47 Unique Things To Do In Liverpool

Liverpool, a city celebrated for its maritime heritage, musical history, and distinct culture, offers a range of unique things to do in Liverpool beyond the usual tourist attractions. This guide delves into lesser-known but equally fascinating experiences that capture the spirit of Liverpool.

1. Explore The Beatles Story

A visit to Liverpool is incomplete without immersing yourself in the world of The Beatles, the city’s most famous export. Located at the Albert Dock, The Beatles Story is a unique museum dedicated entirely to the life and times of the band. It offers an in-depth look at their journey from local fame to global stardom. With memorabilia, exclusive photographs, and interactive exhibits, it's a magical experience for music fans.

2. Visit the Liverpool Cathedral

Liverpool Cathedral, the largest in the UK and fifth-largest in the world, presents an awe-inspiring sight. Its Gothic architecture, stunning stained glass, and the Tower Experience offering panoramic views of the city are not to be missed. The cathedral also hosts a variety of events, including concerts and art installations, adding to its appeal.

3. Take a Mersey Ferry Cruise

For a unique perspective of Liverpool’s skyline, take a cruise on the famous Mersey Ferry. The journey across the River Mersey is iconic, offering views of the city’s waterfront, including the Royal Liver Building, one of Liverpool's Three Graces. The ferry also provides an insightful commentary on the area’s historical significance.

4. Explore the Liverpool Waterfront

The Liverpool Waterfront is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its impressive collection of Grade I listed buildings. Stroll along the Pier Head to admire the Three Graces: the Royal Liver Building, the Cunard Building, and the Port of Liverpool Building. This area is perfect for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

5. Experience the Cavern Club

The Cavern Club on Mathew Street is where The Beatles' journey to fame began. Today, it's a pilgrimage site for Beatles fans and a vibrant venue showcasing new musical talent. The atmosphere here, steeped in musical history, is electrifying.

6. Anfield Stadium Tour

Football fans can take a Liverpool stadium tour of Anfield, the home of Liverpool Football Club. The tour includes access to the dressing rooms, player’s tunnel, and the interactive museum, The Liverpool FC Story. Even for non-football fans, the stadium’s atmosphere is captivating.

7. Visit Sefton Park and Palm House

Sefton Park is a Grade I listed, 235-acre park. Its Victorian Palm House, a glass-panelled building housing a collection of exotic plants, is particularly noteworthy. The park is also home to a boating lake, fairy glen, and various statues and monuments.

8. Walk Along Hope Street

Linking the city’s two cathedrals, Hope Street is a cultural haven, lined with theatres, restaurants, and bars. The street has been voted as the 'Best Street in the UK' and is the perfect place to experience Liverpool’s contemporary culture.

9. Enjoy a Show at the Liverpool Empire Theatre

The Liverpool Empire Theatre, known for hosting a variety of performances from ballet to musicals, is a cultural landmark. Its grand architecture and interior make for a memorable evening of entertainment and is especially great for things to do in Liverpool with kids.

10. Visit the Baltic Triangle

The Baltic Triangle area, a creative and digital hub, is one of Liverpool’s most dynamic and rapidly changing areas. It's known for its street art, quirky bars, and innovative eateries. The area is also home to a number of creative businesses and art spaces.

11. Explore the Walker Art Gallery

This gallery houses one of the largest art collections in England outside of London. From Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary works,

it’s a haven for art enthusiasts. The gallery also hosts regular temporary exhibitions and events.

12. Visit the Bluecoat

The Bluecoat is Liverpool's centre for contemporary arts, the oldest of its kind in the UK. It offers a program of exhibitions, music, dance, and literature events in a serene, historic building.

13. Enjoy the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall

The Liverpool Philharmonic Hall is home to the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. It offers a range of musical performances, from classical to contemporary genres. The Art Deco interior and exceptional acoustics make it a must-visit for music lovers.

14. Explore Speke Hall

Speke Hall is a Tudor manor house on the outskirts of Liverpool. It provides a glimpse into the Tudor lifestyle and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodland. The house is known for its ornate wood carvings and Victorian interior.

