Discover Britain’s musical legends on the trail of Yesterday

A cultural mecca for music fans, Britain is the birthplace of some of the world’s greatest recording artists. Inspired by one of 2019’s most hotly anticipated films,Yesterday, which pays homage to The Beatles, we’ve compiled a list of some of Britain’s best musical experiences. So whether you get blissed out by Bowie or rock on to the Rolling Stones, there’s a musical hotspot or experience that’s perfect for you – from London to Liverpool and beyond.

Liverpool

Cavern Club

If you’re inspired by Yesterday and the music of The Beatles then Liverpool’s the place for you. For a taste of iconic Beatles’ locations, head to Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields, both of which form the backdrop to key scenes in Yesterday. You could also take a wander to the Cavern Club. The birthplace of Beat music, the band first performed here on 9 February, 1961 and swiftly became the club’s headliners before moving on to world musical domination! If tours are more your thing, you can discover the history of the band and a whole host of British artists at the British Music Experience.  With a section dedicated exclusively to the Fab Four, you can see letters written by fans of the band, clothing worn by Ringo and John, and a whole range of memorabilia from the band’s travels in the 1960s. Other highlights include outfits worn by David Bowie, the Union Jack guitar played by Noel Gallagher at the pinnacle of Oasis’s fame, and even lyrics written by Adele. Alternatively, if you’re in London but only The Beatles will do, then why not jump on a full-day tour from the capital to Liverpool, taking in many of the sights and sounds of Yesterday and the Beatles, including the band’s childhood homes!

Liverpool

London

London concert

A hive of musical activity throughout the ages, London really came into its own in the swinging 60s, when up-and-coming bands from across the world flocked to soak up the creative vibes and jam together. If you’re hungry to discover more about The Beatles you can visit several of the sights featured in the film, including Wembley Stadium and Abbey Road, where the band’s legendary album of the same name was recorded.  If you want to discover more you could jump on the Classic Rock & Beatles Tour, for in-depth insights from a knowledgeable guide, or even visit the London flat that all four band members shared on the Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll Tour of London, which also reveals the history of artists including U2 and Elton John. Alternatively, why not go time travelling on the Swinging 60s bus tour, which transports you back to the music-defining decade.

London

Manchester

Billy Fury statue

The birthplace of Oasis, The 1975 and The Smiths, not to mention Yesterday director Danny Boyle, Manchester is no slouch when it comes to musical heritage. If the city is your destination of choice, why not jump on one of Manchester Music Tours sightseeing trips? Founded by Craig Gill, the drummer of Inspiral Carpets, the tours reveal the history of famous artists, bands and venues throughout the decades, from The Stone Roses to Joy Division. You can even travel in rock star style and take the tour from the comfort of a Manchester taxi. And from two-hour group tours to private itineraries, Manchester Music Story Tour has something for every fan – including a combined tour of three British music cities, taking in the highlights of Manchester, London and Liverpool.

Manchester

Suffolk and the east of England

The River Stour

Filmed on location throughout Suffolk and the east of England,Yesterday reveals the beauty of many of the lesser-known towns in this part of Britain. And while not generally known for its rock stars, the area's musical festivals are legendary in themselves. In addition to Latitude Festival, the backdrop to one of Jack’s major performances in the film, Suffolk is home to a whole range of events that are perfect for music fans, including FolkEast, a three-day folk festival in the grounds of the gorgeous Glemham Hall, and Homegrown Festival, where you can catch local talent looking to make it big on the music scene. Alternatively, why not head to Gorleston-on-Sea? A key location in Yesterday when Jack performs on the roof of the Pier Hotel, the seaside town is also home to Gorleston Clifftop Festival, a classic British seaside festival featuring fairground rides, fireworks and live music!

Suffolk

Glasgow

Glasgow

A hot spot for up-and-coming musicians over the years and a favourite stomping ground of bands including Oasis and Manic Street Preachers, Glasgow's bars and pubs have played host to many an artist both before and after they made it big. You can find out more about this epic musical heritage on a Glasgow Music City Tour, enjoy traditional folk music on the Scottish Trad Trail Tour or visit the historic music venues of yore on the Merchant City Tour.

Glasgow
27 Mar 2020(last updated)