places to visit in liverpool street

12 Of The Loveliest Things To Do In Liverpool Street

From markets and museums to bingo and breathtaking viewpoints; here's our roundup of the very best things to do in the Liverpool Street area.

Contrary to popular belief, there’s more to Liverpool Street than high-rise buildings, exhausted commuters and finance bros. It’s actually a lively, multicultural neighbourhood full of wonderful things to see and do . So, on that note, here’s our list of the very best things to do in Liverpool Street . You’re very welcome.

1. Explore Old Spitalfields Market

The OG of East London markets can be found just around the corner from Liverpool Street station. Open seven days a week, Old Spitalfields Market is everything you’d want from a London market and so much more. Within metres of each other, you can find independent fashion, beauty, and wellness brands, as well as a daily traders market. Browse art from local makers, grab one-of-a-kind gifts from the many, many stalls, or stuff your face with some of the yummiest street food in town. Talking of street food ; there’s over 40 stalls to choose from , so we’d recommend going armed with an empty stomach and your very stretchiest trousers.

2. Have a wander down Brick Lane

Brick Lane is an absolute must-visit when you’re in the Liverpool Street area. A deliciously diverse melting pot of vintage shops , authentic curry houses, east London boozers, and eclectic street art . The road dates all the way back to the 15th century and there’s no shortage of things to do here. From bagels and bookshops to record stores and walking tours ; there’s guaranteed to be something that takes your fancy.

3. Munch your way through Eataly (the world’s largest Italian food market)

Just a stone’s throw away from Liverpool Street station is the whopping 42,000 square feet Italian food market, Eataly . The whole place is stuffed (much like a calzone) full of temptations. There’s a market and retail space, along with takeaway eateries and a fancy outdoor dining space, La Terrazza di Eataly, home to Italian sharing dishes and an Aperol Spritzeria , which is exactly what it sounds like.

Over 5,000 Italian and local food products can be found in this Italian wonderland , with cured meat, cheese counters, and Via del Dolce (the Sweet Spot), which serves fresh-baked Italian cakes, pastries, cannolis, and handmade gelato. You can also expect a pretty serious wine collection; Eataly fields some 2,000 wines, making it the largest Italian wine collection in London . Not bad, hey?

4. Have a surreptitious drink at Discount Suit Company

There’s nothing us Londoners love more than a bar that makes us feel ‘in the know‘ to our out-of-town pals, right? Secretive bars are scattered all across the city, but this one hidden around the corner from Liverpool Street station is a particular favourite of ours.

You’ll find this rundown suit shop slightly ill-fitting if you’re in the market for a three-piece, but if cocktails are what you’re looking for, then you’re in luck at the Discount Suit Company . The aim of the game here is to serve a range of classically-inspired cocktails – all for around a tenner – against a backdrop of Northern Soul and Vintage Rock’n’Roll. And to get in, ignore the misleading facade which promises ‘alterations while u wait’, or you’ll be waiting a very long time. Head for the small black door at street level instead.

5. Have a high-energy game of Hijingo

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Hijingo have taken the classic game and given it a high-tech, high-adrenaline makeover. Home to an immersive 360° sound system, LED technology and spectacular lighting, Hijingo have pulled out all the stops for this temple of bingo . They want you on the edge of your seat throughout the game, fully immersed in proceedings as you eagerly await the next call.

Video and motion graphics will bring the game to life around you, and with each game offering a new opportunity for you to win some truly epic prizes, there’s plenty on the line here. Between calls, you can tuck into a menu of Asian dishes and killer cocktails . What’s not to love?

6. Admire the view from the Sky Garden

Just a short walk away from Liverpool Street station is London’s highest public garden . Sky Garden is the indoor paradise up on the 43rd floor of the Walkie Talkie building. Admire the gorgeous greenery and gawp at London’s most iconic skyscrapers through the huge floor-to-ceiling windows. Oh, and it’s completely free to enter .

There’s various food and drink options up there and they also offer various events such as live band and DJ nights. If you fancy feeling extra zen, they even occasionally offer yoga in the sky , where you can practice your downward-facing-dog 525-feet up in the air. Namaste.

7. Immerse yourself in Van Gogh’s artwork

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Art-aficionados, this one’s for you. The Van Gogh Immersive Experience has transformed a 19th century stable building, Commercial 106, into a multi-sensory journey through Van Gogh’s most famous work . It’s not your typical gallery set up of white walls and framed paintings behind glass. Instead, thanks to cutting-edge technology you will – quite literally – walk through Van Gogh’s works, and experience a day in his life, thanks to an excellent VR experience .

This enthralling exhibition well-and-truly blurs the line between art and technology , creating an experience that will leave you with nothing but great memories. In fact, it will probably make you want all your future exhibition visits to have an immersive element to them.

8. Be transported to the Wild West at the Moonshine Saloon

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Moonshine Saloon is for those who like their cocktails with a side of adventure. Saunter down to the saloon, smuggle in your illicit moonshine (i.e. BYOB), and step behind the swinging doors for an hour and 45 minutes of a theatrical drinking experience like no other.

Once you step off the modern-day pavement, you’ll officially enter the Wild West (the set design is impressive). Live actors will welcome you into the illicit Moonshine empire, where the bartenders will transform your booze into four personalised cocktails. Roll the dice – quite literally – as you try your hand at a selection of dice and card games, or simply chat with the local cowboys and cowgirls who frequent this here spot. Yee-haw!

9. Eat sushi in the sky at SUSHISAMBA

If there’s one thing that Liverpool Street is known for, it’s the big old buildings that form the city’s iconic skyline ; one of which is the Heron Tower. Shoot up to the 38th and 39th floors in a glass-walled lift, and you’ll find yourself at SUSHISAMBA , which commands incredible views of the city and serves up a “culinary culmination” of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian food .

The restaurant makes the absolute most of its surroundings, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls maximising the 360 degree views . Design touches such as a canopy of bamboo and artfully draped lightbulbs just add to the jaw-dropping effect, and the food is some of the most delicious in town. The best meals can put you on top of the world, and that’s exactly the case at SUSHISAMBA.

10. Have a nosey inside Dennis Severs’ House

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If you’re in Liverpool Street, we’d highly recommend taking a trip to Dennis Severs’ House ; a Georgian, Grade II-listed building, which is home to one of London’s most fascinating museums . Dennis Severs was an eccentric artist who breathed new life into the historic interior of 18 Folgate Street. The result is an immersive exhibition , filled with authentic 18th Century household objects and sumptuous interior styling.

Described as a time capsule ‘still life drama’, the concept follows various incidents in the life of a fictitious family of Huguenot silk weavers – the Jervis family – who lived here back in 1724. You’ll take a step back in time and will be able to put yourselves in the shoes of this ‘family’ to see how they went about their daily lives. There’s a whole host of historic artefacts on show here, so this is one for the culture vultures among you!

11. Explore the magical Leadenhall Market

The penultimate entry on our list of the best things to do in Liverpool Street is a visit to the ever-so magical Leadenhall Market. With a history that dates back to the 14th century, Leadenhall Market is officially one of the oldest markets in London and let’s just say – it has a pretty impressive CV. Not only has Leadenhall Market been used to represent Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, but it was also one of the first places in London that women were allowed to work. It was also – fun fact – the first place you could ever buy cutlery (who knew?).

The current design of the building is the fault of Sir Horace Jones, the same architectural genius behind Billingsgate and Smithfield Markets . Almost one hundred years after his redevelopments, Leadenhall Market was granted Grade II* listed status – to the surprise of absolutely nobody. It was originally a meat, poultry and game market, but is now home to dozens of boutique retailers, restaurants and wine bars and is well-worth a wander round.

12. Eat steak and fries at Le Relais De Venise L’Entrecote

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Our final Liverpool Street recommendation comes in the form of a restaurant that serves just one thing: steak and fries . When there’s only one dish on the menu, you know it’s going to be pretty damn good. In this instance, all you do is tell them how you like your steak cooked and you’ll be presented with  steak et frites,  which will come with their famous house sauce.

Of course, there’s more to the experience at  Le Relais de Venise L’Entrecote  than just the main course. For starters, you’ll get a fresh walnut salad with a mustard vinaigrette – dessert comes in the form of cheese (but of course) and delectable, homemade pastries. Let’s not forget the wine either – after all the bistro was actually  started  by a winemaker way back in 1959.

So there you have it, a roundup of 12 of the very best things to do in Liverpool Street . From markets and museums to bingo and breathtaking viewpoints; there’s something spectacular for everyone to enjoy.

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The Curious Traveler’s Guide to Liverpool Street, London’s Historic Neighborhood

By: Author The Working Line

Posted on May 27, 2024

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The Liverpool Street area is one of the liveliest neighborhoods in London, and with its proximity to the East End and the City of London, makes for an easily accessible destination.

Not only that – the Liverpool Street station is one of historical importance; one that took a central part in the 20th century Kindertransport, and one where Victorian architecture blends in with aesthetic modern buildings.

There is simply so much to see around Liverpool Street that you can spend days there, looking for hidden alleys , getting street food at Eataly near the station, and enjoying views from Horizon 22…

Ready to dive deep into one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in London ?

The Curious Traveler’s Guide to Liverpool Street, London’s Historic Neighborhood

Having lived in Mile End and Bethnal Green for about a year, passing through Liverpool Street by Tube and bus to get to the Shard at London Bridge, where I worked for a while, was something I did on the daily.

I have always very much appreciated the austere beauty of Liverpool Street’s skyscrapers, as well as the hidden church gardens you can find around the area, which include the quaint garden at St Botolph Without Bishopsgate church.

To help you in your discovery of the picturesque area, which becomes even more instagrammable as the sun sets over the skyscrapers, I have also included a few restaurants and food spots you might enjoy during your visit at the end of this guide.

Let’s, however, start with all kinds of secret gardens , historical sites and other awesome sights that will undoubtedly make you fall in love with the Liverpool Street area!

Best Things to Do in Liverpool Street London: Bishopsgate and Bishopsgate Institute

Bishopsgate is one of the most famous streets in London, and the very one that passes by Liverpool Street station, connecting Shoreditch to the City of London.

That’s where you will find many restaurants and cafes, as well as the Bishopsgate Institute, which offers socially-oriented exhibitions (completely free!) as well as a couple of rooms perfect to study for a bit.

I’ve always been blown away by how beautiful the Bishopsgate Institute building is, and that’s a sight you won’t miss when you walk around Liverpool Street.

Read: The Curious Guide to Smithfield, London’s Forgotten Neighborhood

Best Hidden Gems in Liverpool Street London: St Mary Axe

The Gherkin (top right picture) is one of London’s landmarks, and a true exhibition of eccentric British sophistication.

Walking around the Liverpool Street area, you can reach the Gherkin (30 St Mary Axe of its real name) within a couple of minutes, passing by some large, clean streets with beautiful views of the nearby skyscrapers.

At the bottom of the Gherkin, you will find a few benches on which you can have a picnic, or spend some time reading while enjoying the presence of the towering skyscrapers over you.

Don’t miss the Tomb of the Unknown Roman Girl (top left picture), which you can easily miss, even if you’re looking for it.

Indeed, a simple inscription on the side of one of the benches memorializes the teenager, who died at a time when London was still the Roman Londinium.

Read: The Best Free Views in London

Best Things to Do in Liverpool Street London: St Botolph Without Bishopsgate

Probably one of the most secret churches in the City of London – even if it’s here, right on Bishopsgate and out in the open!, St Botolph Without Bishopsgate is a historic church dating back to the medieval period, although some records mention its existence from the Roman times.

For whoever would be after secret gardens in Central London , that of St Botolph Without Bishopsgate church is one of the cutest you will find, complete with a small fountain, sculptures, and turn-of-the-century lights.

The best part is, we’re really close to Liverpool Street station, which can be reached in 5 to 10 minutes, and Duck & Waffle and Sushi Samba, two of London’s best restaurants , are located right across the street.

Read: The Cutest Floral Cafes in London

Best Hidden Gems in Liverpool Street London: Alderman’s Walk

Located just behind St Botolph Without Bishopsgate, Alderman’s Walk is a small passage that drags you back in time whether you want it or not, its gates and arched windows the perfect background for pictures.

It is a huge contrast to how modern Bishopsgate and Liverpool Street look with their many shops and restaurants, and while Alderman’s Walk is a simple passage to walk through, it exhales old-world charm, a great spot to pop by if you’re into history.

Read: 8 Free Historical Sites to Visit in London

Best Things to Do in Liverpool Street London: Walk to Aldgate

Let’s keep the historical streak going with a visit to the Aldgate area; another favorite of mine as it is one of the places to check out for remains of the London Wall.

That’s not all, though – if you’ve been meaning to check out artistic hidden gems, you might want to pop by the Jocelyn McGregor Earthing sculpture , which is a call to humans to reconnect with nature.

If you keep going past the sculpture to the right, you will enter into the depths of the City of London, with, at some point, the hidden garden at St Alphage and its church ruins.

If, however, you go down the Minories, you will reach the Tower of London with its ineffable views of the Thames river and maritime buildings in the distance.

In any case, do visit Aldgate Square if you have the time, as there are plenty of gorgeous buildings and coffee shops in the surroundings!

Read: The Curious Traveler’s Guide to London’s Secret and Free Museums

Best Things to Do in Liverpool Street London: New Inn Broadway and Romeo & Juliet Mural

Straying away from the Liverpool Street and Bishopsgate area, why not visit Shoreditch for a bit – it’s, after all, one of London’s best street art areas !

New Inn Broadway is one of my favorite places to visit in Shoreditch; a literary spot you have to pop by if you’re into reading, as you will be able to admire a Romeo & Juliet mural there, along with a statue of Shakespeare.

We’re actually quite close to Liverpool Street station; in about 15 minutes walking, you will reach New Inn Broadway.

Don’t be afraid of walking around the area : as you get lost, you will find many more street art pieces in the surrounding streets, including the ultra-colorful New Inn Yard!

