Liverpool.
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Overview

Liverpool is a big city in Merseyside, England famed for its football teams, the Grand National horse race, music (including The Beatles), vibrant nightlife, and its links with the arts and culture.

Within the historic county boundaries of Lancashire, the city served as one of the leading ports linking Europe to the Americas, expanding to become England's second most populated city by the census of 1861, before slowly declining after 1921 as levels of transatlantic shipping dropped. Before airline travel, many Europeans migrating to the New World passed through the city, particularly the Italians and Irish; to this day the city enjoys a large Irish community, with impressive cathedrals for the Anglican and Roman Catholic faiths. In the 18th and early 19th century the port also acted as a gateway for the slave trade, with echoes of this period still evident in places around the city.

A comprehensive regeneration of the city centre has caused an influx of new shops, boutiques, and large performance/conference arenas near the waterfront; this has resulted in an upturn in population figures. The regenerated city now plays regular host to national and international conferences, media, and music events; examples include major political party conferences, the BBC Worldwide Showcase, the MTV Europe Awards, and the Global Entrepreneurship Congress.

Understand

Liverpool is a city with great cultural heritage and was awarded the title of European Capital of Culture 2008, with the famous Pier Head Waterfront being a UNESCO World Heritage site between 2004 and 2021. Liverpool is home to the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and is also renowned for nurturing the talents of a wide range of musicians and band such as The Beatles, Gerry and the Pacemakers, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Echo and the Bunnymen, and Elvis Costello. The city possesses the largest national museum collection outside of London and has a fascinating and turbulent history as a great world maritime centre. Liverpool is home to Europe's oldest Chinatown. The famous Grand National Horse Race takes place in the outskirts of the city (Aintree). It is also home to two very successful Premier League football clubs, Liverpool and Everton. People from Liverpool are called Liverpudlians, or more popularly, Scousers. The latter name comes from the local lamb stew recipe, scouse. The word "Liverpudlian" can also refer to supporters of Liverpool FC, while "Scouser" is seen as more inclusive of Evertonians.

Although historically part of Lancashire, in contrast to natives of neighbouring Manchester, most Scousers have a strong local identity and do not identify as Lancastrians.

Liverpool Tourist Information Liverpool ONE.

Visit Liverpool tourist information.

Liverpool has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers, cool winters, and evenly spread rainfall throughout the year. The summer months have daytime highs averaging around and overnight lows around . At its hottest, the temperature can climb towards and exceed and not go below at night, though these instances are uncommon. Daylight hours range between 4:45AM - 9:30PM in the summer months to 8:15AM - 4PM in the winter months.

Talk

English is the main language, but it is spoken with a very distinctive Scouse accent that has strong Irish and Welsh influences, and differs greatly even from that of the surrounding areas. There was historically a large Welsh-speaking population in Liverpool, to the extent that the National Eisteddfod was held in the city three times between 1884 and 1929. While there is still a Welsh-speaking minority, most Welsh-descended people adopted English as their sole native language over the course of the 20th century. Due to the city's status as a port city and waves of immigration over the centuries, Chinese, Italian, French, and Spanish are spoken by some. Indeed, Liverpool is home to Europe's oldest permanent Chinese community. In some parts, South American Spanish is spoken due to immigration from Latin America. Creole languages can be heard occasionally due to the large Afro-Caribbean community.

Get in

Immediately outside the arrivals area, you will find a taxi rank and bus stops.

Bus 500 - This is the most important bus for tourists as it serves the city centre with limited stops. It operates every 30 minutes and takes roughly 30 minutes to reach the city centre.

Note - Other buses such as the 86A will have Liverpool One as their destination. While more frequent than the 500, the journey time is significantly longer. It would typically be better to wait for the 500 bus if your hotel is in the city centre.

The No. 80A, run by Arriva, runs every 15 minutes and takes 45 minutes to the city centre. The No. 82A, also run by Arriva, runs every 30 minutes and takes around 40 minutes to the city centre. This runs directly to Paradise Street interchange without stopping elsewhere in the city centre. The No. 86A (Arriva) runs every 15 minutes during the day and now runs through the night, every half hour. This takes a little less time than the 80A as it is a more direct route down Smithdown Road. The journey time is 40 minutes but may be longer at peak traffic times. The No. 81A also serves the airport but does not go into the city centre. It may prove useful if you want to visit Woolton or the north of the city, as the route goes around the city ring road, Queens Drive, and terminates in Bootle.

The airport has two onsite car parks and Skypark is nearby.

The airport offers a Fast Track service, which for a charge, means you can bypass the queue at security, but this tends to be worthwhile only for first flights of the day or if you risk missing your flight.

Manchester Airport can also be used. It is about a 45-60 minute drive away from Liverpool. Direct train services also run between Liverpool Lime Street Station and Manchester Airport operated by Northern Rail. Manchester Airport serves a variety of long haul destinations in North America and Asia, as well as short haul services throughout Europe.

This can also be done fairly last minute.

Wikivoyage has a guide to Rail travel in Great Britain.

Liverpool is served by which is in the heart of the city centre. Trains arrive frequently from many parts of England. Trains from London Euston arrive on the south side (right when viewed from the main entrance), while those from Manchester arrive on the north side. The Wirral Line of the city's underground network (detailed in the Merseyrail section below) stops in a tube tunnel under the station.

You can get to Liverpool easily from London, Manchester, and the major cities of northern England by high-speed rail (by British standards - 125 mph) without changing trains. These services are provided by Avanti for London and the west coast and Transpennine Express for the north. These destinations are served by other companies, including Northern, EMR, and LNWR, which offer regional stopping services calling smaller destinations on the route. Birmingham and Norwich are the odd-ones-out, and are only connected by stopping services provided by LNWR and EMR respectively.

Liverpool is only about 2½ hours from London by train. There's a train about every hour, with extra weekday evening peak services from London, and it's not too expensive to get there. Tickets are released three months in advance.

There is a direct train from Manchester Airport to Liverpool every hour at peak times (around 6:30AM–7:30PM). In addition, it is possible to reach Liverpool from Manchester Airport by changing at Manchester Piccadilly or Manchester Oxford Road.

