Choose from 17 Fun Things to Do in North West England
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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
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
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
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
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
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
Chester
The town of Chester in northwest England was established by the Romans in 70AD making it one of the country's oldest towns. It is also one of England's best preserved walled towns with most of its walls still intact. Visitors can walk the ancient city walls to get a better view of the city as well as the largest Roman amphitheater in Britain and the beautiful architecture of the Chester Cathedral. Another historic part of town is the Rows, a series of Victorian half timbered buildings dating back to the 16th century which now hold shopping galleries.
Chester also has the Chester Zoo and the gardens of Tatton. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and venues that host live music events throughout the town. Within the walls, the town is compact, making it easy to explore by foot and enjoy the charm and history. Not too far from Chester, visitors can explore old stately homes, medieval castles, and the mountains of North Wales.
Practical Info
Chester is located 40 miles southwest of Manchester and can be reached using route M56. Alternatively, it is 27 miles south of Liverpool and can be reached from there using route M53. There are plenty of train options from both cities as well.
Address: Chester, North West England, United Kingdom, England
From $ 166
Museum of Science and Industry
Visitors can delve into Manchester’s inventive and industrial heritage at the Science and Industry Museum. Housed in a building that served as the world’s first passenger railway station, the museum includes a wide collection of vintage vehicles, historical machinery, hands-on exhibitions, and other engaging offerings.
The Basics
Manchester played a pivotal role during the Industrial Revolution, and it’s been known as a hub of innovation ever since. The Science and Industry Museum contains five exhibition areas: the 1830 Station, the 1830 Warehouse, the Power Hall, the New Warehouse, and the Air and Space Hall. The collection chronicles the city’s best-known breakthroughs and inventions, including everything from a replica steam locomotive to “Baby,” the world’s first stored-program computer and arguably the very start of modern computing.
Free to enter and open to the public daily, the museum is an excellent stop on city walking tours and cultural ventures, and can also be seen during hop-on hop-off bus tours of Manchester.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Science and Industry Museum is a must for families and those interested in the history of innovation.
- The museum is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities, and it also offers stroller parking.
- Interactive exhibitions are designed to appeal to visitors of all ages, while the museum’s Treasure Hunter app, complete with games and activities, keeps kids entertained.
- The Warehouse Café is a good place to grab a bite or a quick drink.
How to Get There
Located in the city center, the Science and Industry Museum can be accessed by multiple forms of public transportation. The free Metroshuttle stops nearby at Byrom Street, and the nearest Metrolink tram stop is Deansgate–Castlefield. The museum is within walking distance of Deansgate railway station; Oxford Road station is also nearby. Bicycle storage is available on-site.
When to Get There
In addition to permanent displays, the Science and Industry Museum hosts numerous temporary exhibitions as well as creative classes and events for families, so it’s worth checking the calendar before you visit to see what’s on. Engaging exhibits and an extensive collection mean families can easily spend half a day here. The museum is open daily 10am–5pm.
Liverpool Road Station
The Science and Industry Museum is as much a destination for its setting as for its exhibitions. After all, the museum is housed in a famed heritage site: the now-shuttered Liverpool Road Station, which first opened in 1830. The station was the original terminus for the first intercity railway in the world, and its original features have been carefully preserved.
Address: Liverpool Road, Castlefield, Manchester M3 4FP, England
From $ 16
Old Trafford
Old Trafford Stadium, also known as the Manchester United Football Ground, has been home to Manchester United F.C. since 1910. With a capacity of more than 75,000, it is the second largest football stadium in the United Kingdom after Wembley Stadium and the ninth largest in all of Europe. The stadium was used by American soldiers to play baseball during World War I and was used as a depot by the military in World War II, sustaining significant damage from German bombings.
The pitch is surrounded by four stands, each with two tiers, except for the South, which has only one. The Alex Ferguson Stand, named for the longest-serving manager in Manchester United history, is where visitors will find the museum, trophy room and the Red Café. The South Stand is where the VIPs tend to be found and the West Stand is traditionally where the most diehard fans congregate.
