15 Best Things to Do in Liverpool (England)

The city of scouse, dockyard history, The Beatles, intense football rivalry and a famous affability amongst its residents, Liverpool is without a doubt a city that should not be missed.

Once famous for its booming dockside, Liverpool was known as the gateway to the Atlantic Ocean and the bustling British Empire. Throughout the mid-20th century, the city’s reputation was thrown into the stratosphere with the success of the Merseybeat music scene, lead by the globe-conquering band, The Beatles.

The city’s fame and popularity have only increased as we’ve entered the 21st century, with British natives and foreigners alike putting Liverpool on the top of their must-visit cities in England.

1. The Cavern Club

Once the centre of Liverpool’s booming music scene, the Cavern Club started its life as a jazz venue in the 1950s. That’s until the 1960s propelled it into national and international fame. During this time, a young John Lennon and Paul McCartney performed with the pre-Beatles band, the Quarrymen, and then the Beatles went on to play nearly 300 shows here.

Many other famous British musical exports also graced the stage of The Cavern Club, including The Rolling Stones, The Hollies and The Kinks. Despite closing in the 80s, the club saw a new lease of life in the 90s and now welcomes thousands of visitors through its doors each year.

Website: https://www.cavernclub.com/

2. Tate Liverpool

Founded by the Tate’s director Alan Bowness, the Tate Liverpool has become the cornerstone of Liverpool’s contemporary art scene. In fact, some even believe that this ‘Tate of the North’ gives the London venue a run for its money.

Housed in a former warehouse on Liverpool’s docks, the Tate is an excellent example of old meets new in both the physical and artistic sense. With an ever-changing array of exhibitions and art performances, the Tate Liverpool offers up an endless number of experiences, all as rewarding as the next.

Website: https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-liverpool

3. Anfield

Home to one of England’s most successful football teams, Anfield is a must-visit for any Liverpool fan or football fan for that matter. Being the proud home of Liverpool Football Club since 1892, Anfield has seen its fair share of glory and heartache. Take a tour of this world-famous footballing stadium and relive those magical footballing moments.

Tours include a walk around the team’s changing rooms, trophy room and of course a chance to walk down the famous tunnel – touching the Liverpool and Anfield sign as you go. Anfield also hosts a special exhibition showcasing the trophies of the past few years and the road to success. Don’t forget to visit The Liverpool FC Story Museum which will enlight new and old fans to the history of the world-famous club.

Website: https://stadiumtours.liverpoolfc.com/tours

4. Mersey Ferry

The River Mersey is almost as famous as the city of Liverpool itself. So much so, that a top ten record was written about it. You can live the song lyrics for real and take a pleasure cruise ferry across the River Mersey, enjoying the awesome sights of the city that pass you by.

Choose between a hop-on- op-off service or a combined day ticket to see even more of Liverpool’s attractions. Keep an eye out for the graffiti styled ferries, adorned with artists interpretations of colour and patterns. This pleasure cruise offers both a relaxing way to see the city and a true Liverpool Merseyside experience.

Website: https://www.merseyferries.co.uk/

5. Liverpool Cathedral

One of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Liverpool Cathedral has the impressive title of being the largest cathedral and religious building in all of Britain. Constructed between 1904 and 1978, the grand exterior and interior is a sight to behold. They are both decorated with what appears to be an endless amount of stain glass windows, displaying religious and local figures.

The impressive Gothic arches are some of the largest you’ll find in England, and the same can be said of the organ that sits pride of place on the altar. This impressively long list of titles just shows the sheer scale of Liverpool Cathedral, and it is a must-see for both the religious and the secular.

Website: https://www.liverpoolcathedral.org.uk/

6. Bold Street

Voted by Lonely Planet as one of the best shopping streets in the UK, it is no wonder that Bold Street has such a great reputation. Peppered by many independent and unique shopping experiences, Bold Street is the place to go to in Liverpool for a little retail therapy.

The quirky nature of Bold Street is what has made this street so famous, from the vintage record stores to the second-hand book shops, there is a reason why this is known as the hippest part of town.

Once you have had your fill of shopping, why not stop off at one of the many fashionable and delightful cafes, bars and restaurants that can be found along the street and dine the night away.

7. Merseyside Maritime Museum

For most of Liverpool’s long history, its main image, reputation, and number one economic source was its port. The city’s maritime history is one of many layers and textured stories, each one as interesting as the next. Learn all about Liverpool’s rich maritime past with a visit to the Merseyside Maritime Museum.

