Liverpool: Budget-Friendly Things To Do

Craving a wallet-friendly escapade in Liverpool? Discover a trove of engaging activities that won’t break the bank. Meander along scenic waterfronts, absorb rich history at fascinating museums, and bask in the city’s art and culture—all for free or at a minimal cost. Liverpool awaits with open arms and a myriad of budget-conscious adventures.

Liverpool Waterfront: Scenic Views and Cultural Vibes

Cost: Free

Things to do: Stroll along the Liverpool Waterfront to enjoy historic docks, modern art at Tate Liverpool, and stunning river views. It’s ideal for photo enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Local transportation: James Street Station is the nearest metro link, with bus services like the 82 and 500 connecting to various points along the waterfront.

Location/Address: Liverpool Waterfront, Liverpool, Merseyside

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, 24 hours (24/7)

Liverpool: Explore the Treasures at the Museum of Liverpool

Cost: Free admission

Things to do: Discover the city’s vibrant history, its beloved sports teams, and the unique culture at the Museum of Liverpool. Exhibits range from the city’s industrial heritage to the stories of the Beatles.

Local transportation: James Street station is the nearest metro stop, just a short walk away. Local buses also serve the area, providing easy access to the museum.

Location/Address: Pier Head, Liverpool Waterfront, Liverpool, L3 1DG

Open Days/Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 – 17:00 (10 AM – 5 PM)

Liverpool: Discover Art at Tate Liverpool

Cost: Free for the main collection

Things to do: Immerse yourself in modern and contemporary art. Experience delightful exhibitions, interactive displays, and witness the works of famous artists in rotating collections.

Local transportation: The nearest rail station is James Street Station. Local buses like the 82, 423, and X1 will drop you nearby.

Location/Address: Tate Liverpool, Albert Dock, Liverpool, L3 4BB

Open Days/Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 – 17:50 (10 AM – 5:50 PM)

Liverpool Cathedral: A Majestic Beacon in Liverpool’s Skyline

Cost: Entry to the cathedral is free, though donations are encouraged.

Things to do: Marvel at the grand architecture and intricate interior of Liverpool Cathedral. Take a quiet moment for reflection, or join a guided tour to learn more about its history.

Local transportation: The nearest train station is Liverpool Lime Street, and from there, numerous buses, such as the 82, 86, 75, and 4, provide access to the cathedral.

Location/Address: Liverpool Cathedral, St James Mount, Liverpool, L1 7AZ

Open Days/Hours: Generally open to visitors from 08:00 – 18:00 (8 AM – 6 PM), times may vary for worship and events.

Sefton Park: Discovering Liverpool’s Verdant Oasis

Cost: Free

Things to do: Sefton Park invites visitors to explore its Victorian splendor. Wander around the palm house, feed ducks at the lake, or simply enjoy the vast expanse of well-maintained lawns.

Local transportation: St Michael’s train station is the nearest, with regular bus services including the 75, 80 and 86 routes for easy park access.

Location/Address: Sefton Park, Liverpool, L17 1AJ

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, 24 hours a day.

Liverpool’s Merseyside Maritime Museum: Explore Nautical History

Cost: Free

Things to do: Dive into Liverpool’s seafaring past at the Merseyside Maritime Museum. Discover the city’s maritime heritage, view historical ships, and learn about the famous Titanic connections.

Local transportation: The James Street station on the Wirral Line is the nearest metro stop. Additionally, several bus routes service the area, making it readily accessible.

Location/Address: Merseyside Maritime Museum, Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AQ

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, 10:00 – 17:00 (10 AM – 5 PM)

Liverpool Albert Dock: Uncover Maritime History

Cost: Free entry to the docks

Things to do: Dive into the rich maritime history at Albert Dock. Enjoy waterfront walks, explore the Tate Liverpool art gallery, or visit The Beatles Story. It’s a hub for culture and leisure with something for everyone.

Local transportation: James Street Station is the nearest train stop, within a 10-minute walk. Buses like the 1, 4 and the 10A stop nearby, making it easily accessible.

