There are so many things to do in Liverpool, here’s our suggestion of 50 things to do in Liverpool as a family, a couple of on your own.
Liverpool is world-famous for being a fiercely proud sporting city, and perhaps also for being the birthplace of The Beatles. However, there is so much more you can do here. There is something to discover and explore everywhere you look. From world-class attractions to beautiful outdoor spaces, something delightful awaits you at nearly every corner in Liverpool. Here are our best recommendations for places you can go to and activities you can do in Liverpool.
Things To Do In Liverpool As A Family
1. Visit Sefton Park
Sefton Park is the largest park in Liverpool. It is open all day every day, making it the perfect destination in Liverpool for the whole family. Your kids will especially love the large playground within the park that has swings, a multi-play area, and climbing frames. When you go to Sefton Park, do not forget to check out the Victorian-era Palm House for fun events and the Aviary Cafe for snacks.
2. Museum of Liverpool
The spectacular Museum of Liverpool beautifully displays the city’s renowned achievements and contributions to the world. You will also get to see the stage where John Lennon and Paul McCartney of The Beatles first met. The 360immersive films about football and The Beatles are also a must-see. The Museum also features Little Liverpool, a gallery that younger children will thoroughly enjoy. It is open from 10 am-5 pm
3. World Museum
If you are looking for a fantastic day out with the family, we insist that you add the World Museum to your bucket list. Must-see features include the array of tropical fish at the aquarium, the ancient Egypt display, and the unusual items at the Clore Natural History Centre. If your kids are space buffs, they will also definitely love the World Museum’s Planetarium. It is open daily from 10am-5pm.
4. Calderstones Park
Calderstones Park is home to the ancient megaliths that are famed to be older than Stonehenge. You will love the enchanting Harthill Botanical Gardens with almost 4000 species of plants on show, and the astonishing Allerton Oak that is almost 1000 years old. Younger kids will enjoy feeding the geese and ducks at the lake within the park. The park is open all year round.
5. Croxteth Hall & Country Park
Enjoy a wonderful family day out here, where you will find many fascinating attractions including the Victorian Walled Garden, the Croxteth Home Farm and the Historic Hall. The adventure playground, a miniature railway, and an orienteering trail are favourites among children. The park is open daily from 10.30am-5pm.
6. Pier Head
This riverside location in the city centre of Liverpool encompasses the “Three Graces” which consist of the Royal Liver Building, The Cunard Building and the Port of Liverpool Building. The Pier Head is a part of the Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City UNESCO World Heritage Site. Children and adults alike will love the famous attractions here. It is accessible all year round.
7. Sudley House
Both you and the kids will be impressed by all the delights of Sudley House. Take in the magnificent art collection of George Holt, with masterpieces by artists such as Gainsborough, Millais, Rossetti, Burne-Jones, and Landseer. Children will have a blast in the Childhood Room with a wide variety of activities to keep them busy. The Sudley House is open daily from 10am-5pm.
8. Liverpool ONE
For some retail therapy, visit Liverpool ONE where you will have over 170 stores to pick from, including Victoria’s Secret, John Lewis & Partners, Armani Exchange, The White Company and Beauty Bazaar Harvey Nichols. It is open on weekdays from 9.30am-8pm, on Saturday from 9am-7pm, and on Sunday from 11 pm to 5 pm.
9. Plaza Community Cinema
Catch a family movie at the Plaza Cinema, a unique community cinema run by volunteers in Crosby, with a wide selection of films to choose from. Since it was reopened in 1997, the cinema has promoted an extensive range of commercial, limited release, cult, and foreign language films. Confectionery and hot and cold drinks are also available at affordable prices.
10. Anfield Stadium
Are you a family of football fans? Well, you will love the Anfield Stadium. It has been the home of Liverpool Football Club since its conception in 1892. The recent reconstruction of the Main Stand increased the capacity of Anfield to an impressive 54,074. Stadium tours are available 7 days a week, from 10am-3pm, but this depends on fixtures.
