Choose from 12 Fun Things to Do in Liverpool
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Beatles Story
This Beatles-centric museum is stuffed full of Fab Four memorabilia, from George Harrison’s first guitar to John Lennon’s orange-tinted glasses. Exhibits trace the journey of Liverpool’s hometown heroes and the rise of Beatlemania, and include a full-scale replica of the famous Cavern Club and a walk-in yellow submarine.
The Basics
Visitors can explore the Beatles Story exhibitions with the aid of a free Living History audio guide, which tells of the band’s rise, from their humble beginnings to the height of their dizzying fame. The venue’s Discovery Zone, which features interactive exhibits and a giant piano, is specially geared toward children.
Entrance tickets for the Beatles Story are often included on Beatles-themed tours departing from both from London and Liverpool, along with other Beatles attractions such as Penny Lane, the Cavern Club, and the Magical Mystery Tour bus.
Things to Know Before you Go
- Beatles Story is a must for music lovers and Beatles fans.
- Free Wi-Fi is available at the on-site Fab4 Café.
- The Fab4 store sells Beatles merchandise and gifts, including posters, books, and T-shirts.
- The exhibitions are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Beatles Story is situated on Albert Dock, part of the Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City UNESCO World Heritage Site. The venue is about a 20-minute walk from Liverpool Lime Street train station, and just 5 minutes from Liverpool One Bus Station. C4, C5, and CityLink buses all stop at Albert Dock.
When to Get There
The Beatles Story is busiest on weekend afternoons. The museum is quietest midweek. If you want to avoid the weekend rush, go in early morning (9 or 10am) or late afternoon (4 or 5pm) on Saturday or Sunday.
Beatles Sites in Liverpool
The Beatles Story is just one of many attractions in Liverpool with connections to the Fab Four. Fans may also want to visit the Cavern Club, where the young Beatles played gigs; the Casbah Coffee Club, where The Quarrymen—an early Ringo-free version of the band—played; and Mendips and 20 Forthlin Road, the childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney.
Address: Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Albert Dock
Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock, formerly an important industrial center, is now home to popular attractions including Tate Liverpool, Merseyside Maritime Museum, and The Beatles Story. Explore its cobbled paths to gain insight into the city’s heritage, marvel at its architecture, or simply unwind in one of the dock’s many bars or restaurants.
The Basics
Albert Dock received its Royal title in 2018 in recognition of its maritime history. The former warehouses are now home to attractions such as The Beatles Story, where many Beatles tours visit as part of a comprehensive itinerary. City sightseeing tours also typically stop here, including hop-on hop-off services and bike tours. Learn more about the quay’s history at the Merseyside Maritime or International Slavery Museums, or discover the stand-up scene at Liverpool’s Comedy Central.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring a coat and an umbrella in winter, as the waterfront can be cold and wet.
- As one of the UK’s most visited multi-use attractions outside of London, the Royal Albert Dock is a must-see for any visitor.
- Royal Albert Dock is wheelchair accessible, and guide dogs are welcome in all venues. The Colonnades and all museums have accessible toilets.
- The nearest cash machines on Gower Street charge for withdrawal, so it’s worth getting your cash beforehand.
How to Get There
Royal Albert Dock is 20 minutes’ walk from central Liverpool. The nearest station is James Street, served directly from Lime Street. The C4, C5, and Citlink buses also stop here. The dock also has a safe and secure car park, which charges an hourly fee.
When to Get There
Come rain or shine, there is always something to see on the quay. The museums close in the evening, though bars and restaurants remain open until late. Summer brings festivals and open air performances to the dock, while winter offers Christmas markets and festive decoration.
Significance of the Dock
At its opening in 1846, the Albert Dock was considered a revolutionary architectural feat. It was the first warehouse in Britain to be fireproof (meaning that it had no wooden parts). Made from brick, stone, and cast iron, the structure was also home to some of the first hydraulic cranes, used to move heavy cargo from the Far East. In its heyday of the early 19th century, 40% of world goods flowed through its ports.