Location/Address: Albert Dock, Liverpool, L3 4AF

Open Days/Hours: Accessible 24/7, with varied hours for businesses

Liverpool’s Bombed Out Church: A Tranquil Spot for Reflection

Cost: Free

Things to do: Visit the iconic Bombed Out Church, formally known as St. Luke’s. Take a moment to appreciate its post-war history, attend cultural events, or enjoy the serene gardens surrounding the ruins.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Liverpool Central, a short walk away. Multiple bus routes, including 82, 86, 79, and 75, also service the area.

Location/Address: St. Luke’s Bombed Out Church, Leece Street, Liverpool, L1 2TR

Open Days/Hours: Varies for events; the garden is accessible daily, 07:00 – 18:00 (7 AM – 6 PM)

Liverpool: Explore the Beatles Story

Cost: Affordable ticket prices with concessions available

Things to do: Discover the legendary history of The Beatles from their beginning to global fame. Exhibits showcase rare memorabilia, exclusive photographs, and interactive zones.

Local transportation: James Street station is primarily served by the Merseyrail network and is the nearest to the attraction, with frequent bus services also in close proximity.

Location/Address: Britannia Vaults, Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD

Open Days/Hours: Generally open every day, 10:00 – 18:00 (10 AM – 6 PM)

Liverpool: Explore the Riches of Walker Art Gallery

Cost: Free admission

Things to do: Engage with an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative art spanning over six centuries. Ideal for art lovers and history enthusiasts looking to delve into artistic masterpieces.

Local transportation: Liverpool Lime Street Station is the closest rail link. Several bus routes, including the 10, 10A, and 10B, service the area near the gallery.

Location/Address: Walker Art Gallery, William Brown Street, Liverpool, L3 8EL

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, 10:00 – 17:00 (10 AM – 5 PM)

Liverpool’s World Museum: Discovering Treasures and Knowledge

Cost: Admission to the museum is free

Things to do: Dive into history at the World Museum. Enjoy natural history, world cultures, and stunning exhibits like the aquarium and planetarium. It’s ideal for families and solo explorers keen on learning.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Liverpool Lime Street, just a short walk away. Local buses serving the area include the 10A, 13, 15, and 18 among others.

Location/Address: William Brown Street, Liverpool, L3 8EN

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, 10:00 – 17:00 (10 AM – 5 PM)

Liverpool: Watch the Ferry on the Mersey

Cost: Watching is free; Ferry rides have a fee

Things to do: Enjoy the iconic view as the ferries ply across the Mersey. Take photos, enjoy the riverside scenery, or simply relax by the water’s edge for an authentic Liverpool experience.

Local transportation: James Street Station is the nearest metro link. Several local buses, including the 10A, 10B, and 10C, service the area near the ferry terminal.

Location/Address: Pier Head, Liverpool, L3 1DP

Open Days/Hours: Ferry views available any day; Cross river trips run from 10:00 – 18:00 (10 AM – 6 PM)

Liverpool Pier Head: Waterfront Wonders on a Budget

Cost: Mostly free

Things to do: Discover the beauty and history of Pier Head. Admire the iconic Three Graces buildings, explore the open spaces, and enjoy stunning views of the River Mersey.

Local transportation: James Street Station is the nearest metro station. Buses servicing the area include the 10A, 10B, and CityLink routes.

Location/Address: Pier Head, Liverpool, L3 1BY

Open Days/Hours: Accessible 24/7 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

Liverpool Central Library: Explore a World of Knowledge

Cost: Free

Things to do: Delve into the vast collection of books, marvel at the historic Picton Reading Room, and climb up to the roof terrace to enjoy stunning views of Liverpool.

Local transportation: Liverpool Central and Lime Street stations are a short walk away. Buses serving the area include the 75, 80 and 86 lines.

Location/Address: Liverpool Central Library, William Brown St, Liverpool L3 8EW

Open Days/Hours: Monday – Friday: 09:00 – 20:00 (9 AM – 8 PM), Saturday: 09:00 – 17:00 (9 AM – 5 PM), Sunday: 11:00 – 17:00 (11 AM – 5 PM)

Explore the Baltic Triangle in Liverpool: Eclectic and Creative Hub

Cost: Many attractions are free or low-cost.

