MileHacker Logo
Activities & Experiences

Activities & Experiences

Northwest England, England

Outdoor Adventures

Liverpool has various ways to enjoy the outdoors, from city parks to nearby coastal areas.

Hiking, Water Sports, and Cycling

Hiking and Trekking Routes

Urban walks cover Liverpool's city center, waterfront promenade, and historic districts, suitable for all fitness levels. Park walks (Sefton Park, Calderstones Park) are pleasant and easy. Coastal walks along Crosby or Formby are easy to moderate. For challenging hikes, Peak District and Lake District National Parks are within reach. A Day pack helps with any excursion.

Water Sports and Activities

Mersey Ferries River Explorer Cruise has excellent views. Canoeing/Kayaking is on Leeds & Liverpool Canal sections. Liverpool Wake Park (Queens Dock) has wakeboarding and other watersports.

Cycling Routes

Liverpool Citybike (Beryl) has a convenient bike hire scheme. The Trans Pennine Trail and Loop Line (disused railway line converted to a green corridor) offer pleasant rides. For mountain biking, Delamere Forest or national parks are good day trips.

Adventure Sports and Wildlife Encounters

  • Adventure Sports: Limited to indoor facilities within city limits. Parthian Climbing Liverpool has a large indoor climbing center. Various indoor go-karting tracks are available.
  • Wildlife Encounters: For an unique wildlife encounter, take a day trip to Formby National Trust beach. This protected pine woodland is one of the few places in England for native red squirrels.
  • Birdwatching: The Mersey estuary and coastal parks are important habitats for various bird species, notably during migratory seasons.
  • Knowsley Safari Park: Located just outside Liverpool, this large drive-through safari park allows you to see exotic animals like lions, rhinos, and giraffes.

Urban & Coastal Hikes

  • Easy walks along Liverpool's waterfront.
  • Park walks in Sefton and Calderstones.
  • Coastal paths at Crosby and Formby.
  • Terrains are generally flat.

Water Activities

  • Mersey Ferries River Explorer Cruise.
  • Canoeing/Kayaking on Leeds & Liverpool Canal.
  • Wakeboarding at Liverpool Wake Park.
  • Offers relaxed or active experiences.

Wildlife & Nature

  • Red squirrels at Formby National Trust.
  • Birdwatching at Mersey estuary.
  • Knowsley Safari Park for exotic animals.
  • City parks have grey squirrels.

Important Note on Hiking:

For more challenging hikes, head to Peak District or Lake District National Parks. These require appropriate gear and preparation.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Liverpool's arts, music, and community spirit for a understanding.

Workshops and Classes

  • Art/Craft Workshops: Local art centers and independent studios sometimes have workshops in pottery, painting, or textile art. Check local listings for schedules.
  • Music: Chances exist to attend open mic nights or jam sessions in smaller venues, notably around the city center. These have a taste of local talent.
  • Community-Based Tourism: Supporting independent businesses in areas like Bold Street or the Baltic Triangle contributes directly to the local economy. Look for local markets and artisan fairs.
  • Language Learning: As an English-speaking city, formal language learning is less common for tourists. However, the chance for cultural exchange and interaction with locals is abundant.

Cultural Performances

Music Venues

Liverpool Philharmonic Hall hosts classical concerts, contemporary music, and comedy. The Cavern Club has live music from morning till late, featuring Beatles tribute bands. Numerous small independent venues across the city host local bands and open mic nights.

Cultural Festivals and Events

International Beatleweek (August) draws Beatles fans. River of Light (autumn) transforms the waterfront with illuminated art. Africa Oyé (June) is a free African music and culture festival in Sefton Park. Liverpool Biennial (every two years) is an international contemporary art festival.

Traditional Ceremonies

While not a tourist attraction, if in Liverpool during a major religious festival (Easter, Christmas), attending a service at one of the Cathedrals has a chance to observe local traditions.

Theatre Highlights

Liverpool Empire Theatre hosts major touring productions. Liverpool Playhouse & Everyman Theatre has diverse contemporary and classic plays. Royal Court Theatre is known for lively and comedic productions.

Relaxation & Wellness

Many luxury hotels have excellent spa facilities (Hope Street, Titanic). Dedicated day spas are here. Various yoga studios have drop-in classes. Hot springs or natural therapy options are not present. Standard Western medical practices dominate.