Birmingham, 1 hr 30 min – 1 hr 45 min, half hourly Manchester, 50 min – 1 hr 10 min, 5 trains an hour (3 fast to Piccadilly and Oxford Road, of which 1 via Earlestown and 2 via Warrington, 1 slow to Oxford Road (extra services in peak times) and 1 slow to Victoria) Leeds, 2 hours, hourly. These trains continue to York (2 hr 15 min) and Newcastle upon Tyne (3 hr 15 mins). Sheffield and Nottingham, 1 hr 30 min and 3 hours respectively, hourly

National Express, the UK's largest scheduled coach company, uses Liverpool One Bus Station. London is 4-5 hours away by coach and is served by a half a dozen services per day. Manchester is served by an hourly service taking a similar time to the train (except at rush hour). Manchester Airport can be reached by coach in under one hour, six coaches run per day. Flixbus offer several journeys a day between Central London and Liverpool. 5.5 - 6 hours journey time. Connections can be made in Birmingham to reach London Heathrow but this will take over twice as long as the train.

A Park and Ride scheme aims to provide easy access to the city centre, for more information see National Park and Ride Directory.

By car Liverpool has good motorway connections, being served by the M62 (from the M6), M53, M57 and M58.

If you are travelling from the south, your journey may take you across the River Mersey through one of the two road tunnels from Birkenhead or Wallasey, or across the Mersey Gateway or Silver Jubilee bridges from Runcorn to Widnes. Each of these crossings are tolled. You must pay online at Merseyflow by midnight the following day or face a penalty charge through the post.

is on Triskelion Way off Waterloo Rd. This has ferries from Douglas operated by IOM Steam Packet, with two sailings a day taking three hours. The usual ferry is the fast cat Manannan, which carries vehicles. The terminal opened in June 2024 and road signage has not yet caught up - don't go to the former terminal half a mile south on Crowne Plaza. A bus plies from the city centre to meet the ferries.

For leisure boats coming from inland, there is a connection between the Mersey and the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

From Birkenhead, pedestrians and cyclists can catch the Mersey Ferries commuter service every 20 minutes between 7:20AM and 9:40AM, with a journey time of 10 minutes to Liverpool's Pier Head. The evening return service operates every 20 min between 5PM and 6:40PM. You can also bring your bicycle for free. Between rush hours, the ferries operate a river cruise service which provides an hourly link from Birkenhead to Liverpool.

Get around

Liverpool City Centre is walkable, but those with mobility impairments or who are feeling lazy may prefer buses, Merseyrail, or taxis (including Uber, Ola, and local Delta as well as well as plentiful black cabs).

By public transport By bus Buses run out from the centre regularly from Liverpool One Bus Station in Canning Place (mainly to the south) and Queen Square Bus Station in Roe and Hood St. (mainly north/east). Both bus stations have travel centres with staff who will assist with which bus to get and from where. These travel centres also stock free transport guides and detailed timetable leaflets for each bus and train service. Highly recommended are the free 'map and guide' leaflets of the four main transport subdivisions of the Liverpool metropolitan area: Liverpool, Wirral (west), Southport (north) and St. Helens (east); these giant fold-out street maps show at a glance the route of every bus service (individual service leaflets are required for timetable information).

Liverpool and the surrounding region is served by an excellent mass-transit system, which is indispensable for the visitor who wishes to explore outside the city centre. Destinations such as Chester, the Anthony Gormley sculpture "Another Place" (in Crosby), and the seaside town of Southport are popular tourist destinations on the network.

Due to the short distances involved, and the few central stations, the Merseyrail network is of limited value for money getting around the City Centre as the stations can usually be walked between in the time it takes to descend, travel, and ascend, with the possible exception of James Street to Lime Street. The network has several gaps in coverage as the latest expansions of the City Centre (such as the Baltic Triangle and North Docks), and Anfield Stadium do not have nearby stations. The Knowledge Quarter university district also suffers from poor Merseyrail connectivity, with the nearest station down a steep hill. The local government is seeking to amend some of these deficits - for example, funding has been approved to re-open a defunct station in the Baltic Triangle.

Northern Line (blue): This runs south-north from Hunts Cross to Southport, with branches to Ormskirk and Kirkby. Each branch runs at least twice an hour from 6AM (8AM on Sunday) to midnight, as does the main line, & the Ormskirk and Kirkby branches run along the main line as far as Liverpool Central. Wirral Line (green): Trains on this line serve the city centre in a loop (James Street > Moorfields > Lime Street > Central > James Street), before running through a tunnel under the Mersey to Birkenhead. There, they branch out to West Kirby and Chester, with further branches to New Brighton and Ellesmere Port. Each branch runs at least four times an hour (two on the Ellesmere Port line and all lines on a Sunday.)

City Line (red): Not really a Merseyrail line, but a collective name encompassing all mainline local services from Lime Street. It has 4 branches, unusually named "books" after the booklets the timetables are distributed in: Book 1 serves the Liverpool to Manchester route via Warrington. Book 2 serves Liverpool South Parkway, branching out there to Runcorn and Crewe (local half-hourly; expresses to London and Birmingham also use this line), and to Warrington Central and Manchester Oxford Road & Piccadilly (local half-hourly, express half-hourly). Book 3 services, along the world's first mainline railway, run to Manchester (hourly stopping trains to Victoria, hourly expresses to Oxford Road and Piccadilly (local services half-hourly, expresses half-hourly). Book 4 connects Liverpool with St Helens and Wigan North Western, and Blackpool. Local services at least twice an hour run 6AM (9AM on Sundays) to midnight. Hourly express services continue to Preston. On their previous journey into Lime Street, many of these expresses came via South Parkway, which may be beneficial to passengers bearing luggage.

The City Centre is served by four stations. The Wirral Line serves all in a clockwise loop, while the Northern Line runs both ways north-south and serves Liverpool Central and Moorfields. City Line trains use ground-level platforms at Lime Street.

is located on a small one-way street Moorfields between Dale Street and Tithebarn Street in the business district or Old Hall Street entrance open during peak time only. is in a prominent position in the north-east of the city centre. It is closest to the museums on William Brown Street. is in a shopping centre accessed from Ranelagh Street and Bold Street. It is most convenient for the shopping area & cathedrals. is accessed by lifts on James Street. or a steep ramp (limited access, rush hours only) on Water Street. Nearby sights include the Albert Dock, Liverpool Arena and Liverpool One. Liverpool South Parkway, on the City and Northern Lines . It is the closest station to John Lennon Airport, to which it has a shuttle bus. It also provides a direct interchange from regional and long-distance services to the Northern Line, should your train stop there.

If you are switching from Merseyrail to the National Rail network, use Lime Street, which is Liverpool's main station; Liverpool Central is only the central station of the Merseyrail network. In addition, some locals may refer to services on the City Line as the Northern, named after the regional train operating company, which should not be confused with the Northern Line run by Merseyrail.