Read: A Self Walking Tour of Brick Lane’s Street Art: What to See

Best Things to Do in Liverpool Street London: Admire the Station’s Architecture

For some reason, my mind always connects the architecture at Liverpool Street station with that of the famous Leadenhall Market – it must be the mix of curves, glass roof and ornaments dotted around both landmarks.

Opened in 1874, Liverpool Street station is currently one of the busiest stations in London, and one that also hosts the Elizabeth Line opened a few months ago.

My favorite way of seeing Liverpool Street station, though, is through the two Kindertransport sculptures: indeed, the station served as an entry point to the trains bringing thousands of kids, saving them from Nazi persecution in several Eastern European countries, including Poland and Germany.

Read: The Prettiest Multicolor Places in London

Best Hidden Gems in Liverpool Street London: Admire the Kindertransport Sculptures

One of the Kindertransport sculptures, The Arrival, was designed by Frank Meisler and Arie Oviada, and commemorates the arrival of Jewish children between 1938 and 1939.

The Kindertransport rescue mission followed the Kristallnacht in Germany, and was put together in a matter of weeks – from December 1938, trains from Germany started bringing rescued kids to their new foster families.

Another Kindertransport memorial, Für Das Kind (For the Children), is located inside Liverpool Street station, and another poignant sight.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in London Bridge and Southwark

Best Things to Do in Liverpool Street London: Enjoy Pieces of Sculpture in the City

Sculpture in the City is one of my favorite art trails in London; there are several in town, which also include Broadgate, easily accessible from Liverpool Street station on foot.

All the way down towards St Mary Axe and Aldgate, you will find several sculptures in all kinds of styles – the one above is located on Bishopsgate, close to the Old Spitalfields Market, and is one of the only ‘talking’ sculptures in London!

The Earthing sculpture mentioned at the beginning of this guide is also part of the Sculpture in the City art trail, which goes to show just how diverse the public art pieces can be in London.

Read: 8 Secret Places to Eat in Central London

Best Hidden Gems in Liverpool Street London: Relax at Broadgate Plaza

When walking from Liverpool Street station towards Shoreditch and Bethnal Green, take a left on Primrose Street, and somewhere on the right, you will find Broadgate Plaza.

This is one of the many secret spots you’ll find in the area, with sculptures, restaurants and cafes lining the covered passage.

It’s the kind of place where people working in nearby buildings hang out at lunch with a meal deal or a salad, and Broadgate Plaza’s proximity with Exchange Square makes a cute spot to pop by before checking out this other secret garden!

Read: The Most Secret and Instagrammable Cafes in London

Best Things to Do in Liverpool Street London: Visit Exchange Square Behind the Station

I first came across Exchange Square almost by mistake; I was looking for the Broadgate Venus, part of the Broadgate Art Trail, and could not believe my eyes when I discovered this huge garden hidden behind Liverpool Street station.

A beautiful water point to enjoy during summer in London , the Broadgate Venus, the Commuters sculpture (top right picture) and the incredible views of the Liverpool Street skyscrapers make it one of my favorite spots to relax…

And so very unknown to most tourists!

Read: The Cutest Pink Places in London

Best Hidden Gems in Liverpool Street London: Sun Street Passage

Sun Street Passage is a historic passage featuring gorgeous stonework, a contrast with the modern buildings in the distance – one that connects Broadgate Circle to Exchange Square, and a bustling alley at that.

Those looking for unusual spots to take pictures would do well to pop by Sun Street Passage, which took its name from a nearby tavern recorded as early as 1650, and makes today for yet another striking trace of London’s past.

Read: A Guide to Completely Free Things to Do in London

Best Things to Do in Liverpool Street London: Broadgate Circle

The Broadgate Circle development is one hidden behind Liverpool Street station; immaculate, it is filled with restaurants, among which Franco Manca , which offers some of the cheapest Neapolitan pizza in London.

We talked about the Broadgate art trail earlier in this guide, and just outside of Broadgate Circle, you will find another quirky sculpture, Hare in a Hat, in front of the Rolex store.

For those looking for quaint afternoon tea spots, Mr Fogg’s, which has other cute branches in London (namely in Covent Garden and Marylebone), is another must-visit, a picturesque Victorian-style tavern with a gorgeous terrace!

Read: The Most Unusual Places to Visit in London for Free

Best Hidden Gems in Liverpool Street London: LOOM at Broadgate

LOOM at Broadgate is one of those artistic hidden gems that you don’t expect in places like Liverpool Street; this permanent interactive installation was launched in 2019.

Broadgate, Liverpool Street and the Spitalfields neighborhood all have a strong tapestry heritage, including silk work, and LOOM is a colorful way to pay homage to that past… the London way.

If you need a pick me up, Redemption Roasters has a branch inside the LOOM installation – if you’ve visited their instagrammable cafe in Angel, you already know their coffee is utterly tasty!

Read: All the Secret Places in London You Didn’t Know About

Best Things to Do in Liverpool Street London: Shoreditch Street Art

Walking from Liverpool Street station towards Bethnal Green Road, you will reach Commercial Road and Great Eastern Street at some point; all around, countless street art pieces can be admired.

The Let’s Adore and Endure Each Other mural in Great Eastern Street is probably one of the most famous murals in London, topped with old train carriages of the Jubilee Line.

New Inn Broadway and New Inn Yard I’ve mentioned earlier are both located within walking distance, and will complete a self-walking tour of Shoreditch’s street art to perfection!

Read: The Best Places to See Nature in London

Best Hidden Gems in Liverpool Street London: Charnel House, Bishops Square

Like Pancras Square, that you can easily walk from King’s Cross station on the Piccadilly Line , Bishops Square is a quiet secret place for tourists – not so much for locals who work in the area.

Colorful fish and benches located around relaxing ponds, the proximity with Old Spitalfields Market and its vintage shops , and Charnel Square all make Bishops Square a place to visit absolutely.

Charnel Square, in particular, is one of the best-preserved medieval sites in London , ruins of an old ossuarium in which you will also find a more modern sculpture, right under the square.

Read: The Curious Traveler’s Guide to Canary Wharf, London’s Financial District

Best Things to Do in Liverpool Street London: Artillery Passage and Views of London

Close to Bishops Square, the historic Artillery Passage is one of the best-hidden alleyways in London, and a step back in time with its 17th-century buildings and tiny shops lining the passage.

You can easily access Artillery Passage from Liverpool Street, and while this is in my opinion one of the prettiest streets in London , I cannot recommend enough checking out all the streets around it.

This includes places with gorgeous shopfronts, like Verde & Company, or A. Gold – both are close to Gun Street, another historic street that lovers of the past will love to admire.

Read: The Most Hidden Courtyards in London, Gardens and Old Streets

Best Hidden Gems in Liverpool Street London: Walk to Voss Street, Bethnal Green

If you’re willing to stray away from Liverpool Street station, you will find there are many cool things to do in Bethnal Green – including visiting Voss Street, hidden behind Bethnal Green Road.

On the way to Voss Street, you will see Brick Lane on the right with all its gorgeous street art (bottom picture), bagel shops and other perfect cafes for breakfast.

Voss Street is a quiet mews street , of the kind you wouldn’t expect to see in places like East London , a big part of which is covered in graffiti and street art, an open-air gallery painted by members of the on-site Matchbox Collective.

Read: The Best Halal Breakfast in London

Best Places to Eat near Liverpool Street London

Best places to eat near liverpool street london: pizza union, spitalfields.

Now, visiting any neighborhood in London , you will get hungry at some point, which is why I have chosen to include a few of my favorite food spots in this guide as well, starting with Pizza Union.

Pizza Union is located in Spitalfields, right behind Liverpool Street and close to Artillery Passage – it is also the place to get the cheapest pizza in London .

We’re closer to a Roman-style pizza than Neapolitan pizza , with a huge restaurant that gets super crowded at lunch time: at around 6 to 7 pounds for a whole pizza, it’s easy to understand why!

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in West London

Best Places to Eat near Liverpool Street London: Song Que Cafe, Kingsland Road

On Kingsland Road, in Shoreditch (close to New Inn Broadway!), you will find Song Que Cafe, which serves nothing but the best Vietnamese pho in London .

I also happen to love raw beef salad, and had never been able to find a really tasty one in London – well, I’ve found it at Song Que Cafe .

This is a really unassuming place, but one of the best restaurants in London overall, at least in my book, and quite affordable!

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in South London

Best Places to Eat near Liverpool Street London: Kahaila, Brick Lane

If you’ll start your visit of the Liverpool Street area in the morning, why not have a great breakfast at Kahaila in Brick Lane?

That’s a rustic coffee shop I spend a lot of time in, where chocolate cake and rainbow cake blend with beautiful chai latte, in a setting perfect to study or work for some time as well.

Now, there are many amazing cafes in East London , but every single time I have to recommend just one to people visiting the city for the first time, Kahaila is one of the first names that pop in my mind.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in North London

Best Places to Eat near Liverpool Street London: Aux Merveilleux de Fred, Leadenhall Market

As a French person, any time I visit another city, I am likely to check for French patisseries as well; that was the case for London, and that is also the case when I am living in Rome.

Aux Merveilleux de Fred is a Parisian pastry shop you will find several branches of in London, including in the gorgeous Leadenhall Market.

The Merveilleux are soft, delicate meringue pastries topped with cream and biscoff, white chocolate, dark chocolate, meringue bits… All kinds of delicious treats.

Having breakfast at Aux Merveilleux de Fred while enjoying the historic Leadenhall Market is simply incomparable – and why not pop by Horizon 22, one of London’s best free rooftops , while you’re at it?

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in Mayfair, Central London

There you have them, all the best things to do in Liverpool Street and its surrounding areas; Shoreditch, Bethnal Green, the City of London and Spitalfields !

You’ll hopefully have found here lots of new free things to do in London you didn’t suspect – the historical sites Liverpool Street is filled with are enough to keep anyone coming back, if only to admire the aesthetic buildings of the neighborhood!

Until next time!

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Sam is a certified fashion makeup artist, a freelance writer, a blogger and a digital nomad. Since 2019, she roams around the world, from London to Rome and shares her knowledge about makeup, scented candles, travel, blogging and the digital nomad lifestyle.

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Liverpool Street Station

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Things to Do near Liverpool Street Station

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40 things to do near Liverpool Street Station

A train station in the centre of London’s financial district might not be the first place you think to visit on a trip to London. However, there are so many things to do near Liverpool Street Station, it might just surprise you .

Having spent the best part of the last 25 years commuting to work through Liverpool Street Station, it feels more than a little strange to be writing a post about it.

However, recently a friend asked me what there was to do around the station. While I was sharing some ideas, it struck me just how many of London’s top attractions are within walking distance of Liverpool Street Station.

Something you don’t really notice each day when you are rushing through to get to the office. 

So, although Liverpool Street is perhaps not the first place you’d think to head to on a visit to London, it really is a great starting point to see some of London’s iconic landmarks.

It is also in the heart of The City of London, the world’s top global financial district. I’m probably a bit biased having worked there for over a decade but it is a fantastic place to spend some time and have a wander around. 

During the week it is a hive of activity with city workers going about their business. Cafes, coffee shops and the odd pub providing much needed refreshments and a brief respite from the pressure of work. 

At the weekend, it’s hard to believe it’s the same place. Although The City is not quite the ghost town it used to be on weekends, it is still much quieter. 

Over half a million people commute into The City for work. So once they’ve all gone home, it is a good opportunity to explore without the busyness of the working week. 

It makes it much easier to look at some of the amazing architecture and soak up the incredible history of this part of London without hoards of people running to their next meeting, grabbing their lunch or rushing to the train station.

In this post, I share some of the things to do around Liverpool Street as well as inside the station itself.

This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you make purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission.

A little bit about Liverpool Street Station

Liverpool Street Station is Britain’s third business railway, with 64 million passengers passing through each year. 

The station opened in 1874 on the site of the original Bethlem Royal Hospital, England’s first psychiatric hospital.

It is the gateway to London for Essex, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. Train companies that serve Liverpool Street include Greater Anglia and TFL.

The Stansted Express also arrives into Liverpool Street, providing a link between the airport and London.

There is a London Underground station and interchange. Tube lines that pass through are the Central Line, Hammersmith and City Line and the Metropolitan Line

The newly opened Elizabeth Line also passes through Liverpool Street.

Fun fact | Liverpool Street is just one of four railway stations in the British version of Monopoly

Things to do in Liverpool Street Station

While you don’t want to spend too much time in the station itself there are a couple of things worth having a look at before exploring the surrounding area.

Great Eastern Railway War Memorial 

By the Old Broad Street entrance/exit on the upper level, there is a memorial dedicated to Great Eastern Railway (GER) staff who lost their lives in World War I.

1,100 names are listed on the large marble plaque. Underneath are two smaller memorials. One is for Sir Henry Wilson, who was killed shortly after unveiling the Great Eastern Railway War Memorial in 1922. The second is for Captain Charles Fryatt, who worked for GER and was executed by the German army in 1916.

The memorials were originally located in the booking hall of the station but were moved to their current spot as part of the station redevelopment in the 1990s.

Kindertransport Memorials

In the months leading up to World War II, around 10,000 children were relocated to Great Britain from Germany, Austria, Czechoslovakia and Poland for their safety. 

Many of the children travelled to the Netherlands where they boarded ferries to Harwich. From there, they were taken by train to Liverpool Street Station to meet the families or organizations that would be looking after them. 

Two sculptures in the station commemorate this rescue mission and the part Liverpool Street played in it.

Fur das Kind

(created by Flor Kent)

Located under the meeting point on the station concourse, just by the main London Underground booking hall, is a sculpture of two children. A young girl standing and a boy sitting down with a suitcase next to them.

It’s easy to miss with people using the area as a meeting point and darting in and out of the entrance to the tube.

The Arrival

(Created by Frank Meisler)

On the forecourt outside the station by the Old Broad Street entrance is a large bronze sculpture of five children with their suitcases. Poignantly one girl is holding her teddy bear.

The sculpture, Frank Meisler, has a personal experience of Kindertransport having been evacuated to London himself.

There are a few shopping areas in and around the station. So, before you start exploring you can pick up some refreshments or any last-minute supplies.