11. Speke Hall, Gardens and Estate
Visit the Speke Hall to be transported to the different periods that have been incorporated into the historic building. The Great Hall and the Priest Hole are reminiscent of the Tudor Times, while the Oak Parlour depicts the desire for privacy and comfort from the Victorian era. Take a walk through the scenic garden with magnificent views of the Mersey basin and North Wales hills. The hall is open from Wednesdays-Sundays at 12.30pm-5pm, while the Garden is open daily from 10.30am-5pm.
12. Otterspool Park
You will love the stunning views across the River Mersey as you take a stroll or cycle through the park. There are facilities for skateboarding, scooter riding, and BMX riding, as well as a playground for children with activities such as a spinning dish, climbing net, and climbing frame. After an activity-filled day, replenish your energy at the Otters Café in Adventure Centre, or the Harvester and Britannia Inn restaurants. The park is open all year round.
13. Liverpool Central Library and Record Office
This is one of the largest public libraries in Liverpool and a place we highly recommend you spend a day with the family. Its location on William Brown Street means that it joins the UNESCO World Heritage Site Area along with other sites such as World Museum and The Walker Art Gallery. You can access the library on weekdays from 9am-8pm, on Saturday from 9am-5pm and on Sunday from 10am-5pm.
14. The Royal Albert Dock
Situated on Liverpool’s incredible World Heritage Site waterfront, the Albert Dock is one of the most visited sites in the UK, and with good reason. Thanks to its restoration in 1988, it is a blend of the old and the new, with a wide range of galleries, museums, hotels, and bars. There are also many places for you to eat while you are here, from the pirate-themed The Smuggler’s Cove to the Italian delicacies of Gusto. You can visit the Royal Albert Dock all year round.
15. Shiverpool historic ghost walks
Do you enjoy hidden histories and mysteries? Shiverpool is a theatrically led ghost and history tour that your entire family will enjoy. Immerse yourself in the spine-chilling historical findings which are introduced in a series of stunning theatrical performances that are presented by ‘Spirit Guides’. Shiverpool operates all year round.
Things To Do In Liverpool As A Couple
16. Visit the Liverpool Cathedral
We highly recommend you bring your significant other along during your visit to Britain’s biggest cathedral. Travel to the top of the tower for breathtaking panoramic views from 5000ft above sea level, then grab a bite to eat at the Mezzanine Café, or the Welsford, which serves a traditional roast dinner if you happen to visit on a Sunday. The Liverpool Cathedral is open daily from 8 am to 6 pm.
17. Casbah Coffee Club
The Casbah is famous for being the place where The Beatles really came into their own. This was where the distinctive Merseybeat sound that heavily influenced popular music was moulded. The Beatles’ first live performances were held in the club, and they even helped decorate the basement. It is a great place to experience with your significant other, especially if you are both fans of The Beatles. You can visit the club all year round as long as you make a reservation beforehand.
18. Walker Art Gallery
The spectacular collections of paintings, sculpture and decorative arts spanning over 600 years never fail to impress. The gallery is home to some of the best collections in Europe, with works by Rubens, Rembrandt, Gainsborough and Poussin all on display. The Walker Art Gallery is open all week long from 10am-5pm.
19. Merseyside Maritime Museum
Situated in Albert Dock, this charming museum is home to Liverpool’s nautical history. The Life at Sea display is a highlight of the museum that tells an elaborate story of the merchant navy. The Old Dock tour is also fascinating, with a trip underground into the world’s first commercial enclosed wet dock. The museum is open on all days of the week from 10am-5pm.
20. Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King Liverpool
Visit the grand Cathedral, an iconic architectural masterpiece. The awe-inspiring interior includes modern works of art and design features such as the outstanding Lantern Tower with its intricate stunning glass. The Lutyens Crypt in the Cathedral is an architectural piece by Sir Edwin Lutyens that offers a fascinating glimpse of the early 20th-century cathedral design. The cathedral is open daily from 7.30am-5.30pm.
