Mar 20, 2026 | Top Stories
As Easter approaches, there’s a growing sense of anticipation across the North West. Falling on Sunday 5th April 2026, the season brings with it lighter days, family traditions and a calendar filled with events designed to be enjoyed together.
For those looking to embrace the outdoors, Speke Hall hosts a charming Easter trail from Saturday 28th March to Sunday 12th April. Set within beautiful grounds, the experience invites families to follow a carefully designed route, complete seasonal activities and enjoy a well-earned chocolate treat at the end. It’s a gentle, engaging way to spend a spring afternoon.
For something more energetic, the Liverpool Indoor Funfair returns to the Exhibition Centre over the Easter break. Running across the same dates, it offers a lively mix of rides, attractions and games, creating a high-energy environment ideal for younger visitors looking for excitement during the holidays.
Meanwhile, over in Manchester, the Gandey’s K-Pop Dragon Circus brings a colourful and contemporary twist to a classic day out. Taking place at the Trafford Centre from Thursday 2nd April to Sunday 19th April, the show combines traditional circus performance with modern music and vibrant staging — an experience designed to entertain all ages.
Easter is a time best spent unhurried, whether that means exploring local events or simply enjoying time together. For those visiting the region, Hillbark Hotel & Spa offers a peaceful base within the grounds of Royden Park, ideally positioned for exploring both Liverpool and Manchester. After a day of activity, returning to calm surroundings, considered dining and comfortable accommodation provides the perfect balance.
Mar 9, 2026 | Top Stories
If your company is searching for a suitable venue to host a business conference, might we suggest that you consider our wonderful Hillbark Hotel & Spa, the only five-star country house hotel in the North-West. There are so many reasons for choosing us as the host for your conference, and these are just some of the benefits!
First of all, our facilities are of the highest standard. The magnificent Grand Hall is perfectly suited towards hosting large groups of attendees. For a more intimate event, meanwhile, we have the Krug Room. Both are tailored towards offering a surrounding for any business gatherings.
Secondly, we offer everything that you would need for your conference to succeed, from a 65-inch Smart TV with remote connection to high-speed broadband internet. Not to mention the outstanding food and drink options, such as Afternoon Tea, a continental breakfast for guests staying overnight, and arrival coffee and tea.
Next, we must mention the heritage of Hillbark Hotel & Spa. Our legacy stretches all the way back to 1891, and the complex is a crucial staple of local culture. What’s more, the hotel grounds have a real sense of elegance, family values, and positivity, all of which will enhance the profile of your organisation when presenting a conference to your delegates.
Finally, we also offer transportation to and from major North-West cities such as Liverpool and Manchester. Better still, we can pick up any guests who are flying in from overseas for the conference, and we have a helicopter landing pad on-site.
These are just some of the reasons why you should host your business conference at Hillbark Hotel & Spa. To make an enquiry, please contact our team by telephoning 0151 625 2400 or by emailing enquiries@hillbarkhotel.co.uk.
Mar 9, 2026 | Top Stories
Every month, we take the time to reflect on the strong heritage of Hillbark Hotel & Spa with our History Tour, which includes Afternoon Tea. The next History Tour is fast approaching for anyone who wishes to come along on Monday 21 March from 11:00 to 14:00. Visitors are in for a real treat!
Our incredible five-star hotel, Hillbark Hotel & Spa, was built 135 years ago, in 1891. The hotel is a real landmark of the North-West, and acts as a symbol of unity from two of the Wirral’s most influential families, who joined forces to build this fantastic complex. Its history has evolved in many ways since then, and that is what this tour celebrates.
The tour starts off with morning tea/coffee and homemade pastries. After an introduction from our tour guide, Dominga, we take a stroll through the historic building and hotel grounds (note that staircases are required to see some areas). The walking tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Proceedings will conclude at around 12:45 with our themed Afternoon Tea, marking a fitting end to a fantastic day.
Along the way, you will learn so much about a hotel that has impacted so many people’s lives since the 19th century. You will learn interesting facts and discover the importance of those who laid the foundations for the splendid hotel that we have in 2026.
The History Tour costs £95.00 per person, and all attendees have as much time as they need to take photographs of our iconic complex.
To book your place now for the History Tour on Monday 21 March, please contact Reception on 0151 625 2400.
Mar 3, 2026 | Top Stories
Manchester City are proven winners. Over the last 15 years, they have won eight Premier League titles, three FA Cups, six League Cups, a Champions League, a UEFA Super Cup, a FIFA Club World Cup, and three Community Shields. But the appetite of Pep Guardiola and his squad is to keep on going no matter what. It is that winning mentality which gives City the advantage when it comes to a title race.
