City Life and Family Activities

Liverpool is a cosmopolitan and vibrant city attracting people from all over the world who want to enjoy the good things in life whilst progressing with their career. Offering affordable housing, good schools, easy access to all other parts of the UK and Europe via road, rail and air, Liverpool provides the history, culture and sporting attractions to create a work/life balance that you and your family can enjoy.

Liverpool starts here: watch this Insider's Guide

Things to do in Liverpool

There are so many things to do in Liverpool, it's hard to know where to begin. Below is a selection of places and attractions to get you started. For more information about things to do and places to see in liverpool, visit www.visitliverpool.com

The Beatles

Discover more about four lads from Liverpool who shook the world of pop. Step aboard the colourful Magical Mystery Tour bus to see where it all began for the famous four, transport yourself back to the roaring 60’s as you journey through The Beatles Story or take in some live music at the world famous Cavern Club on Mathew Street.

Ferry across the Mersey

Take a ride on the famous Mersey Ferries and see the historic Liverpool Waterfront. An audio guide tells the tale of how Liverpool became the economic and cultural hub of the North West. And in case you’re wondering they do play Ferry across the Mersey!

Two great cathedrals

Linked by Hope Street, The Anglican and Metropolitan Cathedrals of Liverpool look down on the city below. After 74 years, the Anglican Cathedral was finally completed in 1978 and is the largest in the UK and fifth largest in the world. The Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King was completed in 1967 and stands on the crypt; the only part of the original cathedral designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens.

Museums and galleries

Liverpool has more galleries and museums than any city outside of London, take a look at what we have to offer.

Tate Liverpool

Situated in Liverpool’s Albert Dock, Tate Liverpool houses the Tate Collection which comprises the national collection of British art from the year 1500 to the present day, and international modern art. The gallery also has a programme of temporary exhibitions.

We have partnered with Tate Liverpool which means that University Staff are entitled to free entry to all exhibitions at Tate Liverpool, Tate Britain and Tate Modern; plus 10% discount in Tate Liverpool Cafe and Shop*.

* Staff must present a valid University of Liverpool Staff ID Card when visiting Tate Liverpool and a staff card together with a Tate Corporate Supporter Pass for entry into Tate Britain and Tate Modern.

Albert Dock

The Albert Dock is situated on Liverpool’s historic waterfront. It is the most visited multi-use UK attraction, outside of London.  It is home to Tate Liverpool, Merseyside Maritime Museum and International Slavery Museum as well as the award-winning Beatles Story.

Mersey Tunnels

Liverpool has three tunnels running under the River Mersey connecting Liverpool to the Wirral peninsula; the Mersey Railway Tunnel (opened 1886), and two road tunnels, the Queensway Tunnel (opened 1934) and the Kingsway Tunnel (opened 1971).  The Queensway Tunnel (also known as the Birkenhead Tunnel) was used to film scenes for the film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 1.

Night life

Liverpool is a recipient of the Purple Flag Award, which recognises that the city not only provides a vibrant and diverse mix of entertainment, but also that it has a safe and well-managed night time economy that everyone can enjoy.

The city is proud of its lively music scene and heritage, including being the birthplace of The Beatles. The city has numerous arenas, including the Liverpool M&S Bank Arena, along with Liverpool Philharmonic Hall - home to the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

We have a thriving theatre scene including the legendary Everyman and Playhouse theatres which played a part in launching the careers of several celebrated actors including Bill Nighy, Julie Walters and Pete Postlethwaite.  Liverpool Empire Theatre is the largest 2 tiered theatre in Britain and Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Bing Crosby, Mae West, Laurel and Hardy have all played there.

No name a few, stroll down Mathew Street and catch live music at the famous Cavern Club or take in the view while enjoying some fine dining at the Panoramic 34, the highest restaurant in the UK.

Top retail destination

Not only does Liverpool offer you the high street fashions that you would expect to find in any major city, we also over you something a little different. Take a wander down Bold Street and discover smaller independent shops offering everything from high fashion to retro and vintage. Discover more at Liverpool One, a 43 acre development offering high street fashions, designer outlets, restaurants, bars and a multiplex cinema. 

Festivals for everyone

Liverpool has a large selection of festivals and events to meet all tastes. Highlights include African Oyé - the largest free concert of Afro-Caribbean music and culture in the UK, Liverpool Pride which is the largest free gay pride event in the UK, or other highlights including the Irish Music Festival, the Arabic Arts Festival, Brazilica, and the Lantern Festival.

Williamson Tunnels

Under the busy streets of Edge Lane in Liverpool lies a labyrinth of tunnels built by the eccentric businessman Joseph Williamson. The Williamson tunnels, which are in the process of being excavated, are a heritage site and open to the public. 

More family activities

For more information on family activities, visit our Family Friendly area.

Back to: Working at Liverpool