36 Hours In Liverpool Travel Guide
Liverpool. The European Capital of Culture for 2008, the birthplace of the Beatles, the home to one of the world's largest sports teams and... our home! Whether you're a Liverpool native or someone who just wants to visit Liverpool for a quick weekend getaway, we're almost certain you'll have an unforgettable experience in this vibrant city if you follow our Liverpool travel guide.
The New York Times have been producing 36 Hours In travel guides for a while now. However, we noticed the Liverpool one was a bit outdated - 2008 to be exact - and Liverpool has changed quite a bit since then. Seeing as we know Liverpool just as well as we know our designer furniture, we've decided to create our own 36 Hours In Liverpool travel guide.
In this whirlwind guide we've tried to perfectly balance new with old. Allowing time for some of Liverpool's most prestigious and well known attractions, whilst making sure you experience the unique community-led and independent culture Liverpool prides itself on.
Featured image via Buckets & Spades Blog - Check out their Independent Liverpool Guide!
Photo Credit : Independent Liverpool[/caption]
We're going to start you off on Bold Street, 'The Bond Street of the North', and home to not one but two Utility stores! But that's not our first stop. Liverpool's coffee scene continues to go from strength to strength with new coffee shops popping up all over the city. Arguably the most iconic though is Bold Street Coffee. After having temporarily closed in late 2018 the much loved independent cafe has now reopened, serving the same great coffee, yummy food and minimal, indie vibes.
Photo Credit : Jack K Skite[/caption]
We're going to start you off on Bold Street, 'The Bond Street of the North', and home to not one but two Utility stores! But that's not our first stop. Liverpool's coffee scene continues to go from strength to strength with new coffee shops popping up all over the city. Arguably the most iconic though is Bold Street Coffee. After having temporarily closed in late 2018 the much loved independent cafe has now reopened, serving the same great coffee, yummy food and minimal, indie vibes.
If you're still in need of a caffeine hit then make sure to grab a coffee here too.
Photo Credit (right) : Neil Keating[/caption]
Whilst on Bold Street, it would be rude not to experience the independent stores like Forbidden Planet, COW Vintage, Resurrection and you guessed it - Utility! If you want to pick up a unique souvenir to remember your trip, nip into our gift store and pick up a Superlambanana or buy a piece of vintage Liverpool clothing from one of the many vintage stores.
Whilst you're on Bold Street, you might as well pick up a treat from French patisserie Artisane and get your design fix in our home store.
Photo Opp - When you're finished with your shopping, make sure to head up to the top of Bold Street to see Liverpool's famous Bombed Out Church. You'll also find some Neil Keating art on the wall by Ropewalks Square (above).
The Foundation for Art and Creative Technology (FACT) is the UK's leading organisation for exhibiting, promoting and supporting artists and innovation in the field of film, video and new media. The building is also just as beautiful as the art it exhibits with concrete-clad walls and angular architecture making for a stunning arts centre. Although you might not have time to catch a film at FACT, you'll certainly have time to view what's on in the exhibition centre and head into the café for some time to relax.
Photo Credit (Right) : Bob Edwards[/caption]
Now we're going to give you a bit of a choice here as everyone has different tastes. Luckily the Albert Docks can cater to all of those. It's full of galleries and museums that, sadly, you can't visit in one day (or 36 hours!). The Docks is home to the world famous Tate Liverpool museum that features works of art from prestigious artists like Tracy Emin and LS Lowry. If an art gallery isn't your thing, why not visit the Beatles Story and discover the journey behind the world's most successful band and Liverpool treasure - The Beatles. If that still doesn't interest you, there's the Maritime Museum for history buffs, the British Music Experience at the Cunard building or the Museum of Liverpool all within a short walk. Whatever museum or gallery you do decide to visit, we're sure you'll walk away with a greater sense of what Liverpool is all about.
Photo Opp - The Docks are absolutely stunning, especially in the sun. Make sure you walk by The Liver Building, Cunard Building and Port Of Liverpool Building (also known as the Three Graces) to snap a few pictures.
Photo Credit : Jason Roberts[/caption]
Time for a pit-stop to recuperate after a long day exploring Liverpool's streets. The Baltic Triangle area of Liverpool is a 10 minute walk from Liverpool ONE and plays host to one of the cities most celebrated new ventures, the Baltic Market. Located in the historic Cains Brewery the market is a street foodies dream - tuck into some halloumi fries and wash down a locally brewed Love Lane IPA in this vibrant and playful venue.
