After spending the first 27 years of my life here, I can safely say that Liverpool is a happy city with an energetic vibe, that I find distinctly unique to the UK. It’s an atmosphere you simply can’t find elsewhere. There is nothing quite like Liverpool. Seeking what to do in Liverpool? From the friendliness of the people to the beauty of the architecture, to tree-lined streets in the suburbs, the city is a well-laid out mix of urban, historical, and natural. With plenty of Liverpool attractions to dive into, you won’t be stuck for what to do in Liverpool as you peel back its many layers. Take a look at my top 10 things to do in Liverpool guide and discover what’s best for you; from the iconic Liverpool Cathedral to unique Turkish baths, to vast, neo-classical buildings like St George’s Hall, Liverpool attractions hold something for everyone; from food enthusiasts, architecture lovers, history buffs, alternative scene supporters to nightlife devotees.
Mersey Ferry
A prime opportunity to relax, and reflect on the water, the Mersey Ferry is one of my top 10 things to do in Liverpool alone, with family, or with friends. Kickstart your trip by stepping aboard a Mersey Ferry, feel the breeze and see Liverpool’s stunning waterfront at its very best. The decks of the ferry provide the best way to see the city’s iconic skyline. Learn about Liverpool’s fascinating wartime and maritime history, spot famous Liverpool landmarks along the riverside and soak up the best of the city from the peaceful water.
Liverpool Cathedral and Giles Gilbert Scott Suite
The world’s largest Anglican cathedral and Britain's largest church, Liverpool Cathedral is a majestic neo-Gothic building and one of the most magnificent Liverpool must-sees. Designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, who also created the red telephone box, the cathedral architecturally-stunning, awe-inspiring and also creates a profound feeling of intimacy. As a kid, I was addicted and would roam the lesser-known hidden space: The Sir Giles Gilbert Scott Suite. Linked by a long parquet-floored corridor, with wood-panelled walls and a striking white pillar in the middle of the room which holds up the giant font in the cathedral above, the suite was the perfect play space and is a great place to explore, undiscovered by most visitors.
Bold Street
Bold Street is the perfect stop for a great food experience in Liverpool. Taste your way through delicious restaurants, quirky cafes and classy bars; from Turkish and Greek cuisine to wine bars, the street has something to offer everyone. Wondering where to eat in Liverpool? Head to Bold Street. Try Ropes and Twines; a café and wine bar which looks average on the outside but is home to a really good selection of wines and a cosy atmosphere. Grab a coffee at Leaf; a really welcoming café with two floors. They host events regularly and are open day and night. For Indian street food, try Mowgli on Bold St and Water St. The place has good vegan options too. If you’re a food enthusiast, adding Bold Street to your Liverpool travel guide is a must.
Adam and Eve Turkish Bath
The Liverpool Adam and Eve Turkish Bath is located on the outskirts of the city, around two miles from Liverpool city centre. The spa is one of the more interesting things to do in Liverpool, beyond the touristy, more predictable Liverpool attractions. Hidden away beneath one of the busiest streets, Smithdown Road, is a tucked-away spa you'd never expect to find. Adam and Eve Turkish Bath has an unassuming shop front and is a tranquil retreat, away from Liverpool’s busy streets, offering authentic Turkish spa treatments. The full “Hammam” experience includes a sauna, body exfoliation, foam wash and 30 minute Turkish massage with complimentary tea and Turkish delight. Check it out for a truly unique experience in Liverpool!
Photo credit: commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Caldersto
Calderstones
As a lover of the quiet life, Calderstones Park for me is a natural sanctuary offering a peaceful retreat from the city centre. Located in South Liverpool, Calderstones Park is a beautiful 94 acre family park and green space, home to woodland, a lake and fields, and a one thousand year old oak tree. With both Japanese and old English gardens, the park has an array of different flora to enjoy. If you’re seeking the rural and organic best things to do in Liverpool, head to Calderstones Park for a pause from the city.
The Georgian Quarter
The Georgian Quarter really epitomizes what Liverpool is all about for me. It’s an area steeped in history. It’s fairly run down and needs sprucing up, but that's simply part of its charm. A stunning, fascinating area for those seeking what to do in Liverpool that covers the authentic and historical, the area is not to be skipped. Head to the Grapes on Roscoe Street; a really quaint little pub full of history. Don’t miss Hope Street; at the quarter’s core. Lined with beautiful terraced houses, fine restaurants, the Art School, cosy bistros, and bookended by Liverpool’s two cathedrals; Hope Street is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening in Liverpool. Check out Host for great Pan-Asian food or Moose Coffee for amazing North American style breakfasts and coffee.
The Cavern Club
Searching for the best and most authentic things to do in Liverpool at night? Head to The Cavern Club for a true Liverpudlian music experience. The iconic cellar has seen seven incredible decades of music; from The Beatles first performance on 9th February 1961 to the Arctic Monkeys pre-breakthrough gig in October 2005. The Cavern Club remains the beating heart of Liverpool’s legendary music scene and is not to be missed for anyone seeking the soul of the city. Check out the live music from mid-afternoon until late evening, seven days a week.
St George’s Hall
Delve further into Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter by exploring St George's Hall on Lime Street; opposite Lime Street railway station. The stunning neoclassical style architecture is home to concert halls, law courts, an incredible interior and a café offering salads, freshly made sandwiches, cakes and pastries. The site is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade I listed building. Built in the early 1800s as a grand hub for music festivals and the Civil and Crown courts, St George's Hall is a Liverpool attraction not to be missed, which has been at the epicentre of Liverpool life ever since.
Photo credit: liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/y
Britain’s First Mosque
The earliest recorded mosque in Britain was founded in a Liverpool terrace house in 1889. The Muslim Institute was established by a group of twenty British converts to Islam, led by Sheikh Abdullah William Henry Quilliam. The Liverpool home of England's first mosque is a listed building at 8-10 Brougham Terrace. The mosque closed in 1910 and is soon to reopen fully with a heritage centre after 12 years of work to restore the five storey building. A culturally and historically interesting thing to do in Liverpool, 'the Little Mosque' is a hidden Liverpool gem with value and charm, and well worth a visit.
Royal Liver Building
Opened in 1911 to accommodate the Royal Liver Assurance group which provided help to people who lost an income relative, the Royal Liver Building is one of Liverpool’s most-loved attractions. One of the few buildings built during the time reinforced concrete was used for construction, the architecturally fascinating structure was once the tallest building in Europe (until 1932.) Mythical Liver Birds on top of each tower of the building are said to watch over the people of the city and sailors who approach Liverpool. Afterwards visit the nearby Albert Dock. Head up to Oh Me Oh My Rooftop bar (from March – October) for great views of the Mersey and the Royal Liver Building and a really cool, laid back vibe.
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