15 Great Things to Do in Liverpool, England

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Here Are Our Top Tips for Things to Do in Liverpool!

Heading for Liverpool? Great idea! The famous port city is the home of The Beatles and known for much more than just the one musical act. There are plenty of places to visit in Liverpool from top museums and attractions to fascinating quarters of the city.

Funnily enough, Eric has only been to Liverpool once but had an amazing time. With a lack of knowledge, we turned to former UK resident and trusted traveller Laura from She Who Wanders to share her more in-depth experiences in the city.

From wandering the Royal Albert Docks to checking out The Beatles Story, we’ll let Laura take it from here! It doesn’t matter who you’re travelling with, there is plenty to do in Liverpool for couples, groups of friends, and even families with kids!

Liverpool Quick Guide

If you’re thirsty for more UK travel guides, check out some of our other articles:

Royal Albert Dock 

red brick buildings at liverpool royal albert dock with water in front
The Dock is a must-see and definitely worth a wander through!

When you visit Liverpool, it’s basically a mandatory stop that you head down to the waterfront to explore the Royal Albert Dock. The Dock is a true hub in Liverpool that dates back quite a ways. This historic dockland was first opened in 1846 and was one of the first in Britain to be built of cast iron, brick, and stone – and not wood.

Fast forward to the present days and the Dock is now where you’ll find tons of things to do! The dock area is home to the Merseyside Maritime Museum, Tate Liverpool, and The Beatles Story, not to mention a plethora of restaurants, shops, and cafes to enjoy.

You’ll find plenty for seasonal attractions down here as well like food trucks and small carnival rides in the summer. You can learn more and plan your visit to the Royal Albert Dock here.

Address: 3-4 The Colonnades, Liverpool L3 4AA

⇒ Explore the Docks from the Waterfront on a Combo Bus/River Cruise

Liverpool Cathedral

colourful cathedral interior with floor and glass window
The inside of Liverpool Cathedral is certainly worth seeing!

As Britain’s largest cathedral and the fifth largest in the whole of Europe, Liverpool’s Cathedral is nothing short of impressive. Taking up nearly a whole street, this is a must-visit spot even if just to witness the beautiful interior and exterior.

This Neo-Gothic building was opened in 1978 and designed by the same architect who created the iconic red telephone boxes you see all over the United Kingdom.

The cathedral has free entry so you really have no excuse not to go for a wander through the beautiful building with its high ceilings and stunning stained glass. For a small fee, visitors can climb the tower and get some stunning views over the city, too. You can learn more about the Liverpool Cathedral here.

Address: St James Mt, Liverpool L1 7AZ

Museum of Liverpool

modern museum of liverpool with reflection in water
You can’t miss the Museum of Liverpool down at the water!

One of the more recent additions to the museum scene is the Museum of Liverpool. Having only been opened in 2011, this is a great museum to visit – and it’s free! The modern building took over the former Museum of Liverpool Life and can be found right on the waterfront.

The exhibits in the museum are split into different sections including: Wondrous Place, Global City, The Great Port, and The People’s Republic. In these four sections, there are tons of amazing historical artifacts to be discovered with loads of information to go along with it.

On top of all that, the museum hosts travelling exhibits throughout the year. To find out what’s on during your visit, check out Museum of Liverpool website.

Address: Pier Head, Liverpool Waterfront, Liverpool L3 1DG

St George’s Quarter

large museum building in green park space in liverpool
Plenty of things to see and do in the Quarter!

If you want to find the spot in Liverpool that has the most amazing buildings, tons of great restaurants, and is close to the central train station, look no further than St George’s Quarter.

Almost creating the shape of a wonky elephant head from the air, this area centers around the beautiful St. John’s Garden. This is the perfect place for a stroll with a coffee or a nice picnic in the park.

The Quarter is home to a collection of the city’s most beautiful architecture and is where you’ll find The Royal Court Theatre and the Playhouse Theatre. Of course, there are other impressive and beautiful places to visit like the Central Library, The World Museum, and both Williamson and Queen Square for all your shopping and dining needs.

Walker Art Gallery

large museum building with cobblestone in front in liverpool
The Walker Art Gallery is pretty to look at and neat to visit!

Located in the beautiful area of St George’s Quarter, the Walker Art Gallery houses one of the largest art collections outside of London. As another place to visit with free entry in Liverpool, this is a mecca of all things paintings, decorative arts, and sculptures.

In the gallery, you’ll find incredible pieces from classic Monet to 20th-century modern art and even contemporary art. Known as the “National Gallery of the North” this place is full of incredible pieces curated from around the world and close to home (Liverpool) and is well worth the visit.

Address: William Brown St, Liverpool L3 8EL

The Cavern Club

street sign above famous mathew street in liverpool
Fans of the Beatles cannot miss The Cavern Quarter!

Music lovers may have this spot on the top of their Liverpool bucket list. Even if you aren’t the biggest music fan that ever lived there is still a strong chance you’ve heard of The Beatles. And if you know anything about The Beatles, you might have heard of The Cavern Club.

