In this article, we’re delving into some of the best free activities that Liverpool has to offer. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveller or simply seeking an adventure that won’t cost a penny, you’ll discover some great ways to explore the city on a tight budget.
1. World Museum
The World Museum, located on William Brown Street, is a great day out which is suitable for all ages. Entry to the museum is free, and it has a wide range of attractions, which are frequently updated.
Inside you can dive into the recently refurbished aquarium; or discover the wonders of space through scientific instruments and the Planetarium.
Further attractions include the Treasure House Theatre, the Bug House, as well as the Jurassic exhibit, and World Cultures gallery and Weston Discovery Centre.
The museum also boasts a café and a gift shop where you can drop in at the end of your visit.
World Museum: William Brown Street, Liverpool, L3 8EN
2. Walker Art Gallery
The Walker Art Gallery, where entry to the permeant collection is free, is a brilliant outing for every art lover.
The building itself is stunning, but what is housed on the inside is even better, with breath-taking paintings ranging from all the way back in the 13th century to the present day. You can see work from the likes Rubens, Rembrandt, Turner and Stubbs, Pre-Raphaelite artworks by Rossetti and Millais, Impressionist works by Monet and Degas and contemporary works by Hockney, and Wylie.
Further attractions include the sculpture gallery, the craft and design gallery and the Big Art for Little Artists gallery, which is a gallery designed specifically for children up to 8 years of age.
Walker Art Gallery: William Brown Street, Liverpool, L3 8EL
3. Sefton Park
Sefton Park is arguably the best park in the city. Classified as a Grade One listed park by English Heritage, the sprawling 200-acre space boasts a boating lake, replica statues of Eros and Peter Pan and two cafés, as well as being home to the beautiful Sefton Park Palm House.
With the park only a short walk from the bohemian Lark Lane, you can tie in a stroll down the lane, visiting the arts shops, independent cafes and restaurants.
Sefton Park: Liverpool, L17 – 4km south-east of the city centre
4. Royal Albert Dock
On the dock there are plenty ways you can spend money, however, if you are just going out for a day of sightseeing the docks are perfect. There is plenty of seating, areas to buy food and drink, but you can always bring your own. It’s a really scenic location to relax, have a nice walk, and sit and watch the sea catching up with some friends.
Royal Albert Dock: Liverpool, L3 4AD
5. Tate Liverpool
Tate Liverpool can be found at the Royal Albert Dock and is another great place to visit for free.
Entry is free to the majority of galleries, unless there is a special exhibit on, in which there may be a small cost, however, there is still lots to see for free.
It is the most visited gallery of visual art outside London and home to the national collection of modern and contemporary art in the north of England. If you visit you can enjoy over 85 pieces of art, ranging from vibrant paintings to drawings and large sculptures. Plus, the displays are being updated all the time, so there is always something new to see.
If you are down on the dock and you are thinking of something different to do, Tate Liverpool is certainly worth a visit.
*Tate Liverpool at the Royal Albert Dock is currently closed for renovation work. You can find Tate at RIBA North, Mann Island just a few minutes walk from its usual loaction.
Tate Liverpool: Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, L3 4BB
6. Sudley House
A bit further out of the city centre, located in the suburbs of Liverpool, Sudley House is often described as one of Liverpool’s hidden gems. Originally built in the mid-19th century as a private residence for shipbuilder George Holt, Sudley House was later bequeathed to the city in 1944, along with its impressive art collection. Today, it stands as a museum and art gallery, inviting visitors to explore its magnificent architecture and admire its extensive collection of artwork.
The mansion’s elegant rooms are filled with paintings (by renowned artists such as Turner, Gainsborough, and Millais), beautiful period furniture, elaborate chandeliers, and intricate woodwork. The rooms are meticulously restored to their original Victorian splendor, providing a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle enjoyed by the Holt family.
Entry inside the house is free, and donations are welcome. It is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 4pm.
Sudley House: Mossley Hill Road Aigburth, Liverpool, L18 8BX
7. Liverpool Anglican Cathedral
Liverpool Cathedral is an awe-inspiring location and entry is free (donations welcome). It’s superb for a look around, both the grounds and the cathedral itself.
Walking around the Cathedral, which is so quiet and colossal at the same time actually creates a rather relaxing, peaceful feeling, and it is a definite must see if you are in Liverpool.
The Cathedral also hosts exhibitions and events from time to time so be sure to check their events schedule before you visit. There is a gift shop inside as well as a café.
Liverpool Cathedral: St James’ Mount, Liverpool L1 7AZ
8. Museum of Liverpool
The Museum of Liverpool is the world’s first national museum to be devoted to the history of a regional city.
Attractions include the stage where John Lennon and Paul McCartney first met, Ben Johnson’s Liverpool Cityscape, a life-size Liverbird, the first Ford Anglia from Ford’s Halewood production line and Chris Boardman’s famous Lotus sport bike.
Through the museum you’ll learn about the city’s rich history, culture, and people through interactive displays, exhibitions, and artefacts. Entry is free, with occasional paid exhibitions.