Over the last few years, the station has undergone a bit of redevelopment with the arrival of Crossrail and the Elizabeth line . As well as new entrances and exits to the station, the shopping area has been improved. 

On the ground level, there are various coffee and snack places, a newsagent and a large chemist. There are also a few lifestyle-type shops.

On the upper level, there are more food outlets, a hairdressers and more shops.

Just outside the Bishopsgate entrance, there is a large Wetherspoon pub, Hamilton Hall. There is also some outside seating here. However, it can get very busy, particularly if there are delays on the trains or there is a big sporting event in London.

At the other end of the station, outside the Old Broad Street entrance, you’ll find another pub, The Railway Tavern.

If you don’t mind a walk, there are a few shopping areas not too far away.

Wander down Bishopsgate towards Monument and you’ll find a few big high street names such as Marks and Spencers and New Look. There are also lots of places to grab a drink and bite to eat.

You’ll also pass Leadenhall Market which has a mix of independent and high street stores.

A little further afield is One New Change. This is about a 20 minute walk and has variety of well known brands on offer.

Things to do around Liverpool Street

I walk everywhere in The City. Nothing is really more than 20 minutes away so by the time you get on and off the tube, you may well have walked.

You can explore a lot more on foot and often come across places you wouldn’t have seen if you went underground. Plus really who wants to be stuck on a crowded tube?

I’ve split this guide to things to do near Liverpool Street into sections depending on how long it takes to walk there. 

Whether you want to walk for just a few minutes or don’t mind a 20-minute stroll, there will be something to do or see in the area.

At a glance the main attractions near Liverpool Street include

Bank of England

Royal exchange, within 5 minutes of liverpool street station .

A relatively new addition to the Liverpool Street area is Eataly , a huge Italian food market, restaurant and bar. 

With three restaurants and bars, it’s the perfect spot for a bite to eat before exploring the area.

I’m kind of glad it wasn’t open when I worked nearby as I suspect I would have been in there every day. It is amazing.

They offer a wide range of products to buy, including all the ingredients they cook with. So if you loved your meal or snack there, you can attempt to recreate it for yourself at home.

Broadgate & Broadgate Circle

Just outside the station, through the arcade of retail outlets (currently being redeveloped and opening towards the end of the year) is Broadgate .

A few yards away, in Broadgate Circle are a selection of bars and restaurants. So if you want to brunch, have dinner, or just have a quick drink there are plenty of options here.

It’s a great spot but can get very busy, particularly in the summer. We city workers like a drink after work!

Also, part of the Broadgate complex and just behind the station is Exchange Square. 

This area has recently been redeveloped and now features a 1.5-acre landscaped park with a mix of trees, plants and a water feature. 

The amphitheatre-style seating, a good spot to sit with friends and a drink from one of the nearby bars, has been spruced up.

In the past, there used to be a big screen where you could watch Wimbledon and other sporting events.

All in all, it is a great place to catch up with friends or work colleagues and escape the commotion of The City.

Heron Tower

It’s easy to forget the Heron Tower, or the Salesforce Tower to give it its official name, is a fairly new addition to London’s skyline. Standing at 230 meters high it is the tallest skyscraper in The City and the fifth-largest in London. 

While it is predominantly an office block – there are 36 floors of private offices – there are two bars and restaurants at the top that are open to the public

As with most sky-high bars and restaurants you’ll pay a premium but the views are well worth it.

Duck and Waffle

Located on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower, Duck and Waffle is London’s highest 24-hour restaurant. 

The food served here is British cuisine but with a European influence and many dishes are designed to be shared. The menu includes breakfast, all-day (and night) dining and a weekend brunch.

And don’t worry if you are hungry when you arrive, it takes just 40 seconds to reach the top of the building.

Sushi Samba

Up on the 38th and 39th floors you’ll find the highest outdoor dining terraces in Europe at Sushi Samba .

The main dining room, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, allows you to enjoy a panoramic view of London’s skyline while dining.

Dishes from Brazil, Peru and Asia are served alongside some creative cocktails. 

Finsbury Circus Gardens 

At the first sign of summer, you’ll see many city workers take their lunch outside in any space (green or otherwise) that they can find.

Finsbury Circus Gardens is the largest public open space in The City. The large green garden, with seating around the edge, is quiet and tranquil, a marked contrast to the busy city life going on all around it 

Over the last decade or so the gardens have been mostly off-limits due to the construction of Crossrail. However, now with the Elizabeth line open and the construction project coming to a finish, the gardens have made a welcome return as an open space for all to use.

Petticoat Lane market

One of London’s most famous markets is a stone’s throw from Liverpool Street Station.

However, you won’t find Petticoat Lane in your A-Z. The reference to undergarment was considered too racy by the Victorians so they changed the name to Middlesex Street. Not sure if that is any less racy but hey ho.

The famous fashion, textile and leather goods market is open on Sundays between 9am and 3pm and spills over into a number of surrounding streets 

A smaller market is open the rest of the week, mainly centred around Wentworth Street. 

Within 10 minutes of Liverpool Street Station 

Leadenhall market.

One of the things that fascinate me about The City of London is that almost everywhere you look you can find a reference to the past.

The beautiful Leadenhall Market is the perfect example of that. Once the centre of Roman London, the site is still a hive of activity today. 

The market dates back to the 14th century, starting out as a poultry and game market. Over the years it has seen a lot of changes and even survived the Great Fire of London.

The current structure, made from wrought iron and glass, dates back to 1881. It still looks spectacular!

These days the market is home to boutique shops, cafes, restaurants and a pub (where it seems pretty much all The City decamps in the lead-up to Christmas.)

Leadenhall Market is also often used as a film location, mostly notable in the Harry Potter movies so if you are a fan or film buff, you may feel like you’ve been there before.

The Gherkin (30 St Mary’s Axe)

30 St Mary’s Axe, or the Gherkin as it’s more commonly known as, is one of London’s most distinctive skyscrapers. 

Designed by one of Britain’s leading architects, Sir Norman Foster, it is a widely recognised example of contemporary architecture.

Standing at 180m tall, the building is mostly private office space. However, there is a bar and restaurant at the top which is open to the public. 

During the construction, the body of a Roman woman was discovered. She was removed and taken to the Museum of London. Once the building was completed she was returned and buried at the foot of the tower.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit The Gherkin a few times, both for work and to meet friends and it really is an impressive building and the bar at the top is fabulous. I’d recommend a visit for a drink and to enjoy the view over The City.

If you would like to visit, then booking a meal at the restaurant or drinks in the Iris Bar is your best way. You can find more at Searcy at The Gherkin .

The Leadenhall Building

The Leadenhall Building is another one of London’s distinctive private office blocks but it is worth going to take a look at it when exploring The City due to its unusual design.

When it was being designed, one of the planning requirements was that it didn’t spoil the views of other major landmarks in The City including St Paul’s Cathedral.

So, that is why it looks like half of it has been sliced off.  

It is known to most Londoners as The Cheesegrater thanks to its resemblance to one.

The grand building of the Bank of England, the UK’s central bank, is an imposing presence on Threadneedle Street.

Tucked away in the side of the building is a free museum that takes you through 300 years of the bank’s history and explains what the bank does today and how this affects us.

Over the road, you’ll notice another grand building, The Royal Exchange .

Originally founded as a centre of commerce for The City of London in the 16th century, the building that is on the site now is the third to stand there.

Today, the Royal Exchange is filled with high-end shops, bars and restaurants.

The steps outside and forecourt are a favourite spot for city workers to take a lunchtime break.

The spectacular Guildhall is the centre of government in The City of London and home to the corporation that looks after The City.

The site is also home to London’s Roman amphitheatre , somewhat amazingly only discovered in 1988 hidden beneath the yard. 

You can visit the amphitheatre for free and there are guided tours on selected dates.

St Helen’s Church, Bishopsgate

Standing in the shadow of The Gherkin, St Helen’s Bishopgate is the largest surviving parish church in The City of London.

The gothic-style church, a striking contrast to the surrounding modern buildings, is packed with history and contains more monuments than any other church in Greater London.

It survived the Great Fire of London and the Blitz in World World II. It was damaged in 1992 and 1993 when two IRA bombs were set off nearby. 

However, the church was restored and today continues to serve the local community and city workers. 

Fun fact: It was William Shakespeare’s local church when he lived in the area in the 1590s.

Set in what was once the Midland Bank building just off Bank junction, The Ned is now a boutique hotel and members club.

The grand banking hall is now home to 10 restaurants and bars serving food and drinks from around the world.

It’s a great place to catch up with friends or have an after-work drink but it can get very busy. So keep that in mind if you decided to pop in.

Lloyds of London

Home to the world’s leading insurance market, the Lloyds building is instantly recognisable by having its insides on the outside. 

While the original building here was demolished for the current one, the entrance was preserved and is now a facade at the front. If you look closely you can see how it seems like it has been stuck on the newer building.

St Stephen Walbrook

Tucked away, not too far from Bank tube station, is St Stephen Walbrook.

If you feel like the dome is familiar, you’d be right. After the previous church on the site was destroyed in the Great Fire of London, it was rebuilt with Sir Christopher Wren involved in the redevelopment. 

It is said that this dome design was a forerunner for the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral not too far down the road.

Shoreditch 

Behind Liverpool Street Station, you’ll find Shoreditch. Home to trendy cafes, popular bars and creative street art, there is always a bit of a buzz in this area. 

Spitalfields & Old Spitalfields Market

Just round the corner from Liverpool Street is Spitalfields , a vibrant area of shops, restaurants, and bars.

Old Spitalfields Market is a historic covered market selling a variety of goods including food, arts and craft and clothes. 

Open seven days a week, this is a great place to lose an hour or two in The city.

Within 15 minutes of Liverpool Street Station 

Barbican centre.

The Barbican Centre is a performing arts venue, with two theatres, three cinemas, two art galleries and a concert hall.

Once voted London’s ugliest building (harsh but possibly fair), it is widely considered to be one of The city’s best examples of the Brutalist style of architecture.

Don’t let that put you off though, it runs a diverse programme of events throughout the year. From concerts by some of the world’s best musicians to exhibitions by international artists, there is always something worth checking out. 

Sitting pretty at the top of 20 Fenchurch Street in the heart of The city, is the Sky Garden , London’s highest public garden.

Known to most Londoners as the ‘Walkie Talkie’ due to its uncanny resemblance to one, it is a great place to sip a drink while enjoying a spectacular panoramic view over London. 

There are two floors of landscaped gardens that bloom all year round, with a bar on each. The Sky Pod on the lower level and City Garden on the upper level.

You can also dine up here, high above The city. Darwin is an all-day brasserie while Fenchurch offers contemporary fine dining.

Perhaps, the best bit about the Sky Garden, other than the amazing view, is that it is totally free to visit. 

It can get very busy though, so it’s best to book a ticket in advance . Tickets are released every Monday.

They do occasionally accept walk-ins but there is no guarantee of this. I’ve only managed to walk in a handful of times in all the years it’s been open.

If you really want to visit make sure you book in advance otherwise you might be disappointed.

The Garden at 120 Fenchurch Street

If you can’t get into the Sky Garden, another great option is The Garden at 120 Fenchurch Street .

It is just down the road and while it may not be as tall it is London’s largest public rooftop space, it is still a nice spot. 

The garden has four different areas with a water feature, seating and a hut for refreshments. So if you are a caffeine addict you can grab a coffee while enjoying the view. 

One floor below, there is a bar and restaurant. 14 Hills serves brunch, lunch and dinner that showcases the best of British.

St Dunston in the East

Set in the ruins of a Sir Christopher Wren-designed church, St Dunston in the East is a little bit of calm in The city.

With trees and greenery climbing over the ruins, it’s a great place to escape the weekday hustle and bustle of The city (I did quite often when working nearby).

Originally built around 1100, the church was damaged in the Great Fire of London and again in the Blitz during World War II. The tower and steeple survived the bombing but it was decided not to rebuild the church.

Instead, The City of London turned what remained into a public garden. 

Often referred to as one of London’s hidden gems, the secret is well and truly out these days, it’s recently become popular as an Instagram backdrop.

One New Change

I always thought there was a lack of shops in The city. Sure there were stores here and there but no one destination to head to for a bit of retail therapy.  

So, it was a great day in The city when One New Change opened (for me at least). 

As well as bringing many of the UK’s best-loved high street brands and restaurants under one roof, it has a free public roof terrace that provides a brilliant view of St Paul’s Cathedral. 

There is also a bar and restaurant up here so you can really take your time and enjoy the views while sipping a drink or two.

St Magnus the Martyr

Despite working in The city for many years, it was only recently that I discovered that St Magnus the Martyr is where the old London Bridge was.

Like many of the churches in The city, it has an interesting history.

Standing less than 300 yards from where the Great Fire of London started, the church was destroyed in the fire. It was rebuilt under the supervision of Sir Christopher Wren.

Two stones from the Old London Bridge are in the churchyard along with a piece of wood said to be part of an old Roman Wharf dating from 75AD.

There is a replica model of the old London Bridge inside the church.

Museum of London

The Museum of London has recently closed its city base in preparation for a new museum in West Smithfield. As this won’t open until 2026, you’ll have to head over to their other site in London Docklands.

I’ve left it in here as it truly a wonderful museum and well worth popping over to Docklands if you can.

The Museum of London tells the story of The City from before it was London to the present day.  

From Roman London to the Great Fire to the swinging 60s, and more recently the London 2012 Olympics, the museum takes you through London’s fascinating past.

I feel this museum gets a little overshadowed by some of its more famous relatives over in South Kensington but this really is one of the best museums in London. 

It tells the absorbing story of London in an incredibly engaging way.

Within 20 minutes of Liverpool Street Station 

The monument.

Most city workers probably don’t give this tall white column much thought as they exit Monument station and head to their offices. I know I walked past it countless times while working in The city and hardly ever gave it a second glance.

Yet, The Monument has a fascinating history and gives spectacular panoramic views across London, all for a little more than a fiver. 

Built to commemorate the Great Fire of London and to celebrate the rebuilding of The City, the column is the tallest single stone column in the world.

