A day cruising the 35 miles of the Manchester Ship Canal aboard a Mersey Ferry with live commentary along the way describing how this magnificent waterway shaped the city of Manchester and the North West.  Passing through locks and bridges that have remained largely unchanged since their construction, whilst viewing some of the region’s stunning architectural and natural sights. On arrival at Liverpool Docks, the opportunity to visit the recently opened Museum of Liverpool displaying the history of the city in a stunning new dockside building.

In Manchester there will be a day to discover the city’s historic past and its rejuvenation in the 21st century. Visit two extraordinary libraries: Chethams, a beautiful 15thC mediaeval building with magnificent interior; founded in 1653, it is the oldest public library in the English-speaking world.    John Rylands Library, built in the 1890s and widely regarded as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world; both the building and its collections are of outstanding international significance.  A tour of Manchester Town Hall’s magnificent staterooms and imposing murals by artist Ford Madox Brown (council meetings permitting); find lunch in the unusual Sculpture Café.  Time to enjoy the Whitworth Art Gallery, part of the University of Manchester and home to some of the finest collections of both modern and historic fine art, prints and textiles.

The final morning travel by tram to Salford Quays and admire the transformation and development of this area. Visit The Lowry Centre with the largest public collection of works by LS Lowry in the world or cross the bridge to the state of the art building that is home to the Imperial War Museum North. Travel back by tram to Piccadilly for early afternoon departure.

Stay for three nights in the stylish and very comfortable 4 star Macdonald Manchester City Hotel, right next to Piccadilly Station. (Parking available).
 
Sunday 16 September:  Arrive and check into the hotel, welcome reception and dinner.  You might like to include a concert this evening at the Bridgewater Hall; we will advise the programme when available and hold tickets on option.
Monday 17 September: Day in Manchester as above with coaching between venues. Dinner in the hotel.
Tuesday 18 September: Depart from Salford for the Manchester Ship Canal arriving Liverpool late afternoon – visit the Liverpool Museum and enjoy an early dinner in a restaurant in Albert Docks before returning to Manchester by coach.  You may purchase light refreshments during the day on the Mersey Ferry and there is a licensed bar.   
Wednesday 19 September:  Check out of the hotel before travelling by tram from Piccadilly to Salford Quays – visit the Lowry Centre and if time permits the Imperial War Museum North. Return by tram to Manchester Piccadilly and departure.

	3 nights accommodation and breakfast,
	2 dinners in the hotel and 1 in Liverpool.
	Tickets for ferry, tram and entries
	Professional Guide, coaching as stated