Many visitors have used Serviced City Pads for ‘Serviced Apartments’ in Birmingham prior to visiting The Jewellery Quarter Discovery Centre a result of restored workshops of a family firm called Smith and Pepper who only ceased trading in 1981 due to the retirement of the partners. Not only is the discovery centre an interesting insight into this fascinating trade, it is also a living and working museum. Serviced Apartments are now becoming more popular when visiting Birmingham and the Jewellery Museum give real demostrations from real goldsmiths who show you the rechniques used in the production of jewellery. Complete with offices, workshops and machinery, this is the real thing.

The Jewellery Quarter is managed by Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery on behalf of the Birmingham City Council.

Please view www.servicedcitypads.com for apartments through Birmingham City Centre or call the Reservations Team on 0844 335 8866

England will be playing Austria in a 5 match test series in a number of venues across the country, on te following dates:

8-12 July, Cardiff

16-20 July, Lords (North West London)

30 July – 3 August, Edgbaston (Birmingham)

7-11 August, Headingly (Leeds)

20-24 August  (Ova, South London)

Will you be there to support England at any of the summer test matches? If so, Serviced City Pads will be able to help you.

We have apartments listed in a number of locations across the UK including apartments in London, apartments in Birmingham, apartments in Leeds, and apartments in Cardiff. Serviced apartments offer a great alternative to staying in a hotel whether you are staying on your own or if you are part of a larger group.

When you are booking your ashes accommodation consider using Serviced City Pads. You can call us on 0151 709 8000. We will be delighted to help.

After a triumphant gig at the Echo Arena in June 2008, Boyzone are coming back to Liverpool – appearing at the Echo Arena on 17 June 2009. The Better 09 Tour will see one the UK’s best ever selling bands perform in what is destined to be one of the phenomenal events on next year’s live calendar. On June 29^th The Saturdays come to liverpool’s Empire theatre. The Saturdays are one of the success stories of the last year, in nine months they have had four top ten singles and a top ten album. Their debut album ‘Chasing Lights’ has now gone platinum and a new single will be released to coincide with the tour.

CULTURE

This month Liverpool’s Tate is well worth a visit, featuring Colour Chart: Reinventing Colour, 1950 to Today. This rich and vibrant exhibition will include works by more than forty artists, including Andy Warhol at the Tate until september 2009.

THEATRE

The spellbinding and magical Le Grand Cirque is one of the most exciting shows you will ever see. It has fast become one of the hottest tickets in show business history with sold out shows and standing ovations night after night. It has played to over 10 million people around the world, smashing all box office records on the way and it’s coming to Liverpool’s Empire Theatre from 4^th to 6^th of June. This mesmerising show is perfect for all the family, with fun and happiness written all over it.

Dreamboats and Petticoats became the biggest selling album of the decade after its release last year, amassing an amazing 600,000 + sales. Inspired by the album, Dreamboats and Petticoats The Musical will give you the greatest time of your life, taking you back to the 60’s to a time when each passing week bought another classic track. Featuring songs from Roy Orbison, The Shadows, Eddie Cochran, Billy Fury, Chuck Berry and many more. From 22^nd to 27^th June at the Empire. For more information go to www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

FOR THE FAMILY

Disney’s High School Musical on stage is coming to town!! It follows the much-loved story of the movie, featuring all the favourite characters and songs, together with two brand new numbers performed by the country’s hottest dancers and an electrifying live band. Dance all the way to the Liverpool Empire from 8th-13th June. Following on from that is Lazy Town Live from 17^th to 21^st June.

Catch Big Art for Little Artists, a vibrant and exciting multi-sensory experience where children explore art through a wide variety of activities inspired by the Walker’s world-class art collections. The gallery celebrates and encourages basic skills that can enhance a child’s experience of art, embracing drawing, reading, writing and talking. Here all month, for more info go to www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk

ENTERTAINMENT

Britain’s Got Talent – The Live Tour is the only place to see all the finalists and they’re coming to The Echo Arena on June 18^th. You can see winners Diversity plus all the finalists Susan Boyle, Shaun Smith, Flawless, Stavros Flatley, Shaheen Jafargholi, 2 Grand, Julian Smith, Aidan Davies & Hollie Steel* as well as 2008 winner George Sampson all performing live on stage!