It stands at 202ft tall, which if you turned it on its side would reach the spot in Pudding Mill Lane where the Great Fire is believed to have started.

Inside the narrow column, are 311 steps which take you to a viewing platform 160ft above London. 

A nice touch is that when you return to ground level, you are given a little certificate to say you have climbed to the top.

London Mithraeum

Less than 10 minutes away from The Monument you can step even further back in time and discover some Roman history at the London Mithraeum .

The temple, dedicated to the Roman God Mithras, was uncovered in 1954 during some building work a few hundred yards away. The remains were relocated and recreated in Bloomberg’s European HQ.

Many artefacts are on display including the earliest handwritten document in Britain and fragments of Roman writing tablets (an early version of the iPad I guess).

The London Mithraeum is free to visit so if you are in the area it is well worth your time to take a look. It is a captivating look at part of London’s history.

St Paul’s Cathedral

Sitting on the highest point in The City of London, St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most iconic landmarks.

Steeped with history the Cathedral is still a working church today. As well as regular services, Royal Weddings, State Funerals and National Services of Thanksgiving are often held here.

The ground St Paul’s stands on was consecrated in 604AD and the present cathedral is the fourth church to be built on the site.

The previous church was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666.

Sir Christopher Wren rebuilt over 50 churches in The City of London after the fire, however, St Paul’s Cathedral is widely considered to be his masterpiece. 

At 364ft high (111 meters), the dome is one of the largest in the world. The view of it from across The City of London is protected by planning rules. 

So, while it is starting to get dwarfed by the modern skyscrapers that keep springing up, the view of St Pauls from across The city will always be there for everyone to enjoy.

While it is free to worship at the Cathedral, you need a ticket if you would like to sightsee. With this ticket you can explore the Cathedral and climb the dome.

Book your skip the line tickets here .

Museums near Liverpool Street Station

If you like to spend a few hours wandering around a museum or are just looking for somewhere to duck into if the weather takes a turn for the worse, there are plenty of options near Liverpool Street.

The museums and sites listed below are all within a 15 minute walk of the station.

• Bank of England – learn about the history of the bank
• Barbican – performing arts centre with an art gallery & exhibitions
• Dennis Severs House – step back in time at a recreated Huguenot silk weaver’s family home
• Guildhall – home to the art collection of the City of London
• Honourable Artillery Company – dedicated to the oldest regiment in the British Army
• Mansion House – home to the Lord Mayor (open for weekly tours. Pre-booked only)
• Whitechapel Art Gallery – free art gallery

A few bonus things to do near Liverpool Street Station

There are a few places just outside the 20 minute walk limit but are well worth visiting if you are in the area.

All Hallows by the Tower

Founded in 675 AD, All Hallows by the Tower is the oldest church in The City of London. 

Over the years, it has seen the Tower of London built next door, survived the Great Fire of London and was bombed in World War II.

From looking after beheaded bodies after executions on nearby Tower Hill to being where the sixth President of the United States was married, it is quite hard to get your head around all the things this church has seen over the years.

Yet, it still stands and serves the local community today. 

Tower of London

With its incredible stories of the past and home to the Crown Jewels, the Tower of London is one of the must-see sights on a visit to the capital.

It was built by William the Conqueror in 1070 and over the centuries it has been a fortress, prison, Royal Palace and zoo. 

As well as taking a look at the sparkling Crown Jewels which, are still used by The Queen today, you can meet the famous ravens. It is said that if six of these residents leave, the Kingdom and Tower of London will fall. 

One of the highlights of a visit to the Tower of London is meeting the Yeoman Warders. They have been guarding the tower since Tudor times. 

Today’s Yeoman Warders, who all have over 22 years of military service, show tourists and locals around the tower sharing details of its fascinating past.

They also carry out ceremonial duties such as the unlocking and locking of the tower each day, known as the Ceremony of the Keys.

Book your ticket

Tower Bridge

Instantly recognisable, Tower Bridge is one of London’s most famous landmarks.

Often confused with London Bridge (that’s the next bridge along the river), Tower Bridge is a combination of a bascule and suspension bridge.

It took eight years to build, opening in 1894 by the then Prince and Princess of Wales.

The lifting of the bridge was powered by steam until 1976 when a new electric system for raising the bascules was installed. 

Today, the bridge lifts around 800 times a year. Although over 40,000 people cross Tower Bridge each day, either by foot, car, bus or bike, the right of way is still given to river traffic.

You can go inside the bridge and learn more about its history, how it works and stroll across the upper walkways. If you are feeling brave you can take the challenge of walking over the glass floor. Just don’t look down!

Visit Tower Bridge: Book your ticket

St Katherine’s Dock 

London’s best-kept secret or hidden gem phrase hardly applies to anything in these social media times but St Katherine’s Dock comes pretty close.

Next door to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, the formal commercial dock is now home to offices, bars and restaurants. 

It is a lovely spot to wander around in the summer and grab a drink or bite to eat. It’s like escaping The City while still being in The City. 

Columbia Road Flower Market

As one of London’s oldest flower markets, Columbia Road pops with colour on Sundays.

The market has been going for over 150 years and many of the traders are the second and third generations of their families to sell at the market.

There are 49 stalls which line the street, selling freshly cut blooms and plants. In the surrounding area, 60 independent shops and businesses sit next to each other, including a clothes stores, an art gallery and many cafes, bars and restaurants. 

A popular spot, the market can get very busy. Get there early to see it in full bloom or head there towards the end of the day to see if you can grab a bargain. 

Open between 8am – 2pm (Sundays)

Millennium Bridge

The Millennium Bridge is a pedestrian-only bridge that crosses the River Thames, linking The City of London to Bankside, in the borough of Southwark.

It originally opened in 2000 but had to close after two days as the bridge began to sway when pedestrians crossed. It reopened two years later, without the sway, but the Wobbly Bridge nickname has stuck. 

It is a great spot to take photos of the river and St Paul’s Cathedral. 

The Last Word

I hope this post has given you some ideas of what to do near Liverpool Street. It is perhaps a little overlooked area of the city but it is a gateway to many of London’s top attractions.

Maybe it’s because I’ve spent so much time there, but The City is one of my favourite places in London.

There is nothing better than wandering around the quiet streets in the evening or at weekends when The City seems to take on a differently personality from the hustle and bustle of the week.

The mix of the old and new sitting side by side gives it a unique feel making it a special part of London.

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20+ Fun Things To Do Near Liverpool Street (2024)

Wondering about the best things to do near Liverpool Street?

Liverpool Street is home to the London Stock Exchange and The Bank of England, but it’s not all business. on

You can also find bustling markets, museums, eateries, and other fun things to do on Liverpool Street, London.

I spent my intern year travelling through Liverpool Street station to get to Essex. I got used to bolting for my train while dodging other commuters without spilling hot coffee on myself. A life skill everyone should have.

It gave me a chance to explore some of the amazing places and activities in Liverpool Street. Visiting Liverpool Streets is one of the top things to do in East London .

Yes, the streets are always bustling with workers hurrying by, and If you look down the road, you’ll spot glass high-rises, including the iconic Gherkin, alongside converted Victorian townhouses.

Don’t have time to read the whole article? This epic 3 in 1 tour which includes Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off, London Eye and River Cruise tours with a near-perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating. If you are short on time and what to make the most of your time in London.

And as you move out of the tube station, onto the street, through Broadgate circle, and into the surrounding area (i.e. London EC2M), you are embarking on a walking tour of London’s history.

Touching memorials to war victims at Liverpool Street Station give way to the skyscrapers that have come to represent London’s cityscape.

Things To Do in Liverpool Street, London

Liverpool Street is one of the busiest parts of London . The main attraction is the tube station with its slew of evocative memorials.

1. Liverpool Station, London

A walk around Liverpool Street Station is where you’ll likely start your exploration of this bustling area. An attractive commuter station, thanks to its many monuments and stunning design.

The station is one of the four railways on the British version of the board game Monopoly!

The station first opened in 1864 and is Britain’s third busiest terminal, with 64 million commuters passing through every year.

You can also catch a train from here to other UK regions, like Cambridge and Suffolk, adding to the bustling atmosphere.

Apart from taking in the environment, you’ll want to admire the architecture. The vaulted iron ceilings are a throwback to the advent of rail travel, while the glass roof and walkway add a contemporary touch.

2. Kindertransport -The Arrival Memorial

If you are looking for things to do near Liverpool Street Station London, visiting the poignant monument should be a perfect detour.

It recognises a rescue mission the UK took part in before World War II. ‘Kindertransport’, the operation’s name, aimed to rescue Jewish children from Nazi Germany and other Nazi-occupied territories.

Britain took nearly 15000 Jewish and non-Jewish children from these areas, housing them in foster homes and hostels.

The artist behind the Kindertransport monument is Frank Meisler, one of the children rescued in this mission.

He made five memorial sculptures, and they are on display along the route he took to survival.

The first one is in Poland, but the one you see today in Liverpool Street Station is the fifth and final sculpture.

It is titled ‘Kindertransport – The Arrival’ since the children entered their foster homes from Liverpool Street station. The statue is a group of five young children with suitcases newly arrived in the UK.

It’s a powerful reminder of World War II’s tragedy — many of these children never saw their parents again, as many died in Holocaust concentration camps.

3. The Arcade In Liverpool Street

Before shopping malls, there were arcades covered passageways with shops on either end.

Visiting the Arcade is one of the best quirky things to do near Liverpool Street. It’s so beloved that 6000 people successfully petitioned the government not to demolish it in the 1980s.

The stores you’ll find in the Arcade cater to city workers and residents: there’s a barber, florist, jeweller, and a leather repair store.

However, several quaint eateries are selling Japanese soup, halloumi, and chocolates. Come by around noon to experience the whole hustle and bustle of city workers running lunchtime errands.

Note: You’ll pass through The Arcade as you exit Liverpool Street Station. The passage opens onto Liverpool Street and Old Broad Street on either end.

4. Fur Das Kind Memorial

Another evocative monument in Liverpool Street Station is the Fur Das Kind Memorial. The sister tribute to the Kindertransport Memorial, Fur Das Kind honours the people involved in bringing those children to safety.

The statue is currently incomplete. Initially, it showed a standing girl and a glass suitcase containing objects children brought with them.

However, due to planning permission and conservation challenges, the glass suitcase is no longer on display, and a seated boy has been added.

The monument also pays tribute to those killed during the Holocaust, including over one and a half million children.

5. Great Eastern Railway War Memorial

The World Wars are fundamental, so it’s no surprise that there is another war memorial at Liverpool Street Station is one of the most visited attractions near Liverpool Street

In honour of the First World War soldiers, this one is a more traditional marble edifice plastered onto the wall, with engravings of the war dead’s names.

The soldiers honoured in the Great Eastern Railway War Memorial were initially staff members of the railway company who, to quote the dedication, “in response to the call of their king and country, sacrificed their lives during the Great War.”

More Things To Do Near Liverpool Street

There are many more fun things to do. Just around the corner are soaring skyscrapers, markets, and cultural institutions. If you want to explore with a guide, take a bike tour .

But if you want to experience it all in your own time and at your own pace, take a look at their best activities and attractions.

6. The Gherkin

30 St Mary Axe, “The Gherkin,” is one of London’s most iconic skyscrapers. While you’re exploring the Liverpool Street area, it’s definitely worth stopping by this landmark.

The Gherkin is the product of celebrated British architect Sir Norman Foster. The steel and glass facade has a striking spiral design, with the tower reaching 591 feet.

This attraction is home to offices but also to some fabulous eateries. Unless you attend one of the Open House Festivals, your best bet of getting into the building is visiting one of the restaurants.

Since the skyscraper is incredibly glamorous when it’s lit up at night, why not go in and grab a cocktail on the top floor?

7. The Scalpel

At the corner of Leadenhall and Limes Streets is The Scalpel. Although high-rises surround it in the economic hub, this one stands out as London’s “sharpest skyscraper” (thanks to the sharp angle at the top).

The Scalpel, which boasts 38 floors, is the work of multinational architecture firm Kohn Pedersen Fox.

Their brief was to design a tower that wouldn’t block any views, especially St Paul’s Cathedral. Hence the angular shape that makes this attraction so unique.

It is once of the most famous attractions near Liverpool Street Station and you should stop by and see it for yourself while exploring Liverpool Street!

8. Spitalfields Market

The top of your Liverpool Street London travel itinerary must be Old Spitalfields Market . It’s one of the loveliest Victorian Market Halls in London and one of my favorite things to do around Liverpool Street.

You’ll find it near Brick Lane and Bishopsgate.

Since the 17th century, there has been a market in this spot. It’s open seven days a week, and since it’s an indoor venue, there’s no need to worry about the temperamental weather of London.

This vast market has everything you could need, including a big emphasis on boutique fashion and lifestyle goods.

Here, workers, residents, and tourists congregate to shop, eat and soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere.

9. The Heron Tower – 110 Bishopsgate

110 Bishopsgate, formerly known as The Heron Tower, is the third tallest building in Britain. And if you are wondering what to do in Bishopsgate, you can actually book a seat at either of its two restaurants.

Sushi Samba on the 38th floor serves Peruvian, Brazilian, and Japanese cuisine. If you’d prefer European cooking, choose Duck and Waffle on the 40th floor, which is open around the clock.

Both restaurants have panoramic views of London. Now, everyone will have the same idea as you so book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Duck and Waffle have the most ridiculous reservation booking wait time, and sometimes you’ll have to make a reservation up to 6 weeks in advance!

Ridiculous, I know, so if you are planning on visiting this restaurant, book well in advance.

11. The Bank of England Museum

If you’re a history lover wondering what to do in the Liverpool Street area, this is for you. The Bank of England Museum recounts a three-hundred-plus-year history of English coinage and economics. And it’s free!

Of course, there’s a section on actual money: follow the evolution from gold bars to coins to banknotes.

However, you can also admire other items like weaponry used to defend the bank and archaeological finds, including Roman mosaics, that builders discovered when renovating.