Address: Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD, England
From $ 21
Walker Art Gallery
Take time out from the bustling city streets with a visit to the Walker Art Gallery, home to a diverse collection of artwork that spans eight centuries. Peruse masterpieces by artists, such as Monet, Rembrandt, and David Hockney, and enjoy an experience in the Big Art for Little Artists gallery, a hands-on space designed for young children.
The Basics
Noted for its neoclassical facade and entrance sculptures, the Walker Art Gallery is a popular stop on cycling tours that provide an overview of the city. For those who want a closer look at the rich interior, flexible hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tours allow the opportunity to explore at your own pace. Visitors can also opt to combine a visit with a cruise along the Mersey, or a journey to the Liverpool Cathedral’s bell tower.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Featuring one of the largest collections in England, the gallery is a must-visit for art aficionados.
- The gallery is popular with all age ranges, with a space specifically curated for those under 8. It also offers pram storage and a breastfeeding-friendly atmosphere.
- For those with limited time, take advantage of the combined tours to see the gallery, along with other top city attractions.
- The gallery is wheelchair accessible and an autism-friendly space. It offers accessible toilets and large-print guides/menus.
How to Get There
The Walker Art Gallery is situated centrally, just a few minutes’ walk north of Lime Street Station, and northeast of Queen Square bus station, on William Brown Street. Due to traffic congestion and expensive parking in the city center, visitors traveling by road often opt for a tour that includes a convenient hop-on hop-off service.
When to Get There
The gallery opens daily year-round, except Christmas and New Year bank holidays. Morning is the optimal time for a tranquil stroll through the collection, before the lunchtime crowds arrive. Weekends in the city center are often lively, while midweek brings a quieter vibe.
Discover the Cultural Quarter
Walker Art Gallery is situated on William Brown Street, protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its uniquely high concentration of public, listed buildings. Gain further insight into the city’s culture with a visit to neighboring landmarks, including St. John’s Gardens, St. George’s Hall, and the Liverpool Empire Theatre.
Address: William Brown Street, Liverpool L3 8EL, England
From $ 21
Anfield Stadium
Anfield Stadium, home turf for Liverpool Football Club, is hallowed ground for fans of the Reds. The 54,000-capacity venue not only hosts matches, but also contains the Liverpool FC Story, a museum chronicling the club’s history, and the Steven Gerrard Collection, comprising memorabilia relating to the former captain.
The Basics
To explore inside Anfield Stadium, you can either purchase a match ticket or join an LFC stadium tour. Tickets are typically in high demand, particularly for important Champions League and FA Cup matches. Often the best option is to book a tour package, which may include additional extras such as a prematch buffet or halftime refreshments.
To go behind the scenes, take a self-guided Anfield Stadium tour. With the aid of a multimedia audio handset, tour the press room and the Kop, climb to the highest level of the main stand, peek behind the doors of the home and away teams’ dressing rooms, and walk through the players’ tunnel. Admission to the interactive Liverpool FC Story museum and the Steven Gerrard Collection is included.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Anfield Stadium is an absolute must for Liverpool FC fans.
- Self-guided tours are at your own pace; allow 1.5 to 2 hours to explore.
- Luggage and large bags are not permitted inside the stadium.
- Wheelchair spaces are available at the stadium but cannot be accommodated with all ticket packages, so check ahead. Most of the tour is wheelchair accessible, though the manager’s dugout has stepped access only.
How to Get There
Anfield Stadium is situated on Anfield Road in Liverpool. To get there from the city center, take the 26 from Liverpool One Bus Station, 17 from Queen Square Bus Station, or the 917 from St. Johns Lane. On match days, beginning three hours prior to kickoff, the 917 express bus service runs from St. Johns Lane to Anfield every 10 minutes.
When to Get There
If you want to see Anfield at its busiest and buzziest, go on a match day. If you want space and time to explore without crowds, opt for a midweek morning tour. Shorter 45-minute tours, led by tour guides, are available on match days up to four hours before kickoff, but do not include access to the dressing rooms or press room.
