Top 25 Must-See Attractions in Liverpool, England

Liverpool boasts one of the most extensive industrial heritages in Britain. Like many cities in the North of England, its development is rooted in the industrial revolution, during which it emerged as a key maritime port.

This established Liverpool as a center for cultural diversity, as individuals from various parts of the globe entered England through this city. Renowned for its musical contributions, Liverpool is credited with creating the ‘Merseybeat’ genre, producing iconic bands such as The Beatles, The Who, and The Kinks. The city is hailed as a ‘capital of culture’ within both England and Europe, offering a plethora of artistic galleries, museums, and a vibrant nightlife.

Here are some of the city’s notable attractions to consider for your impending visit to Liverpool.

1. Albert Dock

Albert Dock symbolizes Liverpool’s diverse industrial history, featuring an array of docks and warehouses along the river. Established in 1846, it was the first fireproof warehouse complex globally, employing iron and brick instead of traditional wood structures.

Historically, Albert Dock represented a leading edge in dock technology, including the use of hydraulic cranes. Presently, it is a recognized heritage site attracting approximately 4,000,000 visitors annually.

This venue provides a wonderful opportunity to indulge in culinary experiences and entertainment, while also allowing exploration of the rich maritime heritage of the city.

2. World Museum

The World Museum ranks among Liverpool’s largest museums and presents exhibits on natural sciences, cultural history, and astronomy, among other topics. Established in 1851, it has undergone multiple renovations to accommodate its expanding collections and popularity among attendees. The museum features an aquarium, a live insect display, and a planetarium with regular astronomy presentations. Admission to the museum is complimentary, making it a prime choice for family outings.

3. St George’s Quarter

St George’s Quarter in Liverpool is marked by its stunning Victorian architecture and serves as a vital retail area of the city, providing ample shopping opportunities within its picturesque setting.

In addition to shopping and artistic venues, this quarter is also home to several prominent theaters. One can enjoy performances at the Liverpool Empire, which frequently hosts touring West End productions.

While exploring the area, a visit to St George’s Hall is essential, as it stands out as one of the world’s finest examples of neoclassical architecture. The Hall is accessible free of charge and formerly displayed the acclaimed 2015 installation ‘Poppies’, commemorating the First World War with thousands of ceramic poppies.

4. Merseyside Maritime Museum

Located within the historical Albert Dock, the Merseyside Maritime Museum is an ideal venue for learning about Liverpool’s industrial significance. The museum highlights Liverpool’s role as an international gateway, linking Britain with diverse nations and cultures.

Visitors can explore exhibitions focused on emigration patterns, including many who journeyed to America through Liverpool, as well as connections with the renowned ship Titanic.

The museum frequently hosts events that explore various aspects of Liverpool’s heritage, ensuring there is always something new and interesting to discover.

5. Walker Art Gallery

Housing one of Britain’s most significant art collections, the Walker Art Gallery is essential during any Liverpool visit. The gallery presents European art from the 14th century to contemporary works, featuring artists like Hockney, Rembrandt, and Lowry.

The extensive collection includes paintings, sculptures, and fashion artifacts, establishing the gallery as a vibrant cultural site. Visitors can enjoy regular events, temporary exhibitions, family workshops, and guided tours, enriching their understanding of art and history within Liverpool.

6. Liverpool Cathedral

As one of the two cathedrals in the city, Liverpool Cathedral, constructed in 1904, has undergone numerous modifications and renovations. Designed by architect Giles Gilbert Scott, renowned for creating Battersea Power Station in London and the iconic red telephone box, it is notable for its length of 189 meters, making it the longest cathedral worldwide.

Furthermore, it is among the tallest cathedrals globally, rising to a height of 101 meters, and ranks as the fifth largest cathedral overall.

Admission to the cathedral is free, and it regularly hosts community events and services. Visitors should definitely stay long enough to hear the bells, which are renowned for being the highest in the world.

7. Chinatown

Liverpool’s Chinatown is home to Europe’s oldest Chinese community and offers an impressive selection of Chinese businesses and restaurants. Enter through the Chinatown Gate, a remarkable arch that is the largest of its kind outside of China, originally constructed in Shanghai, which is twinned with Liverpool.