It's not just the Baltic Market that's worth seeing in the Baltic area. Some rapid growth and regeneration in recent years means that more and more businesses, coffee shops and properties are popping up their each week. So why don't you take a stroll round the area and check out everything it has to offer. Our picks would be Love Lane Brewery, Coffee & Fandisha and Craft Minded.
Photo Opp - The Baltic is covered in street art. Even if you're not a fan, we think you'll find the graffiti in this area adds a certain charming character
Ghetto Golf is a new addition to the Liverpool scene, opening its doors in late 2016. It's an 18 hole mini golf course that has glow in the dark graffiti plastered all over the walls, music blasting and lots of drinks flowing. It's £10 per person, per round and we recommend you book in advance to avoid disappointment. It's definitely an experience you won't get anywhere else and is easily worth the money - who doesn't love mini golf anyway!?
We could write a list as long as this entire post on places to eat in Liverpool but since you're in town now, we'd suggest popping back up to Bold Street where you'll find two of our favourite eateries; Mowgli Street Food and Maray. If you're in the mood for a vibrant Indian street food concept (and some ridiculously good treacle tamarind fries) then Mowgli will be right up your street. Maray, located just a short walk up the street serves up a meticulously developed small plates menu inspired by flavours of the Middle East. Here's a tip - don't leave without trying the Cauliflower (and a Lillet Spritz).
Waiting for your table? - If you've got a little time to kill before dinner we'd recommend visiting Ropes & Twines (near the bottom of Bold Street) where you'll find a wonderful selection of wines to try whilst sharing a cheeseboard or some delicious charcuterie.
One thing you'll not be stuck for in Liverpool is a fun place to have a drink with friends. The Merchant on Slater St is a popular and always lively bar serving up DJ sets, craft beers and a cracking Gin & Tonic (as well as all the usuals bevs) - if you're out for the night then this is a must visit. If you'd like something a bit more laid back then stop in at Bunch Wine Bar (specialising in natural wines for the connoisseurs among you) or Petit Cafe de Coin where you'll find live jazz on the weekend.
For more bar suggestions make sure to check out our guide to the best bars in Liverpool.
So your first day in Liverpool is over. You've seen the bustling shopping street of Bold Street, had some of the best food Liverpool has to offer and immersed yourself in some Liverpool History. Tomorrow, you're going to be heading out of the centre to see some of Liverpool's most intriguing sights. We recommend using a car or public transport (Merseyrail) for the next day as you'll be venturing just out of the city centre. Need somewhere to stay on your trip to Liverpool? Why not check out the Titanic Hotel and steep yourself in Liverpool's Maritime history. Located in the North warehouse of Stanley Dock which was once humming with emigrants and merchants from around the world.
The Tavern on Smithdown Road was proudly recognised as having the Best Breakfast in Britain (2014 & 2015)! So if you're a sucker for a full english (veggie options available), we recommend you make the short jaunt out of the city to experience this belly busting brekky. We're certain it will cure any form of hangover you have from yesterday's antics.
Photo Credit : Tom Potter (left) & Pete Carr (right)[/caption]
Port Sunlight is one of the most intriguing parts of Liverpool. Built in 1877 by Lord William Lever to accompany the expansion of their hugely successful soap company - Sunlight (which soon formed part of Unilever). The small district 'over the water' was built to accompany workers in Lever's new soap factory also located in Port Sunlight. Most of the buildings in the area are grade two listed, one of which is the stunning Lady Lever Art Gallery. The Lady Lever has one of the largest historical antiques collections in the world that spans British, Chinese and Greek artefacts. Lever collected art as a hobby, but his collection soon outgrew his stately homes which warranted for the opening of the Lady Lever in 1922 to display most of his collection. A walk around Port Sunlight will give you an idea of life in the early 1900s.
Photo Opp - Port Sunlight is full of photo opportunities. The Leverhulme war memorial is a stunning statue right outside the Lady Lever Art Gallery which also features stunning architecture. The whole area feels like an early 20th century film set.
