Putting Liverpool on the map for the right reasons (Echo Arena Liverpool)

Member Name: FlickeringEmber

Product:	Echo Arena Liverpool
Date:	12/08/08 (146 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Clean, safe, friendly, some great shows on offer

Disadvantages: No cashpoints, pricey kiosks

This year, 2008, Liverpool is the European Capital of Culture. So having this arena open on the 12th of January was a major coup for this special year. I was at this event and have been to many others since then. I have also been to many other arenas and stadia all over the country so was keen to see how this one would stand up.

It is a welcome addition to Liverpool's skyline, and very modern and minimalist, but attractive looking in its design. The views from around it are great, sitting by the river Mersey on a summer's evening is highly recommended and there are hotels, bars and restaurants nearby for both before and after the show.

It was also great to have somewhere to go to see shows other than the Philharmonic Hall (as much as I love that place). Most big shows we had to go to either the MEN or Manchester or the NEC in Birmingham which was a trek and tedious as well as meaning it priced some people out of going at all as they had to factor in the extra costs of travel and possibly accommodation. In the summer, our annual Summer Pops events were held at the same location, but in a marquee; this is more secure and comfortable for everyone. It is also providing jobs and income for local people which is great.

I shall now outline the customer experience on an average show.

When you get to the door, tickets are checked manually although I think they should get scanners like they have at most other venues as there are often problems of fraud with big, popular or expensive shows like Coldplay who are on later this year. Bags are sometimes checked and the stewards are friendly and professional.

The concourse itself is on one level and it goes around in a circle. There are no cashpoints and they do not take cards so remember to get cash out before you go!! There are merchandise stalls, toilets and both kiosks and vending machines for food and drink. The disabled toilets do not operate a RADAR scheme though meaning anyone and everyone can and does use these toilets.

There are also no seats on the concourse so if you need or want to sit down you will need to go into the arena bowl itself and go to your seats. The stewards are good at directing you, and during the show they are proactive without being in the way.

The sound quality is good although I think the 02 Arena is better in terms of acoustics because they have special padding on the seats to help with this. The seats themselves are comfy and there is lots of legroom. The lighting is well done as well and I have enjoyed every show I have been to.

Leaving the arena it is very hard to get a taxi so you either need to ring one or walk into town for one. There is traffic for at least 1/2 an hour after the show but I guess that is normal. There is a bus station over the road though so it is easy to get to and you should be fine to catch the last bus home from there too.

Summary: A wonderful night out in Liverpool, nice not to have to go to Manchester or Birmingham!!