Bridget O’Connor’s The Flags is an award-winning comedy that will have you laughing out loud as deluded dreams of a Baywatch lifestyle are replaced by harsh reality under the grey skies of rural Ireland. Join JJ and Howie (feckless and gormless) as they try to impress the Directorate of Leisure Services by remaining eagle-eyed, vigilant and hiding all of the dead seagulls. They’re living the dream, at the Royal court until 27^th June.

If you’re visiting Liverpool this month Serviced City Pads have got the perfect place for you to stay. Whatever you need and whatever your budget Chris will sort you out. Give him a call on 0151 709 8000, he’ll be happy to organise you your perfect place to stay. For more information go to www.servicedcitypads.com

SPORT  If you’re visiting Liverpool to catch your team against one of Merseyside’s football giants why not make a break of it and check in with Serviced City Pads. Everton will play Wigan on April 5ht and Manchester City on Saturday 25^th at Goodison. Liverpool have got a packed calendar this month playing Blackburn Rovers on April 11^th and Arsenal on April 21^st at home, in the Barclays premier league. Anfield hosts Chelsea in the first leg of the Champions League quarter final on April 8^th.  For tickets go to www.evertonfc.com or www.liverpoolfc.tv

THEATRE With so much going on, April is definitely the month to visit one of Liverpool’s famous theatres. Over at the Royal Court from Thursday 23^rd April to May 9^th Willy Russell’s Shirley Valentine takes the stage.  Shirley Valentine has won awards all over the world and was made into a BAFTA winning, Golden Globe and Oscar nominated film. The funny and uplifting play will make you forget about your worries and make you feel glad to be alive.  A great Liverpool writer and a great Liverpool actress in a great Liverpool play. Across town at the Liverpool Empire David Essex, together with Boogie Nights creator Jon Conway invite you onto a roller coaster ride of romance and rock and roll, underscored by a helter skelter of David Essex hits and album favourites. From 13^th to 18^th April. If you’re visiting Liverpool between the 20^th to 25^th don’t miss the chance to see Riverdance! Of all the performances to emerge from Ireland in the past decade, nothing has carried the energy, the sensuality and the spectacle of Riverdance. The show broke all box office records during its premiere run at the Point Theatre, Dublin in 1995 and has now been experienced live by over 19 million people worldwide. With 9,000 spectacular performances in over 276 venues throughout 32 countries across 4 continents, and a worldwide television audience to date in excess of 1.75 billion people – Riverdance is a truly global phenomenon. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of this inspirational piece of theatrical entertainment! For more information and tickets go to www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

ENTERTAINMENT At Liverpool’s Rawhide comedy Club there’s another month of great performances on the cards. On Thursday 16th there is Dave Johns & Jonathan Mayor plus two guest acts, on Friday 17th & Saturday 18th  there’s Dave Johns, Paddy Lennox, Steve Harris & Jonathan Mayor. Later in the month see Justin Moorhouse & Brendan Riley on the 23^rd and Justin Moorhouse, Dominic Woodward, Pierre Hollins & Brendan Riley on the 24^th and 25^th. Tickets start at £30.

If you are thinking of visiting this remarkable city this April book in with Serviced City Pads and make the most of your weekend. Give Chris a call on 0151 709 8000, he’ll be happy to organise your perfect place to stay or for more information go to www.servicedcitypads.com

These 2 bedroom apartments are available on a 2 night minimum stay for what promises to be a  fantastic weekend in Liverpool.

If you would like to book an apartment in Liverpool for this weekend, or if you are planning to visit Liverpool in the future, please call Chris at Serviced City Pads on 0151 709 8000.

