Top Beatles
Attractions for 50th Anniversary of Debut Hit
It will be music to the ears of all Beatles fans to know that this week, the new musical, Let It Be, opened in London’s West End. And, true fans will know that a big anniversary is just around the corner – 50 years since the release of the band’s debut hit ‘Love Me Do’ on 5th October 2012. To pay homage to the iconic band, TripAdvisor has come up with a list of ten outstanding Beatles attractions throughout the world*. These sights celebrate the musical legacy of the Fab Four.
Known as the backdrop of The
Beatles’ eleventh studio album cover, the iconic crossing on this North London
street is a perfect place to snap a photo. After visiting the world famous
zebra crossing, travellers can check out nearby Abbey Road Studios, where the
Fab Four recorded many of their hit songs. One TripAdvisor traveller said, “If you are a Beatles fan, you must go there and cross
the street while somebody takes a picture of you, even if you're alone.”
This museum celebrates the musical
legacy of The Beatles. On display, Beatles fanatics can see clothing worn by
the band as well as some of the instruments they played. Guests can also view
the Fab4D film which takes its audience on a trip through the history of
the Liverpool legends. “A must for every Beatles
fan and those who are not as well!” commented a TripAdvisor traveller.
Located between 71st
and 74th Streets in the Big Apple, this two and a half acre memorial
named after The Beatles’ song, “Strawberry Fields Forever,” commemorates the
life of musician and peace activist, John Lennon. Also nearby is the famed
black and white “Imagine” mosaic which has been captured in several works of
art. A TripAdvisor traveller said, “Such a
beautiful and peaceful site within New York City's absolutely grand Central
Park.”
Known as one of the first venues The Beatles performed at,
the Fab Four took to the stage of The Cavern Club on
February 9, 1961 and soon established themselves as the club’s signature act.
Today live music can be seen on the stage which is open seven days a week
starting at 10 a.m. A TripAdvisor traveller said, “It was like going back to the days of The Beatles. Music was great,
drinks were not overpriced, and a great atmosphere.”
Located in “The Rock ‘n’ Roll
Capital of the World”, this museum features a Beatles exhibit that showcases
nearly 70 artifacts, including George Harrison’s striped suit from the 1966
U.S. tour, Ringo Starr’s red military-style jacket from the “Strawberry Fields
Forever” promo film and more. “The Beatles exhibit and films were our
favourite parts, but really, we enjoyed the whole experience,” commented a TripAdvisor traveller.
Known as the “Birthplace of The Beatles,” visitors to Paul
McCartney’s childhood home can tour the places where the Fab Four composed and
rehearsed some of their earliest songs. Travellers can also view family
photographs taken by Paul’s brother. One TripAdvisor traveller commented, “I
loved Paul's home as it had a real sense of family about it and to be able to
sit on the couch and look around was great.”
Using master tapes from Abbey Road Studios, directors George
Martin and Giles Martin created a unique sound score that brings the Fab Four’s
hits to life. This three-time Grammy-winning musical tribute is full of vibrantly
coloured costumes, impressive set changes, and thrilling stunts. “Made me feel
as though I was on some sort of trip through The Beatles years floating on a
cloud,” commented one TripAdvisor traveller.
Travellers visiting this small island can see the Image
Peace Tower created by Yoko Ono. This outdoor work of art that bears the words
“Imagine Peace” in 24 languages, was unveiled October 9, 2007 which would have
been Lennon’s 67th birthday. Each year, the tower is illuminated
from his birthday to 8th December; the day of the music legend’s
passing. A TripAdvisor traveller noted, “Yoko Ono’s peace light sculpture is a
must see when it’s lit.”
While waiting to perform at a dance, Paul McCartney and John
Lennon were first introduced on the grounds of this 19th century
church during the summer of 1957. Today, travellers can walk in the footsteps
of the boys and view the gravestone of Eleanor Rigby, rumoured to be the
inspiration for the band’s hit song of the same name. A TripAdvisor traveller
commented, “A historic and beautiful church. Good for Beatles fans in lovely
Woolton.”
Since the 1980s, the surface of this cement wall has been
decorated with art inspired by the legendary musician and peace activist.
Displaying poetry and song lyrics, the images are continuously evolving and
visitors are able to contribute their own musical musings. A TripAdvisor
traveller said, “It’s definitely worth seeing as it has become a famous site in
Prague. It's free and only takes a short walk in Mala Strana to see this modern
work of art.”
