Just as it starts announcing the line-up for events in 2025, Bootle’s Salt and Tar venue has been shortlisted for two awards in the Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards for 2024.

Earlier this week, Merseyside band The K’s were announced as one of the headliners for next August’s Music Weekender. And now, the site has been announced as a finalist for the New Tourism Business of the Year and Entertainment Venue of the Year in the Awards.

Tourist hotspot

Salt and Tar officially opened in May this year, with a packed programme of events, including two nights of music from Sir Tom Jones and a star-studded Comedy Weekender.

Councillor Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills said: "I’m delighted that Salt and Tar has been recognised as one of the best tourist hotspots in the Liverpool City Region.

“Since its opening in May, Salt and Tar has hosted international stars, as well as community events and a marketplace run by our young people. It’s such a diverse venue that can be tailored to the needs and wants of local residents, businesses and visitors.

“August’s Music Weekender was a fantastic demonstration of just how quickly the venue has grown, and the types of events it is capable of, even when it’s still in its infancy. Over 11,000 people from across the world visited Bootle across just four days earlier this year, and we don’t plan to stop there. Salt and Tar is absolutely helping to put Bootle on the map.”

Huge achievement

In the Awards, the venue will be competing against other finalists such as Blackstock Market in Liverpool, the Liverpool Empire Theatre, and the Eureka! Science + Discovery Museum in Wallasey.

Cllr Lappin added: “I want to say a huge congratulations to everyone and all the teams who have worked to make Salt and Tar the success it is. The recognition itself makes us winners in my eyes, and I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed during the ceremony.

“I’d also like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported us by coming to our events. Without visitors, Salt and Tar would not have grown as quickly as it has. We look forward to seeing everyone at future events.”

Finalists of all 19 award categories will be announced at the awards ceremony on Thursday 27^th February 2025. Following the award, 14 winners will then be put forward to the Visit England Awards for Excellence next June.

Planning is already underway for next year’s programme of events at Salt and Tar with The K’s taking to the stage on Friday 8^th August 2025. Other acts will be announced in the near future.

All finalists for the Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards can be seen on their website.