And why not get a peek at the bank’s dealings with the rich and famous? It’s one of the few museums near Liverpool Street and includes documentation for customers like Horatio Nelson, George Washington, and Marlborough’s Duchess.

12. The Walkie Talkie

This skyscraper in the City of London’s name is officially 20 Fenchurch Street. But due to its top-heavy shape (meant to maximise floor space on the top floors), it’s somewhat derisively called ‘The Walkie Talkie’.

One of London’s most controversial buildings since it was voted the United Kingdom’s worst building in 2015.

Every Londoner has strong feelings about the skyscraper: it’s responsible for channelling sunlight onto vehicles, causing damage, and producing strong down draughts. So, it’s worth checking it out to form your own opinion.

Your best bet for getting inside the building is with a visit to the Sky Garden.

Note: London offers tons of walking tours that cover other amazing buildings and historical landmarks. Out of all of the available ones, the historic walking London tour is a hit.

13. The Bow Bells

In Britain, if someone says they were “born within the sound of Bow Bells”, they’re saying they’re a Cockney (or an East Londoner).

And the “Bow Bell” in question? They belong to the Church of St Mary-le-Bow, a quirky place to visit near Liverpool Street.

The church’s bells are ancient; reports indicate that they rang every night as far back as 1469.

Since the 17th century, people have claimed to be East Londoners if they were born in an area close enough to hear the bells.

The church, which is free to enter, has a busy events programme, and its bells are still the sound used by the BBC ahead of some broadcasts.

14. Brick Lane

Brick Lane is one of the best places to see London’s multicultural side. There are many things to do in Brick Lane here, from savouring scrumptious curries to browsing vintage markets and so much more.

For the shopaholics, there are five markets held on different days. The liveliest is the Sunday Brick Lane UpMarket which spills onto the streets and often hosts street performers. The Brick Lane Vintage Market is open daily and is a fabulous treasure trove of antiques.

City Spice Brick Lane is a top choice for delicious Curry. The award-winning restaurant has various Indian-style curries on offer. For an added Bangladeshi flavour, try Brick Lane Brasserie.

Exploring the Old Truman Brewery and taking in a gig at Rough Trade East are other fun activities in the road. You could also take a street art tour of the area.

For more on Brick Lane, read my guide to the Brick Lane market in London .

15. The Barbican

This mammoth, state-of-the-art cultural complex serves as a venue for music concerts, theatre performances, art exhibitions, and so much more.

In fact, it’s the biggest cultural centre in the UK and another top thing to do near Liverpool Street in London.

The best way to experience this attraction is to book tickets to one of its offerings. But if you want to understand the building, it’s best to take a tour.

The Brutalist style and use of concrete (not the usual architecture you would expect in London) are what make this venue stand out.

Outdoors, there’s a sprawling public garden home to a splendid water feature, exotic fish, and over 2000 different species of plants. The Barbican also has a conservatory (the second-largest in London).

With the tropical plants climbing the concrete walls, losing all your stress in this tranquil environment is easy.

16. Church of St Botolph-without-Bishopsgate

St Botolph-without-Bishopsgate is the fourth church in a 900-year history to stand on the corner of Alderman’s Walk and Bishopsgate. It’s just a three-minute walk from London’s Liverpool Station.

Amazingly, the church mostly survived the Great Fire of London and the Blitz. It’s home to an Anglican congregation, as well as an orthodox parish.

Amongst the church’s notable parishioners, John Keats, a famous poet, was baptised at the church in 1795.

The churchyard is home to England’s earliest memorial dedicated to those who died in World War I and was erected in 1916, well before the war ended.

17. Sky Garden

Sky Garden is one of the top things to do in the Liverpool Street neighbourhood. It’s on the 43rd floor of the Walkie Talkie, offering superb views of London. It’s also free to visit, though it’s best to book ahead online.

You can spot The Shard, The Gherkin, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and the River Thames, amongst other iconic London landmarks with panoramic views.

 Sky Garden also boasts an indoor garden where you can relax amongst the greenery, even on a rainy day.

You can also grab a bite at one of two restaurants or order a drink at one of the bars. No wonder it’s one of the top London landmarks .

Restaurants Near Liverpool Street, London

Whew! Now that you’re out of things to do, Liverpool Street eateries should be next on the list. Here are the best places to eat near Liverpool Street London. But if you can, try and enjoy all these restaurants at different meal times during the day.

Please Note: Some of the attractions on this list are home to in-house eateries. Those are best because they’re convenient; the restaurants in this section have outstanding food and a unique atmosphere.

One of London’s hottest new hotels, The Ned , is just a 12-minute stroll from Liverpool Street Station, London. Sure, you can book a boutique room, but you’ll get the atmosphere with only one fabulous meal there.

There are eight eateries within The Ned, including some of the best bars near Liverpool Street. For cocktails, The Nickel Bar has glamorous decor and classic American drinks.

If it’s English fare you want, slide into a pale pink velvet booth at Millie’s Lounge. Japanese dishes, Californian superfoods, and American grill are also options at the other restaurants.

The Mayor Of Scaredy Cat Town

If you’re exploring London’s Liverpool Street in the evening, you won’t go far wrong with a drink at this quirky bar. It’s one of the best things to do in Liverpool Street at night

It’s got a speak-easy atmosphere: to get in, go to the Breakfast Club Cafe and ask for “the Mayor.”

The bar itself is downstairs, with lots of cat-themed décors (as a cat mom, I approve of all the décor).

On the menu are burgers, nachos, and deluxe sandwiches. Standout cocktails include ‘Flower Power,’ with elderflower, gin, and lavender syrup, or ‘Cinema Paradiso’, made with bourbon, popcorn, ginger beer, and caramel syrup. Mmm!

Pizza East Shoreditch

Just ten minutes away, Pizza East is one of the top restaurants near Liverpool Street in Shoreditch. Don’t be put off by the seemingly bland name; this is a unique place with no bland pizzas in sight.

Pizza East is now a small chain of restaurants, but the Shoreditch branch was the first. The venue is the Tea Building, one of the most iconic buildings in the area.

The interior is a refurbished warehouse that remains packed with local hipsters. Wood-fired pizza is the main dish, but you’ll also find salmon and salads on the menu.

Final Thoughts On Liverpool Street Things To Do

With so many activities near Liverpool Street, it has become a unique area in London. A place where you sample Indian curry, admire Roman mosaics, and attend an Anglican church service.

S truggling with knowing what to do in London?

Grab this hassle free checklist of the top 90 things to do in London from a local, includes:

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The neighbourhood’s effortless blend of modern and ancient styles makes it a treat for the senses.

And that’s not to mention the mix of English tradition and cosmopolitan diversity, which exudes a beautiful, vibrant atmosphere.

Whether you’re just passing by on your way to Liverpool Street Station or out to explore the markets, I hope this guide tempts you into spending a little more time in the area.

You could easily spend an entire day shopping near Liverpool Street Station, exploring, and eating. And, you know what else makes Liverpool Street so amazing?

With so many fun things to do near Liverpool Street, London — you won’t regret spending so much time in this fabulous neighbourhood.

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Explore London

15 Things to Do Near Liverpool Street

Published on: 10th October 2023

If you're visiting London soon and will be staying near the renowned Liverpool Street, you may be looking for some things to do during your stay.

Here are the top 15 things to do near Liverpool Street for you to check out:

Explore Liverpool Street Station

Liverpool Street Station serves as a bustling transportation hub. Beyond its primary role in connecting travellers to diverse destinations, the station itself has an architectural allure. The station boasts grand Victorian aesthetics, characterised by its distinctive glass and iron roof. Venture inside, where an array of shops, cafes, and restaurants beckon, offering a convenient avenue for a quick bite or souvenir hunting.

Pause to peruse the dynamic departure boards, as Liverpool Street serves as a gateway to numerous thrilling destinations. With its historic charm, this iconic station serves as a portal to London's lively spirit and rich history.

Shop at Spitalfields Market

Indulge in the vibrant atmosphere of Spitalfields Market, a must-visit destination in the Liverpool Street vicinity. This historic market is a treasure trove of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Wander through its diverse stalls, where you'll discover one-of-a-kind fashion items, antiques, and artisanal crafts.

Food aficionados can delight in the global culinary offerings from a variety of street food vendors. The market's charming covered area retains its Victorian-era architecture, providing a delightful backdrop for leisurely strolls. Don't miss out on the exciting special events, pop-up shops, and art exhibitions that frequently grace the market, offering a blend of London's rich history and contemporary creativity.

Head to The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town

The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town is a delightful hidden gem renowned for its distinctive and somewhat enigmatic entrance. Accessible via a retro Smeg fridge cleverly concealed within The Breakfast Club restaurant, this establishment offers a unique speakeasy-style experience.

Inside, you'll find an inviting cocktail bar with a vintage flair, where skilled mixologists craft imaginative drinks in a charming ambience. The menu regularly features seasonal and themed selections, ensuring a fresh experience with every visit. For those in search of an intriguing and memorable cocktail adventure in an unconventional setting, it's a must-visit spot. Reservations are advisable due to its popularity.

Take a street art tour

Explore Liverpool Street's dynamic urban art scene through an enthralling street art tour. Led by expert local guides, venture through the neighbourhood's streets and alleys, revealing captivating murals, graffiti, and installations crafted by gifted artists. Delve into the narratives and meanings embedded in each piece while also uncovering the cultural and social importance of street art in the locale.

These tours provide an immersive and visually inspiring avenue to connect with Liverpool Street's artistic vitality, appealing to art aficionados and those keen to immerse themselves in the city's urban culture. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with the creative heartbeat of Liverpool Street.

Opt for fine dining

Elevate your dining experience in Liverpool Street by choosing from a range of exceptional fine dining establishments like Gavin La Chapelle, Angler, and Tramshed. Here, you can relish diverse culinary creations prepared by skilled chefs, often combining international and contemporary flavours. These upscale restaurants provide delectable dishes, top-notch service, an elegant atmosphere, and an extensive selection of wines.

Whether your palate craves modern interpretations of classic British fare, international cuisine, or the refinement of a Michelin-starred meal, Liverpool Street's fine dining options cater to every preference. These venues are perfect for special occasions or when you desire a luxurious gastronomic adventure. They are a must-visit for connoisseurs seeking culinary excellence.

Check out the nightlife

When the sun sets, Liverpool Street comes alive with its vibrant nightlife scene . Dive into the lively atmosphere of trendy bars, clubs, and stylish cocktail lounges.

Whether you're in the mood for pulsating beats and electronic music at The Shoreditch, a taste of vintage charm and expertly crafted cocktails at Nightjar, or a relaxed evening with craft beer at Ozone Coffee Roasters, Liverpool Street has it all.

For live blues and soul music paired with Southern-style BBQ, don't miss The Blues Kitchen, and for a touch of cocktail wizardry, make your way to The Alchemist. Liverpool Street's nightlife promises an unforgettable evening.

Eat at Duck & Waffle

Experience culinary excellence at Duck & Waffle, a Liverpool Street treasure. Located on the 40th floor of a skyscraper, it offers unparalleled views of London's skyline around the clock. Whether you're craving a sunrise breakfast or a late-night feast, this restaurant caters to all hours.

While the menu offers a variety of options, the signature "Duck & Waffle" dish is a must-try: a harmonious blend of crispy duck leg confit, fluffy waffle, perfectly cooked egg, and a drizzle of maple syrup. With its innovative European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and breathtaking vistas, Duck & Waffle promises a truly memorable dining experience in the heart of London. Reservations are highly recommended.

Visit St. Botolph's Church

Discover a tranquil haven amidst the urban hustle in Liverpool Street at St. Botolph's Church. This historic Anglican church offers a serene escape with its elegant architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Admire the intricate Gothic design and 18th-century stained glass windows. The churchyard garden provides a serene oasis, ideal for quiet contemplation.

St. Botolph's is not just a place of worship; it frequently hosts classical music concerts and cultural events, enhancing your visit. Whether you seek solace, architectural beauty, or cultural enrichment, St. Botolph's Church delivers a serene and enriching experience in the heart of Liverpool Street.

Explore Broadgate Circle

Broadgate Circle is a vibrant hub offering a diverse range of activities and dining experiences . Discover an array of restaurants, cafes, and bars where you can savour international cuisine, from Japanese to Italian, and enjoy al fresco dining during warm weather.

The circle often hosts live music, pop-up markets, and cultural events, adding to its dynamic atmosphere. In winter, the ice rink transforms it into a festive wonderland. With its mix of dining, entertainment, and events, Broadgate Circle is an inviting destination for a relaxed meal, a night out, or simply soaking up the lively ambience in the heart of Liverpool Street.

Visit the Kindertransport Memorial

The Kindertransport Memorial holds a place of historical significance . Situated within Liverpool Street Station, this memorial serves as a poignant tribute to the Kindertransport operation, which played a heroic role in the late 1930s. Its mission was to rescue almost 10,000 Jewish children from the grasp of Nazi-occupied Europe, granting them safe passage to the United Kingdom.

The memorial, a striking bronze sculpture depicting a group of children with their luggage, stands as a powerful testament to the lives saved during those turbulent times. Visitors can reflect on this history and honour the enduring legacy of compassion and resilience displayed during the Kindertransport era.

Learn at the Bishopsgate Institute

The Bishopsgate Institute is a cultural and educational treasure waiting to be explored. This iconic institution hosts diverse activities, including lectures, workshops, exhibitions, and performances. Immerse yourself in London's rich history and culture by attending one of its captivating talks or perusing its engaging exhibitions.

The building itself is a testament to architectural splendour, boasting striking Edwardian design. Whether your interests lie in history or the arts or simply experiencing a unique facet of London, the Bishopsgate Institute promises a rewarding visit. Keep an eye on their calendar for upcoming events and exhibitions, ensuring a fulfilling Liverpool Street experience.

Go shopping

Liverpool Street is a shopper's paradise, offering a plethora of retail therapy options. Explore Bishopsgate for high-end boutiques and flagship stores of renowned fashion brands. Head to nearby Spitalfields Market for unique finds, including vintage clothing, handmade crafts, and artisanal goods. If you're into electronics and gadgets, check out the tech shops along Bishopsgate and its surrounding streets.