Photo Credit : PhotoEverywhere.co.uk[/caption]
'Another Place' you need to visit in Liverpool is Crosby beach. Crosby is a stretch of beach located just North of Liverpool city centre that is easily accessible via public transport. As well as offering a lovely scenic walk along the west coast of England, you also get to see a rather intriguing art installation - Another Place by Antony Gormley. Another Place features 100 cast iron statues that span over 3km wide and 1km out to sea. Watch as the tide gently submerges the statues throughout the day.
Photo Opp - The blustery weather of the west coast of England and the cast iron statues make for a lovely photo opportunity. Hang around and wait for the sunset for a picturesque view of the statues.
Photo Credit : The Guardian[/caption]
Time for the last stop of the tour and we're heading just out of town to try some of the best food Liverpool has to offer. Belzan opened in early 2018 and quickly became a crowd favourite. Don't take our word for it though, check out this glowing review on The Guardian. Belzan, located on Smithdown Rd is a relaxed bistro and bar that uses local ingredients to serve up seasonal food, wines and cocktails. In their words, they "use local ingredients when it makes sense, prepare all the cool stuff in house ourselves, and buy from friends when possible". You won't be disappointed.
So our whistle stop Liverpool travel guide is over. Even though you've visited some of the best Liverpool has to offer, there's still a lot more to see! Other notable Liverpool sights and things to do in Liverpool are; Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral - A stunning piece of architecture in the city centre. If you don't get the chance to have a look around, we're sure you'll see it in the Liverpool skyline. The Bluecoat - A centre for arts and design that showcases work across several artistic disciplines and hosts creative events and fairs. Liverpool Philharmonic - Home to the oldest continuing professional symphony orchestra, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. The Philarmonic hosts a range of musical and theatrical performances throughout the year. The Everyman Theatre - An independent theatre in the heart of Liverpool that's committed to brilliant, forward-thinking theatre that responds to its time and place. Walker Art Gallery - Right outside Liverpool Lime Street, the Walker Gallery houses one of the largest art collections in Britain. Sefton Park Palmhouse - A serene Palm House in Liverpool's favourite green space, Sefton Park.
36 Hours In Liverpool Itinerary
Now 36 hours may not seem like a lot of time, but if you follow this guide we're certain you'll get the most out of the city in a short amount of time. We recommend arriving early Saturday morning (9am). Even if you don't want to follow the guide to the minute, you can just take inspiration from our recommendations!Saturday 9am - Coffee @ Bold Street Coffee
[caption id="attachment_13083" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo Credit : Independent Liverpool[/caption]
We're going to start you off on Bold Street, 'The Bond Street of the North', and home to not one but two Utility stores! But that's not our first stop. Liverpool's coffee scene continues to go from strength to strength with new coffee shops popping up all over the city. Arguably the most iconic though is Bold Street Coffee. After having temporarily closed in late 2018 the much loved independent cafe has now reopened, serving the same great coffee, yummy food and minimal, indie vibes.
Saturday 10am - Grab a bite @ Mother Espresso
[caption id="attachment_13082" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo Credit : Jack K Skite[/caption]
We're going to start you off on Bold Street, 'The Bond Street of the North', and home to not one but two Utility stores! But that's not our first stop. Liverpool's coffee scene continues to go from strength to strength with new coffee shops popping up all over the city. Arguably the most iconic though is Bold Street Coffee. After having temporarily closed in late 2018 the much loved independent cafe has now reopened, serving the same great coffee, yummy food and minimal, indie vibes.
If you're still in need of a caffeine hit then make sure to grab a coffee here too.
Saturday 10am - Browse Bold Street
[caption id="attachment_13084" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo Credit (right) : Neil Keating[/caption]
Whilst on Bold Street, it would be rude not to experience the independent stores like Forbidden Planet, COW Vintage, Resurrection and you guessed it - Utility! If you want to pick up a unique souvenir to remember your trip, nip into our gift store and pick up a Superlambanana or buy a piece of vintage Liverpool clothing from one of the many vintage stores.
Whilst you're on Bold Street, you might as well pick up a treat from French patisserie Artisane and get your design fix in our home store.
Photo Opp - When you're finished with your shopping, make sure to head up to the top of Bold Street to see Liverpool's famous Bombed Out Church. You'll also find some Neil Keating art on the wall by Ropewalks Square (above).
