It’s official, the United Kingdom has a new King and is ready to welcome visitors for a summer abroad. While London grabs the headlines, the town of Liverpool will grab your heart. Located an hour’s plane ride north of London or three hours via a beautiful train ride, this city completes any trip across the pond. Keep reading for a complete list of what to expect when visiting Liverpool, England.
Getting to Liverpool
There are plenty of options to get to Liverpool whether you prefer to fly direct, rent a car from another area of England, or take public transportation from various cities. Many people opt to fly to London, see the city in all its glory, and head north via train. There are direct trains from London to Liverpool that take close to theee hours and can range from $100-$225 USD (at that time we’re writing this in spring 2023).
If someone is looking to cut down time on the train, they can fly to Manchester, about an hour away from Liverpool. Aer Lingus flies direct from JFK right into Manchester, and then depending on how adventurous, from Manchester, renting a car is possible (if you can do British right side of the car driving). Don’t forget that in the UK, driving on the opposite side of the street is the only way to drive, and it takes some getting used to, so make sure preparations are in order. Otherwise, visitors can hop on a train that takes goes right to Liverpool proper.
If travelers would rather skip all the other options and just get to Liverpool, flying straight to Liverpool from the Hoboken area from EWR or JFK is your best bet. Generally, the flights are a little pricier (+ $1,000 USD) and usually, have a connection through a different airport such as London.
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What to Do
Magical Mystery Tour | Meet at the Albert Dock
A visit is incomplete to Liverpool without seeing The Beatles’ imprint on the city. There are symbols everywhere paying homage to the four pillars of British rock ‘n’ roll from statues to museums and murals. To take in the full history of the band’s origins and to visit all of the iconic landmarks, we recommend hopping aboard The Magical Mystery Tour bus. It’s a hard vehicle to miss, decked out in the album artwork, the crew manning the excursion is both knowledgeable and armed with the dry sense of humor made famous by the Brits. The birthplace of John Lennon, Paul McCartney’s family residence, and even the real “Penny Lane” and “Strawberry Fields” are among the sights. After seeing all the sights, each visitor is given a free pass for entry into the legendary Cavern Club, known for being the birthplace of The Beatles.
Spend the Day in Wales | Wales, United Kingdom
Escape the city and head to the countryside for a taste of the rural culture of Wales. A short drive from Liverpool, Wales has a landscape dotted with sheep and farmland with a few rogue castles mixed in. Activities like perusing local shops and ordering fish and chips at a local eatery are quintessential. Venture to a town named Conwy, nestled near the coast with a towering Castle overlooking a charming village. The drive is not for the faint of heart, expect to come across some narrow roads surrounded by gorgeous scenery on both sides.
Cavern Club | 10 Mathew Street, Liverpool L2 6RE, United Kingdom
In January 1957, the Cavern Club opened its doors in Liverpool. Just four years later in 1961, a little-known band featuring John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison made their debut calling themselves The Beatles (Ringo joined the group a few years later). Since then, the Cavern Club has been featuring some of the biggest acts in the music business, hosting live music on the daily. Although there have been many changes to the club over the years, what’s there today represents a historic recreation of the club the Beatles played in all those years ago. For any music fan, this location is a must.
Maritime Museum | Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AQ, United Kingdom
The Royal Albert Docks is a great place for a water-side stroll that transports to a different time and place. The Maritime Museum, located at the docks, is an amazing way to learn about the significance of Liverpool from the 19th century to the present day. The Museum boasts impressive exhibits all for free. Taking a walk outside the museum, the beautiful view of Birkenhead (a quick drive through the Queensway Tunnel) and iconic locks on the gates that border the water are the standout attraction. The locks have a similarity to those found on bridges in Paris, France, with replicas sitting idly by.
Where to Stay
Accommodations in Liverpool run the gambit from a cozy boutique hotel to popular big-name brand places like Hilton and Marriott.
