Liverpool, a vibrant city in the UK, boasts a rich cultural heritage and a wide array of attractions suitable for all ages and interests. As a European capital of culture, visitors can expect an eclectic mix of art galleries, museums, and historic sites that are sure to inspire and entertain.
Some of the top attractions in this bustling city include the Royal Albert Dock, renowned museums such as the Walker Art Gallery and the Museum of Liverpool, as well as beautiful parks and historic landmarks. In addition, Liverpool offers a variety of city tours, walking tours, cultural and historical tours, making it easy for visitors to fully immerse themselves in the unique charm and character of this dynamic destination.
From family-friendly activities to shopping, dining, and nightlife opportunities, there is always something to do in Liverpool. Whether you’re a culture lover, a history buff, a sports fan, or simply looking for a memorable getaway, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in this captivating city.
Historical and Cultural Highlights
Maritime History
Liverpool has a rich maritime history and you can learn more at the Merseyside Maritime Museum. This museum showcases Liverpool’s seafaring past through various exhibitions and artefacts. It’s the perfect place to learn about the city’s significance in the shipping industry and World War II’s Battle of the Atlantic.
Architectural Landmarks
The city’s distinct architecture can be admired at the Pier Head, home to the iconic Three Graces: the Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building, and Port of Liverpool Building. These stunning structures have played a vital role in shaping Liverpool’s image and continue to be a symbol of its rich history and culture.
The Beatles Connection
No visit to Liverpool would be complete without taking a walk down memory lane with The Beatles. You can visit the famous Cavern Club, where the Fab Four first made their mark, then head to The Beatles Story, an interactive museum that brings the band’s history to life.
Liverpool’s Art Scene
Liverpool boasts an impressive art scene with numerous galleries showcasing both local and international talents. Tate Liverpool is a must-visit, housing an exceptional collection of modern and contemporary art. Other notable institutions include The Bluecoat and Lady Lever Art Gallery, the latter regarded as one of Europe’s finest galleries.
Museums and Exhibitions
Finally, enrich your understanding of Liverpool’s history and culture by visiting its various museums such as the Museum of Liverpool, World Museum, and the International Slavery Museum. Each of these institutions offers engaging exhibitions and interactive displays, ensuring there’s something for every visitor to enjoy. The recent Keith Haring exhibition at Tate Liverpool and the British Music Experience are notable examples of the city’s quality and consistency in curating world-class events.
Fun Activities and Entertainment
Football in Liverpool
Liverpool is well-known for its passion for football, with the city being home to two major football clubs: Liverpool Football Club and Everton Football Club. Take a trip to the iconic Anfield Stadium and experience the electrifying atmosphere of a live match. If you can’t catch a game, stadium tours are available, allowing you to get a behind-the-scenes look at Anfield and learn about the rich history of both football clubs.
Live Music and Theatre
Liverpool boasts a vibrant live music and theatre scene. The city is famously known as the birthplace of The Beatles, but it also offers a diverse array of venues, including the Liverpool Philharmonic for orchestral performances and various pubs hosting local bands and DJ’s nights. For a taste of Liverpool’s nightlife, head to the historic Cavern Club, where The Beatles first gained popularity.
Comedy lovers are not left out, as there are numerous comedy clubs and poetry slams that entertain locals and tourists alike. Theatre enthusiasts can catch award-winning productions at the city’s many theatres and performance spaces.
Novelty Leisure Games
For quirky and unique experiences, try visiting Liverpool’s innovative leisure establishments, offering engaging and interactive activities. Challenge yourself to a game of crazy golf at the funky Junkyard Golf Club, or immerse yourself in a virtual reality experience at VR Here. Those who desire friendly competition can find it with games such as shuffleboard, bowling, and pool available at places like Lane7.
Tourist Attractions and Tours
Liverpool is not short of tourist attractions for visitors of all ages and interests, including museums, galleries, and parks. The Merseyside Maritime Museum is a must-visit for those interested in the city’s rich maritime history. While exploring Liverpool, don’t miss the opportunity to join organised tours such as the Mersey Tunnel Tours or Liverpool Cycle Tours. These guided excursions offer a unique perspective of the city, its landmarks, and its hidden gems.
Things to do in Liverpool – Shopping and Dining
Shopping Areas
In Liverpool, there are several fantastic shopping areas to explore. Liverpool ONE is a vast open-air shopping space in the city centre, featuring over 170 stores, including flagship stores for Flannels, BOSS, Tessuti, and LUSH. Additionally, it is home to the only Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols in the country. Another popular shopping destination is the MetQuarter shopping mall, which offers a variety of boutiques and iconic brands.
For those who love vintage clothing, COW on Bold Street is a must-visit shop. The Royal Albert Dock Liverpool also houses a collection of independent boutiques and souvenir shops, perfect for finding unique gifts and items.
Dining and Brunch Spots
Liverpool has a vibrant food scene, offering a diverse range of dining options. For a sleek fine-dining experience, Paul Askew’s Art School is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more casual atmosphere, try Barnacle inside Duke Street Market. Bold Street is home to some of Liverpool’s favourite restaurants like Maray, The Italian Club, and the first-ever Mowgli. For a fun bottomless brunch, check out the many cafes and eateries along Lark Lane.