21. Formby Beach
Spend a day at the beach with your partner at this coastal gem in Merseyside. Climb the numerous high sand dunes and enjoy spectacular views of the mountains of Cumbria on a really clear day. Bond over homemade delicacies with a picnic in one of the many designated picnic areas, after which you can take a romantic walk on the beach or explore the nearby woods.
22. The Bluecoat
Enjoy a dose of art at the Bluecoat, which includes visual art, literature, music, dance and live art. You have the opportunity to engage in exhibitions here, as well as participate in performances. Other than on 25th and 26th December and on 1st January, the Bluecoat is accessible daily from 9am-6pm on weekdays and Saturdays, and at 11am-18pm on Sundays.
23. Victoria Gallery & Museum
Visit the brick-red Victorian gothic building that houses the Victoria Gallery & Museum for a truly amazing experience in Liverpool. You are bound to be impressed by the amazing collection of fine art, silver, ceramics, furniture, sculpture, and fossils, as well as the scientific equipment and zoological specimen, collected and donated by the University of Liverpool over several decades.
24. Take a cruise on the Mersey Ferry
This is a trip which, in our opinion, everyone in Liverpool should take at least once in their lives. Sit back and relax with your significant other as you take in the views of the Liverpool Waterfront on the world-renowned Mersey Ferry. Cruises are available all year round.
25. St. John’s Beacon
At 138m tall, it is the second tallest free-standing building in the city. The Beacon houses award-winning radio stations including Radio City, Radio City 2 and Radio City Talk. St. John’s Beacon is open all year round, and is also wheelchair friendly.
Other Things To Do In Liverpool in General
Have you already been to all these places and need something more? Well, here is an even bigger list of other things to do in Liverpool:
26. Visit the famous Philharmonic toilets
The Phil is a great place to enjoy some great ale and bask in the classy ambience. It is also the location of the only grade II listed men’s toilets in the UK. You absolutely have to check out the loos before you walk out of the Phil.
27. Eat Scouse
The famous English stew comes from right here in Liverpool. It is the reason why Liverpool locals are called Scousers. Although it is a staple in many households, Maggie May’s on Bold Street makes it better than you have ever had, even better than your nan. You have to try it to believe it.
28. Spend a night at the Blue Angel
The Raz has earned its place as a true Liverpool institution. Its floors are sticky and its drinks are cheap. You will probably not remember most parts of the nights you spend there, but it’s totally worth a few dead brain cells.
29. Have a few drinks at the Matou
Head over to the terrace at the Matou on a perfect sunny day and your breath will be taken away by the amazing views of the Pier Head. Have a few drinks there as you take in the views.
30. Complete the Smithdown Ten
Or at least what’s left of it. There are no longer 10 pubs along the legendary pub crawl route. However, you can still start your run from the top of Smithdown Road and end it at the Brookhouse near Greenbank Road. Hit every pub you can for a memorable night.
31. Vegan in Liverpool? No problem!
If you are vegetarian or vegan, you will absolutely love the Egg Cafe off Bond Street. A longtime favourite of vegans and vegetarians throughout the city, it has one of the largest and tastiest selections of dishes around.
32. Buy something to read
The best place to get some of the most diverse book titles is News from Nowhere. It is a long-established community-run bookshop, which means it is totally independent and not-for-profit. You can get some great deals there.
33. Camp and Furnace Bingo
Bongo’s Bingo at Camp and Furnace is Bingo like you have never played it before. Think dance-offs, rave intervals, men dressed as ‘absinthe fairies’, confetti, and dirt cheap prizes. It is definitely the stuff that dumb youthful memories are made of. You absolutely cannot miss it.
34. Attend a Bombed Out Church event
St. Luke’s Bombed Out Church is the location of a wide range of activities, including film festivals, beer festivals, and weekly craft fairs. Plus, it now has a marquee to keep you dry when the weather changes.
35. Attend a Cricket game at Liverpool Cricket Club
The Liverpool Cricket Club at Aigburth was founded in 1807, and it is still going strong to this day. That makes it one of the oldest sports clubs in Merseyside. Find out what games are on and see if you will be lucky enough to watch one of the major games.