SPORT  Merseyside’s football calendar this month sees The Blues face Middlesbrough in the quarter finals of the FA cup on march 8^th and then Stoke at home in the Barclays premier league on March 14^th. Over at Anfield, Sunderland are the premier league visitors on March 3^rd followed by Aston Villa on the 22^nd. Real Madrid continues the battle to win the champions League on the 10^th march. For tickets go to www.evertonfc.com or www.liverpoolfc.tv. If Football isn’t your thing, Hayemaker Boxing presents an evening of championship boxing at the Echo Arena on March 28^th.

THEATRE As usual for Liverpool’s Empire Theatre, march is packed with dance and drama for all ages. On the 4th-7^th, featuring World, European and National Championship skaters, Cinderella On Ice takes the stage. Performing intricate and thrilling moves, it is set to a magical score that’s been especially composed for this production. Next up from the 9^th to 14th, is the amazing Thriller Live, a spectacular concert specially created to celebrate the incredible career of the World’s Greatest Entertainer – Michael Jackson. This fantastic concert features a West End cast of performers including singers, live band, choir and as you’d expect, fantastic dancers paying tribute to the true King of Pop and bringing the magic of Michael and the Jackson Five to life. For something completely different, The Vagina Monologues returns to Liverpool for 1 week only with a fantastic cast – Jennifer Ellison, Sue Jenkins and Cathy Tyson! Based on author Eve Ensler’s ‘Vagina Interviews’ conducted with women from all around the world, this hilariously witty and moving collection of tales gives voice to a chorus of lusty, outrageous, poignant, brave and thoroughly human stories. From 16^th-21^st March. For more information and tickets go to www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

ENTERTAINMENT If it’s pure entertainment you’re after come and see the Echo Arena lit up in lights when the Liverpool Philharmonic and the Classical Spectacular returns on Saturday 7 March at 7:30pm. Seen by over 2 million people around the world, Classical Spectacular features a state of the art lighting rig complete with stunning light and laser display.  If it’s something for the family to enjoy, the Echo Arena proudly presents all your favourite Disney characters in Mickey’s Magic Show! Together with professional illusionists live on stage this is bound to be a performance that will excite and delight children of all ages. Catch Mickey and his friends at the Echo Arena Liverpool 20-22 March.

SHOPPING You will find almost every form of retail therapy in Liverpool and the sales are beckoning! City Centre Liverpool boasts some of the largest big-name high street stores in the country. New fashion and retail brands are flocking to Liverpool One every week, shops such as L’Occitane, Reiss, Chaophraya, Waterstone’s, Drome, Henri Lloyd and Lacoste  are the most recent to join Debenham’s flagship store in the heart of Liverpool. There’s a wealth of eateries to choose from in this amazing City, for something extra special why not try the London Carriage Works restaurant at the Hope Street Hotel. To book a table, make an enquiry or request a menu call Sarah on 01517052222.

There are more reasons than ever to make a real break of your visit to Liverpool this month. Why not make the most of the city and book into one of our serviced apartments, an excellent alternative to hotel accommodation. Whatever your budget Serviced City Pads can offer something for you in the heart of this stunning city. Give Chris a call on 0151 709 8000, he’ll be happy to organise your perfect place to stay or for more information go to www.servicedcitypads.com

Russell Brand is set to take the stage on the 2^nd of February at the Echo Arena, almost 18 months since the curtain fell on his acclaimed ‘Only Joking’ tour. Having wowed American audiences with an acclaimed movie debut and a host of sold-out stand-up dates, Russell Brand is poised for a triumphant return to his homeland this year.

Mrs Brown will be returning to Liverpool’s Empire Theatre, this time in Mrs Brown’s Last Wedding. Hold onto your sides for a hilarious insight into the world of Mrs Brown from 2^nd to 7^th February.

Music

The Pussycat Dolls are set to send temperatures soaring this winter when they bring their ‘Doll Domination’ tour to the UK, finishing at the Echo Arena Liverpool on February 6th 2009.  Nicole, Melody, Jessica, Kimberley and Ashley will be performing tracks from their recently released album ‘Doll Domination’ which debuted in the top five in the UK and US last month.