This Is Anfield Sign
Of all the features of the stadium, few are as well known to English football fans as the This Is Anfield sign. Hung above a set of stairs leading to the pitch, the sign was intended to intimidate visiting teams. Up until recently, it was tradition for Liverpool players to touch the sign as they came out onto the pitch.
Address: Shankly Gates, 40 Anfield Road, Liverpool L4 0TH, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 26
Radio City Tower
At 138 meters (452 feet), Radio City Tower is a prominent feature of the Liverpool skyline, and its observation platform provides aerial views of the city and beyond. Built in 1969, the tower began life as St. John’s Beacon—a ventilation shaft topped with a revolving restaurant—and is now a regional communications tower.
The Basics
Admire views of this centrally located landmark as you sightsee in the city, or opt to ascend to the 121-meter (400-foot) gallery to gain an overview of Liverpool; advanced booking is available. Once you’re on the platform, you can speak with informative guides, peek in at live radio shows, or simply absorb panoramas as you gaze out over Merseyside, looking for far-off Blackpool and perhaps even distant Snowdonia.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The high vantage point is ideal for first-time visitors to get their bearings.
- The tower is very family-friendly, with free admission for children under 5.
- Radio City Tower is wheelchair accessible, as there is elevator access to the viewing platform for all visitors.
How to Get There
Entry to the tower is on Houghton Street, just a few minutes from both Liverpool Central and Liverpool Lime Street stations, as well as the Queen Square bus stop. St. John’s Shopping Centre on Lime Street has parking spaces with a per-hour charge.
When to Get There
Clear weather brings the best views, with visibility stretching as far as North Wales on particularly good days. Otherwise, head up just before sunset during the darker months to see the distant sights, and then enjoy the atmospheric descent of dusk over a wintry Liverpool.
Liverpool’s Tallest Structure?
Technically, Liverpool’s tallest building is the 140-meter (459-foot) West Tower, which has a fine-dining restaurant on its 34th floor. However, Radio City Tower has a 10-meter antenna on its roof, taking the structure to 148 meters (453 feet) and pushing it just higher than its skyscraping competitor, depending on your perspective!
Address: England
Admission: Varies
From $ 8
Metropolitan Cathedral
Visit the modernist Metropolitan Cathedral and gain insight into Liverpool's religious history as you explore its crypts, treasury, and unique structure. As you take in its unusual circular design, learn about the Catholic cathedral's close relationship with its Anglican sister on the other end of Hope Street, or attend a service or concert for an immersive experience.
The Basics
The cathedral, completed in 1967, was based on design by Frederick Gibberd, but proposed designs date back to 1853. In 1933, building began on Sir Edwin Lutyens' vision for a massive church, but only the crypt, which remains today, was built. Visit for the architecture or to attend the annual Beer Festival. See the church and other Liverpool highlights via the hop-on hop-off bus, and combine a visit with one to the cathedral's Anglican neighbor.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The cathedral is a must for anyone interested in Liverpool's social history.
- Entrance to the main building is free, but a donation is encouraged. There is a small charge to enter the crypt and treasury.
- The cathedral is wheelchair-accessible, with a sloped entrance and access to the crypt via a lift.
How to Get There
The Metropolitan Cathedral is about 10 minutes' walk from central Liverpool. Bus No. 25 stops at Brownlow Hill, next to the cathedral. The cathedral has a paid parking lot available to all visitors, with marked disabled spaces. Hop-on hop-off bus tours also stop nearby.
When to Get There
The cathedral is open daily, though as an active church it holds regular services throughout the day, which visitors are welcome to attend. It also hosts many concerts throughout the year, including carol concerts in December. The annual beer festival, held in the crypt, is a popular event.
Fish and Chips
Bishop David Sheppard and Archbishop Derek Worlock hold a special place in Liverpool's heart. The two religious leaders worked together during the sectarian divide of the 1970s and 1980s. Affectionately nicknamed "fish and chips" because they were "always together and never out of the papers," their work is commemorated via the Sheppard-Worlock Statue on Hope Street, the road that unites the two cathedrals.
