With the announcement that Eurovision 2023 would be hosted by Liverpool, what better time to visit this incredible city and take in all that it has to offer? It only seems appropriate that a city awarded Capital of Culture and one that is known for its diverse music scene would be chosen to be the host of the most anticipated music event of the year on behalf of Ukraine.
Whether you've secured your spot at the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 or you'll just happen to be in the city during this time, we've put together a guide on the best things to do in Liverpool ahead of the week-long event. Not to mention, there's still time to get your hands on tickets for after-parties around Liverpool!
While there's plenty to do around Eurovision, with themed parties all over the city, we thought we'd put together a guide on the best things to do in Liverpool. Whether you've been before or it's your first time visiting, here are some unmissable things you need to do during your stay.
A trip into town
Although we suspect you'll most likely be central if you're planning a trip, Liverpool City Centre is a hub of culture that you simply can't miss. From the sprawling outdoor shopping centre, Liverpool One, to the independent local businesses that line bohemian Bold Street, there's something for everyone's tastes.
Mathew Street, Concert Square and Seel Street showcase the city's lively nightlife, while Castle Street and its surrounding areas are upmarket places where you can wine and dine. An array of museums, galleries and theatres are where you can take in the culture. And, of course, that's not forgetting the city's reputable music scene. Read on for more.
A walk around the docks
One of our favourite locations in Liverpool are the stunning Royal Albert Docks and Pier Head. A mismatch between the old and the new, taking a walk along the waterfront showcases the city's rich history. Particularly picturesque during a sunset or when it's lit up of a night, you can take in the sight of the iconic Liver Birds that preside over the city.
During the day, the Docks also provide an opportunity to take a Liverpool City Bus tour, ride the Wheel of Liverpool, visit the Liverpool Beatles Story Exhibition or even take a ferry 'cross the Mersey. A day trip to nearby New Brighton Beach or Birkenhead Park (the inspiration for New York's Central Park) could also be on the cards.
All of the Beatles tours
There are so many local Liverpool legends in the music scene. From Gerry and The Pacemakers, The Searchers, Cilla Black and The Real Thing to Frankie Goes To Hollywood, A Flock Of Seagulls, Echo and The Bunnymen and The La's. However, nothing can quite compare to The Beatles.
Take a walk in their shoes and take a tour of the Beatles' childhood homes, or visit landmarks that inspired their works. You'll find references in Penny Lane, Strawberry Fields and St. Peter's Church in Woolton, (which is where The Beatles began as The Quarrymen). Hop on the Magical Mystery Tour Bus or guided Beatles tours to visit these destinations.
If you're looking to drink in their old haunts, you can't forget The Cavern Club, The White Star and The Grapes on Mathew Street. As well as Ye Cracke, The Philarmonic and The Jacaranda amongst others. The Cavern Club is one that you can't miss for its atmosphere, live music performances and prolific history.
There's also the Liverpool Beatles Museum on Mathew Street and the Liverpool Beatles Story Exhibition on The Royal Albert Dock if you want to learn more about this iconic Liverpool band.
A stroll around the many parks
We just had to include these parks in our guide on the best things to do in Liverpool. Although there's Chavasse Park in Liverpool One shopping centre, a green space to take a breather after a busy shopping trip, we'd also recommend visiting the following.
Sefton Park with its breathtaking glass Palm House that wows with its Victorian architecture. A beautiful space that sometimes puts on the odd live performance, it's worth visiting no matter the occasion. Nearby is Lark Lane, where there are plenty of quirky independent businesses to enjoy a drink or something to eat.
Calderstones Park is a sprawling landscape home to the Allerton Oak, the oldest tree in the North West of England. And, not to forget, ancient megaliths are said to be even older than Stonehenge. It features a Victorian Mansion House, a children's play area and The Reader Café with a bookshop next door.
Croxteth Park and Country Park with its' farm and stately home. The impressive Grade II* listed establishment, Croxteth Hall, sits at the centre of the park and is home to a farm, café and children's play area. While the oldest part of the building was built in 1575, it boasts Elizabethan architecture having been remodelled over the many years.
Visit a stately home
While Croxteth Hall is generally closed to visitors, there are plenty of stately homes to visit. Whether they're National Trust properties or owned by Liverpool City Council, we'd recommend visiting Speke Hall, Knowsley Hall, Sudley House and Rufford Old Hall, if you're a fan of your history.
Visit a museum or art gallery
The city has more than enough museums and galleries to wander around. From contemporary to classic, there's definitely an exhibition for that. The Walker Art Gallery and World Museum are just a stone's throw away from the historic St. George's Hall, just off St. George's Place. While the Museum of Liverpool, Maritime Museum, The Beatles Story Exhibition, British Music Experience and Tate Liverpool are all dotted around the docks.
Watch a show
From live music to theatre, you'll have no problem catching a show while you're here, whether you're planning on visiting a local pub or watching a play. The Royal Court Theatre, The Liverpool Empire, The Everyman Theatre, Liverpool Playhouse and Epstein Theatre showcase plenty of talent, from local to international.
Visit the cathedrals
Liverpool is lucky enough to have not one, but two, beautiful cathedrals. Enjoy a visit to the Anglican Cathedral on St. James' Mount, or the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral on Mount Pleasant. Appreciate the stunning architecture and explore all these spaces have to offer.
Tour around the football stadiums
Amongst the oldest established football clubs in British history, Everton and Liverpool, were formed within the city. Whether you're a red or a blue, or just a fan of football, there are two football grounds for you to tour. With plenty of guided tours to enjoy, you can learn all about the history of Anfield or Goodison Park.