5 Places to Learn Something New in Liverpool
Where to Discover Liverpool's History, Art, and Culture?
Liverpool is a reminder that when it comes to cutting edge art and a lively cultural scene, there’s more to the UK than London. You can take in historic and contemporary masterpieces, and then of course there’s the city architecture and iconic quarters like the Waterfront area, which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.Art lovers will discover grand showrooms displaying old world masterpieces and modern industrial buildings housing the latest creative ideas. Liverpool’s sporting history, maritime heritage, and musical legacy are all in the city’s spectrum of museums. Last but not least, Liverpool takes its proud cultural heritage and plugs it into its contemporary performing arts scene in its diverse mix of small independent venues and community-orientated programs.
1. Tate Liverpool
A magnificent collection of artwork, both classic and modern
Good for: Budget
The Tate Liverpool hosts one of the biggest collections of contemporary artworks in the country. With a regular turn-around of temporary exhibitions, displaying works from the likes of Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol, and a strong permanent collection, the Tate is sure to scratch everyone’s arty-itch.
Entry is free, so this is a great place to stop if you’re traveling on a tight budget. And visitors, especially with kids, should be sure to pick up a booklet asking you to help Mildred the gallery cat find artworks around the docks. It’s a fun way to tour the dockside and seek out more art. Read more
Location: RIBA North, 21 Mann Island, Liverpool Waterfront, Liverpool, L3 1BP, UK
Open: Daily from 10 am to 5.50 pm
Phone: +44 (0)151 702 7400
Tate Liverpool
2. Walker Art Gallery
Exquisite art displayed in a spectacular building
Good for: History, Budget
On the more traditional side, you’ll find the Walker Art Gallery, established in 1877. The imposing Neo-Classical Building is a sight in and of itself, with massive fluted columns and statues of Raphael and Michelangelo watching imperiously over the passersby.
Within, the gallery’s collection boasts works of the Old Masters, including Rembrandt, Poussin, and Degas. There’s also a strong focus on Pre-Raphaelite works, and a vast sculpture gallery full of smooth-white marble statues and busts. As a stately trip back in time, it has few rivals in the region.
Location: William Brown St, Liverpool L3 8EL, UK
Open: Tuesday–Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm (closed Monday)
Phone: +44 (0)151 478 4199
Walker Art Gallery
3. Museum of Liverpool
A journey through Liverpool’s fascinating history
Good for: History, Budget
Established in 2011, this museum is based by Pier Head and situated in a striking, jagged, postmodern building. It houses over 6,000 objects which tell the tale of Liverpool, its people and its global importance.
Divided into themed zones, the exhibits will take you through ancient Neolithic settlements to the industrial revolution, using everything from costume and decorative art to oral testimonies and archeological finds. The land transport collection will delight train and car lovers alike with over 200 vehicles, while music aficionados won’t want to miss the Beatles collection. Read more
Location: Pier Head, Liverpool Waterfront, Liverpool L3 1DG, UK
Open: Tuesday–Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm (closed Monday)
Phone: +44 (0)151 478 4545
Museum of Liverpool
4. The Beatles Story
A celebration of Liverpool’s iconic Fab Four
Good for: History, Photo
The legacy of the Beatles, Liverpool’s most famous sons, is found throughout the city, from the Yellow Submarine to Penny Lane, but you can’t visit the city that gave us the world’s most famous pop-rock band without checking out this celebration of John, Paul, Ringo, and George.
This immersive experience takes you through the history of the Fab Four, reminding visitors of the hits, the artworks, and the sheer hysteria of Beatlemania. Step into recreations of some of their most iconic moments and see instruments that played some of the most famous songs in pop history. We recommend booking your spot so you don’t miss out. Read more
Location: Britannia Vaults, Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD, UK
Open: March to September: Daily from 9 am to 6.30 pm. October to February: Daily from 9 am to 5.30 pm
Phone: +44 (0)151 709 1963
The Beatles Story
5. Liverpool Cathedral
One of the largest cathedrals in the world
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
The Anglican Liverpool Cathedral is one of the largest in the UK and the 5th largest in the world, stretching into the sky with striking, intricately designed Gothic revival towers. Wander through the vast halls, appreciating the colossal sandstone columns, the smaller offset chapels, and the mighty, gold-washed high altar. Of particular interest is the west window, a mass of vibrant colors that steadily reveal a picture the further you step away from it.
There’s also a Catholic cathedral in Liverpool that’s completely different with a more modern, circular design. If you want to compare and contrast, why not explore that one, too? It’s not that far away. Read more
Location: St James Mount, Liverpool L1 7AZ, UK
Open: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm
Phone: +44 (0)151 709 6271
Liverpool Cathedral
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