15. Visit the International Slavery Museum

Located within the Merseyside Maritime Museum, this museum offers a profound insight into the history of the transatlantic slave trade. Its exhibits focus on historical and contemporary aspects of slavery, making it a thought-provoking visit.

16. Experience Liverpool’s Nightlife

Liverpool’s nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with something to suit every taste. From traditional pubs and private dining Liverpool to trendy bars and clubs, the city comes alive at night. Areas like Ropewalks and the Baltic Triangle are particularly popular for a night out.

17. Attend the Liverpool Biennial

The Liverpool Biennial is a contemporary art festival held every two years. It showcases leading international artists and turns the city into an art gallery, with installations and exhibitions in public spaces and galleries.

18. Explore the Port Sunlight Village

A short trip from Liverpool, Port Sunlight is a unique model village created by William Lever for his soap factory workers in the late 19th century. The village is an architectural gem, with a museum, art gallery, and beautifully maintained gardens.

19. Visit the Merseyside Maritime Museum

The Merseyside Maritime Museum delves into Liverpool's maritime past, exploring the city’s role in global trade and the Titanic story. The museum is located at the Albert Dock, adding to its historical ambiance.

20. Explore the Williamson Tunnels

The Williamson Tunnels are a labyrinth of underground passages built in the early 19th century. Guided tours offer a glimpse into this mysterious part of Liverpool’s history, a fascinating experience for those interested in urban exploration.

21. Visit the Sudley House

Sudley House, a Victorian merchant's house, is now a museum displaying an impressive collection of paintings, including works by Turner and Gainsborough. The house, set in tranquil gardens, provides a peaceful retreat from the city.

22. Visit the Garston Gnomes

In the suburb of Garston, a whimsical art installation known as the Garston Gnomes awaits. This quirky, lesser-known attraction features a series of gnome statues engaged in various activities, providing a playful and unusual photo opportunity.

23. Explore the Botanical Collection at Croxteth Hall

Croxteth Hall, a historic country estate, houses one of the most extensive botanical collections in the UK. Its Victorian walled garden and greenhouse are home to exotic plants and flowers, offering a serene escape from urban life.

24. Discover the Calderstones

Located in Calderstones Park, the ancient Calderstones are a group of Neolithic sandstone boulders with prehistoric carvings. They are among the oldest historical artifacts in Liverpool, offering a glimpse into the city’s distant past.

25. Visit the Victoria Gallery & Museum

Housed in a stunning Victorian building, the Victoria Gallery & Museum showcases a diverse collection of art, science, and history exhibits. It’s a hidden gem, often overlooked by visitors, but offers a fascinating insight into various aspects of culture and knowledge.

26. Explore the Secret Gardens of Sudley Estate

The Sudley Estate, known for Sudley House, also boasts a series of ‘secret gardens’. Each garden has its own theme and design, ranging from formal layouts to wilder, woodland styles. These gardens are a peaceful retreat and a delight for nature lovers.

27. Take a Ghost Walk

For those who enjoy a bit of spookiness, Liverpool offers ghost walks that explore the city’s haunted spots and tell tales of its eerie past. These walks are a unique way to learn about Liverpool’s history from a different perspective.

28. Kayaking on the Mersey

For adventure seekers, kayaking on the River Mersey offers a thrilling way to see the city. Paddle along the waterfront, enjoying unique views of the cityscape and an exhilarating experience on the water.

29. Visit the Liverpool Small Cinema

This community-run cinema offers an alternative movie-going experience, showcasing independent films, documentaries, and art-house productions. It's a hub for film enthusiasts and those looking to explore cinema beyond mainstream offerings.

30. Explore the Williamson Art Gallery & Museum

Located in Birkenhead, this gallery and museum houses a remarkable collection of local and international art, as well as exhibits on Wirral’s history. Its collections of ceramics and maritime paintings are particularly noteworthy.

31. Attend a Performance at the Unity Theatre

The Unity Theatre, a small and intimate venue, is known for its innovative and experimental performances. It's a great place to experience contemporary theatre and support local performing arts.