Local Markets
To get a taste of Liverpool’s local flavours, visiting one of the city’s markets is a must. The Duke Street Market not only has casual dining spots but also features a high-quality food hall with local vendors, offering a variety of delicious options. In addition, Lark Lane is known for its charming market with a selection of artisanal products, fresh produce, and street food.
Whether you’re looking to shop, dine, or explore local markets, Liverpool’s vibrant and friendly atmosphere offers something for everyone.
Outdoor and Green Spaces
Liverpool City Region is blessed with a variety of outdoor and green spaces that are perfect for enjoying the outdoors and immersing yourself in nature. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best parks and green spaces in Liverpool, as well as the iconic Mersey and its docks.
Parks
One of the most notable green spaces in Liverpool is Sefton Park. This large Grade I listed park features a beautiful lake, and it covers 200 acres of picturesque parkland. Sefton Park is also home to the stunning Palm House, a Victorian glasshouse filled with exotic plants and architectural marvels.
Another lovely outdoor space to visit is Rimrose Valley Country Park. This serene country park is a favourite among locals, cyclists, and dog walkers, offering winding paths, open grasslands, wildflower gardens, and patches of woodland.
Other notable parks and green spaces in Liverpool include:
- Wavertree Botanic Gardens: Victorian botanical gardens with lovely plants and old statues of the king and queen
- Croxteth Country Park: A massive park featuring 500 acres of ponds, woods, and fields with a beautiful walled garden
- Chavasse Park, St Johns Garden, Festival Gardens, Otterspool Prom, and Rupert Lane Recreation Ground
The Mersey and the Docks
The River Mersey is an iconic part of Liverpool’s history and offers opportunities for various water-based activities and sightseeing. A trip on the famous Mersey Ferry is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Liverpool. The “Ferry Across the Mersey” cruise provides stunning views of the city skyline and allows you to explore different parts of the city.
Albert Dock is a historic waterfront area that has been revitalised in recent years. It’s home to numerous museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon outdoors. Don’t miss out on adventurous watersports like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing, which you can try in various locations along the docks and the river.
Amazing Views
Radio City Tower and Other Viewpoints
Liverpool offers a fantastic variety of places to appreciate its expansive skyline and picturesque views. One of the most prominent attractions to capture a bird’s eye view of the city is the Radio City Tower. Standing at 138 meters tall, it provides a spectacular vantage point to admire the city below.
Apart from the tower, there are other easily accessible viewpoints. Everton Brow is a popular spot for photographers, offering stunning landscapes with the morning sunlight illuminating the cityscape. Moreover, the Ferry across the Mersey provides a unique opportunity to admire Liverpool’s iconic skyline from the water, perfect for singing along to the famous song and soaking in the city’s rich history.
Liverpool Mountain
Another sight worth exploring is the Liverpool Mountain. Located at the iconic Tate Liverpool art gallery, Liverpool Mountain is a 10-metre high, colourful, stacked-rock sculpture by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone. The vibrant installation adds a playful touch to Liverpool’s waterfront and offers a fantastic photo opportunity for visitors.
This outdoor artwork epitomises Liverpool’s vibrant creative scene and provides an eye-catching focal point for tourists exploring the city. Enjoy the contrast of the vivid colours against the juxtaposition of modern and historic architecture, offering a truly unique perspective of Liverpool.
With so many captivating sights to take in, Liverpool’s amazing views are sure to leave a lasting impression on your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some fun activities for students in Liverpool?
Liverpool offers a wide range of activities for students. Some popular options include experiencing the vibrant nightlife in the city centre, exploring the historic Royal Albert Dock, and visiting the numerous museums and art galleries. For a more active experience, students can try indoor rock climbing, visit a trampoline park, or participate in a group game at an escape room.
What can I do in Liverpool for a day?
Even if you only have one day in Liverpool, you can still enjoy some of the city’s top attractions. Begin your day at the Pier Head to admire the iconic Royal Liver Building and take a photo with The Beatles statue. Next, head to the Royal Albert Dock, where you can visit the Merseyside Maritime Museum or the Tate Liverpool art gallery. Finish your day with a ride on the Wheel of Liverpool for fantastic views of the city at sundown.
What are some cultural attractions in Liverpool?
Liverpool is a city rich in cultural attractions. Must-visit sites include the Liverpool Cathedral, the World Museum, the Walker Art Gallery, and the Liverpool Central Library. For Beatles fans, the Beatles Story Museum is a must-visit. Don’t miss out on a trip to one of Liverpool’s many local theatres like the Playhouse, Everyman, or Empire Theatre.
How can I spend two days in Liverpool?
In two days, you can delve deeper into Liverpool’s vibrant scene. Mix in some of the aforementioned attractions like the Pier Head, Royal Albert Dock, and world-class museums. Add in a stroll through the bustling Bold Street or a walk through the charming St. Luke’s Bombed-Out Church. Finally, allocate time for a Mersey Ferry ride and an evening of live music.
What are some unique experiences in Liverpool?
Liverpool offers a variety of unique experiences, from magical mystery tours retracing the Beatles’ steps to virtual reality gaming at VR HERE. For a more quirky experience, head to a mini-golf course like Ghetto Golf or Junkyard Golf Club, offering themed holes and a lively atmosphere. Another recommendation is taking part in a street art or ghost walking tour, unveiling hidden gems and spooky stories within the city.