Following The Pussycat Dolls are who are well recognized for their impressive live shows, and this reputation has seen them grow to Arena status. Tom Chaplin confidently steers their exuberant show with his unique charisma and unrivalled vocals, which has secured his place as an International star. They will appear at Liverpool’s Echo arena on February 7^th.

Over at Baby Blue (Albert Dock) this month you can catch several groups doing the Live Lounge. Amongst them are The Rats on February 10^th and The Blow Monkeys on February 22^nd.

The gig of the month at the 02 Academy is Rise Against who will be storming up from the underground onto the stage at 23^rd of February.

Entertainment

Critically celebrated entertainment group Cirque Du Soleil is to stage a UK arena tour of the breathtaking production Quidam. This spellbinding masterpiece hits the UK for the first time with a series of exclusive shows, including the Echo Arena from 26 February – 1 March.

Quidam has toured the world for the past 13 years to wide-spread acclaim and has enjoyed sell-out success across the world in Europe, the US, Australia, Japan, Canada and New Zealand performing to over 8 million fans. The show follows the sell-out success of Delirium which played at the Echo Arena early last year. In contrast to Delirium which was a multimedia musical production, Quidam is classic Cirque du Soleil at its very best -usually presented under the big top setting and now for the first time ever in arenas. With more than 50 performers from 14 countries, Quidam is fêted for bringing the impossible to life. The show is a thrilling combination of gravity defying acrobats, awe-inspiring aerial acts, contortionists, rope-jumpers, a balancing duo and of course the acclaimed crazy clowns. Technical expertise and extravagant design are woven together by a dramatic emotional thread where hope and beauty come to life.

Sport

As Merseyside’s top flight teams battle at the top of the table, February sees a packed out month at both Goodison and Anfield. The two teams meet for a third time in as many weeks for the FA Cup fourth round replay at Goodison Park on February 4^th, and will play the fifth round ten days later. In the premiership, Everton will play Bolton on February 7^th and West Brom on the 28^th. If you are visiting Liverpool to see your team play why not make a weekend of it and stop over in one of our serviced city pads, take in the city and enjoy the welcoming vibe of Liverpool. Over at Anfield, the reds will host Chelsea on the 1^st and Manchester City on the 22^nd. For tickets go to www.evertonfc.com or www.liverpoolfc.tv

Theatre

Liverpool’s theatre calendar is overflowing with choice and variety this month. Ellen Kent returns with the best of Russian ballet with principal stars of international reputation delivering performances of breathtaking technique together with a live orchestra.  Swan Lake, one of the most successful and popular ballets of all time will be at the Empire theatre from February 9^th to 11^th. The Russian Ballet will complete the week with Coppelia, enchanting entertainment for the whole family.

For a more local flavour, and strictly for over 16’s, head down to the Royal Court for Fred Lawless and Len Pentin’s raucous scouse comedy which is back after it’s sell-out success at the 2003 Liverpool Comedy Festival. Slappers and Slapheads is a show for anyone who has found themselves in a club at five to two with a drink in their hand and a plot in their head. Tonight is Valentine’s Night at The Palace, but amidst the fun and chaos several people are hiding some very dark secrets, and when those secrets are discovered it will change some of their lives forever. You can catch the show from February 6^th through to March 7^th. Why not book yourself in to one of Liverpool’s top quality serviced apartments and taste Liverpool’s nightlife for yourself.

If it’s something for the family you are after, what better than Bill Kenwright’s amazing production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Joseph. The sparkling musical continues to enjoy huge success across the country with standing ovations at every performance. Joseph will be at Liverpool’s Empire Theatre from 16^th-21^st February. Also at the Empire this month is Buddy which tells his story, presents his music and features two terrific hours of Buddy’s greatest hits including That’ll Be The Day, Peggy Sue, True Love Ways, Oh Boy, Heartbeat, and many more. From 23^rd-28^th of February. For more information or to book tickets for your visit to Liverpool go to www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

If you’ve got the chance to come and experience this wonderful city why not stay in the heart of the north in one of our apartments of distinction. Whether you want a simple home from home or a luxurious penthouse with stunning views of the city there’s something for you. Give Chris a call on 0151 709 8000, he’ll be happy to organise your  perfect place to stay or for more information go to www.serviced citypads.com

The Cavern Designer Shopping Centre is one of the most expansive collections of designs from the world’s most famous designers. Vivienne Westwood and Jimmy Choo are just two of the big names you’ll find in the two storey designer centre.

