River of Light returns to the city this week, with a free-to-visit outdoor illuminated gallery stretching across the Liverpool Waterfront and beyond. And the best news? You don’t need a ticket to see the twelve incredible installations featuring light and sound from local, national and international artists.
The exhibition will be open to the public every day from 27th October to 5th November between the hours of 5pm and 9pm, and this year River of Light will also host a ‘Quiet Hour’ on Sunday 29th October and Wednesday 1st November between 4pm and 5pm.
Here’s our guide to the best independent places to grab a bite to eat or a quick drink on the 2km loop…
The Coolest Cocktails
Near to Exhibit 9 – Ukranian Dreams
Don’t be fooled by the name – as well as serving up the traditional beers you’d expect from a sports bar, The Long Shot on the Albert Dock also have an extensive cocktail menu. In fact their sister site Present Company on School Lane are consistently voted one of the top cocktail bars in the UK. And if the bright lights get too much for you, there’s always the option to catch some sporting action on the big screen too!
The Hottest Drinks
Near to Exhibit 11 – Emergence
Despite attracting tourist from across the globe, Peaberry Coffee House & Kitchen is a local favourite on the Albert Dock. Proudly providing great tasting locally sourced food, the family behind Peaberry are also keen supporters of other local independent businesses. This year they’ve extended their opening hours to keep River of Light visitors fed and watered with a special menu including takeaway hot dogs and the all important hot drinks – and what better way to stay warm on your walk than a Biscoff Hot Chocolate topped with lashings of whipped cream and Biscoff sauce!
The Main Event
Near to Exhibit 10 – Glow
Looking to wine and dine before you hit the trail? Nova Scotia on Mann Island is the perfect spot, serving up a traditional menu that’s guaranteed to keep you walk on the walk. Think hearty Fish & Chips, their very own Scouse, and a range of loaded burgers named after historically significant ships, a clever nod to the maritime heritage of Liverpool’s forgotten Nova Scotia district.
The Sweetest Thing
Near to Exhibit 5 – Florescentia
If you’re partial to a sweet treat, Doogles Donuts are guaranteed to hit the spot. With an extensive range of hand crafted donuts made right here in Liverpool, you’ll find it hard to choose from traditional glazed rings, sprinkle topped, and Boston Cream filled, to Stroop Waffle and the iconic Pumpkin Spice. Luckily you can grab a box of six to takeaway with you – and no-one said you have to share!
The Winter Warmer
Near to Exhibit 12 – Our Beating Heart
Liverpool favourites Spice Thai opened their new venue on Castle Street earlier this month, serving up authentic Thai food in a warm and cosy atmosphere. If you’re looking for a quick snack we recommend the Chicken Satay washed down with Nom Yen (aka Pink Milk), but for a more hearty meal you’d have to go a long way to find a better dish than Spice Thai’s Weeping Tiger – the signature marinated sirloin served on a sizzling plate with homemade Jaew sauce.