In addition to Manchester United matches, Old Trafford has hosted FA Cup semi-finals, matches at the 1966 World Cup, the 2003 Champions League Final, the rugby league’s annual Super League Grand Final and the final of two Rugby League World Cups. It also hosted football matches during the London Summer Olympics, including the first international women’s football matches to be played at the stadium.
Practical Info
Old Trafford is located outside of the Manchester city center, about a half mile from the Old Trafford Cricket Ground. Adjacent to the South Stand is the Manchester United Football Ground railway station, which is only open on match days. Visitors can also reach the stadium by the Metrolink tram, stopping at either the Exchange Quay or Old Trafford stops. Buses 255, 256, 263 and X50 also run to the stadium, with bus 255 providing extra service on match days. Tours of the stadium are available on non-match days between 9:40 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. A basic tour costs 18 pounds and includes access to the museum. A number of other uniquely themed tours are also available.
Address: Sir Matt Busby Way, Manchester, England
Admission: Tour/Museum £18
From $ 17
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
Manchester United Museum and Stadium
Welcome to the home of the prestigious Manchester United Football Club! Arguably England’s favorite, the 75,000 seat “Old Tafford” stadium has hosted FA Cup semi-finals, 1966 World Cup matches, Euro 96 matches and 2003 Champions League Final matches, as well as rugby league's annual Super League Grand Final and the final of two Rugby League World Cups. It also hosted the 2012 Summer Olympics football matches, including women's international football for the first time in its history.
The ‘Theater of Dreams’, as nicknamed by English football star player Bobby Charlton, is the second-largest football stadium in the United Kingdom after Wembley Stadium and the ninth-largest in Europe. Aside from sporting uses, the stadium is regularly used for private functions and has hosted several concerts, like Bon Jovi, Genesis and Bruce Springsteen. It was even requisitioned by the British military during World War II and used as a depot; it was later on heavily bombed and partially destroyed by the Nazis in 1940 and 1941.
Practical Info
The Manchester United Museum and Stadium is located in south-western Manchester and easily accessible via transit by tram (Old Trafford stop) and by bus (routes 255, 256 and 263). It is also accessible by train via the Manchester United Football Ground railway station. 80-minute long guided tours are available every day of the week from 9:40AM to 4:30PM (except on match days), during which it is possible to visit the player’s changing rooms and admire the dizzying view from the Sir Alex Ferguson stand. Entry costs £18 per adult and £12 per children aged less than 16 years old.
Address: Manchester, England
Hours: Daily, 9:40AM to 4:30PM
Admission: Adult: £18, Children (under 16) £12.
From $ 115
Etihad Stadium
Etihad Stadium, also known as the City of Manchester Stadium or simply CoMS, is home to the Manchester City Football Club. Originally built to host the 2002 Commonwealth Games, the stadium has also hosted the 2008 UEFA Cup Final, numerous rugby league matches, boxing title fights and England football internationals, and will host one Rugby World Cup match in 2015. It is currently under construction to increase stadium capacity to 62,000, at which time it will be the second largest stadium in the Premier League and among the top 10 largest stadiums in the United Kingdom.
The stadium was designed to resemble a Roman gladiatorial arena, with a roof held up by a unique cable net system, three tiers of seating on the side and two tiers of seating on the ends. The design was also intended to maximize sunlight on the field, to help the grass grow. It received critical acclaim for design after the 2002 Commonwealth Games and won multiple design awards.
Etihad Stadium is one of several venues that comprise SportsCity, together with the Manchester Regional Arena, the Manchester Velodrome and the National Squash Centre. In addition to hosting sporting events, it serves as a concert venue and was the largest stadium concert venue in England before the new Wembley Stadium was built.
Practical Info
Etihad Stadium is located less than two miles from the Manchester city center, with a well-lit, signposted route along the way. The Metrolink tram runs from the center, stopping at the new Etihad Campus station. Multiple bus routes also run from the center to the stadium, with extra services on event days. Limited parking near the stadium is also available. Entry to the stadium is by contactless smart cards, rather than traditional turnstiles, and visitors can enjoy six themed restaurants inside. Tours are also available daily.
Address: Ashton New Rd, Manchester, England
From $ 22
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
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
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
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