A common mistake made by visitors is to think of the Wirral Line's city-centre loop as a circular line - implying that if one misses their stop, they may wait for it to come around again. In reality the loop is shaped like a lasso; if you stay on a train after passing through James Street a second time you will unexpectedly find yourself in Birkenhead.

Ticketing Although an urban system, Merseyrail is a National Rail operator, meaning that ticketing is seamless between it and mainline rail services. A ticket can be bought from anywhere in the country to a Merseyrail station, and vice-versa, with no need to purchase a separate ticket for the Merseyrail network as long as it is printed out (Merseyrail does not accept e-tickets). This saves money and is very useful if you wish to travel directly to a part of the Liverpool City Region with no mainline rail service. Buying a simple single or return ticket from a ticket office or machine is the same as buying any other National Rail ticket.

Saveaway, Solo, and Trio travel passes can be purchased from travel centres or Merseyrail stations. If a journey takes you outside the boundary allowed by your ticket, you can typically purchase a regular ticket on the bus or train to cover just the extra required. Solo and Trio passes are weekly, monthly, or annual travel passes, usable at any time of the day. Solo tickets may be used only on buses; Trio tickets may be used on buses, ferries, or Merseyrail trains. The pass may only be purchased from Merseytravel centres, but it can be renewed (up to three days before expiry) at any travel or train station in Merseyside. A Merseyrail Only Railpass is a cheaper alternative, but is not valid on the City Line (despite stations carrying Merseyrail branding, the train service is provided by regional operator Northern). Saveaway Tickets are ideal for the majority of short term visitors. They are cheap, off-peak (after 9:30AM M-F, all day Sa & Su) single-day tickets that cover buses, ferries, and Merseyrail trains. They may also be used by more than one person (although not at the same time). Cards are available from all Merseyrail stations, Merseytravel Centres, and shops displaying the yellow 'PayPoint' sign.

Arriva and Stagecoach Day and Weekly tickets may be used on either companies buses on new Quality Partnership Routes 10/10A/10B/10C (Huyton,St Helens), 86/86A/86D/86E (Speke,Airport,South Parkway), 53/53A (Crosby,Aintree), 14/14X (Croxteth,Kirkby). (All prices correct as of May 2026.)

If you plan to travel a lot, a pass presents much better value. Generally speaking, you save money with two or more train trips or three or more bus journeys.

Both major bus companies accept contactless payment (including Apple Pay and Google Pay, although unlike London you still have to buy a ticket from the driver). Having spare cash is recommended as some buses on minor routes may not yet be equipped. Arriva single bus tickets can simply be purchased by tapping on, but Stagecoach bus drivers must be told the type of ticket before purchase.

National Cycle Route 56, National Cycle Route 62 and 810 run into Liverpool.

Voi Liverpool. Liverpool’s Voi cycle hire scheme offers bike hire from more than 140 stations across the city.

Giant. A bicycle dealer which also rents out bikes of the very upmarket type. Their policy seems to be not to rent out locks to avoid any responsibility if the bike gets stolen (which seems an unusual idea, but that seems to be what they do), so be prepared to bring a lock or buy one from them. Nice staff.

See

Liverpool is particularly famous for its architecture, to the point where English Heritage consider it England's finest Victorian city. Once dilapidated and dirty during the dark times of the 1980s, modern Liverpool presents its architecture with full civic pride.

The harbour of Liverpool has played a very important role in the modern history of the city. The wharf area drained by the Mersey River gives to the city an air of antiquity, which is quite strange and interesting because of the contrast between modern and conventional buildings. The Pier Head was recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO between 2004 and 2021, when it was controversially delisted due to modern development.

Museum of Liverpool. A large museum all about the city of Liverpool and its history from ancient inhabitants of the area to its modern revival. Not to be confused with the World Museum, which is more "general" in scope.

Royal Liver Building. Iconic symbol of Liverpool waterfront. This 1911 skyscraper still dominates the distinctive Liverpool skyline. It is the home of the legendary Liver Birds that sit on top of the building looking out across to the Wirral. The river-facing face of the clock is six feet larger in diameter than that of the clock tower at Westminster.

Titanic Memorial is north side of the Royal Liver Building, a sober granite monument to the 244 engineers lost with the ship.

The Beatles Story. A film telling a story using The Beatles as a theme.

Canada Boulevard. Runs the entire length of the Three Graces frontage and consists of a boulevard of maple trees with plaques laid into the pavement listing the Canadian ships lost during the Second World War.

British Music Experience. An exhibition telling the history of British rock and pop music since 1945.

Albert Dock. This is one of the more sophisticated places in Liverpool and is situated in the largest collection of Grade I listed buildings in the UK. Old warehouses have been converted into shops, apartments, restaurants, pubs, hotels, galleries and museums. For fans of the old This Morning with Richard and Judy TV programme, this is also where the 3D island weather map was in the centre of the dock on the water.

Merseyside Maritime Museum. Museum with permanent gallery devoted to the Titanic, Lusitania and Forgotten Empress.

Wheel of Liverpool. 60 m Ferris wheel.

St George's Hall. A mammoth of a Greco-Roman-style building which was built by wealthy merchants for the people of the city. It is arguably the finest neo-classical building in Western Europe, and has been thoroughly restored for Capital of Culture Year. Inside it has one of the best church organs in Europe. On the outside it has a selection of classical murals which were thought quite shocking in their day (due to the shameful female nudity).

World Museum Liverpool. This is a fine building and well worth a visit. It contains an excellent collection of British rocketry exhibits, as well as the best Egyptological collection outside London.

Liverpool Central Library. This is another fine building, boasting a beautiful circular reading room.

Walker Art Gallery. A nice neoclassical building opened in 1871, which forms an ensemble with the Central Library.

Liverpool Town Hall. Built in 1754, the Official Residence of Liverpool's Lord Mayor is an elegant stone building, having two fronts; one towards Castle Street, the other towards the area formed by the New Exchange Buildings. Each front consists of an elegant range of Corinthian columns, supporting a pediment, and are themselves supported by a rustic base. Between the capitals are heads, and emblems of commerce in basso-relievo; and on the pediment of the grand front is a noble piece of sculpture representing Commerce committing her treasures to the race of Neptune.

Victoria Gallery & Museum. The University of Liverpool's museum comprising their art collection and artefacts housed in an amazing Gothic building which coined the term 'red brick university'.

Williamson's Tunnels. In the early 1800s, a Liverpool tobacco merchant, Joseph Williamson, funded the construction of an enormous labyrinth of tunnels under the Edge Hill area of Liverpool. Nobody knows his reasons for doing so though many guess it as an act of philanthropy, using his wealth to provide jobs and training for thousands of Liverpool workers. There is also a Williamson's Tunnels Heritage Centre.