Liverpool Street Station itself houses several shops, making it convenient for travellers to pick up last-minute essentials. Whether you're looking for fashion, antiques, electronics, or souvenirs, Liverpool Street provides a diverse shopping experience to satisfy all your retail desires.

Admire The Gherkin

In Liverpool Street, you have the opportunity to admire the architectural masterpiece known as "The Gherkin." Officially named 30 St Mary Axe, this skyscraper is a symbol of modern design. Its distinctive bullet-shaped glass exterior and energy-efficient features have solidified its status as an architectural marvel.

While access to the interior is typically limited, you can still appreciate its striking presence from the outside. Take a moment to marvel at its unique silhouette and contemplate its significance in London's ever-changing skyline. For architecture enthusiasts and those fascinated by innovative urban design, a visit to Liverpool Street isn't complete without admiring the splendour of "The Gherkin."

Head to the Petticoat Lane Market

Petticoat Lane Market is a historic marketplace steeped in tradition, with roots tracing back through the centuries. This vibrant and bustling market is a fashion, textiles, and accessories treasure trove. Wandering through its winding lanes, you'll encounter diverse offerings, including vintage clothing, discounted designer attire, antiques, and jewellery, among others.

A hallmark of this market is the friendly encouragement of haggling with the vendors. Operating predominantly on Sundays, Petticoat Lane Market offers a remarkable shopping experience, allowing you to uncover bargains and unique discoveries while immersing yourself in the dynamic street market culture that has thrived in London for generations.

Walk along the Thames River

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic River Thames, a delightful activity accessible from Liverpool Street. The picturesque riverbanks provide stunning vistas of London's iconic landmarks, including the majestic Tower Bridge and the historic Tower of London.

Your river walk can commence near Liverpool Street, guiding you along the Thames Path, which boasts charming pubs, cafés, and serene green spaces like Potters Fields Park. Whether you opt for a daytime exploration or an evening jaunt to soak in the illuminated cityscape, a riverside walk offers a tranquil respite from the urban hustle, allowing you to savour this renowned waterway's beauty and rich history.

If you’re looking to book an activity in Liverpool Street or anywhere in London or across the UK, use LovetoVisit for a simplified booking process as well as exclusive discounts and bundles.

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Things to do in Liverpool Street

Liverpool Street

Liverpool street is home to the city of london, one of the world's leading financial centres..

Home to the London Stock Exchange, the Bank of England (and its excellent museum) and a number of stylishly designed skyscrapers—such as the Gherkin , the Walkie-Talkie , the Cheesegrater , the Scalpel and the Heron Tower —Liverpool Street is a fascinating area to explore.

Other tourist attractions include Spitalfields Market , a short walk from Liverpool Street station, and the large number of fantastic eateries that serve the well-heeled banking community.

Slightly further afield is the up-and-coming Bethnal Green , where the best things to do include Brick Lane, Colombia Road Flower Market and the Museum of Childhood.

The Gherkin and the Scalpel

Spitalfields market, the heron tower, the bank of england museum, the walkie-talkie, the bow bells, bethnal green/whitechapel, covent garden, canary wharf, 1. the gherkin and the scalpel.

Liverpool Street’s skyscrapers may not be the tallest in the world, but they are definitely the most stylish.

The gherkin.

Take 30 St Mary Axe, better known as the Gherkin. Clad entirely in glass, this Norman Foster designed building offers over 500,000 square feet of the trendiest and most environmentally friendly office space.

Opened in 2004, the Gherkin is 41 storeys and 180 metres tall, won the RIBA Sterling Prize for Architecture, and is worth about £600 million! Current tenants include Standard Life and Swiss Re.

But the building is not open to the public. You’ll have to score an invite if you want to visit its 40th-floor bar to soak up panoramic views of the city.

Or you can apply to join the exclusive private members’ club that operates from the 38th (which houses the club lounge) and 39th floors (where Searcys runs a members-only restaurant).

Annual fees are £750, with benefits including priority restaurant bookings 15% of restaurant food, and heavily discounted space hire.

The Scalpel

The Scalpel is the latest in brilliant skyscraper architecture. Completed in 2018, this Kohn Pedersen Fox designed building is 190 metres (or 38 storeys) tall. It is complete with 22 energy saving lifts, has 396 bike parking spaces and even has PV cells on the roof. It will largely be used for office space, though over 10,000 square feet have been allocated to restaurants, cafes and bars. A number of floors are already let to W. R. Berkley, Axis and Decus.

But The Scalpel is all about the knife-edged architecture that make it the sleekest and most fashionable office space in the city.

2. Spitalfields Market

Located just to the east of Liverpool Street station, Spitalfields Market is one of the finest surviving Victorian market halls in London.

Themed markets are held every day of the week in the central event space, surrounded by over 50 permanent shops.

Whether you are after a great breakfast, bargain from a market stall, or the latest fashion, Spitalfields is a must-see.

There has been a market at Spitalfieds since King Charles II granted John Balch a Royal Charter to hold a market on Spital Square in 1682. Thereafter the neighbourhood grew in popularity with weavers and artisans coming from the Irish and Polish communities in particular.

The 110 market stalls offer wares such as flowers, ladies fashion, posters and prints, art, records, jewellery, 5-minute massages, children’s toys and food and drink. General markets are held on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Sundays, with Antiques and Collectibles on Thursdays and Fashion on Fridays. A rolling programme of jewellery, vintage and record markets are held on Saturdays.

The surrounding shops include high-end fashion emporia (including Hackett, Barbour and Agnes B), arts and crafts (we recommend Lomography), interior design (such as ‘The Lollipop Shoppe’) and food and drink (with owner-operated outlets such as Sweet Basil and Café Caribbean and favourite chains including Wagamama, Fire and Stone and The Real Greek).

Continue past the market to take a look at the iconic Christ Church Spitalfields , built between 1714 and 1729 to a design by Nicholas Hawksmoor.

where? Spitalfields Market is found between Lamb and Brushfield Street, three minutes' walk to the north east of Liverpool Street underground and railway station.

when? 9am to 3pm, 7 days a week. Trading on the market stalls doesn't really get going until 11am.

3. The Heron Tower

The Heron Tower is the tallest of the lot: 230 metres (including its 28-metre mast), arranged over 46 floors.

Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox, and completed in 2011, the Heron Tower (also known as 110 Bishopsgate or the Salesforce Tower) offers almost 50,000 square metres of fully-let office space.

The interior is famous for the 70,000 litre aquarium in reception. Tended by two full-time fish-keepers and a team of divers to keep the glass clean, the aquarium houses 60 varieties of fish in a sustainable ecosystem.

The Heron Tower also offers two well-regarded restaurants. SushiSamba is located on the 38-39th floors, and offers a mix of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian cuisine.

Starters are in the £10-20 range, with most main courses costing £20-30. For those with money to burn, why not try the 1 kilogram Kobe Beef option (price: £1,000!).

Duck & Waffle , found on the Heron Tower’s 40th storey, offers a “playful take” on British cuisine, with European influences. This translates as starters such as smoked eel, seared octopus, smoked mackerel and seared lambs breast (£10-15) and mains such roast chicken, Angus bone-in rib-eye, and miso glazed rabbit (c. £20).

when? The Duck & Waffle serves 24/7, with ‘late night’, breakfast and brunch menus.

4. The Bank of England Museum

Established in 1694, the Bank of England is the central bank of the United Kingdom, responsible for printing banknotes and setting interest rates.

Its history is told at the Bank of England Museum , a 1,000 square metre attraction five minutes from Bank station.

Exhibitions include:

• a reconstruction of an 18th century banking hall;
• the history of the banknote (which has recently been updated to co-incide with the Bank of England's launch of the new polymer £5 note);
• the modern economy (which teaches you about the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee and why they are so important);
• the ‘Gold Display’ (where visitors can handle a real 13 kilogram bar of bullion, worth about £400,000);
• an explanation as to why the Bank is often called the Old Lady of Threadneedle Street (after the ghost of Sarah Whitehead, said to haunt the Bank's garden); and
• a small area devoted to Kenneth Greene's Wild in the Willows, and its connection with the Bank of England!

This is a really child-friendly attraction. There are activity sheets for children of all ages, puzzles and challenges for them to complete (including opening a bank vault), and lots of other interactive displays. There are also lovely gold-bullion pins handed out to all those who complete their activity sheets!

Finally, don't forget to visit our page on other East London children's attractions .

where? Bartholomew Lane, London EC2R 8AH. Closest tube: Liverpool Street.

when? Monday to Fried, 10 and 5 pm. Last entry 4.30pm. Closed Weekends and Bank Holidays.

5. The Walkie-Talkie

The Walkie Talkie, or 20 Fenchurch Street to give it its official name, is the most accessible of the City of London's skyscrapers.

This 34-storey, 160-metre high Rafael Vinoly building was opened in 2014.

It is the fifth tallest building in the City, after Heron Tower (230 metres), 122 Leadenhall Street (aka the Cheesegrater, 225 metres), Tower 42 (183 metres) and the Gherkin (180 metres).

Its top three floors include a large sky-garden, together with a two restaurants (the Fenchurch Restaurant specialises in seafood and seasonal game, whilst the Darwin Brasserie dishes up classic British cuisine) and three bars (the Sky Pod and City Garden bars, known for their cocktails, and the Fenchurch Terrace, serving fine wines).

The Walkie-Talkie has not been an uncontroversial project. It won the Carbuncle Cup in 2015, awarded to the worst public building constructed in the previous year.

Its distinctive shape has created a concave mirror that focuses sunlight and has been responsible for melting nearby cars. And many have complained that the building has created a wind-tunnel at street level!

The Ned is London's hottest new hotel.

Opened in 2017, the Ned has 252 bedrooms, ten restaurants, a range of bars, and a gym, spa and private members' club.

It is found in the former Midland Bank building, designed by Sir Edwin (or Ned) Lutyens in 1924, a stone's throw from Bank station in the heart of the city.

The Ned was put together by Soho House and a boutique hotel outfit at a reported cost of £200 million.

The design is 1920s and 1930s cool, with rooms ranging from Cosy (20-30 square metres) to 95 square metre family suites. The Ned's restaurants include Kaia (serving healthy Asia/Pacific food), Zobler's (a New York style Jewish deli), Cafe Sou (Parisian) and Cecconi's (an all-day Venetian brasserie).

This place has a definite wow-factor: turn up to the restaurants on a weekday evening and you will enter a buzzing, almost Vegas-style, amphitheatre filled with city-slickers eating, drinking and listening to live jazz.

Some of The Ned's best bits are reserved for members only. They include the Vault Bar, in the basement and occupying a former gold bullion safe (complete with 20 tonne safe door and 3000 original safety deposit boxes).

Rooms start at £300.

7. The Bow Bells

Founded in around 1080 as the London headquarters of the Archbishop of Canterbury, St Mary-le-Bow has had a fascinating history.

It survived three collapses before being completely destroyed by the 1666 Great Fire of London.

The church was freshly designed by Sir Christopher Wren, only to be destroyed again during the blitz on London during the Second World War.

St Mary-le-Bow is best known for its famous church bells. They are fabled to have been heard by Dick Whittington in 1392, persuading him to return to London where he would later become Lord Mayor. They are mentioned in the nursery rhyme 'Oranges and Lemons':

"I do not know, says the Great Bell of Bow".

In order to call yourself a true Cockney, you need to be born within earshot of the Bow Bells.

The Church's 40-metre tower houses 12 bells, the largest of which has a diameter of 61 inches. The chapel itself is light and airy. Visitors must not miss St Mary's crypt, which has been in continuing use since 1080.

These days the atmospheric crypt is home to an excellent restaurant: the Cafe Below. Serving British and European cuisine such as ginger and chilli lamb with cumin roast squash, yoghurt and mizuma (for £14), the Cafe Below gets great reviews. It also serves breakfast from 7.30 am and bakes fantastic bread.

8. Restaurants

Liverpool street has a number of great restaurants, high end and cheap and cheerful, to cater for all tastes..

We love Ottolenghi Spitalfields , a chic Mediterranean / middle-eastern joint on Artillery Lane. Offering sit-down dining at tables or eating at bar (watching mixologists do their stuff), as well as a takeaway deli, you will be wowed by dishes like Dukkah crusted hake and Lamb Adana kebab with burnt aubergine.

We have mentioned The Ned and the restaurants at the Heron Tower already.

Other great options are The Ivy's City Branch (comfort food done well in a trendy setting), The Fish Market (with delightful dishes like Octopus carpaccio with olive tapenade and chilli) and the fun and good value Comptoir Libanais.

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The best Liverpool Street restaurants

Looking for dinner somewhere near Liverpool Street station or nearby Spitalfields? Check out these excellent joints

Sandwiched between the City of London and Shoreditch, Liverpool Street – and its main thoroughfare, Bishopsgate – is packed with high-end spots. Lots of them have breathtaking views due to being halfway up skyscrapers such as the Heron Tower, while you'll find more casual and quite literally more down-to-earth eateries in the Broadgate development. Stroll down in the general direction of Monument and you find The Wolseley City , or go east to Spitalfields for the likes of St John Bread and Wine . Whether you’re splashing your bonus or just killing time waiting for a train at Liverpool Street station, here’s a selection of the area’s diverse eateries.

RECOMMENDED: The very best restaurants in London . 

Leonie Cooper is Time Out London’s Food and Drink Editor. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .

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Amazing restaurants near Liverpool Street

1.  St John Bread & Wine

• Restaurants
• Spitalfields

This St John’s offshoot has the same workaday style as its Smithfield parent: a bright, white, canteen-like space, no-frills furniture, walls lined with coat hooks, and a utilitarian bakery counter in one corner. Open for lunch and supper, expect magnificent British cooking, with seasonal, ever-changing and bracingly old school dishes such as John Dory with purple sprouting broccoli and anchovy, or  r abbit saddle with dandelion and roast shallot. Mince and mash might also make an appearance. Wine is unsurprisingly plentiful and spectacular and only a fool would steer clear of their signature dessert; eccles cake and Lancashire cheese. 