Address: Hope Street, Liverpool L3 5TQ, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 21
U-Boat Story
Take a trip back in time and across the river from Liverpool to see the U-Boat Story. As you explore an authentic WWII German submarine recovered in 1993"”now a museum boasting interactive displays, accessible viewing windows, and wartime artifacts, including an Enigma machine"”gain insight into onboard life and discover the crew's fate.
The Basics
Peruse the cross-sections of a wartime U-Boat to uncover the mysteries of the sunken German submarine. This unique museum includes original film archives and an up-close encounter with sections of the U-534. Opt to combine your visit with a ferry across the River Mersey and save on admission prices with some cruise tours. If you have limited time, choose an all-inclusive package to see the museum along with other Liverpool highlights all in one day. You can also take advantage of hop-on hop-off services that allow a customizable itinerary and personalized pace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The U-Boat Story is a must-do for history buffs.
- The family-friendly museum has something of interest for all generations. Guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
- The Birkenhead waterfront can be windy, so it's a good idea to wear layers.
- The U-boat exhibition is accessible to wheelchair users, with designated parking, accessible toilets, and a ramped entrance to the outdoor displays.
How to Get There
The U-Boat Story is located at Woodside Ferry Terminal in Birkenhead, on the Wirral. Situated opposite Liverpool Pier Head, the sight is best accessed by water, with many ferry cruises stopping at the port. You can also take the Merseyrail from Lime Street to Hamilton Square and walk five minutes to the museum, or drive via the Queensway Tunnel.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily, except December 25, December 26 and January 1. The outdoor section is exposed to strong winds, so visiting during the warmer months may be preferable. The sight is popular with school groups; on weekdays arrive early or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Why Is the U-Boat Cut Up?
The U-534 was kept complete as part of the Warship Preservation Trust until 2006. When the collection closed, the vessel was dismantled in order to move it safely. Previously it had been difficult for everyone to access the submarine due to its tight passages and stepped access, so it was decided to display it in four sections to allow all visitors the opportunity to see inside the historic craft.
Address: Woodside Ferry Terminal, Birkenhead, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 13
Pier Head
Pier Head serves as the ferry departure point on the River Mersey and as a Liverpool symbol, marked by buildings known as the Three Graces, the most famous of which is the Liver Building, with its Liver Birds. Pier Head, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also home to memorials, the Museum of Liverpool, and Mersey Ferries landing stage.
The Basics
There are multiple ways to experience Pier Head. Absorb riverside views of the landmark from a cruise, or get a close-up look at its memorials on a city bike tour. Be immersed in the historic pier’s atmosphere as you walk the streets, before catching a ferry across the Mersey. Take advantage of combination tickets to see it alongside other Liverpool attractions, or opt for a flexible hop-on hop-off tour to explore at your own pace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Three Graces and the Liver Birds are a must-see for any visitor to Liverpool.
- Be sure to dress for the weather as the area is mostly uncovered and outside.
- The wide, paved pathways are wheelchair accessible.
- Take advantage of river boat cruises for sweeping views of the iconic buildings.
How to Get There
Many tours offer transportation as part of city sightseeing itinerary. Pier Head is a 20-minute walk from central Liverpool. The nearest train station is James Street, with direct services from Lime Street. The 14A bus stops there directly from the city center. Free street parking is limited.
When to Get There
Pier Head is striking at any time of year, but sunset tours offer particularly charming views of the Three Graces against a dusk backdrop. Main attractions, such as the Museum of Liverpool, close around 5pm, and the last Mersey Ferry departs at 6:40pm.
Spot the Superlambanana
Look out for the Superlambanana sculptures outside the Museum of Liverpool. The design, a cross between a lamb and a banana, pays homage to the city’s port history, as both were historically common cargoes. Beginning at Tate Liverpool, the sculptures spread through the city during its time as the European Capital of Culture, and have since been found as far away as Wales.