The Bluecoat. The Bluecoat is the oldest Grade 1 listed building in Liverpool’s city centre, dating back to 1717. It showcases talent across artistic disciplines including visual art, music, literature, dance and live art. It helps nurture new talent by providing studio spaces for artists.

FACT. Offers exhibitions, film and participant-led art projects. The building is home to three galleries (showing four exhibitions per year), a beautiful café operated by the team behind LEAF on Bold Street, a cosy bar and four film screens.

Our Lady and St Nicholas church. This is the city's parish church and home to the third Liver Bird (there are in fact three of them, not two).

Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King. Catholic. Affectionately known by the locals as Paddy's Wigwam or "the Pope's launching pad". Visit on a sunny day as the stained glass ceiling looks fantastic!

Liverpool Cathedral. It may not look like a wigwam, but is so imposing that the architect of Lord Derby's tomb claimed that no self-respecting church mouse would live there. As a result, he incorporated a mouse into the design of the tomb - it's just under Lord Derby's pillow. Liverpool Cathedral is one of the finest examples in the world of Gothic revival architecture. The building is truly vast, as the largest religious building in the UK and one of the largest cathedrals in the world. On a clear day, the tower affords breathtaking views over Liverpool, Merseyside and beyond, with some of Manchester's skyscrapers visible if weather permits.

Princes Road Synagogue. This is an impressive combination of Gothic and Moorish architecture by the Audsley brothers. The colourful interior has to be seen to be believed. Tours can be arranged through their web site.

Greek Orthodox Church of St Nicholas. Dedicated to St Nicholas the patron saint of seafarers. Built between 1865 and 1870, it was the second purpose built Greek Orthodox Church in England. The architecture of the building is a typical example of the Byzantine style as used in many Eastern Greek Churches. A typical feature is the four domes of the building. Henry Summers, a master builder who built many fine buildings in the city, was commissioned to build the church.

St Philip Neri Church. Byzantine inspired design, built between 1914 and 1920

St Luke's Church. St Luke's Church was badly damaged during the Liverpool Blitz in 1941, and remains as a roofless shell. It now stands as a memorial to those who were lost in the war, and is also a venue for exhibitions and events (such as, open-air cinema).

Speke Hall. A half-timbered Tudor house with parts dating back to the 1530s, lavishly furnished and decorated with tapestries. The self-guided tour is much improved by the volunteers on hand in most rooms, who are happy to explain and answer questions. Speke Hall, now owned by the National Trust, is set in large grounds that have a mixture of formal lawns, a maze, and woodland (plenty of bluebells in late spring!) A short walk offers views over the Mersey and the end of the runway. The shop, cafeteria, picnic spots and play areas make this an ideal place to chill before an evening flight.

Croxteth Hall and Country Park. This is one of Liverpool's most important heritage sites, one of "the finest working country estates in the North West" and was the winner of the European Capital of Culture 2008. The park is at the heart of what was once a great country estate stretching hundreds of square miles and was the ancestral home of the Molyneux family, the Earls of Sefton. After the death of the last Earl it was given to the City of Liverpool. The estate has four main attractions - The Historic Hall, Croxteth Home Farm, the Victorian Walled Garden and a 500-acre country park including the new Croxteth Local Nature Reserve. A new addition to what's on offer at Croxteth is the West Derby Courthouse. Dating from the reign of Elizabeth I, this is one of the oldest public buildings in Liverpool.

Sefton Park Palm House. Grade II* listed conservatory of exotic plants with cafe and public events.

Sudley House. An art gallery which contains the collection of George Holt in its original setting. It includes work by Thomas Gainsborough, Joshua Reynolds, Edwin Landseer and J. M. W. Turner.

For those in a hurry there are a number of operators offering guided tours, either using their own transportation or offering their services as "hop-on, hop-off Guides" on your coach or offering guided walks. The best way of getting an overview of the city, is by taking the City Explorer open-top bus run by Maghull Coaches. With 12 stops you can hop on and off all day. Qualified local guides provide the commentary and can answer your questions about the city. For Beatles fans, there is the Magical Mystery Tour which will take you around the places associated with the Beatles both in the city centre and in the suburbs. For a more tailored tour, there's Liverpool Entente Cordiale Tours. Their Liverpool tour guides can plan a walk for you or hop on your coach and guide you around the city. They offer tours in English or French.

Liverpool Cycle Tours. They have 4 scheduled tours, all of which run in small groups of no more than 10 people. Discounts may be available by email.

Shiverpool. This offers three different tours around Liverpool. The Hope Street shivers is based around the Cathedrals, Auld city shivers starting from the slaughterhouse pub on Fenwick Street and Shiver me Timbers based around the Albert Docks. Wrap up warm. Prior booking required.

The Beatles Fab 4 Taxi Tours. Offers personal tours that take you back in time to the childhood homes of the Fab Four.

Mad Day Out. Replica of John Lennon's Rolls Royce

Do

Note that many museums and galleries (including the Liverpool Museums ones) are closed Mondays.

The Bluecoat. The Bluecoat (not to be confused with The Bluecoat School, which is a grammar school in Wavertree) is a world-famous prestigious school dating back to the 18th century, and is one of the oldest arts schools in Europe. It hosts arts exhibitions as well as music and literary events, but also offers tuition in fine art, music and literature.

Liverpool Arena. 11,000-capacity arena for music, comedy and theatre performances.

Mersey Ferries. Immortalised by the hit song "Ferry Cross the Mersey" by Gerry & the Pacemakers, the ferries offer a fun 50-minute cruise with commentary up and down the river and across to Birkenhead, where you may disembark. There's no better way to see Liverpool's skyline. No matter the time of year or the weather conditions on land, bring warm clothing. See Mersey Ferry for more.

Tour de France arrives in town on Sa 3 July 2027. This is the end of Day 2, racing 223 km from Keswick through the Lake District and Forest of Bowland. Check local media for road closures. Next day they race from Welshpool to Cardiff.

Liverpool Philharmonic Hall. Home to one of the world's great orchestras. Go for a pre-concert drink in the Philharmonic pub over the road then sit back and let the music carry you away.

Music Room. Small space (190-250 capacity) adjunct to the Phil. Opened 2015.

The Tung Auditorium. World class dedicated concert hall with 400 seated capacity opened in 2022.

