Arts & Culture

8 amazing things to see and do in Liverpool

Football and The Beatles may have put Liverpool on the map for today’s tourists, but it’s been one of the most important cities in the UK throughout its history. Listed buildings – more than any city in the UK outside of London – line almost every street, and its world-class museums could keep you occupied for years.

Whether you want to broaden your cultural horizons or explore architectural masterpieces, you won’t be bored for a second in Liverpool. While you’re here, make sure you squeeze these activities and attractions into your itinerary.

The Beatles Story

As the entire world knows, Liverpool is the birthplace of the Fab Four. Want to learn about the band that put new meaning to pop? Our experience will teach you more than you could ever remember.

You’ll also get a sense of the swinging 60s after visiting recreations of venues, including The Cavern and The Casbah. When the journey comes to an end, you can browse the world’s largest collection of Beatles merchandise.

Anfield

More interested in sports than music? Head over to Anfield Stadium to watch one of the world’s most successful football teams in action. The Reds (Liverpool Football Club) have hosted home matches at Anfield since 1892.

Embark on a stadium tour, and you can walk in the footsteps of your favourite sports personalities. During the tour, you’ll view the changing rooms, walk up the tunnel and step onto the pitch.

Western Approaches

Hidden beneath the streets of Liverpool city centre is one of the most important buildings of the Second World War. Known locally as the ‘Fortress’, this little-known, top-secret bunker was the command centre for Navy & Air Force operations in the Atlantic.

From here, enemy U-boat ‘Wolfpacks’ – the scourge of Allied convoys in the Atlantic – were tracked, monitored, and, ultimately, destroyed.

Radio City Tower

Liverpool is full of architectural masterpieces. It has the highest number of listed buildings of any city in the UK besides London.

Since 1969, the city’s skyline has been dominated by the 138-metre-tall St John’s Beacon, known locally as Radio City Tower. And the panoramic views from the observation deck are unbeatable.

Liverpool Cathedral

Liverpool Cathedral was constructed between 1904 and 1978. But what it lacks in age, it more than makes up for in size and magnificence. It’s the largest religious monument in the UK and the fifth largest in the world.

Inside, you can view the nation’s largest organ and the world’s widest and highest Gothic arches. The cathedral is open to the public every day. Keep your eyes peeled for charity dinners and art exhibitions.

Bold Street

Sightseeing, sports, and music are just a few of Liverpool’s top draws. But thanks to independent shopping quarters like Bold Street, the city is also a paradise for shopaholics.

Long hailed as one of Liverpool’s ‘coolest areas’, Bold Street is the place to go for second-hand books, quirky homeware, vinyl, vintage pieces, and souvenirs. When your energy levels need replenishing, grab a drink and a bite at one of Bold Street’s bars or restaurants.

Museum of Liverpool

During your stay in Liverpool, you should make time to visit one of its world-class museums. If you can only go to one, we recommend the Museum of Liverpool.

You can learn about the city’s history, culture, geography, and archaeology here. And yes, there’s plenty of sports and music paraphernalia to browse. 

The Royal Liver Building

The Royal Liver Building is arguably Liverpool’s most famous landmark and part of the Maritime UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Eagle-eyed visitors will notice two giant Liver Bird statues perched atop its spires.

The Liver Bird is a mythical bird that has been associated with Liverpool for at least 650 years. Local legend tells us that the City of Liverpool would fall if the birds ever flew away from their perches.

If you’d like to visit Liverpool from London, make sure to take a look at our rail tour. It’s the best way to get a slice of the authentic Merseyside lifestyle!