2.  Som Saa

• price 3 of 4

The cooking at Som Saa will blow you away: literally and metaphorically. This is not somewhere you come for a cheeky green curry and a plate of pad thai. It’s food from Thailand’s north-eastern provinces, where nothing gets dumbed down and you'll find it in what was once an east London garment factory.  

3.  The Wolseley City

• Pan-European
• Cannon Street

Mayfair’s chicest celeb dining spot,  The Wolseley 's second London site is  quite the looker, with  gothic chandeliers, golden Egyptomania touches, and black and white striped columns which make you feel as if you’re eating inside a massive backgammon board. If you can cope with the big Bullingdon energy of the city boys inside, you'll find fabulous food. The menu is European, leaning French, but with a soft spot for schnitzel, and prides itself on classics done simply but well.

4.  Crispin

The most striking thing about Crispin might be the building – a handsome glass and zinc construction on a Spitalfields backstreet – but its food comes a close second. Potato sourdough from Hackney bakery The Dusty Knuckle came with terrific whipped butter. Folds of meaty Secret Smokehouse salmon were teamed with homemade pickles, and the creamy burrata was lavished with olive oil from Senia. The kitchen’s skills are also strong, from celeriac croquettes with moreish sage aioli to pork belly in broth with pickled daikon.

5.  Club Mexicana, Spitalfields

• price 2 of 4

Fun, lively and totally vegan, this branch of Club Mexicana is the biggest yet. Enjoy chef and founder Meriel  Armitage's unique plant-based take on tacos, nachos and  burritos – as well as a giant mirror ball and iconic frozen margs. Read our review of the Kingly Court location here . 

6.  Gunpowder

A tiny home-style Indian just round the corner from Brick Lane, Gunpowder stands head and shoulders above the rest of the curry mile. It’s ditched stomach-bursting breads and creamy sauces in favour of complex, imaginative small plates: think spicy venison and vermicelli doughnuts, sigree-grilled mustard broccoli and Nagaland crispy pork ribs with tamarind kachumber.

7.  José Pizarro

José Pizarro's Spanish food is known across the capital for being almost too tasty for its own good. Here food is quick to arrive and thoroughly delicious: gooey croquetas; tender, paprika-sprinkled octopus; crisp-edged fried egg with grilled asparagus and romesco sauce; sardines cooked in oil and served in a tin; and juicy prawn buñuelos (stuffed and fried dough balls). José Pizarro offers sherry and cava to whet the appetite as well as a selection of Spanish-style G&Ts – perfect for quaffing on the terrace.

8.  Hawksmoor Spitalfields

The granddaddy of upmarket steakhouses, this original Spitalfields branch of the beefy Hawksmoor chain is a ruggedly masculine beast complete with an exposed brick bar that makes you want to order a thousand Martinis. Get slabs of prime British-reared beef, yes. But also remember that the menu touts velvety grilled bone marrow, Old Spot belly ribs, lamb tomahawk steaks and no fewer than 16 amazing sides – including triple-cooked chips, mac ’n’ cheese and a brilliant Caesar salad.

9.  Pearly Queen

Tom Brown is the man behind Cornerstone , the Michelin-starred Hackney Wick seafood favourite – and this, his second London restaurant. Pearly Queen is all about oysters, which come both fresh and interfered with.  Of the dressed oysters the star was the pate with champagne jelly, transporting you joyfully to the French riviera. Still good, if a little dry, was the fried oyster with Frank’s Red Hot-style buffalo sauce. If you don't mind eating underneath a  purple-hued, post-impressionist portrait of the chef, then this place is worth a shuck. 

10.  Galvin La Chapelle

La Chapelle is an awe-inspiring architectural behemoth with ecclesiastical overtones and a menu of impressively rendered modern French cuisine. Service is as smooth as the silkiest béarnaise sauce – as you’d expect from a Michelin-starred high roller.

11.  Eataly

• Specialist food and drink

There are all manner of restaurants and bars in this cathedral to Italian food right by Liverpool Street station. Terra offers a wood-burning grill and bar, the Aperol Spritzeria Terrazza is open from the spring and throughout summer for al fresco cocktails and Pasta e Pizza offers exactly what it says on the tin. Central Bar is where you'll find all-day  aperitivo. 

12.  Shiok!

• Liverpool Street

Patisserie chef Cherish Finden knows her pastry, and her passion for it has taken her from tough beginnings working in a kitchen as a 14-year-old Singaporean school leaver, to illustrious gigs as a pastry chef at some of the world’s swankiest hotels. Her cafe Shiok! (pronounced ‘shook’) is named after a word meaning ‘pure pleasure’ in Finden’s native Singapore. Try her transcendental take on French classic the Paris-Brest, a glistering royal crown of golden pastry, haphazardly studded with caramelised hazelnuts, and pleasingly rustic next to the other almost-pathologically perfect confections also on offer here.

13.  Duck & Waffle

• Contemporary European

There’s a dedicated entrance for the restaurants in Heron Tower, from where a glass lift will whizz you in seconds up to Duck & Waffle on the 40th floor, or its glitzier sibling Sushisamba two floors below. The views are, as you might expect, stunning. Food is an on-trend mix of small plates, raw offerings (oysters, ceviche) and a few main courses (including roast chicken and the namesake duck confit and waffle). Warning; prices are as sky-high as the setting, but D&W is open 24/7, which is a rare treat.

14.  SUSHISAMBA

Japan, Brazil and Peru come together here in the food while the double-height glasshouse of a restaurant, with its magnificent bamboo-lattice ceiling, has views which face north across Spitalfields towards Alexandra Palace or east over Stepney and out to Essex. It’s all tough visual competition for the menu, but the sushi does its damnedest to catch the eye with cloaks of red or green yuba (soybean curd skin). Rather than leave all the fillings to battle it out in one big, bursting-at-the-seams futomaki, the Samba London roll makes a starlet of each one (crab, tuna, salmon, yellowtail, prawn, scallop, beef, avocado) by placing it on a rice-slice pedestal. With that view – impressive in daylight, awesome by night – this is a special-occasion destination. 

15.  Beany Green

• price 1 of 4

The all-day menu ranges from Aussie-rules brekkies such as bacon and egg wraps or broccoli and sweetcorn fritters, to fresh, hearty salads and the sort of filling, protein-rich snacks that go hand in hand with the Australian reputation for healthy living. Think huge ‘power balls’ of meat and pulses, skewers and berry and nut smoothies. There are also plenty of sweet treats ranging from feather-light lamingtons (sponge cake with chocolate and coconut) and slabs of marshmallow-laden rocky road, to broccoli loaf cake and sticky ‘energy balls’. For after-work lingerers, there’s a sizeable drinks list, including cocktails.

16.  Yauatcha City

Stretching across one bendy swathe of multi-storey foodie development Broadgate Circle, the City branch of the Cantonese dim sum chain looks a bit like an extremely glamorous spaceship. Score the sublime venison puffs – tiny parcels of intensely caramelly pastry stuffed with rich, dark meat – and crab dumplings then plump scallop shumai. There’s also a bakery downstairs serving fancy French-Asian patisserie.

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The Beatles in Liverpool: 9 Top Places & Map (+Best Tours)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

There are many great reasons to visit Liverpool in the UK. The city is known for its museums, culture, and vibrant waterfront. Liverpool’s main attraction, however, is its strong connection to one of the greatest bands the world has ever known – The Beatles .

The city played a huge part in the band’s development. At the time when The Beatles were growing up, many young men from Liverpool were traveling back and forth to New York with the Merchant Navy. Musical influences from the Big Apple started to creep into Liverpool’s culture, triggering a whole new sound in British music – Merseybeat – with the Beatles at the forefront.

There are now countless sights and attractions throughout the city commemorating this amazing band and all of its accomplishments. And no visit to Liverpool would be complete without visiting at least a few places related to The Beatles!

To help you choose where to go, in this article, we highlight the best The Beatles attractions in Liverpool. For each site, we include some practical tips for your visit. You will also find a map showing all the best Beatles sights in Liverpool, and suggested The Beatles tours . Find out!

Top 3 Beatles Experiences in Liverpool:

• The Beatles Story .
• Magical Mystery Tour & Cavern Club .
• Liverpool Beatles Museum .

These are the best The Beatles sights and attractions in Liverpool:

1. The Beatles Story

If you visit just one The Beatles attraction in Liverpool, make it The Beatles Story . This is the largest Beatles exhibition in the world.

Located right on the UNESCO World Heritage site at the Albert Dock, it tells the story of the entire career of the Fab Four. You can listen to one of the band’s hits after another as you view replicas of The Cavern, the Casbah, and other Beatles sites in Liverpool.

You can also see clothing, original instruments, rare album sleeves, and other memorabilia.

An audio guide in 10 different languages is available at the start of your visit. Interestingly, it is narrated by John Lennon’s sister, Julia.

Practical information: The Beatles Story is open daily. The Discovery Zone is open from 11 am to 3 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. However, these times are subject to change in the winter months, so be sure to check their website ahead of your visit.

We highly recommend buying your tickets online in advance . This is one of the most popular attractions in Liverpool !

The Albert Dock is a 20-minute walk from Liverpool Lime Street Station. There is parking available at the dock if you are visiting by car (although it’s quite expensive). Alternatively, it can be reached by the 800, 500, and 25 bus services.

Good to know: There are two museums dedicated to The Beatles in Liverpool: The Beatles Story and Liverpool Beatles Museum (formerly known as Magical Beatles Museum). Although both tell the story of the Beatles, they approach it from rather different angles.

You’ll find that Liverpool Beatles Museum gives you a more intimate perspective, whereas The Beatles Story has more of a commercial feel, with immersive and interactive exhibits. The Discovery Zone is especially loved by kids, as it gives them the chance to try out a giant floor piano and perform on a mini Cavern Club stage.

Whilst both museums are excellent, die-hard Beatles fans may find the more personal exhibits at the Liverpool Beatles Museum more interesting. But if you are looking for music, costumes, colors, and simply want to have a great time, The Beatles Story is a better choice.

You can read more about the Liverpool Beatles Museum further below.

2. The Beatles Statues at Pier Head

These life-size bronze statues of the Fab Four arrived on Liverpool’s waterfront in December 2015, commissioned and donated by the managing director of the Cavern Club.

The statues immortalize a moment just before the band left Liverpool to become megastars and change the face of music forever.

The Beatles Statues at Pier Head quickly became one of the must-visit Beatles spots in Liverpool. Getting a selfie with these statues is now one of the most popular things to do for first-time visitors!

Be sure to check out the interesting details, like the L8 on the sole of Ringo’s shoe (related to where he once lived) or the Sanskrit on George Harrison’s belt. John Lennon is holding two acorns that were cast from acorns collected from outside the Dakota Building, where he was shot in 1980.

Good to know: The date on which the statues were placed on the Pier Head marked the 50th anniversary of the last gig the band played in the city.

You can find the statues in front of the famous Cunard Building, overlooking the River Mersey.

3. Mathew Street

Mathew Street is a small but vibrant alley located right in the city center. It’s here that you will find some of the main Beatles attractions , including the Cavern Club and the Liverpool Beatles Museum (more detail on those below). This area is sometimes referred to as the ‘Cavern Quarter’.

But there are a few more places worth visiting whilst you’re here. One is the Beatles Shop at number 31 Mathew St, about 200ft from the entrance of the original Cavern Club. Quaint and charming, it’s a must-see for die-hard Beatles fans, packed with cool souvenirs and memorabilia.

On a wall along the street – aka The Wall Of Fame – you can see a sculpture entitled ‘Four Lads That Shook the World’, which was created as a tribute by Arthur Dooley.

And just a few doors along from the Cavern Club you’ll come to a pub called ‘The Grapes’ . At the time the Beatles were performing, the Cavern Club didn’t sell alcohol – so The Grapes is where they’d head for a drink after their gigs. Inside the pub, you can see a photo of them sitting on a bench there. The bench remained in the exact same spot to this day!

Good to know: On Stanley Street just nearby, look out for the Eleanor Rigby statue . Sitting on a stone bench next to a plaque dedicated to ‘All the Lonely People’, this bronze statue was created by musician and artist Tommy Steele in 1981.

4. Cavern Club

The Cavern Club is undoubtedly the most famous Beatles venue in Liverpool! Although the building we see today was actually rebuilt from the bricks of the original club which closed in March 1973.

It was here that the Beatles cut their musical teeth, playing regularly during lunchtime and evening shows. It was also the venue in which they were discovered by Brian Epstein, a local record shop proprietor who managed the band from 1962 until his death in 1967.

This lively cellar is an amazing place to visit and has played host to fabulous live music for decades. You can enjoy everything here from acoustic sets to rock and roll, with plenty of Beatles tribute bands to remind you of where it all started. There are also lots of great photographs and memorabilia lining the walls.

As you enter the club, don’t miss the statue outside depicting John Lennon casually leaning against the wall.

Good to know: The Cavern Club gets very busy, especially during evenings and weekends. If you just want to take a look inside, you can avoid the crowds by visiting soon after opening, before the live bands take to the stage.

Practical information: The Cavern is open daily from 11 am. It closes at midnight from Sunday to Wednesday, at 1 am on Thursdays, and at 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays. Tickets for entry can be bought at the door. Children under 12 are free but all children under 18 must leave the club by 8 pm. You can find more information and info on current shows and events on their website .

TIP: The entrance to the Cavern Club is included with the Beatles Magical Mystery Tour – one of the most popular things to do in Liverpool for the Beatles fans. You can read more about it further below at #9.

5. Liverpool Beatles Museum

Liverpool Beatles Museum (aka Magical History Museum) is spread over three floors of a Grade-II listed building on Mathew Street in Liverpool. Featuring items from the personal collection of the ‘fifth Beatle’ Pete Best’s brother Roag – it gives you a whole new perspective on the band! It is also one of the largest collections of authentic items in the world and is beautifully curated.

