Liverpool’s Waterfront – a guide for visiting this lovely part of the city in 2023
Liverpool is an excellent city to visit, with so much to see and do. But we have to admit that our favourite part of the city is the Waterfront. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's considered to be one of the city's most iconic areas and attracts huge amounts of visitors every year. It is also home to several of the most iconic buildings and landmarks in the whole of Liverpool. We wanted to publish a guide for anyone looking to visit this area in 2023, let's get into it:
Where is Liverpool's Waterfront?
Liverpool's Waterfront runs between the River Mersey and Strand Street and is easily accessible on foot, by public transport or by car. It's easy to park your car here, and options include Liverpool Waterfront Car Park, Liverpool ONE Parking, and the Princes Dock Car Park. Although if you can take public transport or walk to the area, that is preferable.
What is there to see and do at Liverpool's Waterfront?
It's by no means a huge area, but you'll still find plenty to see and do along Liverpool's Waterfront. The waterfront is generally split into 4 areas - Princes Dock, Pier Head, Kings Dock, and Royal Albert Dock. Here are some of the highlights:
Tate Liverpool
If there's one location to visit along Liverpool's Waterfront, we think it should be this. Tate Liverpool is an art gallery located in the Royal Albert Dock area of Liverpool, with an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. The gallery showcases works from well-known artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein. It offers a diverse range of exhibitions, events, and activities, and provides a unique and enriching cultural experience for visitors. The stunning waterfront setting makes it a must-visit destination for art lovers and tourists alike. Learn more here - tate.org.uk
Royal Liver Building
The Royal Liver Building is a historic landmark of Liverpool's waterfront, and a symbol of the city's maritime heritage. Completed in 1911, it was the tallest building in the country at the time and features two iconic Liver Birds, the mythical symbols of Liverpool.
Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the building's history and architecture, and enjoy stunning views of the city from the rooftop. Learn more here - rlb360.com
Merseyside Maritime Museum
The Merseyside Maritime Museum is a must-visit attraction in Liverpool for those interested in the city's maritime heritage. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the city's history as a major port, with exhibitions on everything from the slave trade to the Titanic. Visitors can also explore historic ships docked outside the museum, including the restored steam tugboat Daniel Adamson. With free admission and interactive exhibits, it's an enjoyable and educational experience for all ages. Learn more here - rmg.co.uk
Museum of Liverpool
The Museum of Liverpool is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of this vibrant city. Through a series of interactive exhibits, visitors can explore Liverpool's history and learn about its contribution to world history, including its role in the slave trade and the growth of the Beatles. The museum's architecture, which incorporates modern and traditional elements, is also noteworthy, making it a must-see attraction for any visitor to the city. Learn more here - liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Take the Mersey Ferry
If you head to the Pier Head section of Liverpool's Waterfront, you can hop onto The Mersey Ferry. This is an iconic symbol of Liverpool and a must-do activity when visiting the city. It offers stunning views of the Liverpool skyline, the River Mersey, and the Wirral Peninsula. The ferry is steeped in history, having transported millions of passengers since its launch in 1830. The onboard commentary provides interesting insights into the city's maritime heritage and its famous residents, making it a great way to learn about Liverpool's culture and history. Learn more here - merseyferries.co.uk
Beatles Story Museum
If you're a fan of the Fab 4, then you need to head to this museum. The Beatles Story Museum takes visitors on a journey through the history of the legendary band, from their early beginnings in Liverpool to their global superstardom. With a vast collection of memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and audio-visual presentations, visitors can learn about the Beatles' legacy and experience their music in a unique and immersive way. Also, keep an eye out for the statue of the Fab 4 in the Pier Head area. Learn more here - beatlesstory.com
Grab a bite to eat and a drink
The area is also known for its bustling nightlife, fine dining restaurants, and trendy bars, and many of the establishments along the waterfront offer stunning views across the water. Liverpool's Waterfront has a variety of fantastic dining options to choose from. One of the standout restaurants is Wreckfish, serving seasonal and locally sourced British dishes. The Panoramic 34 restaurant on the 34th floor of the West Tower offers breathtaking views of the city along with exquisite modern British cuisine. Gusto is another popular option for Italian food and cocktails with a view of the iconic Three Graces. And of course, Chung Ku (pictured) sits right on the water and is excellent for Chinese food.
Things to be aware of before visiting Liverpool's Waterfront
It can get busy in this area, so if you've got kids with you then keep an eye on them. You'll also want to allow for plenty of time to explore the waterfront properly as there is so much to see and do.
Hopefully, we've inspired you to visit Liverpool's Waterfront. If you enjoyed this guide, check out our other guides about areas of bustling areas of cities such as Brick Lane in London, Merchant City in Glasgow, and North Laine in Brighton.
Finn H
Finn is the editor of You Well and has been writing about travel, health, and more for over 10 years.