The Met Quarter is a newly developed project and offers a huge selection of shops that have not previously been seen in the city of Liverpool. Hugo Boss, Flannels, and Whistles are just some of these outlets that your will be able to enjoy during a stay in Liverpool.

Redevelopment of the city continues to improve even more shopping opportunities. As well as designer shops and boutiques you will be able to find masses of souvenir shops, music memorabilia shops (the Beatles are obviously one of the most popular brands of memorabilia), and much more.

Staying in serviced apartments in Liverpool provides a convenient and central location for any shopping holiday. Apartments can be leased on a short or long term contract giving shoppers the chance to fully dictate their own timetable while in one of the most impressive shopping cities in Europe.

MUSIC December is an excitingly busy month in Liverpool and there’s something for everyone. One of the world’s biggest band’s, Coldplay are kicking off the month the Echo Arena on 7 December as part of their UK tour. Hot on their heels after an amazing year are Kings Of Leon on December 8^th followed by the Stereophonics with a UK greatest hits tour and album on December 9th. As if that’s not enough, Elton John will be bringing his outrageous Las Vegas Show The Red Piano to Britain later this year, with shows at the Echo Arena Liverpool on December 17th and December 18th – among only a handful of European dates. To complete the month, Liverpool’s very own  Zutons, have announced their biggest Liverpool date yet appearing at the Echo Arena on 19 December.  Over at Liverpool’s Carling Academy there is a packed few weeks planned with The Dandy Warhols  taking centre stage on Wednesday December 10^th followed by the NME Rock and Roll Riot Tour featuring Primal Scream on the 11^th. Sunday the 21^st is the night for Homecoming Liverpool featuring The Rascals over at Carling Academy 2 but to top the year off in style why not catch The Coral at the Academy on December 31^st.

SPORT If you’re visiting Liverpool this month to watch the footy, Everton will be battling to keep 7^th place playing Aston Villa at Goodison on Sunday the 7^th of December. For a tougher Christmas match you can see them against Chelsea on Monday December 22^nd and finishing off the year against Sunderland on Sunday 28^th. Over at Anfield, Liverpool will be hoping to stay top of the premiership playing West Ham on the 1^st, Hull on the 13^th and Bolton Wonderers on Boxing Day. For tickets go to www.evertonfc.com or www.liverpoolfc.tv and why not make a night of it and stay in one of Liverpool’s excellent serviced apartments.

THEATRE Liverpool’s Everyman theatre are having a panto with a difference this year. From December 8^th, Rock N Roll Mother Goose will have you dancing in the aisles! If you’re after something more traditional, Liverpool’s Empire Theatre has got Britain’s number one pantomime Cinderella coming to see out European Capital of Culture in glittering, star-studded style!  Featuring an all-star Liverpool cast the show opens on 11th December 2008, and promises to be a truly magical show. The one and only Cilla Black returns to her native city to play the Fairy Godmother, alongside actress, model and singer Jennifer Ellison as Cinderella, comedian and TV star Les Dennis as Buttons, actor Ted Robbins as Baron Hardup and Hollyoaks’ Nick Pickard as Dandini. Radio presenter Pete Price and Brick up the Mersey Tunnels star Roy Brandon play the Ugly Sisters. For more information or to book tickets for your visit to Liverpool go to www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

ENTERTAINMENT BBC Sports Personality of the Year is coming to Liverpool!
It will be the biggest ever with around 9,000 people in attendance and the first time the event will have been held in the city and only the third time its been hosted outside London during its 55-year history. You can be part of history on December 14^th at Liverpool’s Echo Arena.