Museum of Liverpool: Pier Head, Liverpool, L3 1DG
9. The Bluecoat
The Bluecoat is a historic building located in the heart of Liverpool. It is the city’s oldest surviving building with a rich history dating back to 1717.
Originally built as a school, the Bluecoat has transformed over the years and is now a thriving contemporary arts centre. The building itself is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture, with its distinctive blue façade giving it its name. The building features a central courtyard which is surrounded by interconnected galleries.
Bluecoat serves as a hub for the creative community in Liverpool, hosting a wide range of artistic exhibitions, performances, workshops, and events. The galleries at the Bluecoat showcase a diverse range of contemporary art forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, installations, and multimedia works.
Furthermore, the Bluecoat features a café and a shop, offering visitors a place to relax, grab a bite to eat, or browse unique art-related merchandise, books, and gifts.
Entry is free, although some events may require tickets.
The Bluecoat: School Lane, Liverpool, L1 3BX
10. St George’s Hall
St. George’s Hall is a magnificent neoclassical building located in the heart of Liverpool. It stands as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a testament to the architectural grandeur of the 19th century.
The exterior of St. George’s Hall is a stunning sight to behold, characterised by its imposing Corinthian columns, intricate friezes, and a grand flight of steps leading up to the entrance. Inside, the building features a range of impressive spaces that reflect its original purpose as a multi-functional venue. The Great Hall is the centrepiece, known for its remarkable proportions and exquisite detailing.
The Great Hall was originally used for a variety of functions, including concerts, banquets, and public gatherings, and continues to host events to this day. The building is extremely well-known, recently featured in the new ‘Batman’ film which starred Robert Patterson. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the building’s history through guided tours that offer insights into its architecture, design, and historical significance.
Additionally, the building is surrounded by St. John’s Gardens, a peaceful green space, that provides an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic while enjoying views of St. George’s Hall and the cityscape.
St George’s Hall: St George’s Pl, Liverpool, L1 1JJ
11. Williamson Art Gallery & Museum
Williamson Art Gallery & Museum is just minutes from the heart of Birkenhead.
Their wide-ranging permanent collections include painting, sculpture, furniture, prints and decorative arts. They are also home to the largest public collection of Della Robbia pottery in the UK – Birkenhead’s contribution to the Arts & Crafts movement.
Meanwhile, their superb ship models celebrate the region’s fascinating maritime history. They also host a range of temporary exhibitions and events.
Williamson Art Gallery: Slatey Rd, Oxton, Birkenhead, Prenton, CH43 4UE.
12. Birkenhead Priory & St Mary’s Tower
Nestled on the banks of the River Mersey stands Birkenhead Priory, boasting the title of the oldest building in Merseyside. Founded in 1150, this Benedictine monastery witnessed nearly 400 years of history, offering solace to travellers and supervising the early Mersey Ferry crossings. Today, its evocative ruins speak volumes of the past.
Adjacent to the priory stands St Mary’s Tower, a poignant landmark. Originally part of the town’s first parish church, the tower now serves as a memorial to the 99 souls lost aboard the submarine Thetis in 1939. Climb its 101 steps, and you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views of the river, Liverpool, and the historic Cammell Laird shipyard, where Thetis itself was built.
While the priory itself is mainly ruins, the remaining structures offer a glimpse into medieval life. Explore the Chapter House, a Grade II* listed building showcasing Norman architecture, and step into the Scriptorium chapel dedicated to the training ship HMS Conway.
Take a walk through the grounds, soak in the rich history, and witness the stunning panorama from the tower. It’s a journey through time, offering reflection and a deeper appreciation for the region’s heritage.
Birkenhead Priory & St Mary’s Tower: Priory Street, Birkenhead CH41 5JH
13. Birkenhead Park
Known affectionately as the “People’s Garden”, Birkenhead Park has a variety of features, including a boating lake, playgrounds, and walking trails. It is also home to the Edward Kemp Community Garden, which provides a space for people to learn about gardening and grow their own food. Birkenhead Park is a UNESCO-shortlisted site and is considered to be one of the most important parks in the world.
Birkenhead Park: Park Drive, Birkenhead, Wirral, CH41 4HY
14. Lady Lever Art Gallery
The Lady Lever Art Gallery is home to a unique collection of art. The gallery’s collection includes over 2,000 works of art, from paintings and sculptures to ceramics and decorative arts. The collection spans a wide range of cultures and periods, from ancient Egypt to the 20th century.
Lady Lever Art Gallery: Port Sunlight Village, Wirral CH62 5EQ
15. Port Sunlight River Park
Port Sunlight River Park is a 30-hectare green space that boasts views of the Mersey, Wirral and North Wales. Visitors can enjoy nearly 3 miles of footpaths, look at the views, watch ships, go birdwatching, enjoy sculptures, a picnic, cycle, and take part in a geocache trail. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It is also home to a number of sculptures, including a large sundial and a statue of the park’s founder, William Lever.
Port Sunlight River Park: Dock Road North, Bromborough, Merseyside CH62 4TQ
16. New Brighton Waterfront & Street Art
New Brighton has plenty to offer for a day out, from taking a stroll along the waterfront to checking out Victoria Road’s impressive collection of street art.
New Brighton Promenade: Wallasey CH45 2NW