Liverpool is not only the city of the Beatles, but also a special place with a rich history, which has experienced a period of decline but now radiates creativity, energy, and enthusiasm. The old town can merge with the new cultural soul in a combination of clubs, concerts, art events, and a lot of football. Get ready for a unique journey and find out what to see in Liverpool.
Albert Dock
The Port of Liverpool is reminiscent of the city’s rich industrial history, consisting of docks and warehouses along the waterfront. Standing in 1846, it was the world’s first non-combustible storage system, since iron and brick are used in the complex instead of wood. Albert Dock has historically been one of the most important and innovative ports in the world, at the forefront of technologies such as hydraulic cranes.
It was one of the most infamous places, today it is a historical place that attracts millions of tourists every year. This is a great place to find entertainment and food, as well as to explore the history of this maritime city. It is also home to the Maritime Museum, the Beatles Museum, and the Tate Gallery.
Beatles History: from Penny Lane to Strawberry Fields Park
For music lovers, a visit to Liverpool will not be complete without a visit to The Beatles Story. This museum tells the history and influence of the international Beatles phenomenon. The exhibition features several artifacts related to the Beatles and their career, including John Lennon’s round glasses, George Harrison’s first guitar, rare photographs, and other memorabilia.
You will discover the history of some iconic songs, as well as places: from Penny Lane to Strawberry Fields Park and the houses where George, John, Paul, and Ringo spent their childhood. You can also choose a bus tour, immersing yourself in the history of the Liverpool Four. Along the way, you can watch The Beatles movie and see many places accessible only on foot, including the site of manager Brian Epstein’s music store and the Cavern Club, where it all started.
Tate of Liverpool
Once a warehouse, Tate Liverpool is now one of the UK’s most impressive art galleries. Head to Albert Dock to see how James Stirling transformed a historic building into a modern monster that turns the original features of the building into architectural dignity. Take a tour to learn more about the gallery or its art, or visit a special exhibition to get an idea of contemporary art. Current permanent collections include works by Duchamp, Matisse, and Grayson Perry. In addition to the extensive art collections, you will find a cafe and a shop.
Liverpool Cathedral
It is the largest religious building in the UK and the fifth largest cathedral in the world. Built between 1904 and 1978, it is now open to the public every day of the year. Here you can admire the tallest and widest Gothic arches in the world, the largest organ in the United Kingdom, and a series of magnificent stained glass windows. The cathedral hosts art exhibitions and charity dinners all year round. The cathedral was originally designed by Giles Gilbert Scott, who also designed London’s Battersea Power station and the iconic British red telephone booth.
Walker Gallery
The Walker Art Gallery, home to one of the largest art collections in the UK, is a must-visit destination in Liverpool. The gallery presents European art from the 14th century to the present day, including works by Hockney, Rembrandt, and Lowry. The gallery houses a large number of paintings, sculptures, and even fashionable clothes, which makes it a wonderful cultural center. It is also used for temporary events and exhibitions, as well as for family seminars and excursions daily.
Three Graces: Royal Liver, Cunard, and Port of Liverpool Building
These majestic buildings were conceived and built as visible symbols of Liverpool’s international prestige, proud emblems of its commercial prowess. The royal building, the crown jewel decorated with two birds, is the symbol of the city. Designed by Walter Aubrey Thomas, the construction of the iconic structure began in 1908 and opened in 1911 as the headquarters of the Royal Insurance Company, becoming the first major structure in the UK. Next door is the Cunard building, built between 1914 and 1917 in the Italian Renaissance style. From its opening until the late 1960s, the building was home to the famous Cunard Cruise Line.
Finally, the Port of Liverpool building was the first of the three graces to “decorate” the embankment with their presence: construction began in 1904 and opened in 1907.
Crosby Beach
As a port, Liverpool has excellent access to some of the UK’s natural coasts. Crosby Beach is located not far from the city. This stretch of sandy beach overlooks the Irish Sea. It is easily accessible by public transport or by car, and it is worth it because of the beautiful sunsets and views. Crosby Beach is also the permanent home for Anthony Gormley’s “Another Place” art installation, which features several sculptures along the beach. A pedestrian path along the coast also begins here, which can also be traversed by bicycle using a bike path.
Maritime Museum
Welcome to the museum dedicated to Liverpool’s rich maritime history. No visit would be complete without getting acquainted with the maritime heritage of the city, especially since it entertains the whole family. Firstly, there are many life-size models of ships and boats, as well as marine paintings and posters, frames, and even an authentic life jacket worn by a survivor of the Titanic. On the third floor, there is the International Museum of Slavery, and in the basement, there is the National Museum of the Border Troops.
Anfield Road
Anfield has been Liverpool’s stadium since 1892, but that doesn’t mean other sports figures haven’t set foot on its sacred grounds. Boxing, tennis, and rugby have been played here since the field first opened in 1884. A tour of the stadium will tell you everything you need to know about the history of the club, as well as allow you to look into the locker rooms, walk through the tunnel and enter the field.
I loved this city! Having already visited London four times I decided to surprise my husband with Liverpool tickets so we could go for a combo, visit a new city and see Klopp in action. For an architecture buff like myself, Liverpool’s Anglican cathedral was an amazing experience, it’s a stunning place to see in person, no matter if you’re religious or not.
For foodies Liverpool is a never-ending carrousel with amazing food from their classic fish and chips to fine dining with tons of vegan options as well.