Liverpool is a fantastic modern city that offers a truly unique experience, distinguishing it from its other northern neighbours. If you’re walking around the port city, you’ll quickly realise that it’s completely unpredictable, with something new and unexpected waiting around every corner.
It’s a friendly city that’s full of stories waiting to be uncovered, so if you’re planning a trip there and want to get the most out of it, it can end up feeling a bit overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to some of Liverpool’s must-see sights that cut through the noise and definitely deserve a spot on your bucket list.
Royal Albert Dock
If you want to really get a sense of Liverpool’s unique charm and industrial heritage, then look no further than Royal Albert Dock. Originally opened in 1846, the dock was a marvel of engineering during its conception, put together with cast iron, brick, and stone, combining to create an overall style that feels both authentic and polished, still to this day.
If you stroll along the waterfront, you’ll be blessed with panoramic views of the River Mersey and a fresh ocean breeze off the Irish Sea. But it isn’t just about the views – this is a city, after all. As you walk along the dock, you’ll feel a buzz of activity from the numerous commercial opportunities on offer. You’ll be able to peruse comfy coffee shops, high-street shops and a variety of independent restaurants that offer everything from locally sourced seafood to Neapolitan pizza.
Furthermore, I find that whenever I visit Liverpool, Albert Dock is an excellent base for exploring the rest of the city. A few major attractions are clustered in and around the dock itself – like the Tate Liverpool – so it’s easy to spend an entire day here without running out of things to do. If it’s your first time in Liverpool and you’re only staying for a short amount of time, then start here. It’ll give you a sense of history, natural scenery, and the buzz of a modern metropolitan city.
The Beatles Story
You can’t go to Liverpool (just as I can’t write an article about Liverpool) without acknowledging their most popular musical export. It doesn’t matter if you’re a superfan or are yet to be converted. The Beatles Story is a fantastic exhibition that charts the band’s rise to global superstardom, showcasing their humble beginnings at small pub gigs, breakout moments, and the explosive cultural phenomenon that came soon after.
But it isn’t just a simple museum-like tour through time, with a few black and white photos on the wall. They’ve actually gone as far as recreating some of the most important locations in The Beatles’ story, like Abbey Road Studios and the Cavern Club, where The Beatles played over 300 times early on in their career. You’ll also find priceless relics from the era, like Ringo’s drum kit, George’s guitar, Paul’s bass, and John’s piano.
I don’t claim to be a massive Beatles fan, but I came away from the exhibit with a much better understanding of how those four working-class musicians reshaped music and why so much of their story is tied to the city of Liverpool itself.
Liverpool Cathedral
If you’re having a wander through Liverpool, then the cathedral is hard to miss. It’s an absolute giant. Officially known as the Cathedral Church of Christ in Liverpool, it’s the biggest cathedral in the UK and one of the biggest in the world, with a height of over 300 feet.
If you’re feeling curious and step inside, you’ll soon be greeted by enormous Gothic arches, wide open spaces, and dazzling stained-glass windows that flood the inside with colour on a sunny day. The recent renovation has just finished, so the building should be spotless; there shouldn’t be a single builder, bit of scaffolding, or concrete breaker in sight.
If you’re trying to hit your step goal, you can head up the tower itself. The climb to the top is worth it, as you’ll be spoiled with far-spanning views of the city’s iconic skyline and River Mersey; on a clear day, you might even be able to see the mountains in the Lake District.
Liverpool ONE
Now, if you’re looking for something more on the modern side, then Liverpool ONE is probably what you’re looking for from a modern British city.
The outdoor shopping centre is jam-packed with high street brands, designer outlets, and independent stores that’ll tempt you inside for a quick browse, but you’ll leave with several bags full of impulse buys.
But it isn’t just shops. If you’re looking for entertainment, then there’s also a cinema, mini golf, and numerous cafes, bars and restaurants. If you’re looking to break up the museums and landmarks and just fancy an easy afternoon of retail therapy, Liverpool ONE is your best bet.
Final Thoughts
Liverpool is one of the UK’s most prosperous cities at the moment, and it’s easy to understand why. It’s small enough to explore on foot or using affordable public transport, while being rich with enough sights to see to fill up several days. Take your time and have a good wander between sights – leave plenty of room in your schedule to make spontaneous discoveries.
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