36. Run the Liverpool half marathon
Every March, the Liverpool half marathon gives you the opportunity to tour and see the city in a different way: by running your lungs out. You can also sign up for the Liverpool Rock n Roll marathons in May. Although not as popular as the Liverpool half marathon, the Rock n Roll marathons have both half and full marathons that you can sign up for.
37. Watch the Liverpool International Tennis Tournament
Every summer, watch a mix of up and coming tennis stars and big established names battle it out for a chance to be crowned tournament champions. It is an entertaining and adrenaline-packed way to spend your day.
38. Attend the Brazilica Festival
Every July, the largest celebration of Brazilian culture in the UK is held in Liverpool. At Brazilica, you’ll get to dance to samba beats as Rio makes its way to the Liverpool city centre. Immerse yourself in the new culture and experience the best of Brazil right here in Liverpool.
39. Have a drink at Ship & Mitre
If you are in the mood for a pint or two, head on over to Dale Street and find Ship & Mitre. Its greatest claim to fame is the simple fact that it has the largest selection of continental beers and ales in Merseyside. If you can name it, it’s probably stocked here.
40. Tea at the Panoramic 34
On the 34th floor of Liverpool’s tallest building, you will find the Panoramic 34, a signature restaurant that allows you to see the city as you have never seen it before, all while sipping a nice cuppa. Be sure to reserve your spot before heading there, though.
41. Check out Another Place at Crosby Beach
Another Place is an art installation by artist Anthony Gormley. It features 100 life-sized iron men staring out to sea. It is definitely something to make you think, or at least just a really good place to take a selfie.
42. Take a Beatles tour
If you are a big fan of the Beatles, take a Liverpool tour of all the places where they met, composed their music, and rehearsed their songs. You can also visit Paul McCartney’s and John Lennon’s childhood homes.
43. Seal spotting on Hilbre Island
There are many different species of seal on Hilbre Island. See how many you can spot on an island boat tour of the island.
44. Visit the oldest building on Merseyside
Birkenhead Priory, the oldest building on Merseyside, has some of the best views of Liverpool and the Mersey River. Be sure to climb up St. Mary’s tower and look out to the city. You will gain an entirely new appreciation of Liverpool.
45. Check out Matta’s Internation Foods
Matta’s on Bold Street is the home of international foods, with stocks from all over the world. If you want to try cooking something exotic, this should be where you start. If it is not in Matta’s, it probably is nowhere in Liverpool.
46. A night on Lark Lane
Lake Lane is one of Liverpool’s most famous streets. There is never a dull moment here. It is packed full of pubs, cafes, restaurants and bistros, and the nightlife is amazing.
47. Laugh at the Liverpool Comedy Festival
Liverpool loves comedy. The Liverpool Comedy Festival is huge here, with a mix of big names and upcoming stars and no shortage of fun events and lots of laughs. Tickle your funny bone and brighten up your days at the Liverpool Comedy Festival.
48. Dance at Africa Oye
Africa Oye is the biggest African music festival in the UK. Immerse yourself in dance, song and culture from various countries in Africa every summer at Sefton Park. It is a great way to appreciate the fact that there is a much bigger world out there, and it is beautiful to behold.
49. Watch something at the Royal Court Theatre
Since 1826, the Royal Court Theatre has been a popular entertainment spot in the city. Today, you can enjoy a mix of fun thrillers and local comedies, all with a Merseyside twist.
50. Ride around the Liverpool Loopline
The Liverpool Loopline was once a railway line, but it was abandoned in 1964. It was converted to a walking and cycling path in 1986 and has been a popular spot for locals ever since. Go for a walk there, or have a bike ride, or even enjoy a nice morning run at the Loopline.
Final Word
There are so many things that make Liverpool special. It is a beautiful historical city that is recognised by UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the home of a world famous band, as well as a cultural centre among other things. Whatever your interests, you will definitely find something to explore in Liverpool.