Arts Club. A venue which hosts rock, jazz and reggae concerts with well-known artists. Accommodates up to 1,300 people and there are no seats. Much of the venue is wheelchair accessible.

The Dome at Grand Central Hall. Art Nouveau former Wesleyan central hall, which hosts up to 4,000 people.

International Beatle Week is in August, multiple venues. A vast list of gigs performed by bands from all over the world, the annual Beatles Convention, plus screenings and other events looking back on the Beatles' career and their relationship with their home city.

Liverpool Empire Theatre. The Empire plays host to a wide range of shows, including many UK tours of large-scale musicals.

Comedy Also for laughs, try Rawhide at the Royal Court Theatre, which showcases some of the best in regional and national comedy talent. Every June or July there is a fortnight-long Liverpool Comedy Festival which takes place in venues across the city. One event not to be missed is the now legendary Drink up Stand up pub crawls which includes four pubs, four comedians, one compere (host) and a megaphone!

FACT. Cafe, multiscreen cinema and galleries of modern art.

Tate Liverpool. A fine modern art gallery. A definite visit for arty folk. The Turner Art Prize was hosted here in 2007-2008, the first time the award was held outside of London.

RIBA North. Discover more about architecture in the heart of Liverpool's waterfront. The centre offers a variety of walking tours around the local area.

Merseyside Maritime Museum. Dedicated to the maritime history of the city, complete with galleries on customs and excise and emigration to the New World. There are also a number of vessels to see, such as the Mersey river tug Brocklebank and the river cargo carrier Wyncham. For World War II buffs there's a good-sized exhibit on The Battle of The Atlantic, including Liverpool's link. A museum permanent gallery is devoted to the Titanic, Lusitania and Empress of Ireland, ocean liners lost at sea from 1912-1915 with a total of 3,700 fatalities.

International Slavery Museum. "Our aim is to address ignorance and misunderstanding by looking at the deep and permanent impact of slavery and the slave trade on Africa, South America, the USA, the Caribbean and Western Europe. Thus we will increase our understanding of the world around us." Dr David Fleming OBE, director, National Museums Liverpool

Western Approaches. During World War II, a top-secret underground command centre in Liverpool was the key communication point to Allied naval and merchant ships in the Atlantic Ocean, during the fight against the U-Boat menace to keep supply lanes open. Restored to its wartime appearance, this fascinating museum now tells the story in the rooms where it all happened.

The Beatles Story. The Beatles began in Liverpool. The Beatles Story is the only museum in the world that is entirely Beatles-themed, with exhibitions such as their instruments and other artifacts. Other attractions based on The Beatles include their homes, Penny Lane, commemorative statues, Strawberry Fields and others.

Liverpool FC. Liverpool play soccer in the Premier League, England's top tier. They are officially the most successful club in the country, having won 50 major trophies including 6 European Cups and 19 domestic league titles. Their fans are famous for the atmosphere they create at the iconic Anfield stadium (capacity 61,000) and their anthem of "You'll Never Walk Alone". The Anfield Stadium Tour is very popular for people visiting the city. While the rivalry with nearby Everton is intense (though famously friendly), it is the rivalry with Manchester United that is taken most seriously by the fans. Liverpool women play in the Women's Super League, their top tier, but their home ground is Prenton Park in Birkenhead shared with Tranmere Rovers.

Everton FC. "The Toffees" play soccer in the Premier League, the top tier, and hold the record for spending the most seasons at that level. The Hill Dickinson Stadium, capacity 52,888, opened in 2025; it's 1.5 miles north of city centre.

Everton Women. They play in the Women's Super League, their top tier. Goodison Park (capacity 40,000) was home to the men's team from 1892 to 2025, and the original plan was to demolish it once the new stadium opened.

Go to the races at Aintree. This course is renowned as home of the Grand National, the most formidable jumps race in the world, held in April each year. (Liverpool is mobbed when it's on.) They hold other jumps races in winter.

Rugby Union is only played at amateur level, at Sefton RUFC. Rugby League is also amateur, at Liverpool Lions. Head to St Helens for a top tier game.

Liverpool International Tennis Tournament. This is played on grass over four days in June. Top players compete as a warm-up for Wimbledon.

Learn

Liverpool is home to three universities:

The University of Liverpool. Liverpool's oldest university established in 1881, it generally outranks the other two in national league tables for teaching and for research.

Liverpool John Moores University. Established 1823 as a college, this is the second largest university in Liverpool, boasting modern facilities and improved teaching.

Liverpool Hope University. Established 1844 as a college, it is in Childwall and Everton. Hope attracts students from some 65 countries worldwide and has enjoyed many successes as of late.

Although not strictly in Liverpool, two more are within its sphere of influence:

Edge Hill University (Ormskirk), a former teacher training college and now full university in a somewhat rural location. University Centre St. Helens (St. Helens), the newest university centre in the region offering courses in business, social sciences, art, and STEM subjects.

Buy

Although the main shopping street in Liverpool is dominated by the same chain stores you'll find in any other large UK city, Liverpool has many distinctive shops of its own, including:

Liverpool One. Landmark development opened in 2008, redefining the city with three levels of shopping and entertainment and even a park. Offers a mixture of familiar highstreet chains and fashionable boutique stores

MetQuarter. This shopping centre focuses on designer-label fashion and has more than 40 stores.

The Bluecoat. Located in the heart of Liverpool's shopping district, the Bluecoat houses a number of specialist independent retailers offering an eclectic range of products. Stocking the best in contemporary craft, design, fashion and homewares, the shops at the Bluecoat should be your first destination in the city for the unique and the unusual: Display Centre, Drum, Landbaby, Purlesque, Robert Porter.

Bold St has a number of independent shops. There are also many nice cafes and restaurants.

News from Nowhere. A left-leaning bookshop which is impressively stocked on political topics (even as regards journals and newspapers), but has an interesting choice of books on other topics, too.

Cavern Walks. The famous Cavern Club is part of the shopping centre

Eat

There are various pubs serving food across the city centre and its suburbs, of course. The two main areas are the City Centre and Lark Lane about three miles from the city centre in Aigburth. There are various restaurants on Allerton Road (near Liverpool South Parkway) as well. Check with your hotel first if they allow food delivery. There is also quite a number of places to eat in Liverpool One.

Upstairs Restaurant Bar. Offering seasonal food and a great wine list in a creative setting. Also offers a special children's menu (under 12s).

Espresso Bluecoat. Offering Illy coffee, Jing leaf teas, Monbana hot chocolate and a range of soft drinks together with a selection of sandwiches, salads, homemade cakes and biscuits that are freshly made on the premises and able to be eaten on site or taken away. Also available, is a fine selection of alcoholic beverages ranging from locally produced bottled lager to wines by the glass or by the bottle.

