Our regular series highlights top attractions to help you make the most of a two-day visit
48 HOURS IN...
BIRTHPLACE of the Merseybeat in the 60s and European Capital of Culture in 2008, the maritime city of Liverpool has plenty to be proud of.
For starters, it has the biggest collection of museums outside London and a wealth of listed buildings. Brimming with bars and restaurants, beloved for its brilliant music scene and nightlife, the city is as lively as it is historic.
HOUR BY HOUR
DAY 1 10am On the docks
Start your visit at Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock, a vibrant hub of culture, local business and community events. Grab a coffee from one of the cafés along the waterfront and take your pick from the numerous exciting museums.
Learn about the city’s historic relationship with the sea at the Maritime Museum, or local history from the Stone Age to the Blitz to the Beatles, at the Museum of Liverpool.
Make sure to drop in on Tate Liverpool to see inspiring free collections or guest exhibitions. liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
1pm Pause for lunch
Time to stop off at Leaf on Bold Street. This area encapsulates Liverpool’s spirit, with a parade of coffee houses, eateries and vintage shops. Modern-rustic café Leaf offers a varied menu of breakfast, brunch and lunch, with speciality tea and coffee. thisisleaf.co.uk
3pm Going to church
After wandering up Bold Street, you come to St Luke’s Church. Locally known as the Bombed Out Church, only the stone shell of the building survived the shocking May Blitz of 1941. Today, these ethereal Gothic Revival ruins host community and arts events.
A few minutes away on foot is Liverpool Cathedral, the largest religious building in Britain. Uniquely modern, the stunning cathedral was built in 1904 and features intricate stained glass windows and a tower that provides a bird’s eye view across the city. liverpoolcathedral.org.uk
5pm Dinner time
Head to the Baltic Market, a canteen-style warehouse tucked away in the industrial quarter. This is home to a wide range of pop-up vendors, everything from Thai to Greek to Italian. balticmarket.co.uk
7pm Get the knowledge
Dip your toes in the city’s thriving arts scene with a trip to one of its vibrant venues.
Bertie and Bella
A pair of mythical Liver Birds, Bertie and Bella, atop the Royal Liver Building, are believed to be guardian of the city’s residents. Bella looks out to sea, waiting for sailors to return, while Bertie gazes across the city, watching over their families.
In the Knowledge Quarter, you can find classical
