Weekend in Liverpool
Liverpool is a city full of life, known for the Beatles, football, and its beautiful waterfront. Having a weekend getaway is definitely something to put on your schedule. Don’t miss out on its fun cultural activities, rich history, beautiful landscapes, and easy transportation. You can get around by foot, bus, or taxi, depending on what suits your budget and schedule. So, pack your bags and get ready to enjoy one of the best cities the UK has to offer!
Take your weekend break to great heights! We’ll provide a 2-day itinerary with the best things to visit in Liverpool.
Day 1: Royal Liver Building
Start your Liverpool itinerary at Pier Head in Liverpool by visiting one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Royal Liver Building. As Europe’s first skyscraper, this historic building offers a wealth of stories and fascinating details, including the massive clocks and the famous Liver Bird perched on top.
Enjoy a guided tour to learn more about its fascinating history and marvel at the stunning 360-degree views from the 15th-floor viewing platform. From there, you’ll be treated to an amazingly breathtaking view of the Liverpool skyline. Getting there only takes 15 minutes from Liverpool Lime Street Station.
Museum of Liverpool
The next stop, just a 5-minute walk from the Royal Liver Building, is the city’s waterfront museum. The Museum of Liverpool, which opens at 10 am, contains historical and archaeological finds as well as priceless treasures that hold a very deep value in Liverpool’s community.
Here, you’ll find items that take us from as early as the Mesolithic period to modern times. Contemporary art and stories are also displayed to shed light on all the historical events the people in Liverpool have experienced. Exploring the Museum of Liverpool will help you understand the city’s social history, archaeology, and cultural significance.
In addition to historical artefacts, you’ll also see all things The Beatles, who hold a big part of Liverpool’s history. From the band’s clothing, guitar strings, and even John Lennon’s drawings. The collection includes Beatles merchandise, items collected by fans, and even the stage where John Lennon and Paul McCartney first met. If you’re an avid fan of The Beatles, this is a nostalgic experience that you won’t forget.
Royal Albert Dock
If you’re feeling hungry, head to Albert Dock for lunch, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine. Located in Liverpool city center, it’s just a short walk from the Museum of Liverpool.
For a dining experience with outdoor seating and a great view of the dock, I highly recommend The One O’Clock Gun. If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, Gusto Italian is a must-try. For a mix of modern and traditional food, the Pan Am restaurant at the Britannia Pavilion is another excellent option.
To make your food journey easier, here are some must-try foods at Albert Dock that you’ll surely love:
1. Scouse: A traditional Liverpool stew made with beef or lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions. It’s a hearty dish that represents the city’s heritage.
2. Fresh Seafood: Given the dockside location, many restaurants offer fresh seafood dishes. Try the fish and chips, or opt for more gourmet options like pan-seared scallops or mussels in a white wine sauce.
4. International Cuisine: Gusto Italian offers authentic Italian dishes like wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta. Meanwhile, Pan Am provides traditional dishes with a global twist. This is a good place for lunch.
5. Desserts and Pastries: Don’t miss out on dessert! Try traditional English desserts like sticky toffee pudding or more modern creations from local patisseries.
Merseyside Maritime Museum
After a hearty lunch, go for a stroll at the Merseyside Maritime Museum. This is located within the Royal Albert Dock premise. The Maritime Museum offers a diverse range of exhibits that delve into the city’s rich maritime history.
Visitors can explore the “Titanic and Liverpool” exhibit, which highlights the city’s connections to the ill-fated RMS Titanic and the stories of Liverpool’s people involved in its history. The “Seized! The Border and Customs Uncovered” gallery provides an intriguing look at smuggling and the work of border and customs officers.
The “Life at Sea” section shows a glimpse of the experiences and challenges faced by seafarers, while the International Slavery Museum tackles the history and legacies of the transatlantic slave trade. The museum also features historic vessels docked outside, such as the Edmund Gardner, a historic pilot cutter that is available for tours.
Additionally, various artworks and artifacts related to Liverpool’s maritime heritage, including ship models, maritime paintings, and navigational instruments, are on display. The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibits on different maritime themes, adding to the richness of the visitor experience.
These exhibits provide a closer look into Liverpool’s maritime past and present, providing a deep understanding of the city’s seafaring heritage. What’s great about this museum and its galleries is that admission is free!