Student District, Georgian Quarter, and Hope Street

The Art School Restaurant. Fine dining.

Kimo's. Look for the entrance opposite the NCP Car Park on Mount Pleasant for one of Liverpool's favourite student cafes. It has a fine selection of western foods (a superb Club Sandwich) and Arabic foods (cous cous and kebabs). There is also a smaller branch nearby the University of Liverpool.

92 Degrees Coffee. Combined coffee shop and micro roastery. One of the better places to drink coffee. Nice toasted bagels for breakfast.

U-N-I. Indian restaurant. Delicious Indian food all served in your own private booth with a curtain, to get the waiters attention press the button in your booth.

Zaza(?) Grocery. Just a block or two east up from Monument Place. Good, mostly Middle Eastern food at good prices for the area. Most of the staff with whom you'll interact are miserable, but don't take it personally.

Bold Street (upper part) Bold St has a nice mixture of independent shops and interesting places to eat.

Miyagi. Very good and fresh Japanese cuisine, really high standard, and delicious. The interior is a very successful fusion of the presumably Victorian style of the building and Japanese aesthetics. Highly recommended.

Leaf. Large and quite popular cafe which caters to a modern population (there is even a vegan English breakfast as a matter of course) and also hosts cultural events. Quite loud downstairs, but can be peaceful upstairs if there is nothing on.

Quynny's Quisine. Caribbean food. Easy to miss as the entrance is a yellow door with stairs leading down. Well kept secret.

The Tea House. A modern Hong Kong-style tea house serving cheap and tasty Chinese meals, snacks and drinks.

Chinatown, Ropewalks, and East Village Chinatown is Berry Street, Duke Street, Roscoe Lane, Parr Street and Seel Street.

Savina Mexican Restaurant & Cantina. Mexican.

Bonbon Bakery. Sometimes inconsistent hours but quality, authentic-seeming products made on-site. Only takes cash and WeChat Pay.

The Monro. Popular gastro-pub serving good British food from rabbit and boar right through to the local delicacy, scouse. All washed down with a pint of ale.

Jamie's Italian Kitchen. Italian cuisine.

Commercial District, Dale Street, and Victoria Street

Fonseca's. Choose from daily lunch, à la carte or table d'hote menu.

Piccolino's. Good Italian food and wines. All served in a friendly warm restaurant. Try to get one of the plush red booths. Booking recommended.

Thomas Rigby's. One of the finest pubs in the city offering a selection of local and world beers plus a fantastic food menu. The "proper chips" offered with the battered fish are excellent.

Delifonsecas Dockside. Choose from daily lunch, à la carte or table d'hote menu.

The Floating Grace. Liverpool's first floating restaurant.

Lark Lane is about 2.5 miles to the south of the city centre, a very pleasant (and less stressful than the city) place and is one of the better places to eat out. The road, which connects Aigburth Road with Sefton Park, is home to many unique restaurants, cafés and other shops. It is quite isolated, i.e. you will only find residential areas around it, but the street itself is worth the trip. Most pubs and bars serve real ales. Some choice picks include:

The Third Café. Bills itself as The first choice cafe for veggies. The only non veggie item on their dishes and snacks is tuna. It's a great place for lunch in a friendly atmosphere for both veggies and non-veggies. Seems to be locally-owned.

Milo Lounge. A modern lounge restaurant.

The Albert Hotel. Victorian pub serving pub grub at reasonable prices.

Keith's Wine Bar. Plays an eclectic mix of music, a relaxed atmosphere and family friendly. Good, freshly prepared food.

Drink

Liverpool's nightlife is both famous and infamous, with Rough Guides placing a night out in the city at number three on their list of fifty things to do before you die. There's a huge selection of pubs, clubs and bars to suit a variety of music and atmospheric tastes. Friday and especially Saturday nights are the busiest nights, although a few bars are busy with students throughout the week. The areas around Mathew Street and Concert Square with nearby Wood Street are the main two nocturnal focal points. There is a good mix of locals and students. It is best to dress smart for the majority of bars and clubs (such as "Society" and "Garlands"). Notable exceptions are places like Le Bateau, the Krazy house, the Caledonia, and other places of a similar alternative style. Like any major UK city, it is pretty safe out at night. The local police have had a heavy presence on a Friday and Saturday night to combat any problems and are largely succeeding. It is pretty busy getting out of the city centre at the end of a weekend (especially at the start of university term time - Sep/Oct). There are plenty of black hackney cabs which congregate at various taxi ranks. All modes of transport tend to become very busy from around midnight.

Liverpool is home to the Cains brewery which produces a large selection of cask beers.

Dr Duncan's, St John's Lane – This is the premier pub for the local Cains brewery. It has a fine reputation and consequently is full of middle-aged professional drinkers. The pub has the full range of Cains beers, including Dr Duncan's IPA. Rudimentary bar menu, but good busy atmosphere on the weekend. The Dispensary, Intersection of Renshaw and Leece Streets – Another of the local Cains brewery houses. Charming Victorian bar area. Usually has two rotating guest beers, plus a large selection of bottled beers and ciders.

The Globe. A small, often cramped. This is a traditional Liverpool pub, with no-nonsense barmaids. Usually busy after 5PM and during the weekend, acting as a refuge for husbands abandoned by, or having escaped from, their shopping-mad spouses. Always a good variety of guests.

The Crown. Next to the station. Most likely the first pub you will see upon arriving in Liverpool.

You also get to share the pub with stag parties and students wondering what happened the night before.

The Canarvon Castle. Established for about 200 years, this small and homely pub was named after Lord Carnarvon. Packed full of collectors items - model cars, lorries, handcuffs and truncheons - it attracts a mixture of clientele. Serving good quality real ales, the pub is also popular for its range of hot snacks including the well-loved Carnarvon toasties.

Pig & Whistle, 12 Covent Garden. This pub has been refurbished and transformed into a rather fake-looking pub.

Peter Kavanagh's. An unusual and old-world hideaway can be found just outside the city centre. Built 150 years ago, the walls are adorned with art deco murals painted in 1929 and the snugs are themed with various artefacts such as musical instruments and chamber pots. The friendly atmosphere makes this a favourite with artists, locals, travellers and musicians. George Melly, a famous jazz player is known to frequent this pub when visiting the city. If you're in for a traditional English breakfast, this pub serves great black pudding and all the fixings from noon to 4PM.

