Secret Guide to Liverpool

Famous for being home to the Beatles, the UNESCO-listed Royal Albert Dock, and that distinct regional accent, Liverpool is a vibrant city teeming with art, culture, and history. Look beyond its most popular attractions, and you’ll find a wealth of hidden gems and experiences to make your weekend trip even more unforgettable.

From hidden wine bars to lively shopping districts and picturesque streets, discover our guide to the best Liverpool has to offer.

Beyond the Beatles: Things to See and Do in Liverpool

If you’ve planned a trip to Liverpool, chances are the Beatles Story Museum and Abbey Road mural are already on your itinerary – so what’s next? The city is a cultural hub for music and maritime history, meaning you’ll be spoiled for choice of museums, galleries, and music venues to visit.

Liverpool’s Landmarks and Museums

Royal Albert Dock

No trip to Liverpool is complete without a visit to the Royal Albert Dock. Museums, galleries, and shops line the River Mersey, as well as bars and restaurants, so you can enjoy peaceful waterside dining. Enjoy an evening stroll along the docks to marvel at the city lights twinkling on the water.

Royal Liver Building

Located by the waterfront, just a short walk from the docks, is the Royal Liver Building – a Grade I-listed landmark and one of the world’s first skyscrapers. Take a visit to the clock towers and gawk at 360º views of the city from the 15th floor; just be prepared to climb the 124 steps.

Tate Liverpool

While Tate Liverpool at the Royal Albert Dock remains closed until early 2027 for renovations, their temporary location at RIBA North is just a short distance away. Although the space is smaller, it still boasts a collection of exhibitions, family activities, tours, and creative workshops.

Liverpool World Museum

The oldest museum and gallery in Liverpool, the World Museum is one of the biggest in the North West, housing over 80,000 artefacts from across the ancient world and endless exhibitions and collections. This multi-floor museum is also home to an aquarium and planetarium for those seeking a truly enriching visit.

Liverpool’s Speakeasy Scene

Liverpool is known for its diverse and vibrant nightlife, holding a Purple Flag status, and over 200 venues littered around the city. From nightclubs to raves, pubs and bars, no matter what kind of night out you’re after, there’s a place for you.

The city also boasts a rich speakeasy scene with exclusive and hidden venues with secret entrances. Berry & Rye is an intimate, prohibition-themed venue tucked away on Berry Street; knock on the unnamed door to be let in and discover a cocktail bar filled with jazz and blues. 81 LTD is another hidden cocktail bar, and entry is by appointment only – text the number on their website to receive the secret code for access. Ex-Directory, located on Vernon Street, is another hidden bar accessible through a telephone box.

How to Spend Two Days in Liverpool?

Liverpool is the perfect city for a weekend trip in the UK – full of stunning locations, attractions, and landmarks, yet small enough to witness the best the city has to offer in a few short days. Whether you’re after a quick getaway or an urban spa break, plan ahead to make the most of your trip.

Day 1

Start your day with breakfast at the docks; here you can watch the city wake up and enjoy sights of the skyline reflected on the water. Just a short walk away from various museums and galleries, you’ll be perfectly located to spend the afternoon museum-hopping. After a late lunch at one of the city’s eateries, you can either keep exploring or head back to your hotel to rest before discovering Liverpool’s nightlife. Cavern Quarter, known as the birthplace of the Beatles, is a bustling area with pubs on every corner, while the Baltic Triangle is a trendier district with lively bars and unique venues.

Day 2

On day two, continue to explore the city’s gems; take a stroll down the Georgian Quarter with its cobbled streets, traditional pubs, and townhouses; cafe-hop Bold Street; and if the weather allows, have a picnic in Sefton Park for lunch and enjoy the independent shops of Lark Lane. End the day by taking an evening river cruise at The Floating Grace and enjoy a three-course dinner as you watch the sunset.

Browse Secret Escapes’ City Break Deals

A trip to Liverpool is a culturally immersive experience filled with music, art, and history. Discover the city’s hidden gems with Secret Escapes’ ‘pinch yourself’ deals on North West England stays.

Whether you’re staying at a boutique hotel or wanting an urban spa break, make the most of our outrageous deals to have the weekend getaway of your dreams at a fraction of the cost. Start exploring our exclusive holiday deals and treat yourself to luxury for less today.

For more travel advice and inspiration, deep dive further into the Escapist magazine, or get in touch for more information.

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