Liverpool immediately brings to mind The Beatles, Liverpool Football Club’s famous Anfield stadium (one of the country’s largest), and, of course, the unique Scouse accent. Built on the east bank of the Mersey estuary, just 5km from the sea, Liverpool is home to one of the largest harbours in the world.
The city’s name originates from a 1173 charter granted by Henry II and is traditionally connected with the mythological Liver Bird. This seagull-like bird can also be seen in the city’s coat of arms. These days, Liverpool is an important trading metropolis, university town, and financial centre, as well as a key city for the Catholic and Anglican churches, both of which have bishops here.
Where to Go in Liverpool
Follow the history of The Beatles
Famous as the birthplace of The Beatles, there are plenty of tours which offer fans the opportunity to follow in their footsteps. You can learn all about the band at The Beatles Story in Albert Dock and the rebuilt Cavern Club, where they made their debut in 1961.
Other relevant spots include the Cavern Walks (murals by Cynthia Lennon), The Beatles Shop, and 20 Forthlin Road, Paul McCartney’s former residence. The band wrote and rehearsed many of their early songs here, and the home is now open for visitors and displays lots of Beatles memorabilia.
Visit the LFC Stadium
Since the 19th century, Anfield has been home Liverpool F.C., making it a legendary site in British sports history. On an extensive tour, you can see the iconic stadium like never before.
Walk in the footsteps of Liverpool’s best-known players, explore the Player’s Tunnel, and see the Away Team Dressing Room. Tours include informative audio guides, which will expand on each important part of the stadium. You’ll also get admission to the LFC Story and Steven Gerrard Collection.
Take a Mersey River Cruise
There’s no better way to see Liverpool than a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing cruise on the Mersey River. The “dazzle ferry” will take you all around the city, and you can get off the boat at any of the port stops to investigate the main attractions up close. There is also a U-boat Story option for an authentic look at German submarines from the Second World War.
Liverpool Ghost Walking Tour
Paranormal enthusiasts will love a spooky walk around Liverpool. Following a guide, you can explore all the supposedly haunted sites in the city. Stops include Rodney Street, the graveyard at the Liverpool Cathedral, and St. Andrew’s Cemetery, where a tomb apparently houses a man who sold his soul to the devil. Learn about Liverpool’s dark past on a fun ghost tour!
What to See in Liverpool
Albert Dock
Albert Dock was the first facility of its kind to be built in Britain using just bricks and iron. It’s an impressive, five-story block of buildings encircling the harbour and has been stunningly restored. The huge Victorian edifices also included columns which once served as capstans for ships. Now, these ornate warehouses have been converted into high-end apartments, shops, restaurants, and public facilities.
The Tate Gallery
You may have heard of the famous Tate Modern in London, but a new branch has been opened in Albert Dock. This Tate Gallery is home to large exhibit halls and collections featuring contemporary work as well as several pieces on loan from the London branch. An important centre of culture and history, the Tate Gallery is a must-see on your visit to Liverpool.
Liverpool’s Cathedrals
There are several stand-out cathedrals in Liverpool worth visiting as you explore the city. First, The Catholic Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral represents the high number of Liverpudlians of Irish descent residing in the city. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Liverpool was the principal port of embarkation for boats bound for the United States. As many Irish people emigrated during this time, plenty wound up settling in Liverpool. This church is elegant and massive, with a large cylindrical tower rising above the city.
Other cathedrals to check out include The Anglican Liverpool Cathedral on St. James’s Mount, with one of the largest Willis organs in the world, and the Anglican Church of Our Lady and Saint Nicholas, which dates back to the mid-13th century.
Where to Stay in Liverpool
4* Mercure Liverpool Atlantic Tower Hotel
Located in a prime spot in Liverpool, this modern hotel is situated on the edge of the historic Albert Dock, now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This hotel is just a short walk from the city centre. All of the guest rooms offer coffee/tea sets, Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, refreshment trays, and more. The on-site bar and restaurant boast fantastic views over the Dock Front and the River Mersey and serve contemporary British and European Cuisine as well as snacks and light meals.
4* Hilton Liverpool City Centre Hotel
This luxurious hotel offers great access to all the city has to offer. Right in the centre of Liverpool, this hotel enjoys close proximity to a wide range of main attractions. There are also convenient links to public transport nearby. Well-designed guest rooms feature refreshing styles, comfortable furnishings, and a peaceful ambience. The property also includes diverse dining and leisure options, which are sure to impress.
Ready to spend the perfect weekend exploring Liverpool?
