Liverpool Sunderland Train

Liverpool is a city located in the metropolitan borough of Merseyside in the north west of England. The city lies on the eastern side of the River Mersey Estuary which led its development as an important seaport which led to the city's urbanisation and expansion. The port is also the reason why Liverpool has am ethnically diverse population which, for historical reasons, includes many people from Ireland. The city also has the oldest Black African community in the United Kingdom and the oldest Chinese community in Europe.

Liverpool has a world famous reputation for its music which is perhaps why it was labelled the World Capital of Pop by Guinness World Records. Famous artists and bands from the city include The Beatles, Billy Fury, Gerry and the Pacemakers, Echo & the Bunnymen and Frankie Goes to Hollywood to name just a few.

Liverpool is more than just its port and musical heritage. Parts of the city centre were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2004 including the Pier Head, Albert Dock and William Brown Street.

Liverpool also has a rich sporting heritage and is home to two of the English Premier League's top clubs: Liverpool Football Club and Everton Football Club. Matches between the two clubs are referred to as the "Merseyside Derby". Liverpool is also home to Aintree Racecourse which holds the annual world famous Grand National.

The city of Sunderland in the north east of England has an enviable location, set right on the mouth of the River Wear next to a beautiful coastline and surrounded by easily accessible countryside. The city also has many heritage, cultural and sporting attractions and you will find that Sunderland has something for everyone. Sunderland has many things to see and do including the Sunderland Empire Theatre, St Peters Church which produced the Venerable Bede, Europe's greatest 8th century scholar, the award winning Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens and for energetic types, the Sunderland Wall and Silksworth Sports Complex offer climbing, skiing and snowboarding while Adventure Sunderland has facilities for windsurfers, kayakers and divers. Sunderland's green spaces and coastline make an ideal setting for a number of outdoor festivals and events. From the adrenaline rush of the Red Arrows at the Sunderland International Airshow to open air movies at the Sunderland Festival, to traditional ox roasting and fireworks at Houghton Feast, there is always something going on in Sunderland to suit all tastes. After a day exploring the city's museums and galleries why not take time out for a spot of retail therapy! The retail heart of the city is centred around The Bridges Shopping Centre, where over 100 top name high street sit side by side along the bright and airy walkways.