Poste House. Most nights has a gay friendly bar serving cheap cocktails upstairs from the main pub.

The Brookhouse Smithdown Rd. Used to be one of Liverpool's pubs was a hangout of bands of the late 1980s such as the La's. It's now most popular with students, and is known for its Liverpool games when locals lead the Liverpool chants and become the vocal cords of this old pub.

The Old Post Office. Friendly pub famous for its steak and mixed grill meals. Great for watching sports as there are three TVs including one big screen.

The Vines, Lime Street – A stylish club. GBar, Eberle Street – Popular gay-friendly club with two floors. Upstairs, 'The Church' offers funky house music and campy classics in the 'Love Lounge'. Downstairs 'The Bass-ment' pumps out quality vocal house music. Open Th-M.

Chinatown, Ropewalks, and East Village Chinatown is Berry Street, Duke Street, Roscoe Lane and Seel Street.

El Bandito. A small cocktail bar in a basement room. Combines the feeling of being in a bombed-out house with that of being in a living room.

Heebie Jeebies. A large, lively, destination venue with live music and open air courtyard. Open until 4AM at weekends. (Photo ID required for entry.)

Heebies Basement. A late night bar-come-club playing a broad spectrum of electronic music including Hip Hop and indie. Open F Sa until 5AM and Tu-Th until 4AM. (Photo ID required for entry.)

Concert Square, Fleet Street, Wood Street, Duke Street Concert Square is situated behind Bold Street, where you'll find a range of the trendier bars. Most bars are open M-Sa until 2AM. They include Lloyd's, Walkabout, Modo and a minute away near Slater Street is Baa-Bar. This district usually has the youngest crowd drinking here.

Baa Bar, Fleet Street - The City’s leading shooter bar. This is the place to go if you like cheap shots, good music and a great atmosphere. Baa Bar Fleet Street has been rocking concert square since 1991, with the biggest DJs in Liverpool. Its extensive 32-strong shooter menu and newly refurbished upstairs terrace makes it stand out from the crowd, in an area where competition is fierce. O'Neills, Wood Street – Part of the O'Neills chain but don't let that put you off. Its managed by two real Irish men who know what a real Irish bar means. Good beer, food and good music is always on hand here. You also might bump into a few Liverpool FC players drinking in the corner. The Swan Inn, Wood St – Liverpool's only rocker/metalhead pub, it actually has quite an eclectic mix of customers during the week, ranging from construction workers to businessmen, all side by side sharing pints. In the evenings and weekends, this gives way to the alternative/rocker scene. Pub quiz every Thursday evening and a legendary jukebox. Listed with the local CAMRA group. The future of this pub is uncertain as it was for sale in 2025.

Mathew Street, Temple Court, and North John Street An older crowd will drink in this district.

The Cavern Club. Although the original Cavern Club—a former bomb shelter in the basement of a Liverpool warehouse—was filled in in the 1970s, it was re-excavated and recreated in the 1980s using many of the same bricks. Today it continues as a live music venue, not to mention a tourist attraction. Many of Britain's most popular groups played its stage in the 1960s, most famously The Beatles, who made almost 300 appearances here between 1961 and 1963.

The Cavern Pub. Sister pub of the Cavern Club opposite. Similar atmosphere with another stage and memorabilia on the walls.

The Grapes. The Beatles' favourite pub. They would drink here before and after their many gigs at the Cavern Club, and there is a corner of the pub dedicated to them. It even has a photo of them sitting down in seats that are still there today.

Dale Street, Moorfields, and Tithebarn Street

Sometimes considered the commercial district and is populated by office workers during the week.

The Ship and Mitre. Consistently voted one of the top cask ale pubs in Liverpool by the Merseyside branch of CAMRA. Has a wide, and frequently changing, variety of guest ales. It also has a large selection of bottled foreign beers (though this selection pales slightly in comparison to that of other pubs in the area). Hot and cold food is served in the afternoons and evenings.

Rigby's, Dale Street – This cask ale pub dates back to Lord Nelson and has been refurbished by the Isle of Mann Okell's Brewery (to become their first UK mainland pub). Good atmosphere. Busy on weekend nights and also does meals in the bar.

The Railway Hotel. Over a hundred years old, this old Victorian pub has several original features, many of which would interest the historian as much as the beer lover. The tall ornate ceilings, wood panelling and traditional bar create an inviting and impressive atmosphere. Surrounded by stained glass windows, the lounge, snug and dining areas are well decorated. An open fireplace and displays of old prints add to the comfortable ambience.

Ma Boyles Oyster bar. Secluded pub in the business area of the city. Set below street level, the high ceilings and terracotta walls create a relaxing ambience with a separate dining area and a cosy drinking den. The much-acclaimed menu includes dishes such as hot lamb and mint sauce pitas, and of course the local delicacy of Scouse and red cabbage.

The Lion Tavern. Excellent pub for ale with a historic interior.

Pier Head and Albert Dock A favourite district for tourists.

The Baltic Fleet. Just over the road from the Albert Dock, this unique pub is a great place to escape from the glossy and expensive bars on the Albert Dock. Serving good food and real ale at good prices, and with a friendly atmosphere.

Student district Universities of Liverpool and John Moores students from the student residential areas descend here during term time.

Korova. Part bar, part club, split between two floors. Upstairs there is the lush front area replete with orange leather booths and over-table televisions which usually stream the live action from downstairs. At the back is the kitchen, which during the day serves a range of freshly cooked meals. Downstairs the intimate gig venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music, and is an important venue for local musicians. Free Wi-fi.

The Caledonia. Underground, alternative music venue in a pub. DJs and live bands throughout the week. First Friday of every month is the infamous "It's Not Bangin", with classic dub reggae, soul and disco playing. Well worth a visit. .

The Philharmonic – Located on the corner of Hope Street and Hardman Street, this Tetley heritage pub is opposite the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall. Formerly a gentleman's club, there are two small, snug rooms and a larger dining room to the back with leather sofas and an open fire. The gentlemen's toilets are grade 1 listed and ladies may ask permission to view them at the bar. Excellent food served both from the bar and in the dining rooms upstairs. Usual cask beers include Timothy Taylor's Landlord, Caledonian Deuchars IPA and Tetley's. The Cambridge – Located at the corner of Cambridge Street and Mulberry Street. This pub is at the heart of the University of Liverpool and has a great atmosphere. It is very popular with both students and lecturers. The Augustus John, Peach St. This is an obligatory hang out for Liverpool's students. Like most student pubs, the bar area gets packed during September and October.

