Liverpool has changed – BIG TIME. Gone are the days of shell-suits, mustaches, and deprivation. The city now offers some of the biggest and best attractions and events in the country. It cannot be denied Liverpool’s new look is all thanks to the Capital of Culture 2008 award, which fills the hearts of those loveable scousers with immense pride.
Liverpool isn’t afraid to honour its extensive maritime heritage in landmarks and events across the city, and rightly so. In fact, it’s this history that has created some of the most unforgettable events in the UK. Liverpool is very much defined by its past, but is determined to create a superb future for its residents thanks to its growing industry, flourishing tourism and building renovations.
So, if you are planning on visiting the city in the future, here are some attractions you cannot, would not, want to miss.
Museums & Galleries
As mentioned earlier, Liverpool loves history – which is why the city offers the most museums outside of London. There is a museum for every member of the family. For those who want to witness Titanic artefacts, we recommend the Merseyside Maritime Museum, and music lovers should look no further than the Fab Four museum, The Beatles Story.
If you want to explore more about Liverpool’s history, check out the new Museum of Liverpool, which explores its creating, sporting and industrial history. You can also visit the International Slavery Museum – which is the only museum in the world that’s dedicated to the history of the transatlantic slave trade. Art lovers can take their pick from the Walker Art Gallery or the Tate Modern. Want to discover some amazing treasures and explore outer space? Well, a trip to the World Museum should most definitely be ticked off your list.
30 James Street
Liverpool is often synonymous with RMS Titanic – the ill-fated White Star liner that sank on 15th April 1912, taking the lives of over 1,500 people. The reason the city’s lettering appeared on the stern of the ship is because it was the home of the White Star Line’s headquarters. Richard Norman Shaw and J. Francis Doyle designed Albion House, now known as 30 James Street, especially for the shipping company, and the building was completed in 1897. The White Star HQ was therefore RMS Titanic’s port of registry, and the ship’s plans were stored in this very building. The White Star Line’s commanders and crew also received their orders from the headquarters, including RMS Titanic’s Captain Edward Smith.
The building, which was left derelict for many years, was restored to its former glory by hotel owners Katie and Lawrence Kenwright, who fell in love with the building. 30 James Street now serves as a fitting tribute to RMS Titanic passengers and crew, and is a celebration of the White Star Line’s history. Each room within the hotel honours an individual passenger or connection to the White Star Line – ensuring their memory is preserved for many years to come.
Offering stylish decor that’s been inspired by the elegance and beauty of RMS Titanic, guests will fall in love with the beauty and architecture of this remarkable building. Guests can dine at the rooftop Carpathia Restaurant & Bar, or can even relax at 30 James Street’s Morgan Spa. Just a stone’s throw away from some of the finest attractions, it’s the perfect destination for those looking for a unique hotel experience in Liverpool.
The World Heritage Site
You cannot visit Liverpool and not explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s like going to New York and not seeing the Statue of Liberty. Stretched along the iconic Albert Dock, through the famous Pier Head and all the way to the breathtaking St George’s Hall, there are so many sights to explore. Liverpool’s maritime history has shaped the city we know and love today, and the buildings are a testament to a time when Liverpool was viewed as a major port in the world.
Crosby Beach
Unlike most beaches, Crosby Beach is a fantastic attraction come rain or shine, day or night. That’s because of Antony Gormley’s Another Place. Stretched out across three kilometers of shore and one kilometre out to see are 100 cast-iron sculptures, who are looking out to see. All the figures are based on the artists body, offering a view that’s bound to take your breath away. You have to see it to believe it.
Liverpool One
If you’re looking for a fun-filled city break that’s full of shopping, dining, drinking and entertainment, look no further than Liverpool One. The open-air shopping and leisure district offers a plethora of high street shops, independent boutiques, luxury stores and a big ol’ bundle of incredible restaurants. You can also head to the Odeon Cinema or can check out what pop-up event is happening at Chavasse Park.
LFC & EFC Stadiums
Liverpudlians are passionate about football – and the local team rivalry often separates its people into two groups: Red or Blues. When you ask any Everton fan about their team, they’ll often mention Liverpool in the same breath – and vice versa. Both clubs are proud of their teams, which are a big part of the city’s culture. Take a tour of both Everton’s Goodison Park stadium and Liverpool’s Anfield Stadium.
Mersey Ferries
Tourists across the world travel to Liverpool to step aboard a famous Mersey ferry, which offers a picturesque view of the city as you travel between Liverpool and the Wirral Peninsula. This ferry service has been in operation since the 12th century, and continues to be a popular mode of transport for both visitors and local people.
The Shankly Hotel
Bill Shankly is regarded as one of the greatest football managers of all-time, as well as one of the wittiest. The Scot once said: “Liverpool was made for me, and I was made for Liverpool” and so it seems only natural that a Bill Shankly hotel was opened in thr city. Celebrating the life and achievements of the legendary manager, the The Shankly Hotel pays tribute to Bill in its rooms, restaurant and the museum The Shankly Experience. Lads will never want to leave this stunning hotel, which offers comfortable beds, a luxurious bathroom and kitchenette and Xbox consoles.