Beach & Pool Clubs

No dedicated beach clubs exist. Coastal beaches (Crosby, Formby) are for walking, not traditional swimming due to UK climate. Some hotels have indoor swimming pools for guests.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Experience the city's energy after dark.

Live Music & Theatre

  • The Cavern Club: Legendary venue, live music from morning till late (Beatles tributes, classic rock and roll).
  • O2 Academy Liverpool: Major venue for touring acts (rock bands, pop stars, tribute acts). Arts Club: Mid-sized venue for bands, comedians, club nights.
  • Liverpool Empire Theatre: Hosts major touring productions, West End musicals, opera, ballet, large comedy shows.
  • Liverpool Playhouse & Everyman Theatre: Distinguished theatres with diverse programmes of contemporary and classic plays, new writing, experimental performances. Royal Court Theatre: Known for lively, comedic productions, often with local flavor.

Nightclubs & Bar Districts

Nightclubs & Dancing

Concert Square: Popular area with high concentration of bars and nightclubs, offering various music styles. Seel Street: Busy hub for bars and clubs, diverse selection of venues.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

Mathew Street: Themed around The Beatles, very busy. Castle Street/Dale Street: More sophisticated bar scene. Lark Lane: Independent pubs and bars with a local, bohemian feel, for a relaxed evening.

Late-Night Entertainment

Casinos in the city center have gaming, bars, and late-night dining. Many takeaways and some restaurants stay open late, especially on weekends. Check local listings for comedy clubs with stand-up performances.

Activity Planning Overview

Outdoor

Hiking, water sports, cycling for active explorers. Wildlife encounters available.

Cultural

Workshops, live performances, festivals, and language engagement for immersion.

Relaxation

Spas, yoga studios, and quiet parks for unwinding and rejuvenation.

Shopping & Markets

Find souvenirs, fashion, and local crafts.

Traditional Markets and Crafts

  • Great Homer Street Market ("Greaty"): A long-standing traditional outdoor market held every Saturday. It sells various goods, from clothing to fresh produce.
  • Liverpool Artisan Market: This regular market showcases local crafts, artwork, and produce. Check their schedule for dates and locations.
  • Farmers' Markets: Various smaller farmers' markets happen in different neighborhoods throughout the month, having local produce and artisanal goods.
  • Artisan Workshops and Crafts: The Baltic Triangle has independent artists, designers, and craftspeople. Bluecoat has shops selling local crafts and gifts.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

Liverpool ONE

A massive, open-air shopping district with a wide range of high street brands, department stores, and some luxury brands (e.g., Harvey Nichols Beauty Bazaar, Flannels).

Metquarter

Home to premium fashion and lifestyle brands, having a more exclusive shopping experience.

Bold Street

Known for its independent boutiques, vintage shops, and ethical retailers. This street has an unique shopping experience away from the major chains.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Beatles Merchandise: Abundant, especially around Mathew Street and Albert Dock.
  • Football Club Merchandise: Official stores for LFC or EFC.
  • Local Art and Crafts: Support independent artists.
  • Foodie Gifts: Local ales, Scouse mix, Liverpool Gin.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

  • Support Local Businesses: Prioritize independent spots.
  • Fair Trade: Look for certifications.
  • Second-Hand/Vintage: Explore Bold Street for sustainable fashion.
  • Reusable Bags: Carry a Reusable shopping bag.

Shipping & Customs

  • International Shipping: Inquire with retailers for large items.
  • Customs: Be aware of your home country's regulations.
  • VAT Refunds: The VAT Retail Export Scheme was abolished in the UK.
  • Generally cannot claim VAT refunds on goods.

Shopping Districts Overview

Liverpool ONE
  • Major high street brands.
  • Department stores.
  • Some luxury brands.
Bold Street & Metquarter
  • Bold Street: Independent boutiques, vintage shops.
  • Metquarter: Premium fashion and lifestyle brands.
  • Ethical and unique finds.

Shopping Insight:

Liverpool has a diverse retail landscape, catering to all tastes, from large shopping complexes to quirky independent stores.

Activity Planning Summary

Things to Do:

  • Explore historical landmarks and museums.
  • Indulge in diverse culinary experiences.
  • Experience nightlife and live music.
  • Shop for souvenirs and local crafts.

Considerations:

  • Book popular tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Utilize public transport for areas outside the city center.
  • Look for local events and festivals happening during your visit.
  • Check specific attraction websites for the most current information.