Originally opened in 1957 as a jazz club, this is where The Beatles got their start. Not to mention in later years the club hosted the likes of The Rolling Stones, Queen, The Who, and even Sir Elton John – just to name a few big names. The club is still an active music venue and a bar that even runs tours. So, if you fancy a little trip down memory lane make sure to stop in for a drink and some music.

If you’re into The Beatles (as many who visit Liverpool are), you can also check out the Liverpool Beatles Museum just steps from The Cavern Club. You may also want to explore the city a Beatles-specific Liverpool Walking Tour!

Address: 10 Mathew St, Liverpool L2 6RE

The Beatles Story

statues of the beatles in front of large building in liverpool
The one, the only – The Beatles!

Speaking of The Beatles, have you heard they are from Liverpool? Well, if there was any doubt a visit to The Beatles Story would set you straight. Located down in the historic Albert Dock, The Beatles Story is where you’ll find the world’s largest permanent exhibit dedicated to the life of the iconic Beatles.

The museum makes for kind of a pilgrimage for Beatles fans from all across the globe. The Museum gives its visitors an immersive experience into the personal and professional lives of the “Fab Four”. You’ll also be treated to a seriously impressive collection of memorabilia on display.

This is definitely the place to get your Beatles fix. Also, if you’re in need of the perfect souvenir for a Beatles lover in your life, there is a great gift shop that is well worth visiting!

⇒  Check here for your ticket to The Beatles Story

Address: Britannia Vaults Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD

Chinatown

large Chinese gate to chinatown in liverpool
Hard to miss the entryway to Europe’s oldest Chinatown!

While you explore Liverpool, it’ll be hard to miss Chinatown – which is located south of the city centre and features a beautifully ornate entryway. Liverpool’s Chinatown is actually the oldest in all of Europe and has an incredible cultural history in the city dating back to 1834.

The most iconic part about this area is the arch that leads you into the neighbourhood which is filled with amazing dim sum restaurants, markets, and food stalls. Standing nearly 45 feet tall, this archway is actually the tallest in Europe and the second tallest of any Chinatown outside China.

For some of the best dim sum in Chinatown, you should head for Mei Mei at 9-13 Berry Street, L1 9DF.

Tate Liverpool

red brick pier building with boat in water things to do in liverpool
You can find the Tate right down at the Docks!

As a sister gallery to the other “Tates” in both London and Cornwall, Tate Liverpool is a beautiful space housing some beautiful art pieces from the Tate Collection. Located on the waterfront in Liverpool in what used to be a warehouse, Tate Liverpool was designed by James Stirling and opened in 1988.

Within the space, you’ll discover the national British Collection of art from the year 1500 to the present day as well as modern art. In addition to the incredible collection, there are also temporary exhibits that change throughout the year. And the space has been known to hold live music events, too!

Address: Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4BB

Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral

large cathedral building in liverpool with road in front
The Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral is definitely something to admire!

If you think you’ve seen all styles of cathedrals throughout your travels, think again! The Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral has been nicknamed by locals as “Paddy’s Wigwam”, and when you first lay eyes on it you’ll understand why.

The architect who designed this unique cathedral won an international competition in 1962 and the building was completed and opened in 1967. Circular in shape with a tower protruding from the center, you can see it from blocks away.

Once you step inside, the space as you enter is beautiful. Chapels surround the interior and the inner tower has beautiful stained glass. One more unique thing about this cathedral is the cathedral crypt which you can access underground. For more information, visit the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral website.

Address: Cathedral House, Mount Pleasant, Liverpool L3 5TQ

Explore the Liverpool Street Art Scene

With Liverpool’s abundance of art galleries and museums, it should not surprise anyone to learn that the street art scene in Liverpool is also thriving. So, if wandering through galleries isn’t for you, then why not take to the streets in search of some incredible murals around the city.

A few areas with a high concentration of artwork include The Baltic Triangle where you’ll find murals of massive Instagram worthy wings, Stephen Hawking, and even an ode to Abbey Road.

In the Fabric District (aka Fashion District), you’ll find vibrant mosaic murals and beautiful images of people painted on brick buildings. One of the most impressive and beautiful murals in the city can be found on the side of the Tempest Building on Tithebarn Street which was done by the legendary all-female street crew.

Watch a Liverpool FC Match

If you want to experience something truly electric, whether you enjoy football (aka soccer in North America) or not, get your hands on some tickets to a live match. The UK loves their football and the matches are absolutely full of life – even more so when the local team pulls off a win. For Liverpool, that team just happens to be Liverpool Football Club.

While going to a game might not be high on everyone’s list, the experience is once-in-a-lifetime. Even though you may not know what is going on you’re guaranteed to have an absolute blast sitting in the stadium and watching it all go down. 

If you’re a dedicated Liverpool FC fan, you might also be interested in an awesome Liverpool FC Museum and Stadium Tour to go along with your visit!

