Where in the World?

I'm currently in my second favourite city on Earth. It used to be my favourite city but then I went to New York and this city was relegated to second place.  Considering how very much I loved New York, I'd say that being second place still means that I love this city very, very, very much.

A couple of clues:

• It had been my favourite city for most of my life.
• It took me two hours and eight minutes to arrive here by train.
• My brother worked here before he moved down to London. 

And less personal clues:

• There is a bombed out shell of a church still standing here from the Blitz.  The outside walls are still standing and there are trees growing in the middle.
• Arguably the most famous band on Earth emerged from this city.
  
• The Dubliners sang at least two songs about this city, one of which I quoted when I last visited here.

Righty-ho! I've put moderated comments on and I'll send postcards to the first five people who can correctly guess where I am.