Address: Pier Head, Liverpool L2, England
From $ 21
Spaceport
Escape the city and journey into space on a visit to Liverpool's Spaceport science center. Explore the universe via interactive displays, take a ride on Explorer 1, and marvel at the mysteries of the cosmos in the planetarium on a family-friendly day out.
The Basics
Spaceport offers an immersive experience for children and adults, with attractions including a panoramic dome theater, computer-generated observatory, space ride, and Star Wars exhibition. You can visit Spaceport independently or take advantage of the flexible hop-on hop-off riverboat services that offer a visit combined with a cruise along the Mersey.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Spaceport is ideal for kids and big kids alike.
- Family-friendly dining is nearby at the Seacombe Ferry Terminal.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible with the exception of the Explorer 1 ride.
How to Get There
Spaceport is located next to the Seacombe Ferry Terminal in Wallasey, across the River Mersey from Liverpool. Regular public ferries travel from Liverpool Waterfront. Visitors can also catch the train from Lime Street to Hamilton Square Station in Birkenhead, then take the 409 bus, or drive via the Queensway or Kingsway tunnel. Parking is free at Seacombe Ferry Terminal.
When to Get There
Spaceport is open every day except Monday, with extended weekend opening hours. The museum is popular with school groups, so arrive early in the day or later in the afternoon on weekends for your best chance to avoid the rush.
Planetarium at the World Museum
Across the river from Spaceport, Liverpool's World Museum also has a planetarium, with a number of different daily showings for all ages. With extensive collections from ancient Greece, ancient Egypt, and the natural and physical sciences, the museum is another family-friendly option worth exploring.
Address: Seacombe Ferry Terminal, Birkenhead, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 13
Liverpool Cathedral
Discover a symbol of Liverpool and gain insight into the city’s history with a visit to the National Heritage-listed Liverpool Cathedral. As the largest religious building in Britain, the Anglican cathedral boasts neo-Gothic architecture, distinctive artwork, and a 328-feet (100-meter) tower that provides sweeping views across River Mersey.
The Basics
To fully appreciate Giles Gilbert Scott’s famous design, visitors can opt to ascend the bell tower for panoramic vistas or simply explore the peaceful interior, looking out for installations by notable artists, including Tracey Emin. If you’re tight for time, some tours offer a city overview package that includes the cathedral along with other top attractions. For brave souls, other tours offer after-hours insight into some of the city’s spookiest spots, including the cathedral graveyard.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With the world’s largest Gothic arches and the UK’s biggest organ, the cathedral is a must-see for anyone interested in architecture and design.
- Access to the building itself is free, but a small donation is encouraged.
- Some tours include the Tower Experience as part of the package; otherwise, there is a charge to enter the bell tower.
- Be prepared for a lot of climbing as the tower has 108 stairs.
- The main cathedral floor is wheelchair accessible from the parking lot. Elevator access is available to different ground floor levels and the Lady Chapel.
How to Get There
Liverpool Cathedral is just under a mile (1.3 kilometers) from Liverpool Lime Street. The walk from the city center is about 30 minutes. Bus routes 82 and 86 serve the cathedral, taking around 15 minutes from Liverpool One Bus Station. Some tours offer hop-on hop-off bus services, stopping near the cathedral.
When to Get There
The cathedral is an active place of worship, and therefore visitor access is restricted during services. Interested members of the public are welcome to join the congregation for the service; otherwise, it’s best to avoid Sunday morning visits.
Why is Giles Gilbert Scott’s Architecture So Famous?
Liverpool Cathedral’s architect, Giles Gilbert Scott, also designed the UK’s famous red telephone boxes, as well as London’s Battersea Power Station, among other notable landmarks. His work mixed modernism with Gothic features and created well-known structures out of otherwise functional buildings, all of which are still well worth a visit.
