Valentine's Day may be just around the corner, but couples in Liverpool are not impressed by a recent study naming Manchester the UK's most romantic city. The study, commissioned by the LEGO Group, ranked cities based on the percentage of residents describing themselves as 'very romantic', with Manchester topping the list, followed by London and Liverpool in third place.
Speaking to the Liverpool ECHO, Bruce and Lucy, a young couple walking down Bold Street, expressed their disbelief. Bruce laughed, 'We've been to Manchester a couple of times and there's nothing romantic about that.' Lucy added that she thinks London's high ranking is due to its size rather than any inherent romance, saying, 'I don't think London is romantic, but I think people will default to London.'
Long-term couples also weighed in. Peter and Pauline, together for 47 years, walked hand in hand and reminisced about their first date on the Mersey Ferry. Pauline expected Liverpool to top the list, asking, 'Where else would you go?' However, their Valentine's plans involve a trip to watch Preston North End, with Pauline joking, 'We've lowered our standards since I left Liverpool.'
Susan and Giovanni, who met in Dubai 45 years ago and now live in Liverpool, also questioned the study's findings. Susan said, 'Well that's a matter of choice, isn't it. They haven't been to Liverpool yet.' The couple plan to spend Valentine's Day looking after their grandchildren, allowing their children to celebrate.
When asked about the most romantic spots in Liverpool, suggestions included the Pier Head, the Palm House at Sefton Park, and Bold Street. The study's results have clearly sparked debate, with Liverpool residents standing by their city's romantic credentials.