And right now, City are embroiled in a highly intriguing scrap for the Premier League title with Arsenal. Though the Gunners have held down the top spot for a while, there are signs that Mikel Arteta’s men may struggle to get it over the line. And Man City are ideally placed to capitalise and secure another Premier League title after a barren year which saw Liverpool become champions last season.
All of which makes this an ideal opportunity to head to the Etihad Stadium and cheer Manchester City on as they play Nottingham Forest on Wednesday 4 March at 7.30pm. Forest are battling for survival, having just appointed their fourth manager of the season. So, City need to put on a strong performance to continue building their momentum and gain more points to try and overtake Arsenal at the top.
If you are planning to attend this match, make sure to speak to our team. We are just over an hour’s drive away from the Etihad Stadium, and we can arrange transport to and from the magnificent venue for you. We can also pick you up from Manchester Airport should you be travelling from overseas, and we have a helicopter landing pad for the more affluent matchday supporters!
So, if you are planning to see a Blue Moon on the night that Man City and Notts Forest go head-to-head, be sure to speak to us, and we will make sure that you have a great time!
Mar 3, 2026 | Top Stories
With the arrival of spring comes a natural desire to refresh… wardrobes included. Across the North West, a number of well-established retail destinations offer everything from designer labels to high-street favourites, making the region ideal for a considered day of shopping followed by a well-earned moment of rest.
In the heart of the city, Liverpool ONE brings together a wide collection of brands, dining options and leisure experiences within an open-air setting. Since opening in 2008, it has become a central hub for fashion, beauty and lifestyle shopping, with new names regularly joining its line-up. Its blend of retail and restaurants makes it well suited to an unhurried afternoon browse.
A short journey along the M62 leads to Trafford Centre, one of the largest shopping centres in the United Kingdom. Known for its distinctive architecture and extensive range of stores, it offers everything from premium fashion houses to well-known high-street brands. The centre also features an impressive selection of dining venues, making it easy to extend a shopping trip into an early evening meal.
For those drawn to outlet shopping, Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet provides a dedicated destination for luxury and designer labels at reduced prices. With a broad mix of fashion, accessories and lifestyle brands, it remains a popular choice for those seeking investment pieces or seasonal updates. Nearby attractions, including cinemas and family-friendly experiences, make it suitable for a full day out.
After the pace of busy stores and bustling walkways, returning to a quieter setting can feel particularly welcome. Hillbark Hotel & Spa offers just that; a peaceful retreat within the grounds of Royden Park, ideally positioned for guests exploring the region’s retail destinations. Whether enjoying an overnight stay, Afternoon Tea in The Dining Room or a relaxed drink in Contessa’s Bar, it provides a calm conclusion to a productive day of shopping.
Spring is a season of renewal, and sometimes that begins with finding something new, followed, of course, by the opportunity to unwind.
Mar 2, 2026 | Top Stories
In recent years, the conversation around weight management has evolved. An increasing number of adults in the UK are exploring medical support such as GLP-1 medications, including Ozempic and Mounjaro, as part of a broader approach to improving health and wellbeing. It is estimated that between 6% and 7% of UK adults currently use GLP-1 weight loss jabs, including Ozempic and Mounjaro. And according to Bramble Consulting, this percentage could rise to as high as 20% of the British population by 2030.
While these treatments are prescribed for specific medical needs, their growing visibility has undoubtedly influenced how many people think about lifestyle, nutrition and long-term balance. What remains clear is that sustainable wellbeing extends beyond any single intervention.
Confidence, energy levels and overall health are most effectively supported through considered lifestyle choices: balanced nutrition, movement, rest and mindful habits. Medication, where appropriate, may form part of that journey, but it works best alongside long-term behavioural changes rather than as a standalone solution.
As attitudes towards food and health shift, the hospitality sector is naturally adapting. Today’s guests are increasingly mindful of ingredients, portion sizes and nutritional balance, seeking choice without compromise. This does not mean sacrificing enjoyment; rather, it reflects a desire for thoughtful menus that cater to a range of preferences and dietary requirements.
At Hillbark Hotel & Spa, our approach has always centred on quality, flexibility and care. In The Dining Room, dishes are prepared with attention to freshness and balance, allowing guests to make choices that align with their individual goals. Contessa’s Bar complements this with a considered selection of lighter options alongside classic favourites, ensuring that everyone can feel comfortable in their choices.
Wellness trends will continue to evolve, and so too will the expectations of discerning guests. By focusing on variety, transparency and quality, hospitality can remain both relevant and welcoming, offering experiences that support wellbeing without losing the pleasure of dining well.
For more information on suitable menus for a GLP-1 or diabetic diet, please contact our Reception team.
