UK hotel of the month



Move over, Manchester! The past year has seen a whole host of trendy hotels and bars open in Liverpool as the city begins its tenure as the 2008 European Capital of Culture. The latest, and arguably most eagerly awaited, of these new arrivals is the Hard Day's Night Hotel, which - as its name suggests - has a very distinct Beatles theme to it.

The four-star boutique hotel is set on Mathew Street in the heart of the "Beatles Quarter" - just a short stroll from the world-famous Cavern Club where the Fab Four first rose to fame in the early 60s.

The Grade II-listed building boasts 110 individually designed bedrooms, each featuring a specially commissioned artwork by acclaimed Beatles artist Shannon. There's also an en suite shower room, flat-screen TV, internet access and online shopping facility so you can buy exclusive Hard Day's Night merchandise from the comfort of your bedroom.

If you really want to go the whole hog on the Beatles experience, however, book into the uber-exclusive Lennon or McCartney suites. Prior to the hotel's February opening, details of these rooms were a closely guarded secret. However, we do know the Lennon suite features a white grand piano - while the McCartney one houses a full suit of armour, in homage to the great man's knighthood.

When it comes to eating out, you're spoilt for choice in Liverpool's city centre - but you don't even have to leave your hotel to dine in style. In-house eaterie Blakes serves modern British cuisine in a room decorated with images inspired by Peter Blake's famous Sgt Pepper album cover. The hotel also houses two exclusive bars, Hari's and Bar Four, as well as a small gallery featuring Beatles-related artworks.

Room rates start at £145 per night; for more information, go to www.harddaysnighthotel.com.


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