The museum is full of model-sized and full-sized vessels as well as endless maritime memorabilia that includes a life jacket from the infamous Titanic. Each floor of the museum is dedicated to a different area of Liverpool’s maritime history including the International Slavery Museum on the third floor and the National Border Force Museum below.

Website: https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/merseyside-maritime-museum

8. The Royal Liver Building

Arguably Liverpool’s most recognisable and iconic landmark, the Royal Liver Building personifies the city. Designed by Walter Aubrey Thomas and built between 1908 and 1911, the Royal Liver building was one of the first buildings in the world to be made solely of reinforced concrete.

This Grade I-listed building is thought to be one of the main reasons why Liverpool gained its UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2004. The landmark’s most notable features are its two clock towers which are both adorned with the city’s mythical emblem, the liver bird.

Website: https://rlb360.com/

9. British Music Experience

This music-based exhibition is a complete feast for the senses and will throw you deep into the world of British pop music. Detailing the history of some of the nation’s most iconic rock and pop stars, it is full of thrilling objects such as Noel Gallagher’s guitar and David Bowie’s outlandish outfits.

The British Music Experience is the perfect place for any music fan, young or old, and what better place to visit such a place than in the musical city of Liverpool. This unique institution allows you to immerse yourself in the world of music by picking up an instrument or two and attempting your finest guitar lick or drum solo. It is located in the Cunard Building.

Website: https://www.britishmusicexperience.com/

10. Sefton Park

Those in search of a little greenery amongst the hustle and bustle of the sprawling concrete of Liverpool, should head just south of the city to Sefton Park. Sefton Park is a Grade I-listed park that sprawls across 250 acres of lush green lawns, lakes, children’s playgrounds and water features.

The centre, and most famous feature of Sefton Park, is the huge victorian Palm House, home to a botanical garden that will blow even the most avid horticulturist away. There is nowhere better in the city for a little fresh air and stroll.

11. Radio City Tower

If you’re searching for the best view in the city, then there’s no better place to experience a stunning view than from the top of the Radio City Tower. Much like the famous Space Needle in Seattle, Radio City Tower is shaped like a towering needle with a circular room sitting on the top. Officially known as St Johns Beacon, the 360-degree views of the city are unmatched anywhere else in Liverpool.

Constructed during the late ‘60s, the tower now plays host to the radio station, Radio City – giving the tower its unofficial, yet commonly referred to, name.

12. The Museum of Liverpool

Located on Liverpool’s Pier Head, the Museum of Liverpool is a fantastic insight into the city’s cultural and historical past. Stepping through its doors, you’re instantly and pleasantly bombarded by all things Liverpool. Whether it be its earliest archaeological finds, its maritime and port-centric history, or its famous role in the history of British music, The Museum of Liverpool has it all.

Alongside the permanent installations, The Museum of Liverpool has an array of ever-changing exhibitions, showcasing a myriad of local and international subjects.

Website: https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/museum-of-liverpool

13. The Baltic Triangle

This historical area of the city was once a bustling network of industrial warehouses and post-war bomb sites. Now, the creative beating heart of Liverpool rests in The Baltic Triangle, with music venues, independent boutiques and art spaces taking up the mantle.

Alongside these trendy establishments, visitors to the Baltic Triangle can sample the best in Liverpool’s bustling street food scene. Enter the Baltic Food Market inside Cains Brewery building, and you’ll be greeted by a plethora of individual stores and street food stands.

Website: https://baltictriangle.co.uk/

14. The Beatles Story

No visit to Liverpool would be complete without delving into the world of one of the biggest bands of all time, The Beatles. As Liverpool natives, the footprint left by the fab four is a huge one, and there is nowhere better to see this than at The Beatles Story Museum.

This award-winning museum is the world’s largest permanent exhibition purely dedicated to The Beatles. Walkthrough rooms depicting and recreating pivotal times in the careers of the famous band, a must-visit for any serious Beatles fanatic.

Website: https://www.beatlesstory.com/

15. RIBA North

When it comes to attractions in the city, the newest kid on the block has surely made an entrance. Opening its doors in 2017, The Royal Institute of British Architects’ northern branch has taken Liverpool by storm. Alongside the fantastically designed building, the centre is also home to an impressive display of architectural exhibitions, each one more thrilling than the last.

This show-stopping centre is so beloved by its visitors and the city that it won ‘Best Newcomer to the Visitor Economy’ at Liverpool’s tourism awards.

Website: https://www.architecture.com/