Tourists

Welcome to Liverpool

Wednesday 26th July

Hurrah, we made it in time for breakfast today. We had tickets for the Forthlin Road Tour and we had to be at the Albert Dock for 9.50am. It was only a small 16-seater bus but it had a National Trust video running and Beatles music playing. It was a 20-minute journey to Forthlin Road and on the way we were each given a badge and an audio guide.

When we arrived, we had to hand our bags and cameras to custodian, John Halliday. (No photography, video or audio recording is allowed inside the house). Once inside the house I lost Claudette and found her sitting on the bed in what was Paul's tiny bedroom - she seemed to be in a world of her own.

It was strange to think that the boys had both been brought up in that very house and Dave and Claudette were obviously entranced. They couldn't understand why there was no icebox but John explained that refrigerators were rare here in until the later 60s. We won't describe the house, or say what was on the audio tour (easy to operate and excellent sound quality) it is a very emotive place. Everyone will feel different emotions - you just have to go and experience it.

Their verdict: "Absolutely fantastic - we'll never forget it".

From here we went to Maranto's in Lark Lane. This is about 10 minutes from the city centre by car but well worth the journey. It is an American Italian restaurant with great food and a brilliant atmosphere. Claudette had soup and salad and I chose bruschetta with wild mushrooms and fries. Dave picked a generous Caesar Salad with chargrilled chicken.

Our verdict: GREAT! They also loved the atmosphere and the old dishes, vases and paraphernalia around the room.

It was here we parted company, as they were travelling on to another part of the country. We enjoyed their company as much as they had enjoyed the sights and sounds of BeatleCity. Thanks guys!

NB. All the meals and attractions reviewed in this report were paid for by Yellow Pepper on behalf of BeatleCity.com.