Bluecoat
Susie Stubbs
The Bluecoat is the oldest building in Liverpool city centre, dating back to 1716. Once a school, it’s now one of the city’s liveliest arts hubs, an art gallery showing work by major national and international artists that also stages regular performances, readings and more.
Clustered around its front courtyard are independent craft and design shops, including the excellent design and print store, Nook & Cranny, while at the back you’ll find the highly-rated Bluecoat Display Centre. Established in 1959, the Display Centre stocks a wide and changing range of contemporary craft, interior design and jewellery.
As well as being a centre for the contemporary arts, Bluecoat Liverpool is the perfect location for food and drink, in the heart of the city. In Espresso Cafe, you’ll find barista coffee, leaf teas, craft ales, wines and soft drinks, alongside a great selection of freshly made sandwiches, homemade cakes and biscuits. They also do a first-class afternoon tea with Prosecco and options for vegetarian, vegan and even gluten-free.
The upstairs bistro and courtyard garden – a hidden gem behind the building – are also particularly recommended. If the sun is shining take your food and drink outside and watch the world go by in this peaceful garden retreat.