Aloft Liverpool | 1 North John Street, Liverpool L2 5QW, United Kingdom
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One affordable option that doesn’t sacrifice cleanliness or comfort is the Aloft Liverpool. This converted Royal Insurance HQ building has so much charm, but still has the benefits of being in the heart of town, mere blocks away from the legendary Cavern Club, the birthplace of The Beatles. There is a bar that is supposed to bring a bit of NYC across the pond.
Hard Days Night Hotel | Central Buildings, North John Street, Liverpool L2 6RR, United Kingdom
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This is the only Beatle-inspired hotel that combines a love for the iconic band with hotel luxury. Even the restaurants and bars have Beatles-inspired decor. Make sure to check the website to see if there are any vacation packages available including the “Dinner Bed and Breakfast” package with a luxury room and breakfast in the morning.
Pullman Liverpool | King’s Dock, Port of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 4FP, United Kingdom
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For those who are more Yellow submarine dwellers, staying closer to the King’s dock at Pullman Hotel Liverpool is a fun option. Located within Liverpool’s iconic waterfront, this hotel is luxurious, but without the hefty price tag. The Pullman is right by all of the arenas and centers, so try to catch a concert or performance of some kind.
Titanic Hotel Liverpool | Stanley Dock, Regent Road, Liverpool L3 0AN, United Kingdom
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This converted warehouse is actually where the shipping company that was responsible for the Titanic (and other ships) was located. Don’t let its namesake concern you — it’s a pretty luxe and unique spot — complete with a bar and wellness spa, Maya Blue Wellness, hidden under the docks.
Where to Eat
Brasco Lounge | 27a, Mann Island Buildings, Liverpool L3 1BP, United Kingdom
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A quiet cafe that is sure to be a great start to the day, Brasco Lounge has a variety of food for everyone (oh and it’s dog-friendly). The menu includes allergen-friendly meals, along with vegan and vegetarian options all packed with English Charm. Located at Royal Albert docks, Brasco Lounge is right next to the Liverpool Museum and is a great place to start or end the day of exploring.
Brown’s Liverpool | One, 43 Paradise Street, Liverpool L1 3EU, United Kingdom
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The dining presentation looks good, but trust that the food tastes even better. This brasserie has a lovely upscale vibe, and it’s good to eat solo at the bar or with a bigger group. A fan favorite is the French 75 cocktail and the traditional fish and chips.
Cosy Club | 37c Paradise Street, Liverpool L1 3EU, United Kingdom
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Cosy Club is a bit hard to find, but trust us when we say that it’s worth the adventure to get to. Located upstairs in the main shopping area, this restaurant really is extremely cozy. The decor is eclectic paintings, as well as tables and chairs. This place is extremely allergy-friendly, with an entirely separate menu for those who are gluten-free.
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Pieminister | 31 Bold Street, Liverpool L1 4DN, United Kingdom
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A casual stop for some amazing English pies, Pieminister offers an array of interesting choices along with classics, all with the essential gravy. Pieminister even serves up gluten-free pies that taste just as good as the originals. With an array of cocktails, sides, and pies, all at an amazing price, Pieminister is a great stop for lunch during a busy day of sightseeing or dinner after exploring the city. Located on a Pedestrian walkway, this place is in the center of the shops and within walking distance of historic Mathew Street.
Where to Shop
Liverpool One | 5 Wall Street, Liverpool L1 8JQ, United Kingdom
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This is an outdoor shopping mall that has everything possibly needed for a day of spending till the vacation budget is fully blown. It’s two floors and filled with everything from a Charlotte Tilbury store to Lindt. There are chain cafes and other eateries sprinkled throughout, so definitely visit during a rainy part of the day.
Metquarter Liverpool | 35 Whitechapel, Liverpool L1 6DA, United Kingdom
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This mall is located right by the Cavern Club. Complete with boutique shops, it’s a nice indoor shopping area perfect for a rainy afternoon. The Art Quarter Liverpool is here and features some great local artists.
Pride of Liverpool | Unit – 20-21, Albert Dock, The Colonnades, Liverpool L3 4AA, United Kingdom
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Getting a souvenir from Liverpool is a must, and the Pride of Liverpool is where customers will find something for everyone. 
