Liverpool is a city bursting with culture, history, and a unique character that sets it apart from anywhere else in the UK. With its rich maritime heritage, legendary music scene, and buzzing nightlife, it’s no wonder visitors flock here year-round, and with Warrington being so close, it makes for an ideal location to explore.
Whether you’re exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, sipping your way through historic pubs, or indulging in some of its finest food, Liverpool’s tours offer something for everyone.
Here’s a detailed look at some of the best tours in Liverpool, from immersive walking experiences to spine-chilling ghost hunts.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Liverpool is on foot. With its compact city centre, stunning architecture, and intriguing history, walking tours provide an up-close and personal experience.
The Liverpool City Walking Tour is an excellent introduction for first-time visitors. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour covers the city’s must-see sights, including the Royal Albert Dock, the historic Town Hall, and the impressive Three Graces—The Liver Building, The Cunard Building, and the Port of Liverpool Building. Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories about Liverpool’s maritime past, its role in world trade, and how it became one of the UK’s most important port cities.
For those looking for something a little different, the Liverpool True Crime Walking Tour is a great choice. This two-hour experience delves into the city’s darker past, uncovering stories of crime, deception, and scandal. With tales of notorious criminals, mysterious disappearances, and old police investigations, this tour offers a thrilling insight into Liverpool’s underbelly.
Another fantastic option is the Liverpool Waterfront Walking Tour. This one takes you along the scenic banks of the River Mersey, highlighting the city’s maritime legacy and modern regeneration projects. It’s a great way to appreciate Liverpool’s stunning skyline while learning about the port’s significance in global trade and migration.
Pub Crawl Tours: Experience Liverpool’s Nightlife in Style
Liverpool is famous for its buzzing nightlife, and what better way to experience it than with a guided pub crawl? If you love a good pint and a bit of history, the Liverpool Pub Crawl Tour by Liverpool Cycle Tours is a must.
Unlike your typical bar crawl, this tour is designed for those who enjoy taking their time, savouring good drinks, and learning a little history along the way. The tour kicks off at 6:45 pm outside the iconic Philharmonic Dining Rooms, one of Liverpool’s most stunning pubs, known for its ornate décor and Grade I listed status. Before setting off on the crawl, guests can grab a bite to eat and a drink here.
The journey then takes you through some of Liverpool’s most historic and charming watering holes, including pubs with links to The Beatles and those steeped in maritime tradition. Expect to enjoy a mix of classic ales, craft beers, and even some local spirits, all while your guide shares fascinating anecdotes about Liverpool’s pub culture.
This tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, entertaining night out with a bit of history thrown in. It’s also a fantastic way to meet fellow travellers and locals alike.
Beatles Tours
No visit to Liverpool is complete without experiencing a Beatles tour. As the birthplace of the world’s most famous band, the city is packed with landmarks tied to John, Paul, George, and Ringo.
The Beatles Magical Mystery Tour is arguably the most famous. This bus tour takes fans to key locations in The Beatles’ history, including Penny Lane, Strawberry Field, and the childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. With a soundtrack of classic Beatles hits playing throughout the journey, it’s an immersive way to relive the rise of the Fab Four.
For those who prefer a walking tour, the Liverpool Beatles Walking Tour is a great option. This experience focuses on The Beatles’ early years, visiting spots such as The Cavern Club, where they played some of their first gigs, and the statue of the band at Pier Head. The tour also covers Liverpool’s music history more broadly, making it a fantastic experience for any music lover.
Ghost Walks and Tours: Discover Liverpool’s Haunted Past
Liverpool has a long and storied history, and with that comes plenty of ghostly tales. Whether you’re a sceptic or a believer, a ghost tour is a thrilling way to experience the city after dark.
One of the best is the Shiverpool Ghost Tour, which takes you through some of Liverpool’s most haunted locations. With costumed guides and a theatrical approach, this tour blends history with spine-chilling storytelling. You’ll visit eerie alleyways, old burial grounds, and historic buildings where ghostly sightings have been reported.
Another popular option is the Hope Street Shivers Ghost Walk. Centred around one of Liverpool’s most atmospheric streets, this tour takes you to haunted sites such as the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall and the eerie Anglican Cathedral grounds. With tales of lost souls and restless spirits, it’s an unforgettable way to see Liverpool from a different perspective.
Food Tours: A Culinary Journey Through Liverpool
Liverpool’s food scene has evolved massively in recent years, making it a fantastic city for food lovers. If you want to explore its best bites, a food tour is the way to go.
The Liverpool Food Walking Tour is a favourite among visitors and locals alike. This tour takes you through some of the city’s best eateries, from traditional Scouse restaurants to hidden gems serving international cuisine. Along the way, you’ll sample a variety of dishes, including local favourites like lobscouse, a hearty stew that’s synonymous with the city.
Another excellent option is the Liverpool Gin and Food Experience, which combines tastings of local gins with carefully paired dishes. This tour is perfect for those who love both great food and quality drinks. It helps make for a fantastic day out.
For a more hands-on experience, the Liverpool Market and Cooking Tour is a great choice. Participants visit the city’s best food markets, pick up fresh ingredients, and then take part in a cooking session led by a local chef. It’s an ideal tour for those who want to bring a little bit of Liverpool’s culinary culture home with them.
Final Thoughts
Liverpool is a city with something for everyone, and its tours reflect this incredible diversity. Whether you’re soaking up history on a walking tour, following in the footsteps of The Beatles, experiencing the city’s legendary nightlife, or indulging in its food scene, there’s no shortage of fantastic experiences to choose from.
If you’re planning a visit, why not mix and match a few of these tours to get the full Liverpool experience? From the historic streets to the buzzing pubs and haunting alleyways, this city is full of stories waiting to be discovered.
