Liverpool is a city in the northwest of England that we know for football, The Beatles, and Woolworths, the famous department store that went under in 2008. With all the celebrities, we would almost forget that Liverpool is also a bustling port city in addition. The district around the old port area has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004.
Moreover, the cultural scene is livelier than ever. Liverpool even has the second most museums and art galleries in England after London. Want to take a city break to this energetic British city? Find great tips for a holiday in Liverpool here!
While the city itself holds great promise, a short distance away, Pontins - Prestatyn Sands Holiday Park offers 3-star accommodation that can serve as a tranquil escape after a long day in the bustling city of Liverpool. This seaside resort provides a comfortable rest spot that compliments any Liverpool adventure.
If you plan to immerse yourself fully into the city, there are plenty of lodging options right in the heart of Liverpool. For a list of top-rated hotels in the city, visit tophotels.com to book the most popular hotels in Liverpool.
Or if you’re looking for a unique and luxurious Liverpool experience, consider the Signature Living Apart-Hotel. Not only does it offer spacious apartments and suites, but it's also within walking distance of the city’s major attractions. This hotel perfectly encapsulates the city's vibrant atmosphere and is ideal for visitors who want to live life the Liverpool way.
Places to visit in Liverpool
Pier Head
Pier Head is a quay along the Mersey River with three imposing buildings: the Royal Liver Building, the Cunard Building and the Port of Liverpool Building. Together, they are known as The Three Graces. Since 2004, these buildings have been on UNESCO's World Heritage List. If you face a photo of Liverpool, these buildings will not be missing from it.
The most iconic building on Liverpool's waterfront is the Royal Liver Building. This landmark building with its two bell towers was built in 1911 for an insurance company. At the time, it was one of the first reinforced concrete buildings in the world. In 2019, the building is open to the public. Start the tour in the visitor centre downstairs where you can learn all about the history of the Royal Liver Building. After viewing the exhibits, you can join a tour to the 10th and 15th floors to enjoy spectacular 360° views of the Liverpool skyline. Address: Pier Head, Liverpool L3 1HU, United Kingdom.
The five warehouses found in Albert Dock are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Until 1972, these warehouses served as loading areas for ships calling at the Port of Liverpool. In the early 1980s, it was decided that the houses needed to be refurbished and since then they have housed various museums, restaurants, hotels and businesses. The Albert Dock is therefore now considered one of the city's main tourist attractions.
The Beatles Story
For true Beatles fans, the Albert Dock houses a special exhibition about the Liverpool pop group, which shows all the highlights of the Fabulous Four. During the audio tour, you will get all the information about the four men and hear how four ordinary working-class boys grew into the world-famous pop group.
Metropolitan Cathedral
An unusual church building is the Metropolitan Cathedral, which was completed in 1967. The structure can be called anything but boring, and because of its shape, the circular church is also affectionately called 'Paddy's Wigwam'. A stained-glass window allows light to enter through the top. It is the largest Catholic cathedral in England.
Liverpool Cathedral
When construction began in 1904, it was intended to be the largest Anglican church in the world. However, it took many years for the church to be finished and it was not until 1978 that it was completed. Liverpool Cathedral Church of Christ, as the church is officially called, is 189 metres long and its highest point is over 100 metres. The church organ is particularly impressive. With over 10,000 pipes, it is the largest pipe organ in Britain.
Western Approaches Museum
Hidden under the centre of Liverpool during World War II was a huge secret bunker where the British Navy had its headquarters. From the bunker, the military leadership made crucial decisions to eliminate Nazi ships on the Atlantic. The bunker now houses the Western Approaches Museum where you can wander through a labyrinth of rooms and offices where stressed commanders were at work day and night.
See the main nerve centre, The Map Room, and original documents and instruments the British used to locate the enemy. Here you even see one of the two war telephones that had a direct connection to Churchill's infamous War Cabinet. A guided tour on your own takes about 1½ hours. Address: 1-3 Rumford St, Liverpool L2 8SZ, United Kingdom. Website: www.liverpoolwarmuseum.co.uk
Practical information for a holiday in Liverpool
Staying overnight in Liverpool
If you want to stay in a special location during your holiday in Liverpool, book one of the many themed rooms in Arthouse Hotel Liverpool. Sleep in a room decorated with items reminiscent of John Lennon, Kiss or Marilyn Monroe, or become part of famous films like Grease, My Fair Lady or Mary Poppins.
Eating and drinking in Liverpool
Liverpool's only floating restaurant is The Floating Grace. While you enjoy an exquisite three-course dinner, the ship sails through Liverpool's eight docks and overlooks the historic docklands.
Travelling to Liverpool
South of the city is Liverpool Airport. From the airport, several buses run to the city centre. The express service Airlink is the fastest, taking you to your destination in just under half an hour. A few regular scheduled services also go towards the city centre. The scheduled buses are considerably cheaper, but the travel time is also twice as long.
For more information on holidaying in Liverpool, check out the official website of the tourist office: www.visitliverpool.com