Fly in the Loaf, Hardman Street, Today it arguably serves the finest quality and variety of cask ales in the city centre. The Fly in the Loaf has a good mix of students and local regulars. It includes bar meals and wide-screen televisions for football and is one of the few Liverpool pubs that regularly show rugby league.

Ye Cracke. This pub was a favourite haunt of John Lennon's uncle and hasn't changed much since then. Can get quite dodgy at night.

The Blue Angel. Popular with students especially student doctors.

Baltic Triangle and the Brewery Village To the south of the city centre, the bohemian Baltic Triangle has transformed over the past few years from moribund industry to the coolest place in the UK according to The Times. At the heart of the district is the former Cains brewery, which is now a large and ultra-trendy collection of bars, pubs, clubs, markets, and food stalls.

Camp and Furnace. Home of the legendary Bongo's Bingo nights which are now franchised out all over the UK (must be booked in advance).

Hobo Kiosk. Tiny and cosy art-filled micro-pub owned by an artist couple who are also the only staff. Very friendly atmosphere with selection of craft beers.

Ghetto Golf. Blacklight-lit, irreverent, junkyard themed indoor mini-golf course and bar (games must be booked in advance).

Birdie's Bar & BBQ. Outdoor bar with cocktails and street food vendors.

Bongo's Bungalow, Brewery Village. Spin-off bar from Camp and Furnace. Brewery Tap, Brewery Village. Classic pub that hasn't changed since the brewery was open. Craft Minded, Brewery Village. Craft beer bar inside a steel-framed shed. Chimney visible from far around. Dockleaf, Brewery Village. Bar with roof terrace. Hippie Chic, Brewery Village. Burning Man-style tent with bar. Connected to the Yellow Submarine Bar next door. Yellow Submarine Bar, Brewery Village. Former movie prop from Hunt for Red October turned floating hotel now turned Beatles-themed bar (on dry land). Connected to Hippie Chic next door. Peaky Blinders, Brewery Village. Warehouse turned into bar themed around the hit TV show, parts of which were filmed in Liverpool. Punch Tarmey's, Brewery Village. Subterranean Irish bar with fantastic interior and glass portholes in the floor to the aquifer far below, formerly used as a water source for the brewery. Tank Room, Brewery Village. Craft beer bar. Downtown, Brewery Village. Bazaar of food and drinks vendors with a New York City theme. Not as large as the Baltic Market but very close by. On Air, Brewery Village. Movie studio themed nightclub set in a giant recreation of a village up the walls of a former industrial unit. Live music on-stage. Connected to Birdie's.

Sleep

There are a number of hotels in the city, ranging from budget guesthouses and lodges to 4-star international properties. Liverpool has no 5-star hotels but two in grade I listed buildings (Premier Inn and Holiday Inn Express), three in grade II* listed buildings (30 James St, Titanic Hotel, and Marriott Aloft) and a further eight hotels in grade II listed buildings (Doubletree Hilton, Crowne Plaza Liverpool Airport, Hard Days Night Hotel, Racquet Club, the Richmond Aparthotel, Adagio Aparthotel, Britannia Adelphi, and Radisson Red).

Belvedere Hotel. A B&B run by an old lady. Basic room. Shared toilet and shower. 2 minutes from Lime St. station.

The Embassie Hostel. This hostel features free coffee, tea, and toast (with jam and peanut butter). Very comfortable beds (dormitory style), and a great mix of international travellers to befriend. The hostel has friendly staff, led by their wonderful boss and hostel proprietor, Kevin who tells a Beatles story or two, and leads a free Beatles tour every Thursday night which ends up at The Cavern Club.

Bankhall Hotel. About 2 km from the city centre. All rooms are private. Free internet/Wi-Fi.

International Inn. Cheap hostel accommodation near to town.

YHA Liverpool Albert Dock. Breakfast from 7:30-9AM weekdays, 7:30-10AM weekends. Close to the convention centre and easy enough to walk to the city centre. Bar at the hostel, so cannot bring own alcohol back.

Cocoon International Inn. A hotel without breakfast. Staff is there 24 hrs and usually not very busy, very friendly and willing to help with minor quirks.

The Liner. A rather good hotel, well located.

Hampton by Hilton Liverpool City Centre.

Crowne Plaza Liverpool Airport. A short drive from Liverpool John Lennon Airport, this makes fabulous use of its Grade II listed art deco building which was the old airport terminal and control tower. If you are looking to eat out of the hotel then Damon's is a restaurant on the same site which you will enjoy if you like American kitsch and microwaved food. Apart from that, there is a retail park with the typical fast food restaurants just a short walk from the hotel. Grade II listed building.

Marriott Liverpool City Centre. Claims to be a 4-star property but is now a little tired. The Marriot is surrounded by the Queen's Square complex with its bars and restaurants.

Novotel Liverpool Centre. 209-bedroom city centre location, restaurant, bar and pool, 10-minute walk from Echo Arena.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Liverpool. On the old St. Paul's Eye Hospital site in the business district of the city. A small part of the original building has been retained and incorporated into the hotel.

The Richmond aparthotel. Grade II listed building

2 Blackburne Terrace. Beautifully-designed little B&B in 1826 townhouse near Philharmonic, no children under 10 or dogs.

Premier Inn, Albert Dock. The hotel is in original warehouse, has been well transformed and has the vaulted ceilings. While room allocation is mostly luck some rooms have classic views over the dock; others of the new Liverpool Arena. Early booking essential; cheap/discounted rooms now impossible to find because of the high demand/location. Grade I listed building, Britannia Pavilion.

Holiday Inn Express. Grade I listed building, Britannia pavilion.

Marriott Aloft Liverpool. Grade II* listed building

The Resident. Slick hotel in an old printworks. Assistance dogs only. No onsite restaurant, they issue vouchers for the many nearby eating places.

Doubletree by Hilton. Grade II listed building.

Hotel Indigo. Boutique hotel in the City Centre

Hallmark Inn Hotel. Close to shops, restaurants and nightclubs. Adjacent to both universities and two cathedrals.

Hard Day's Night Hotel. The Beatles-themed hotel boutique hotel in Liverpool City Centre. Grade II listed building.

Hope Street Hotel. Buzzing modern hotel behind a palazzo facade, with good restaurant.

Racquet Club. Grade II listed building

Titanic Hotel. Plush hotel in a 19th century brick warehouse, with spa, restaurant, and Titanic memorabilia. Great reviews for comfort and service.

30 James Street. Upscale hotel in the former headquarters of White Star Line, owners of Titanic. Mixed reviews for comfort and cleanliness.