of the magnificent Anglican Cathedral. As we ambled along this street there was so much to distract us and turn us from our path. The award winning "Everman Theatre"  the fantastic "Philharmonic Pub". Fascinating and iconic sculptures every few yards and a cornucopia of historic and beautiful buildings at every turn. Then the massive sandstone edifice of the Anglican Cathedral was before us. On entering the building we were warmly welcomed as we were in the the Catholic one. Both ends of Hope Street expressing pride in the presence of the other . Wonderful !  We wandered in awe round this second even vaster interior. So different than the first.
On leaving the Cathedral we stopped briefly to admire the entrance arch to "China Town" before walking down through the city to the "Albert Dock" and "Pier Head". Again there was much to hold our attention before we set of away from the "Three Graces" and into the shopping areas were the Christmas Markets were evident. By now there was a decided end of the day feeling as the sky began to herald the approaching dusk. We found our way to Moorfields station and were soon homeward bound after a thoroughly fascinating and enjoyable outing. 

Well done Anthony for sourcing a good circular route. Well done John W who mooted the idea of Liverpool. Well done Mike and Tony for providing local knowledge and thanks to Paddy for drinks all round in the Philharmonic. Thanks to the rest of you for your highly esteemed presence. (....is that every one ?....)


It certainly was!

'Albert Dock' two aged objects!
'Paddy's Wigwam'!
(The Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King)


The other end of Hope Street
(The Anglican Cathedral)




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