Saturday 11am - FACT
The Foundation for Art and Creative Technology (FACT) is the UK's leading organisation for exhibiting, promoting and supporting artists and innovation in the field of film, video and new media. The building is also just as beautiful as the art it exhibits with concrete-clad walls and angular architecture making for a stunning arts centre. Although you might not have time to catch a film at FACT, you'll certainly have time to view what's on in the exhibition centre and head into the café for some time to relax.
Saturday 1pm - The Docks
[caption id="attachment_13086" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo Credit (Right) : Bob Edwards[/caption]
Now we're going to give you a bit of a choice here as everyone has different tastes. Luckily the Albert Docks can cater to all of those. It's full of galleries and museums that, sadly, you can't visit in one day (or 36 hours!). The Docks is home to the world famous Tate Liverpool museum that features works of art from prestigious artists like Tracy Emin and LS Lowry. If an art gallery isn't your thing, why not visit the Beatles Story and discover the journey behind the world's most successful band and Liverpool treasure - The Beatles. If that still doesn't interest you, there's the Maritime Museum for history buffs, the British Music Experience at the Cunard building or the Museum of Liverpool all within a short walk. Whatever museum or gallery you do decide to visit, we're sure you'll walk away with a greater sense of what Liverpool is all about.
Photo Opp - The Docks are absolutely stunning, especially in the sun. Make sure you walk by The Liver Building, Cunard Building and Port Of Liverpool Building (also known as the Three Graces) to snap a few pictures.
Saturday 4pm - Street Food & Baltic Market
[caption id="attachment_13087" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo Credit : Jason Roberts[/caption]
Time for a pit-stop to recuperate after a long day exploring Liverpool's streets. The Baltic Triangle area of Liverpool is a 10 minute walk from Liverpool ONE and plays host to one of the cities most celebrated new ventures, the Baltic Market. Located in the historic Cains Brewery the market is a street foodies dream - tuck into some halloumi fries and wash down a locally brewed Love Lane IPA in this vibrant and playful venue.
It's not just the Baltic Market that's worth seeing in the Baltic area. Some rapid growth and regeneration in recent years means that more and more businesses, coffee shops and properties are popping up their each week. So why don't you take a stroll round the area and check out everything it has to offer. Our picks would be Love Lane Brewery, Coffee & Fandisha and Craft Minded.
Photo Opp - The Baltic is covered in street art. Even if you're not a fan, we think you'll find the graffiti in this area adds a certain charming character
Saturday 6pm - Ghetto Golf
Ghetto Golf is a new addition to the Liverpool scene, opening its doors in late 2016. It's an 18 hole mini golf course that has glow in the dark graffiti plastered all over the walls, music blasting and lots of drinks flowing. It's £10 per person, per round and we recommend you book in advance to avoid disappointment. It's definitely an experience you won't get anywhere else and is easily worth the money - who doesn't love mini golf anyway!?
Saturday 8pm - Dinner
We could write a list as long as this entire post on places to eat in Liverpool but since you're in town now, we'd suggest popping back up to Bold Street where you'll find two of our favourite eateries; Mowgli Street Food and Maray. If you're in the mood for a vibrant Indian street food concept (and some ridiculously good treacle tamarind fries) then Mowgli will be right up your street. Maray, located just a short walk up the street serves up a meticulously developed small plates menu inspired by flavours of the Middle East. Here's a tip - don't leave without trying the Cauliflower (and a Lillet Spritz).
Waiting for your table? - If you've got a little time to kill before dinner we'd recommend visiting Ropes & Twines (near the bottom of Bold Street) where you'll find a wonderful selection of wines to try whilst sharing a cheeseboard or some delicious charcuterie.
Saturday 10pm - Drinks
One thing you'll not be stuck for in Liverpool is a fun place to have a drink with friends. The Merchant on Slater St is a popular and always lively bar serving up DJ sets, craft beers and a cracking Gin & Tonic (as well as all the usuals bevs) - if you're out for the night then this is a must visit. If you'd like something a bit more laid back then stop in at Bunch Wine Bar (specialising in natural wines for the connoisseurs among you) or Petit Cafe de Coin where you'll find live jazz on the weekend.
For more bar suggestions make sure to check out our guide to the best bars in Liverpool.
