'I discovered a destination dupe for New York in the UK – it's often used in Hollywood movies'

This UK city is a 'destination dupe' for New York City, says our writer, offering up a bustling nightlife and thriving cultural scene much closer to home

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New York might be the city that famously doesn't sleep, but if you're looking for vibrant nightlife and buzzing culture without crossing the pond, Liverpool is your go-to. Right in the middle of all the action is The Halyard , making waves as the UK's inaugural IHG Vignette Collection hotel (a curation of unique and hand-picked hotels). It's an ideal choice for travellers itching to dive into the city's hotspots while having a serene sanctuary to retreat to.

True to Liverpool's essence, The Halyard roots itself locally, with all its food sourced from the North West. Step inside and you're met with an Instagram-worthy reception flush with greenery, leading you into the classy Voyagers Restaurant and Bar . Our accommodation was generous in space, featuring a lounge corner and expansive bathroom, plus our own balcony offering breathtaking views over Liverpool - a sight especially magical when the night falls.



And no fuss about noise – the doors are exceptionally soundproof, so expect a serene slumber on a super comfy, sprawling bed. READ MORE: ‘I visited the winter sun destination under four hours away loved by Cristiano Ronaldo’ READ MORE: 'I went on a cruise for the first time and this is what I really thought' Where to eat in Liverpool Voyagers Restaurant treated us to a spread of small plates that outdid themselves in taste and size - think chorizo in red wine, moreish crispy chicken, and triple-cooked chips sprinkled with smoked sea salt. Simply sublime – and almost too much to polish off, reports OK! .

Come morning, breakfast continued to impress with a variety of warm dishes, fruits, pastries and top-notch coffee. What to do in Liverpool If you can tear yourself away from the plush comforts of your room at The Halyard , Liverpool offers an endless list of activities, come rain or shine. We embarked on a journey to the Albert Dock, strolling past various waterfront eateries before stepping into the Museum of Liverpool to delve into the city's rich history.

Next, we ascended to Gino D'Acampo's 360 Sky Bar for a round of cocktails and mocktails, all while soaking in the stunning views of the River Mersey. Notably, the city boasts two cathedrals, and we made sure to visit the Liverpool Cathedral before returning to our hotel. A sight not to be missed, it stands as the largest cathedral in Britain and the fifth largest globally.

How much does it cost to stay at The Halyard Liverpool? Rates at The Halyard Liverpool, Vignette Collection start from £129 per room (up to 2 guests) per night inclusive of breakfast..