Address: Anfield Rd, Anfield, Liverpool L4 0TH

Sefton Park

green park space with paths and small pond in the middle in liverpool
Nothing like a stroll through Sefton Park!

Located in the south part of the city, Sefton Park covers over 200 acres of land and is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. There are tons of different walking paths throughout the park and just as many benches to sit with a coffee and watch the world go by.

In the springtime, you’ll see hundreds of daffodils sprouting up and in the autumn months, you can see the changing leaves.

A beautiful pond area makes it a great spot for bird watching and with two different cafes within the park grounds, you’ll really be hard-pressed to find a reason to leave. Pack a book or a picnic and spend a few hours soaking in one of the locals’ favourite places in Liverpool.

Address: Sefton Park, Liverpool L17

Radio City Tower

At 125 meters tall, Liverpool’s Radio City Tower is the second tallest free-standing building in the city. Not only is this a radio tower but it’s also an awesome observation deck with some of the best views of Liverpool that the city has on offer.

Also known as St. John’s Beacon, the tower may look pretty ordinary from the ground jutting out in the middle of the city. However, it’s the view from the top that you’re after. For a low entrance fee, you’ll be able to head up to the top and gaze over the entire city. On clear days, you can even see all the way out to Wales and Blackpool. You can learn more about visiting the tower here.

Address: 1 Houghton St, Liverpool L1 1RL

Sunset at Silver Jubilee Bridge

Last, but certainly not least, we have the Silver Jubilee Bridge. Named for the Queen’s iconic Jubilee, this is a Grade II listed structure in Liverpool (that means it’s important). The Silver Jubilee Bridge stretches for 480 meters and stands 285 feet high across the River Mersey.

While the bridge itself is used for commuting, pedestrians can still walk across the bridge. It’s located quite a way south of the city centre – and may not be an impressive sight during the day. But if you’re a fan of sunsets or a photographer of any level, you’ll want head there for sunset. Trust me, the whole Liverpool skyline is just beautiful from golden hour onward.

Things to Consider When Travelling to Liverpool

If you are planning a trip to Liverpool, there are a number of things to think about before you book anything. From the best time to visit to where you should say, here are a few details to consider!

Best Time to Visit Liverpool

When it comes to visiting Liverpool, one of the biggest decisions to make is what time of year to visit. Peak tourist season in Liverpool is in the summer since it’s the best time to guarantee (mostly) sunny and warm weather. That said, this is England – so sunshine is never 100% certain.

If you’re trying to avoid peak tourist time and the crowds that come with it, the autumn months (September – November) may be your best option. Keep in mind that towards the end of November the weather can take a turn towards the classic cold, rainy days that England can be known for.

Winter in Liverpool tends to drive most people indoors so it’s perfect for a short holiday of exploring museums, art galleries, and warming up in the pub. Snow can fall in this part of England as it is located quite north – so it’s not really the best time to be out and about exploring. 

Getting To/Around Liverpool

With quite a large international airport, Liverpool is relatively easy to get to from within England or Europe. If you are arriving from overseas, there is a possibility you may have to fly into London. From London, it’s not too far to grab the train straight to Liverpool.

If you are travelling to Liverpool from within England, you’ll have multiple bus and train options to get to the city. You can even arrive in Liverpool from Dublin via the ferry and train through Wales. (Eric did this route once and it was awesome). You can read up on train times and schedules at The Train Line.

Most attractions, accommodations, and restaurants can be reached on foot which is a great way to see the city. There are also numerous walking tours in Liverpool – like the Beatles to The Blitz Walking Tour.

If you are looking to explore a little farther from the centre or the weather takes a turn, there is public transit service. You can get more information on tickets and transit maps on the official Merseytravel website. If bus tours are more for you, be sure to hop on (and off) the Hop-On/Hop-Off Liverpool Bus Tour.

Where to Stay in Liverpool

Since Liverpool is a very popular city to visit, there are many great places to stay all across the city. You can find top hotels right in the city centre as well as accommodations right down at the docks with gorgeous views of the waterfront.

Check here for Accommodations in Liverpool

Specifically, you might want to stay at the Titanic Hotel Liverpool which is a beautiful boutique-style hotel located down at the Docks. For an even more central stay right in the heart of the city, the Hampton Liverpool City Centre is a very popular choice for travellers.

For those looking for a hostel in Liverpool, Hatters Liverpool is a trendy accommodation located in the heart of Liverpool in a beautiful Victorian building. It’s conveniently just a few minutes away from Lime Street train station and steps away from multiple attractions in the city.

And there you have it – a nice little guide on the best things to do in Liverpool! Of course, there are a few other places to visit in Liverpool and other things to see – but this guide covers some of the best with a few lesser-known attractions thrown in! Enjoy the English city by the seaside and a big thanks again to Laura for sharing her knowledge!

As always, Happy Liverpool Waddlin’,
-L&E

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    Photos of modern buildings by night with lighting and water in front and sandstone coloured building plus text overlay