32. Discover the Hidden Gems of Woolton Village

Woolton Village, a picturesque suburb of Liverpool, is full of hidden gems. From historic buildings to quaint shops and cosy cafes, it offers a charming and quieter side of Liverpool life.

33. Visit the Bluecoat Display Centre

Adjacent to the Bluecoat, this display centre is a haven for contemporary craft lovers. It showcases and sells work by leading national and international craft makers, ranging from ceramics to jewellery.

34. Explore the Festival Gardens

The Liverpool Festival Gardens, originally created for the 1984 International Garden Festival, offer a tranquil green space with oriental gardens, pagodas, and lakes. It’s a lovely spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic.

35. Attend a Gig at the Invisible Wind Factory

For a unique music experience, the Invisible Wind Factory, located in the North Docks area, is an innovative venue hosting a range of music and arts events. The space itself, with its industrial aesthetic, adds to the overall experience.

36. Visit the Nordic Church and Cultural Centre

This church, also known as Gustaf Adolfs Kyrka, serves as a hub for Scandinavian culture in Liverpool. It hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts, art exhibitions, and Nordic-themed festivals.

37. Explore the Toxteth Reservoir

An example of Victorian engineering, the Toxteth Reservoir is occasionally opened to the public for art installations and events. Its cavernous interior and historic significance make it a fascinating place to explore.

38. Visit the Frank Hornby Experience

Located in Maghull, this museum is dedicated to Frank Hornby, the inventor of Meccano, Hornby Model Railways, and Dinky Toys. It’s a nostalgic journey into the world of vintage toys and models.

39. Attend the African Oyé Festival

This annual festival celebrates African music and culture. It’s the largest free African music festival in the UK and features a variety of

performances, workshops, and food stalls, showcasing the diversity of African culture.

40. Explore the Lark Lane Area

Lark Lane, known for its bohemian vibe, is filled with independent shops, cafes, and bars. It's a great place to explore for unique gifts, artisanal foods, and to enjoy a laid-back, creative atmosphere.

41. Visit the Liverpool War Museum

This small, volunteer-run museum focuses on Liverpool’s military history, especially during World War II. It provides a unique insight into the city’s role in wartime efforts and the impact of war on local communities.

42. Take a Literary Tour

Liverpool has a rich literary heritage, being the birthplace or residence of various authors. A literary tour can take you to places associated with writers like Beryl Bainbridge and Brian Patten, exploring the city’s literary landmarks.

43. Experience the Liverpool Irish Festival

Celebrating the unique links between Liverpool and Ireland, this festival features Irish music, dance, theatre, and literature. It’s a vibrant celebration of Irish culture and its influence on Liverpool.

44. Discover the Allerton Oak in Calderstones Park

The Allerton Oak, estimated to be over 1000 years old, is a historic and biological wonder located in Calderstones Park. It’s a symbol of Liverpool’s natural heritage and a must-see for nature enthusiasts.

45. Visit the Liverpool Cheese Company

Cheese lovers should not miss the Liverpool Cheese Company in Woolton. This boutique shop offers a vast selection of cheeses, from local varieties to international favourites, along with tastings and cheese-making workshops.

46. Attend Events at the Liverpool Arab Arts Festival

This festival is the UK’s longest-running celebration of Arab culture. It presents a rich program of art, music, dance, film, theatre, literature, and food, providing a unique insight into Arab artistic and cultural contributions.

47. Explore Chinatown and the Chinese Arch

Liverpool’s Chinatown is home to the largest Chinese arch outside of China. The area offers an array of authentic Chinese cuisine, supermarkets, and cultural events, particularly around Chinese New Year. It's a vibrant part of the city’s multicultural landscape.

Liverpool’s lesser-known attractions offer a diverse and enriching experience, reflecting the city’s eclectic charm and cultural depth. From historical landmarks to cultural festivals, hidden green spaces to unique arts venues, Liverpool is a city full of surprises for unique things to do in Liverpool, catering to a wide range of interests and tastes. These off-the-beaten-path experiences provide an authentic and memorable exploration of this iconic city.