LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND.-From 15 August, visitors will have a week-long opportunity to take a glimpse at the lavish interiors of St George's Hall and Liverpool Town Hall. Liverpool Town Hall was built in 1754, making it one of the city's oldest buildings. As well as being the seat of Liverpool's political administration, the Town Hall also provides the setting for a huge range of events - from civic receptions to weddings.

St George's Hall is one of the UK's finest neo-classical buildings, and arguably Liverpool's most dramatic structure. It sits at the top of William Brown Street, which last year was included in Liverpool's World Heritage site. The Hall was completed in 1854, and remains a prominent reminder of the city's prosperity in the 19th century, when it was the 'gateway to the new world.'

The interior of the building is dominated by the Great Hall, which is a staggering 169ft long and features a floor of intricate Minton tiles which can be viewed through a special vision panel.

Between 15 and 20 August, visitors can take advantage of free entry to the Great Hall and the exhibitions. On Saturday 20 August, St George's Hall will ring to the sound of hourly organ recitals and choral music, while community historian Steve Binns will hold a talk on the hall's past as a court of law.

Councillor Warren Bradley, the city council's executive member for culture, said: "Liverpool's architecture is among the finest in the country, and both St George's Hall and the Town Hall are stunning examples.

"With so much redevelopment and regeneration taking place in Liverpool at the moment, it's important to remember that these historic buildings have shaped the city's landscape for well over 100 years.

"The open days are a great opportunity for the people of Liverpool to see what lies behind the fa�ade of these Liverpool institutions."