The streets are marked with both English and Chinese names and adorned with beautiful lanterns. This area provides an opportunity to indulge in authentic East Asian cuisines. Recommended eateries such as North Garden offer delicious meals favored by locals, while Chung Wah Supermarket is perfect for those interested in preparing their own dishes with fresh produce and specialties.

8. Museum of Liverpool

The Museum of Liverpool, the newest museum in the city, delves into the cultural significance and history of Liverpool and its inhabitants. It features an extensive collection of items that reflect vital cultural aspects, including fashion, art, and historical artifacts.

The museum explores Liverpool’s identity as a port city and its role as a gateway for diverse communities, alongside the city’s contributions to industry, music, and the arts. Through engaging exhibits and interactive resources, the museum celebrates the city’s vibrant multicultural identity.

9. The Cavern Club

The Cavern Club holds a significant position in music history as the performance venue for The Beatles during their formative years. Established in 1957 as a jazz venue, it quickly became the center of rock and roll during the 1960s.

John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison each performed here with various other bands prior to forming The Beatles, who played nearly 300 shows at this club within two years. The venue also hosted legendary acts such as The Rolling Stones, Queen, Elton John, and The Who before its closure in the early 1970s.

The club is a cultural staple in Liverpool’s history and was rebuilt in 1984 using original bricks and architectural plans. It continues to host renowned British artists, such as Oasis and the Arctic Monkeys. Visitors can snap a photo beside the stage or enjoy live performances by emerging indie acts.

10. Tate Liverpool

Liverpool is celebrated for its art collections, and Tate Liverpool stands as one of the city’s most renowned galleries. This venue presents works from the Tate Collection, showcasing British art from the 16th century to the present, with a focus on contemporary and modern styles.

Located at the historic Albert Dock, Tate Liverpool includes a café and shop alongside its extensive art collections. Visitors may choose to participate in guided tours to learn more about the gallery or its art, or attend special exhibitions that offer insights into contemporary artistic expressions.

11. Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral

Liverpool’s second cathedral, the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, was constructed in 1967 and is colloquially referred to as the “Catholic Cathedral” to differentiate it from the Anglican Cathedral.

It stands as Britain’s largest Catholic cathedral, catering to the extensive Catholic community in Liverpool. With its distinctive circular design and unique structure, it blends modern architectural elements with traditional features such as stained glass.

The altar is centrally located, and the curved seating ensures excellent views of the stunning stained glass windows. Visitors can also explore the Lutyens Crypt, which includes two halls, chapels, and a treasury.

12. The Beatles Story

For music enthusiasts, a trip to Liverpool is not complete without visiting The Beatles Story. This exhibition is dedicated to conveying the history and impact of the cultural phenomenon known as The Beatles.

The exhibition showcases a variety of artifacts related to the band, such as John Lennon’s iconic round glasses, George Harrison’s initial guitar, rare photographs, and other memorabilia.

Discover the evolution of The Beatles, including their formation, rise to fame, the ‘British Invasion’, and each member’s solo careers.

13. Explore the Street Art

Liverpool showcases one of the most vibrant street art scenes in the country, with impressive pieces displayed throughout the city. Exploring Liverpool’s streets offers an exciting opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture.

The city has previously organized street art festivals to celebrate this dynamic and evolving art form, enhancing its cultural appeal.

14. 251 Menlove Avenue

A visit to Mendips, the childhood home of John Lennon located at 251 Menlove Avenue, is a poignant experience for music fans. Lennon resided here from age 5 to 22, and it is said that at least one song for The Beatles was composed in this very house.

The residence is marked by a distinguished English Heritage blue plaque detailing the years Lennon lived there. Acquired by Yoko Ono in the early 2000s, the house has been preserved as a listed Heritage site.

Renovated and opened to the public, visitors can tour Mendips, now restored to reflect its original 1950s décor from the time when Lennon grew up. This tour offers a unique and nostalgic connection to The Beatles.

15. RopeWalks

RopeWalks is a historically significant district of Liverpool, formerly dedicated to rope-making, which supplied vessels departing from the port. The long streets are organized in a manner conducive to the production of ropes, preserving this unique industrial history.

Today, historic warehouses have been transformed for the creative sector, particularly along Bold Street, which is renowned for its independent cafés and vintage shops.