Tate Liverpool
As another establishment with the dock’s beautiful waterfront location, Tate Liverpool is one of the most prominent modern art galleries in the UK. This is just a two-minute walk from the Merseyside Maritime Museum. As a part of the Tate network of galleries, it showcases a huge range of modern and contemporary art.
Tate Liverpool houses works from the Tate Collection, featuring pieces by famous artists like Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, and J.M.W. Turner. The collection spans from the early 20th century to the present day, providing an interesting overview of modern art movements.
Also, the gallery hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year, including special projects, installations, educational programs, workshops, and events for visitors of all ages.
The Beatles Story
In just a four-minute walk, you can reach The Beatles Story, a dedicated museum brimming with memorabilia and interactive exhibits about the legendary British band. We all know their iconic songs, and some of them are “Yesterday,” “Hey Jude,” and “Here Comes the Sun,” to name a few. This just proves that this museum is a great place to celebrate the love for music and its impact.
Baltic Market
As nighttime approaches, enjoy dinner at the Baltic Market, savoring a wide selection of street food and soaking in the lively atmosphere. There are tons of foods to choose from. To get there, you’ll just have to take a 15-minute walk from Albert Dock.
Baltic Triangle
Just a few blocks away, you’ll find New Bird Street, Jordan Street, and Brick Street leading to the Baltic Triangle. In this vibrant area, you can explore a lively nightlife scene with live music. bars, and cultural spaces. The Baltic Triangle is a hub for Liverpool’s dynamic nightlife, offering the perfect setting to enjoy music and mingle with fellow tourists. Finish your day with a few drinks and check in to nearby affordable hotels such as the Hampton by Hilton Liverpool City Centre, the Baltic Hotel, or the YHA Liverpool Albert Dock Hostel. While there are many hotels to choose from, these options are budget-friendly and perfect for a weekend stay.
Day 2: Liverpool Cathedral
Start the second day slowly by taking a short taxi ride to Liverpool Cathedral. As the largest cathedral in the United Kingdom and the fifth largest in the world, it is an Anglican cathedral located in the city. Tourists get to appreciate the cathedral’s impressive tower, which stands at 100 meters high and houses the world’s highest and heaviest ringing peal of bells. The church is a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture that combines traditional Gothic elements with modern touches.
Inside, you will be awestruck by the nave, which is the longest in the world. The cathedral also features stunning stained glass windows, including the impressive Benedicite Window, the largest in the UK. Other than that, the tower provides panoramic views of Liverpool, adding it to the list as a must-visit destination.
Bold Street
Stroll along Bold Street, enjoying its mix of local and international independent shops, cafes, and cultural venues. Try out different foods, talk to locals, go shopping, and just have fun. At the end of the street, you’ll find the Church of St. Luke, which is situated at the top end. To get there, you can just take a 10-minute walk from Liverpool Cathedral.
Also on Bold Street, there are a ton of cafes that you can try out, ranging from local to international cuisines. Take your time exploring the area, because this part of Liverpool is known to be the busiest.
Sefton Park
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Sefton Park. Enjoy a walk, visit the Palm House, or the lake. The Palm House is a stunning Victorian glasshouse, home to many varieties of uniqe plants and flowers. The lake is surrounded by beautiful walking paths, perfect for a quiet stroll. To get to Sefton Park, take a 20-minute bus ride (75, 80, 80A, 86) from Bold Street.
Walker Art Gallery
If you can get enough museums to satisfy your adventures, go to the Walker Art Gallery. The Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool is one of the finest art galleries in Europe. It houses an extensive collection of artworks spanning from the Renaissance to contemporary pieces. Highlights include works by Rubens, Rembrandt, Turner, and Hockney.
Art lovers must visit this place to see masterpieces up close and appreciate a wide range of artistic expressions. Visitors can also participate in art workshops if they are available. Like the other museums in Liverpool, admission is completely free! This is just a 20-minute bus ride back to the city center from Sefton Park, then a 5-minute walk from Liverpool Lime Street Station.
Mathew Street
Mathew Street is a famous street in Liverpool, famed for its fun nightlife, music history, and cultural significance. It is particularly popular for its association with The Beatles, as it is home to the Cavern Club, where the band played a lot in their early gigs. It’s an 11-minute walk from Walker Art Gallery through the Whitechapel.