Address: 20 St James’ Road, Liverpool L1 7BY, England
From $ 20
Cavern Club
Famous as the stage where the Beatles made their debut in 1961, Liverpool’s Cavern Club has become a place of legend, hosting not only the Fab Four, but the Who, the Kinks, the Rolling Stones, Queen, Elton John, and many more household names. The influential club remains one of Liverpool’s top live music venues to this day.
The Basics
Beatles tours of Liverpool often make a stop at the legendary Cavern Club, and Magical Mystery Bus tour participants receive free entrance the evening of their tour. While Beatles fans are often content to enjoy a drink at the historic venue, the best way to experience the Cavern Club is to attend a gig. Live music performances take place daily at the main stage, the Cavern Live Lounge, and the Cavern Pub.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entrance to the club is free during the day, but some evenings and shows are ticketed.
- Children under the age of 18 are allowed in until 8pm. The legal drinking age in the UK is 18.
- For ticketed events, it’s a good idea to book in advance.
- The Cavern Club and Cavern Live Lounge are both wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Cavern Club is located on Mathew Street in central Liverpool, a short walk from Albert Dock and the Beatles Story. The nearest train station is Liverpool James Street and the closest parking is at the Liverpool ONE shopping center, each a 5-minute walk from the venue.
When to Get There
The Cavern Club is open every day and night of the week, with later closing times Thursday to Saturday. From Monday to Wednesday, admission is free; on weekends arrive early to avoid the queues. Beatles fans should visit on a Saturday, when the Cavern Club Beatles perform a tribute to the iconic band.
History of the Cavern Club
Starting out as a jazz club in 1957, the Cavern Club became famous around the world thanks to the Beatles, who played almost 300 gigs there between 1961 and 1963 before becoming a global phenomenon. After the club’s 1960s heyday, it closed down in 1973 and was demolished. A new Cavern Club rose on the original site in the 1980s and has since become one of the most popular Liverpool venues of the 21st century, featuring acts such as Jessie J, Adele, Oasis, Arctic Monkeys, and even Sir Paul McCartney.
Address: 10 Mathew Street, Liverpool L2 6RE, England
Hours: Open daily
From $ 23
Mersey Ferries
Running right through the heart of the city, the Mersey River is the lifeblood of Liverpool, and the city’s iconic ferries have sailed its shores for more than 800 years. One of Liverpool’s most renowned tourist activities, a ferry ride across the river offers spectacular views along the waterfront.
The Basics
Mersey Ferry services include cross-river commuter transport and trips along the Manchester Ship Canal to Salford Quays in Manchester, but the most popular choice for visitors is a 50-minute Mersey River explorer cruise. If you’re sightseeing in Liverpool, you can also combine a boat cruise with a hop-on hop-off, open-top bus tour, tickets to attractions like the Spaceport or U-Boat Story, or a visit to the Liverpool Cathedral Tower.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Audio commentary is available on-board.
- On-board services include a café, restroom, and open-air viewing deck.
- All Mersey ferries and ferry terminals are fully wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Mersey Ferries depart regularly from the Pier Head Ferry Terminal, next to the famous Liver Building on the Mersey River waterfront. The ferries sail across the water to Birkenhead Woodside Ferry Terminal and Seacombe Ferry Terminal on the Wirral Peninsula. River cruises can be boarded from any of the three ports.
When to Get There
Mersey Ferries run all year round, although times vary throughout the year. During the peak summer months, opt for an early morning departure if you want to avoid the crowds.
The Mersey River in Pop Culture
Taking a ferry cruise across the River Mersey is such a strong Liverpool tradition that it was immortalized in the 1964 Gerry and the Pacemakers song “Ferry Cross the Mersey.” A smash hit on both sides of the Atlantic, it remains one of Liverpool’s most popular anthems, covered by numerous artists over the years including Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Burton Cummings, Pat Metheny, and even Sir Paul McCartney, as part of a fundraising effort for the Hillsborough disaster in 1989.
Address: Pier Head, Liverpool L3, England
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Adults: from £2.70
From $ 13