A fun guide to unusual events in Liverpool

In terms of eccentric festivals and celebrations, the United Kingdom boasts a plethora of distinctive and unconventional events that captivate and entertain visitors. One such occasion is the annual Cheese Rolling competition in Gloucestershire, wherein participants pursue a wheel of cheese down a precipitous incline, risking bodily harm for the opportunity to claim the prized cheese. This peculiar tradition has persisted for centuries and attracts spectators from across the globe.

Another extraordinary festival is the Up Helly Aa in Shetland, Scotland, where residents commemorate the conclusion of the Yule season with a remarkable fire festival. The pinnacle of the event involves the incineration of a Viking longship, accompanied by a procession of costumed participants and an evening of merriment. This singular celebration provides a compelling insight into Shetland’s rich Norse heritage and is an essential experience for those keen to immerse themselves in traditional Scottish culture.

Summary

• The UK is home to a variety of quirky festivals and celebrations, from cheese rolling in Gloucestershire to the Up Helly Aa fire festival in Shetland.
• Offbeat attractions and landmarks in the UK include the quirky architecture of the Portmeirion village in Wales and the mysterious Stonehenge in Wiltshire.
• Unusual tours and experiences in the UK range from ghost tours in Edinburgh to underground tours of the Churchill War Rooms in London.
• Unique dining and drinking spots in the UK include the Cereal Killer Cafe in London and the Cat Café in Manchester, where visitors can enjoy a coffee surrounded by feline friends.
• Eccentric performances and shows in the UK can be found at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where a wide range of unconventional acts take to the stage.
• Oddball museums and galleries in the UK include the Dog Collar Museum in Leeds Castle and the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Cornwall.
• Unconventional shopping and markets in the UK offer a range of unique items, from vintage clothing at Camden Market in London to quirky souvenirs at the Shambles Market in York.

Offbeat Attractions and Landmarks

Natural Wonders

One such attraction is the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, a natural rock formation comprising thousands of interlocking basalt columns. Legend has it that the causeway was built by the Irish giant Finn McCool, adding an element of myth and mystery to this already fascinating site.

Unsettling Experiences

For those with a taste for the macabre, the Catacombs of London offer a spine-chilling experience unlike any other. This underground network of tunnels and chambers is home to the remains of thousands of Londoners and offers a haunting glimpse into the city’s dark and eerie past.

Delve into the Unknown

Visitors can take guided tours of the catacombs, learning about the history and legends that surround this unique and unsettling attraction.

Unusual Tours and Experiences

For travellers looking for unique and unusual experiences, the UK offers a wide range of offbeat tours and activities that are sure to leave a lasting impression. One such experience is the Jack the Ripper walking tour in London, where participants can explore the dark alleyways and hidden corners of Whitechapel, retracing the steps of one of history’s most notorious serial killers. This spine-tingling tour offers a fascinating insight into Victorian London and the infamous crimes that shocked the world.

For those with a taste for the supernatural, a visit to Edinburgh’s underground vaults is a must. These eerie chambers beneath the city streets were once home to criminals, vagrants, and even plague victims, and are said to be haunted by restless spirits. Guided tours of the vaults offer a chilling glimpse into Edinburgh’s grim past, making it an unforgettable experience for those brave enough to venture into the darkness.

Unique Dining and Drinking Spots

When it comes to dining and drinking, the UK is home to a wealth of unique and unusual establishments that are sure to delight foodies and cocktail enthusiasts alike. One such spot is The Clink Restaurant in Cardiff, a dining experience with a difference. This award-winning restaurant is staffed by inmates from HMP Cardiff, offering guests the chance to enjoy delicious cuisine while supporting offender rehabilitation.

The restaurant also offers guided tours of the prison, providing an eye-opening look at life behind bars. For those with a taste for the unusual, The Attic Bar in Bristol offers a quirky drinking experience like no other. This hidden gem is located in the rafters of an old converted Georgian townhouse and offers a cosy and intimate setting for enjoying craft cocktails and live music.

The bar’s eclectic decor and laid-back atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and offbeat drinking spot.

Eccentric Performances and Shows

The UK is home to a vibrant arts scene, with no shortage of eccentric performances and shows that are sure to captivate audiences. One such show is The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, an annual event that showcases a diverse range of performances including comedy, theatre, dance, and music. The festival takes place in various venues across the city and attracts performers from all over the world, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience cutting-edge entertainment.

For those with a taste for the bizarre, The London Dungeon offers a theatrical experience like no other. This immersive attraction brings to life some of London’s most gruesome historical events, with live actors, special effects, and thrilling rides that are sure to send shivers down your spine. Visitors can expect to encounter infamous characters such as Jack the Ripper and Sweeney Todd, making it an unforgettable experience for fans of dark and twisted entertainment.

Oddball Museums and Galleries

Unleashing Canine History

One such museum is The Dog Collar Museum in Leeds Castle, Kent, which houses a unique collection of historic dog collars dating back to the 15th century. This quirky museum offers an insight into the history of canine fashion and is sure to delight dog lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Delving into the Macabre

For those with an interest in the macabre, The Old Operating Theatre Museum in London offers a chilling look into the history of surgery. Housed in an 18th-century church attic, this museum features a collection of surgical instruments, anatomical specimens, and displays on the grisly practices of Victorian medicine.

Guided Tours of a Grisly Past

Visitors can take guided tours of the museum, learning about the pioneering surgeons and medical advancements that shaped modern healthcare.

Unconventional Shopping and Markets

For travellers looking for unconventional shopping experiences, the UK offers a wide range of offbeat markets and unique retail destinations that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning shoppers. One such market is Camden Market in London, a vibrant hub of alternative fashion, vintage treasures, and eclectic street food. This bustling market is home to hundreds of stalls selling everything from handmade jewellery to quirky homeware, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

For those with a taste for the unusual, The Lanes in Brighton offer a quirky shopping experience like no other. This historic maze of narrow alleyways is home to an array of independent boutiques, vintage stores, and quirky cafes, making it the perfect destination for those looking to uncover hidden gems and unique finds. Visitors can explore the labyrinthine streets at their leisure, soaking up the bohemian atmosphere and discovering one-of-a-kind treasures along the way.

If you’re intrigued by the quirky and unusual events in Liverpool, you might also enjoy exploring more about the city’s vibrant culture and attractions. A great resource for this is the “Impressions of Liverpool” website, which offers a wealth of information on what to see and do in the city. For a deeper dive into Liverpool’s offerings, check out their main page here, where you can find insights and updates that will enrich your visit and perhaps add a few more stops to your itinerary!

FAQs

What are some unusual events in Liverpool?

Some unusual events in Liverpool include the annual Giant Spectacular, the Brouhaha International Street Festival, and the Liverpool International Festival of Psychedelia.

When does the Giant Spectacular take place in Liverpool?

The Giant Spectacular takes place in Liverpool every few years, with the last event being in 2018. The event features giant marionettes roaming the streets of the city.

What is the Brouhaha International Street Festival?

The Brouhaha International Street Festival is a multicultural event that takes place in Liverpool, featuring street performances, parades, and workshops from artists around the world.

When is the Liverpool International Festival of Psychedelia held?

The Liverpool International Festival of Psychedelia is an annual event that takes place in September, showcasing psychedelic music and art from around the world.

Are there any other unusual events in Liverpool?

Yes, Liverpool also hosts the annual Brazilica Festival, celebrating Brazilian culture with a vibrant parade and live music, as well as the Threshold Festival, which showcases emerging artists and performers in the city.