COMEDY Rawhide is approaching its 14th birthday as Liverpool’s home of comedy and as every month will be taking place every Friday and Saturday in the Downstairs Bar at Royal Court Liverpool. The usual high standard of comedy will be matched by the quality of service and fine food that has made Royal Court Liverpool one of the most popular venues in the North West. A night at Rawhide brings the best in live entertainment to you in the swish surrounds of one of Liverpool’s finest original art deco bars. They are having Christmas specials every weekend with the usual funny faces of comedy.

SHOPPING Shoppers coming to Liverpool this Christmas will have more choice than ever before in the city’s new-look retail district, plus late night shopping has been extended to all weekdays from 10th December.  You will find almost every form of retail therapy in Liverpool and elsewhere in the City Region. City Centre Liverpool boasts some of the largest big-name High Street stores in the country. New fashion and retail brands are flocking to Liverpool ONE every week. Just signed up and raring to open in the run up to Christmas and beyond are shops such as L’Occitane, Reiss, Chaophraya, Waterstone’s, Drome, Henri Lloyd, Lacoste, Thorntons Café and Flannels, all looking to expand Liverpool ONE’s retail and leisure offering even further.

There are more reasons than ever to make a break of your visit to Liverpool this month. Why not make the most of the city and book into one of our serviced apartments, an excellent alternative to hotel accomodation. Whether you prefer a homely apartment with all your creature comforts or a sprawling penthouse looking out onto the city, Serviced City Pads can offer something for you in the heart of this bustling city. Give Chris a call on 0151 709 8000, he’ll be happy to organise your  perfect place to stay or for more information go to www.serviced citypads.com

SPORT  After a pleasing mid-week result, Everton continue to battle their way up the table this month. Visiting Fulham will face the Goodison crowd on Novermber the 1^st followed by Middlesborough on the 16^th(www.evertonfc.com).  After West Brom on the 8^th, Liverpool also face Fulham at home this month (22^nd) as they try to keep their place at the top of the Premiership. If you are visiting Liverpool for their European matches they also play host to Athletico Madrid on the 4^th and Olympique Marseille on the 26^th in the Champions League Group Phase.

THEATRE  American Idols- The Concert They Never Gave is a must see over at Liverpool’s Empire theatre this month from the 3^rd to the 8^th. Gene Pitney, Roy Orbison, The Everly Brothers and Del Shannon  are a few of the small, exclusive group of acts who continued to enjoy big radio hits on both sides of the Atlantic in the fifties and sixties and thanks to Bill Kenwright they are back! In this fantastic new production, we get to see the show that never was – seven legendary acts, doing what they do best, the evening is sure to be a magical for anyone who enjoyed rock and roll in its hay day. Later in the month, Our Benny, starring Liverpool’s own Bernie Nolan, is the renamed and revamped version of the classic Her Benny. The tale of two youngsters’ battle to survive in Victorian Liverpool, it is a rags to riches, feel good musical, and is one of Liverpool’s best-known theatrical productions. At the Liverpool Empire 12^th-22^nd November. From the 25^th to the 30^th you can see the internationally acclaimed English national Ballet performing The Sleeping Beauty with full orchestra. For more information or to book tickets for your visit to Liverpool go to www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

ENTERTAINMENT If you are lucky enough to be in Liverpool this month for the most prestigious live music event in Europe Beyonce Knowles will be your host! The MTV Europe Music Awards are at Liverpool’s Echo Arena on 6^th November where Britney Spears, Coldplay and newcomer Welsh soul-singer Duffy lead nominations across categories. It is sure to be an unmissable show.

As winter approaches there’s a wealth of reasons to visit Liverpool this month. Why not make the most of your visit to the city and book into one of our serviced apartments, a more personal alternative to hotel accomodation. Whether you prefer a luxury penthouse with views of the city or somewhere smaller with a real home feel Serviced City Pads can offer something for you in the heart of this fantastic city. Give Chris a call on 0151 709 8000, he’ll be happy to organise your  perfect place to stay or for more information go to www.serviced citypads.com