So your first day in Liverpool is over. You've seen the bustling shopping street of Bold Street, had some of the best food Liverpool has to offer and immersed yourself in some Liverpool History. Tomorrow, you're going to be heading out of the centre to see some of Liverpool's most intriguing sights. We recommend using a car or public transport (Merseyrail) for the next day as you'll be venturing just out of the city centre. Need somewhere to stay on your trip to Liverpool? Why not check out the Titanic Hotel and steep yourself in Liverpool's Maritime history. Located in the North warehouse of Stanley Dock which was once humming with emigrants and merchants from around the world.
Sunday 10am - Breakfast @ The Tavern
The Tavern on Smithdown Road was proudly recognised as having the Best Breakfast in Britain (2014 & 2015)! So if you're a sucker for a full english (veggie options available), we recommend you make the short jaunt out of the city to experience this belly busting brekky. We're certain it will cure any form of hangover you have from yesterday's antics.
Sunday 12pm - Port Sunlight
[caption id="attachment_13101" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo Credit : Tom Potter (left) & Pete Carr (right)[/caption]
Port Sunlight is one of the most intriguing parts of Liverpool. Built in 1877 by Lord William Lever to accompany the expansion of their hugely successful soap company - Sunlight (which soon formed part of Unilever). The small district 'over the water' was built to accompany workers in Lever's new soap factory also located in Port Sunlight. Most of the buildings in the area are grade two listed, one of which is the stunning Lady Lever Art Gallery. The Lady Lever has one of the largest historical antiques collections in the world that spans British, Chinese and Greek artefacts. Lever collected art as a hobby, but his collection soon outgrew his stately homes which warranted for the opening of the Lady Lever in 1922 to display most of his collection. A walk around Port Sunlight will give you an idea of life in the early 1900s.
Photo Opp - Port Sunlight is full of photo opportunities. The Leverhulme war memorial is a stunning statue right outside the Lady Lever Art Gallery which also features stunning architecture. The whole area feels like an early 20th century film set.
Sunday 3pm - Crosby Beach
[caption id="attachment_13097" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo Credit : PhotoEverywhere.co.uk[/caption]
'Another Place' you need to visit in Liverpool is Crosby beach. Crosby is a stretch of beach located just North of Liverpool city centre that is easily accessible via public transport. As well as offering a lovely scenic walk along the west coast of England, you also get to see a rather intriguing art installation - Another Place by Antony Gormley. Another Place features 100 cast iron statues that span over 3km wide and 1km out to sea. Watch as the tide gently submerges the statues throughout the day.
Photo Opp - The blustery weather of the west coast of England and the cast iron statues make for a lovely photo opportunity. Hang around and wait for the sunset for a picturesque view of the statues.
Sunday 6pm - Dinner at Belzan
[caption id="attachment_13096" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo Credit : The Guardian[/caption]
Time for the last stop of the tour and we're heading just out of town to try some of the best food Liverpool has to offer. Belzan opened in early 2018 and quickly became a crowd favourite. Don't take our word for it though, check out this glowing review on The Guardian. Belzan, located on Smithdown Rd is a relaxed bistro and bar that uses local ingredients to serve up seasonal food, wines and cocktails. In their words, they "use local ingredients when it makes sense, prepare all the cool stuff in house ourselves, and buy from friends when possible". You won't be disappointed.
So our whistle stop Liverpool travel guide is over. Even though you've visited some of the best Liverpool has to offer, there's still a lot more to see! Other notable Liverpool sights and things to do in Liverpool are; Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral - A stunning piece of architecture in the city centre. If you don't get the chance to have a look around, we're sure you'll see it in the Liverpool skyline. The Bluecoat - A centre for arts and design that showcases work across several artistic disciplines and hosts creative events and fairs. Liverpool Philharmonic - Home to the oldest continuing professional symphony orchestra, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. The Philarmonic hosts a range of musical and theatrical performances throughout the year. The Everyman Theatre - An independent theatre in the heart of Liverpool that's committed to brilliant, forward-thinking theatre that responds to its time and place. Walker Art Gallery - Right outside Liverpool Lime Street, the Walker Gallery houses one of the largest art collections in Britain. Sefton Park Palmhouse - A serene Palm House in Liverpool's favourite green space, Sefton Park.
Recently had a trip to Liverpool? Why don't you share your photos with us on Instagram using the hashtag #36HoursInLiverpool.
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Featured image via Buckets & Spades Blog - Check out their Independent Liverpool Guide here!