This area also serves as a focal point for Liverpool’s lively nightlife, featuring numerous bars, music venues, and clubs for evening entertainment. While traversing RopeWalks, consider visiting St Luke’s Church, affectionately known as The Bombed-Out Church, which stands as a memorial following its bombing in 1941.

16. Liverpool FC

Football holds immense significance in England, with Liverpool FC being one of the premier football clubs in the country. The team boasts a record number of trophies, surpassing any other in England. Visitors can embrace the experience by acquiring an iconic red football shirt and participating in a stadium tour at Anfield, the home ground of Liverpool FC, which offers insightful access to the football heritage and victories of the team.

The stadium also presents various unique experiences that enhance the tour, including opportunities to meet Liverpool FC legends, receive autographed memorabilia, and dine right at the stadium.

17. Sefton Park

Sefton Park is regarded as one of Liverpool’s largest public parks and is cherished by locals. Spanning 235 acres, it features several historical elements that enhance its appeal.

One of the highlights is the Palm House, a conservatory built in 1896 to display exotic flora. Visitors can admire the splendid architecture and historic statues within this delightful setting.

Moreover, the park is home to a Victorian bandstand believed to have inspired the Beatles’ song ‘Sgt Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band’. Sefton Park serves as an ideal location for either leisurely strolls or participation in the multitude of events hosted throughout the year.

18. Baltic Triangle

The Baltic Triangle was once a flourishing district for factories and workshops in industrial Liverpool. Today, it has transitioned into a vibrant hub for digital and creative industries.

Visitors can explore an array of independent eateries and unique businesses in this dynamic area. Camp and Furnace is particularly noteworthy for its exceptional indoor festival atmosphere, offering food, beverages, live music, and entertainment within an inviting rustic setting.

As night falls, the Triangle transforms into an energetic nightlife locale, housing various nightclubs where visitors can revel in an unmatched experience in the city.

19. Crosby Beach

As a significant port city, Liverpool offers convenient access to some of Britain’s most picturesque coastlines. Located just outside the city, Crosby Beach provides stunning views over the Irish Sea, along with sightlines of the Wirral Peninsula and North Wales.

Access to the beach is straightforward via public transportation or by car, making it an excellent destination for enjoying beautiful sunsets and scenic views. Furthermore, Crosby Beach is home to the art installation titled Another Place, featuring numerous sculptures lining the beach.

The area also serves as a trailhead for coastal walks, with designated cycling paths available for those wishing to explore on two wheels.

20. Radio City Tower

The Radio City Tower is an iconic feature of Liverpool’s skyline. Erected in 1969, it stands at a height of 138 meters and originally housed a revolving restaurant at its peak.

Currently, the tower includes an observation deck accessible to visitors, while the rest of the structure primarily serves radio broadcasting purposes. Visitors can take an elevator to the top, where they can enjoy some of the finest panoramic views of the city from this historic landmark.

21. Silver Jubilee Bridge

The notable Silver Jubilee Bridge, constructed in 1961, spans 482 metres and reaches a height of 87 metres. Featuring a single arch, it has been designated as a listed building.

The bridge is particularly photogenic, boasting gleaming architecture that captivates in any weather condition.

Crossing the River Mersey, the Silver Jubilee Bridge serves as a significant landmark in the Merseyside area, acting as an entrance into Liverpool and its surroundings. This location is essential for any visit.

22. Formby Coast and Nature Reserve

A scenic destination for those who enjoy hiking and breathtaking landscapes, the Formby Coast offers splendid beaches adorned with sweeping dunes and dramatic vistas.

Visitors can explore the area’s woodlands, farmlands, and ancient footprints. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including native red squirrels and other rare species such as toads, lizards, and newts.

The park frequently hosts events catering to all ages, including treasure hunts, archaeological discovery walks, and preservation-focused activities. The Formby Coast and Nature Reserve makes for an enchanting outing that allows visitors to engage with England’s rural beauty.

23. Liverpool ONE

No visit to Liverpool would be complete without exploring Liverpool ONE. This expansive shopping center is centrally located and features many popular chain retailers along with entertainment options.

Equipped with a cinema, adventure golf, and two hotels, Liverpool ONE stands as the largest open-air shopping center in the UK.

The complex encompasses six distinct districts, offering street markets, fashion outlets, department stores, dining establishments, and more. Its convenient transport links facilitate easy access to a bustling day spent within the vibrant heart of Liverpool.