The Cavern Club
Of course, end the day with live music at the Cavern Club, the iconic venue where The Beatles performed regularly. This historic club continues to host live music performances, offering a vibrant atmosphere steeped in musical history.
Directly across from the Cavern quarter is the Cavern Pub, known for its cozy ambiance and impressive collection of Beatles and music memorabilia. Enjoy a few drinks, soak in the nostalgic environment, and sing along to live music that keeps the spirit of The Beatles alive.
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural experiences, relaxation, and vibrant nightlife, ensuring you make the most of your 2-day visit to Liverpool.
7 must-do activities in Liverpool
In addition to the fantastic itinerary that we have shared, here are 7 awesome activities you can do in Liverpool:
1.0 Take a ferry across the Mersey:
Enjoy stunning views of Liverpool’s skyline on a scenic ferry ride across the River Mersey.
2.0 Visit Anfield Stadium:
If your a football fan, a tour of the home of Liverpool FC is a must, providing a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most famous football clubs. The Anfield experience includes a tour of the stadium, where you can see the dressing rooms, walk through the players’ tunnel, and stand on the famous Klopp end. I’d definitely recommend going on a match days to catch a football game.
3.0 Visit Western Approaches Museum:
Learn more about the Battle of the Atlantic and the Western Approaches Command during World War II.
4.0 Take a Tour at the Dead House
Want to take your quick vacation to new heights? Discover Liverpool’s theatrical history and visit the Dead House, an underground morgue from the Victorian era.
5.0 Peaky Blinders Half-Day Tour:
This tour is a must for fans of the hit TV series. This half-day tour takes you through key filming locations in Birmingham and Liverpool, where the gritty drama of the Shelby family’s adventures unfolds. You’ll visit iconic spots like Shelby’s headquarters, the Garrison Pub, and various streets and buildings featured in the show.
6.0 Enjoy Music at Liverpool Philharmonic
The Liverpool Philharmonic provides a rich cultural experience, showcasing world-class orchestral performances in an iconic venue. Attending a concert here provides tourists with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant music scene and appreciate the architecture of the historic Philharmonic Hall. It’s a perfect way to experience Liverpool’s musical heritage and enjoy high-quality entertainment.
7.0 bus tour using City Explorer Liverpool
Take a bus tour via City Explorer Liverpool, this bus tour is a great way for tourists to see Liverpool’s main attractions easily. The hop-on, hop-off format lets visitors explore landmarks at their own pace, with a live guide sharing interesting facts about the city’s history, culture, and architecture. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to see a lot in a short time and have the flexibility to spend more time at their favourite spots.
Tips and tricks I would recommend
Before exploring Liverpool, you might want to consider these tips:
- Plan ahead for major attractions
Book tickets in advance for popular attractions like The Beatles Story, Anfield Stadium tours, and the Royal Liver Building 360 Degree Tower Tour to avoid long lines and secure your spot.
- Use public transportation
Liverpool has an efficient public transport system, including buses, trains, and ferries. Consider getting a day pass or using contactless payment options to save money and travel easily around the city. There is easy access to train statipns as they are scattered all around the city.
- Take a walking tour
Walking tours are a great way to learn about Liverpool’s rich history and culture. Free walking tours or themed tours, such as the Beatles or Peaky Blinders tours, can give fascinating insights and an exclusive experience for you to definitely enjoy.
- Enjoy local cuisine
Don’t miss the chance to try local delicacies like Scouse, a traditional Liverpool stew. Sample this hearty dish at various local eateries, and be sure to visit the Baltic Market if you want a glimpse of all the food options in the city.
- Check out free attractions
Liverpool has lots of free admissions, like the World Museum, Central Library, Lady Lever Art Gallery, The Bluecoat, and more! Take advantage of these places to experience the city’s street art, history, and architecture without spending a single penny.
Visit Liverpool in the summer months
Make sure when you visit Liverpool you double-check the weather forecast, no one wants rain on their short breaks away from home.
Conclusion
Liverpool on the weekend is buzzing with energy. With lively streets, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife, it’s perfect for a memorable getaway. Whether you’re a sports fan, a music lover, a museumgoer, a Peaky Blinders enthusiast, or just looking to unwind from the hectic workweek, a weekend in Liverpool promises a fun-filled experience that you will surely never forget! Don’t Forget to check out my 5 Day France Itinerary here.
