The second part of this lecture presents a detailed case study of Liverpool, European Capital of Culture 2008. The lecture outlines the impact of hosting the European Capital of Culture, across a series of domains, including social, economic and artistic impacts. The lecture then explores issues of leadership and the transformation of the city’s governance network, particularly the role of the arts and cultural sector, as a result of preparing for and hosting 2008. The conclusion considers the position of social science research into the impact of 2008 in constructing narratives of success based on the ‘Liverpool Model’ of culture-led regeneration which now underpins projects such as the UK City of Culture.