Things to do: Discover street art, enjoy indie music at live venues, or visit vintage markets. It’s the go-to spot for culture and arts enthusiasts.

Local transportation: Liverpool Central is the nearest train station, with buses such as the 82 and 75 serving the area well.

Location/Address: Baltic Triangle, Liverpool, L1

Open Days/Hours: Most venues are open daily, with varied hours depending on the establishment.

Liverpool’s Bluecoat: A Cultural Oasis for Art Lovers

Cost: Free of charge

Things to do: Delve into the wonders of contemporary art at the Bluecoat. It offers galleries, live performances, and a serene garden, ideal for creative inspiration and tranquility.

Local transportation: Liverpool Central is the nearest train station, mere minutes away on foot. Numerous buses stop nearby, including the 82, 86, 75, and 80.

Location/Address: Bluecoat, School Lane, Liverpool, L1 3BX

Open Days/Hours: Generally open from 11:00 to 18:00 (11 AM – 6 PM), but check ahead for specific events or changes in opening hours.

Liverpool: Step into Rock History at the Casbah Coffee Club

Cost: Affordable, with ticket prices as low as £15 (around $20)

Things to do: Explore the birthplace of The Beatles’ early gigs. Discover original paintings and memorabilia in this celebrated venue. A must-visit for music enthusiasts.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is West Derby, but local buses like the 12, 13 and 15 lines offer convenient access to the club.

Location/Address: Casbah Coffee Club, 8 Hayman’s Green, Liverpool, L12 7JG

Open Days/Hours: Tours available Fri-Sun, 11:00 – 18:00 (11 AM – 6 PM)

Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral: Discover Architectural Grandeur

Cost: Entry is free.

Things to do: Explore the striking design of the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. Admire the modern stained glass and visit the serene Lutyens Crypt for reflection and history.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Liverpool Central. Nearby bus services include routes 75, 80, and 86, all of which stop close to the cathedral.

Location/Address: Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, Mount Pleasant, Liverpool L3 5TQ

Open Days/Hours: Generally open daily, 08:00 – 18:00 (8 AM – 6 PM).

Anfield Cemetery: A Glimpse of Liverpool’s Storied Past

Cost: Free of charge

Things to do: Embark on a tranquil walk amid historical gravestones and stunning monuments at Anfield Cemetery. Reflect on the stories of Liverpool’s bygone era, and enjoy the peaceful landscapes and well-kept pathways.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Kirkdale on the Northern line. Buses such as the 27, 68, and 168 serve the area, making access to the cemetery convenient.

Location/Address: Anfield Cemetery, Priory Rd, Liverpool, L4 2SL

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, 07:00 – 18:00 (7 AM – 6 PM)

Liverpool Philharmonic Hall: Discover Free Musical Delights

Cost: Free admission to certain events.

Things to do: Experience world-class performances without spending a penny. Look out for free concerts and family-friendly events, showcasing everything from classical to contemporary music.

Local transportation: The Philharmonic Hall is a short walk from the Liverpool Central train station. Buses like the 75, 80, and 86 frequently stop nearby.

Location/Address: Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool, L1 9BP

Open Days/Hours: Opening times vary based on event schedules, check in advance.

Conclusion

After exploring the many attractions Liverpool has to offer, we highly recommend visiting the iconic Liverpool Waterfront for breathtaking sights and cultural explorations. It’s a delightful experience at no cost, perfect for those traveling to Liverpool by train or bus. Additionally, a trip to the Museum of Liverpool is not to be missed for its fascinating exhibits and free admission, easily accessible via local transportation links.

Pro Tip: While indulging in Liverpool’s free attractions, consider using the local buses like the 82 and 500 or the James Street Station for convenient travel. This will save costs and allow you to cover more ground efficiently, whether you’re navigating Liverpool by bus or by train.