Charting their lives from their early days up to and beyond their rise to international fame, it contains original instruments, the John Lennon Sgt Pepper medals, Paul McCartney’s bass amp, and more. For a more personal insight, you can read letters along with fascinating unseen footage. Everything is chronologically laid out, so it makes it easy and enjoyable to follow the Beatles’ story from the very start.

TIP: Make sure you set aside enough time for your visit. It takes a good 2-3 hours to explore the vast collection of items.

Good to know: Because this is a listed building, there is no elevator. This might make a visit difficult for anyone with limited mobility, as there are three flights of stairs.

Practical information: The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. You can book your tickets online .

6. Strawberry Field

Strawberry Field is another popular Beatles attraction in Liverpool. This was a Salvation Army children’s home at the time when John lived close by with his aunt and uncle. It is believed that he had happy memories of going to summer garden parties there as a child, inspiring the 1967 hit ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’.

The home has now gone but in its place is an interactive visitor exhibition center, with a cafe and shop. There are lots of calm garden spaces that you are invited to explore and reflect in, just as John would have done as a child. You can also see replicas of the site’s famous red gates.

The chief attraction, however, is the ‘Imagine’ piano. Loaned to the exhibition by the estate of the late George Michael, this is the piano that John Lennon used to create one of the most important peace anthems of the 20th century.

Good to know: Some of the profits from this attraction go towards funding the ‘Steps at Strawberry Field’ programs, designed to help those with learning difficulties or other barriers to employment.

Practical information: Strawberry Fields is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. Entrance to the gardens is free but there is a fee to visit the exhibition You can book tickets online in advance .

The venue has a minibus shuttle service that runs from the Jury’s Inn Hotel at Albert Dock. It costs £4 one way or £7 return, departing at 9 am, 10 am, 11.15 am, 2.30 pm, 3.30 pm, and 4.30 pm. Alternatively, you can take local bus route 76 from the Liverpool One Bus Station and get off at Beaconsfield Road. The journey takes around half an hour.

7. Casbah Coffee Club

The Cavern Club may be the place most often associated with The Beatles, but The Casbah was where they held some of their first live performances. Indeed, Sir Paul McCartney has said in the past that it was at the Casbah where everything started and that all the band members saw it as their ‘personal club’.

The basement club was opened by Mona Best – mum to Pete Best, The Beatles’ original drummer – in an attempt to match the coffee bar clubs popular in London at the time. Its resident band was ‘The Quarrymen’, which included John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison. So closely involved that they even helped decorate it, they went on to perform here 44 times.

When you visit now, you can see the Casbah just as it looked in the beginning. You can even see a silhouette of John Lennon on the wall, painted by his then-girlfriend Cynthia (who later became his wife). Perfect for true Beatles fans, it has a much less commercialized feel than venues like the Cavern Club and offers a very authentic Beatles experience in Liverpool.

The guides here will have had a personal connection to the band or experience growing up with them. Occasionally, tours are even conducted by Pete Best’s brother, Roag.

Practical information: You need to make an appointment to visit the Casbah Coffee Club, which you can book through Pete Best’s website . Although, their contact form is really sketchy, so it might not be straightforward.

Good to know: This place is quite far from the other Beatles-related sights of Liverpool and isn’t reached by any of the standard tours. The best way to get there is by the number 15 bus, which leaves the city center frequently. The journey takes around half an hour.

8. The Jacaranda Club

The Jacaranda Club, also known as ‘The Jac’, was founded in 1957 by Allan Williams, the first manager of The Beatles. Originally friends with the early Beatles bassist Stuart Sutcliffe, he got to know the rest of the band whilst they were still teenagers.

One of their early compositions – ‘One After 909’ – was written at the Jacaranda, a bar in which they would often meet. The Beatles performed here several times too, and the time they spent here is seen as pivotal to their future success.

These days you can catch live music every night at the basement level or visit Liverpool’s favorite jukebox on the ground floor. Above the ground floor is the venue’s unique Record Store. Here you’ll find vinyl record players sunk into the tables, allowing you to enjoy a wide range of music along with your coffee or drinks.

With a distinct ’60s beatnik vibe, quirky decor, and a plethora of Beatles photos lining the walls, this place is a ‘must-see’ for true fans of the Fab Four.

Practical information: The Jacaranda Club is open from 3 pm to 3 am Monday to Thursday, and from 3 pm to 4 am Friday to Sunday. It’s a 5-minute walk from Liverpool Lime Street railway station, just around the corner from Mathew Street.

9. The Beatles Magical Mystery Tour

If you don’t have time to go and see all of The Beatles’ attractions in Liverpool separately, then the Magical Mystery Tour is the perfect solution.

Starting at the Albert Dock, this highly-rated 2-hour tour takes you to some key locations in the Beatles’ story all over Liverpool. You’ll learn lots of facts about the band and get to enjoy plenty of their music along the way.

Places you will see include the childhood homes and schools of the bandmates, along with Penny Lane, St Peter’s Church Hall (where John and Paul met), and Strawberry Field. There are lots of stops for taking photos and the tour ends at Mathew Street. Free entry to the Cavern Club that day is included with this tour.

Practical information: Tours depart at the Magical Mystery Tour Ticket Office, Anchor Courtyard, Albert Dock. I strongly recommend booking your tickets online in advance as these tours are hugely popular and sell out quickly!

More Beatles Attractions In Liverpool

If you have time, there are a few more interesting Beatles-related sights dotted throughout Liverpool that you might want to visit.

Eleanor Rigby’s grave , St Peter’s Church, Woolton: It is unclear whether this was the grave that inspired the 1966 song. Nevertheless, this is the churchyard where John and Paul met for the first time. It is also where John Lennon’s uncle and aunt are buried.

Penny Lane , Mossley Hill: This is the street that inspired the 1967 hit. Unfortunately, it contains few of the details mentioned in the song, so it can be a little disappointing to visit!

Yellow Submarine , Liverpool John Lennon Airport: This large model was created by a group of apprentices from Cammell Laird’s shipyard in 1984. It formed part of an exhibition and was featured in a Beatles-themed garden. 51 feet long and 15 feet high, it even has a replica control cabin with real equipment. It was finally placed on display at the airport in 1995.

Map of The Beatles Sights in Liverpool

To help you plan your time, we created this map indicating all The Beatles places mentioned in this article.

As you can see, most sights are located in the city center. And – as mentioned before – you can also see many of the places that are further away by taking the Magical Mystery Tour .

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Liverpool Beatles Tours

If you want to learn more about the Beatles in a short time, one of the best ways to do this is by taking a dedicated Beatles tour.

There are several options.

• Magical Mystery Tour . Already mentioned above, this is by far the most popular Beatles tour in Liverpool. It includes a visit to the Cavern Club as well.
• Beatles Explorer Bus . This is a similar bus tour that covers many sights in Liverpool related to the Fabulous Four. The itinerary is pretty much the same as the Magical Mystery Tour. The main difference between the two is that this one is an open-deck bus and that it doesn’t include a ticket to the Cavern Club (which you can visit separately).
• Private Tour by Traditional Taxi . This is a great option for those who rather explore Beatles sites in Liverpool with a personal guide. Also, this tour brings you to the childhood homes of the Fab Four, Strawberry Fields, Penny Lane, Eleanor Rigby’s grave, etc.
• Walking Tour . This tour is actually a combination of two guided tours (City & Cavern Quarter and The Beatles and Waterfront) and a self-guided app. It’s very different from all the others because it focuses on The Beatles landmarks in the center of Liverpool. You can just do one of the tours or both, and the ticket is flexible and valid for 3 days.

I hope you have found this guide to the best Beatles attractions helpful.

It is wonderful to see the real places that inspired the music of this world-famous band and to appreciate live music at venues in which they would have performed.

Have a great time in Liverpool!

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Liverpool

More travel inspiration for the UK:

• How to Visit Liverpool from London
• Best Things to Do in London
• London Travel Tips
• 2 Days London Itinerary
• London Hidden Gems
• Where to Stay in London
• Best Day Trips from London
• BEST Things to Do in London with Kids
• FREE Things to Do in London with Kids
• Best Things to Do in Manchester
• 1 Day Manchester Itinerary
• Yorkshire Day Trips
• Best Things to Do in Cornwall
• Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Best Things to Do in Blackpool
• Blackpool Travel Tips
• Best Places to Visit near Blackpool
• Where to Stay in Blackpool
• Isle of Skye Itinerary
• Scotland Whisky Tour
• Best Things to Do in Edinburgh
• Tips for Visiting Edinburgh
• One Day in Glasgow
• Best Cities to See in The UK
• …For more travel inspiration for these and other destinations, take a look at our  UK travel guide .

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Jurga, you are the best... I have used Full Suitecase for sooo many of my trips. From Iceland, to Italy, Switzerland and now Liverpool. Thank you much for your insight and easy to follow information...

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13 Famous Streets in Liverpool You Need to Visit

• July 10, 2023

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Aside from London, there’s one city that stands out from the crowd when it comes to the many famous streets it has. That’s right, it’s Liverpool!

Today, we’re diving into the heart and soul of the many famous streets in Liverpool, where history, culture, and music intertwine.

Sure, you’ll have heard of a few ( Penny Lane is world-famous , after all), but there are quite a few streets here that visitors to the city won’t have heard of, but are famous with locals.

I’ve been to Liverpool more times than I can count now (seriously, it’s becoming my second home!), and I’ve had a blast exploring its many famous streets.

Today, I’m going to share those with you, so you can also check them out on your next trip to the city!

Table of Contents

1. Lime Street

Lime Street is one of Liverpool’s most famous and well-known streets – and most of that is because of the train station here!

It gets its name from the lime kilns owned by local businessman William Harvey, it has been around since 1790. But Lime Street’s claim to fame doesn’t stop there!

You might have heard of it in the Liverpool folk song ‘Maggie May’, famously recorded by the Beatles on their album Let It Be. The song mentions Lime Street as the preferred spot of the notorious prostitute, Maggie May. Talk about a colourful past!

Not only that, Lime Street is home to Liverpool’s largest and oldest railway station, a bustling transportation hub connecting countless travellers. It’s probably the first place you’ll arrive in Liverpool, whether you’re moving here or just visiting the city for one day .

2. Bold Street

Bold Street is the coolest of all Liverpool roads if you’re into independent local businesses. Take a stroll down Bold Street, and you’ll be greeted by a delightful mix of vintage clothes shops, indie book shops, record shops, and galleries showing off local artists’ work.

This iconic street in Liverpool holds a fascinating history. You see: back in the 18th century, Bold Street was a ropewalk, where sailors measured out ropes for those mighty sailing ships that were the lifeblood of the city’s port industry.

It’s no wonder they called this area ‘The Ropewalks’!

If you’re a foodie, you’ll love it here! Bold Street boasts the best collection of world food restaurants in Liverpool. It’s also one of the best places in the city to get a great coffee or a top-notch brunch. The coffee scene here is awesome!

3. Mathew Street

If you’re a Beatles fan or just someone who loves music – there’s one Liverpool street you absolutely can’t miss – Mathew Street! Known as one of the best Beatles landmarks in the city, Mathew Street is a holy ground for music lovers.

As you wander along Mathew Street, you’ll be transported back in time to the Beatles’ early days. This is where the legendary Cavern Club, where the Fab Four performed almost 300 times, resides.

You’ll still feel the energy and passion of those iconic first performances as you explore because you’ll hear live music playing in nearly every single venue you pass!

There are loads of places offering 2 4 1 cocktails on Mathew Street, so it’s a great place to go out on a budget. A lot of the city’s top party apartments are located near Mathew Street too.

If you have time, The Cavern run a Magical Mystery Tour of Beatles sites that’s worth doing.

As well as the Cavern Club, there are plenty of other things to see on Mathew Street. Opposite the Cavern, you’ll find the John Lennon Statue.

Outside the Cavern, you’ll find the Cilla Black Statue.

There’s also The Grapes pub, where The Beatles used to drink between sets. It’s one of my favourite places in the city!

4. Penny Lane

Leaving Liverpool city centre, let’s head to another famous Liverpool street with a Beatles connection: Penny Lane!

Paul McCartney sings “ Penny Lane is in my ears and in my eyes ” in the hit Beatles song, named after this street.

This was a nostalgic song for Paul, who said that he used to change buses at Penny Lane when he was going to John Lennon’s house, so it’s an area he knew well.

It’s worth playing the song in your earphones as you wander. You’ll see many places Paul references, like the barber, the bank where the banker who never wears a mac worked, and the shelter in the middle of the roundabout. 

Taking a photo with the Penny Lane street sign is a must-do whilst you’re here. If you’re also into the Beatles, head to the Penny Lane Development Trust, where you’ll find cool Beatles murals and a tiny collection of local Beatles memorabilia.

It’s one of Liverpool’s hidden gems.

Oh, and did you know there’s apparently a Penny Lane ghost ? Keep your eyes peeled for them!

Penny Lane is popular with students, thanks to the affordable rent. As you can imagine, life in Liverpool is pretty awesome for students – there are far worse places to live on than one of the most famous streets in the world!

5. William Brown Street

William Brown Street is where you’ll find some of the most beautiful public buildings in the city. Named after a local benefactor, this street is a treasure trove of Liverpool landmarks and free museums .

Oh, it’s also home to Liverpool’s Christmas Market !

First up, we have the stunning neoclassical masterpiece, the Walker Art Gallery. Here, you’ll find all sorts of classical art masterpieces, including an iconic portrait of King Henry VIII that you’ll surely recognise.

Just next door, the jaw-dropping Central Library will wow you if you’re a bookworm like me.

The wonders of William Brown Street don’t end there! The World Museum is also on this street, offering exhibitions on natural history, archaeology, and world cultures. They even have a planetarium!

Nearby, St. George’s Hall stands as Liverpool’s own example of Greek Revival architecture, hosting concerts, and events, and even being used as a filming location. You may recognise it from the John Lennon biopic, “ Nowhere Boy” .

Finally (I told you William Brown Street has a lot to see!) let’s not forget Wellington’s Column, towering above the city skyline and paying tribute to the Duke of Wellington’s victory at the Battle of Waterloo.

6. Hope Street

The irony that the city’s two cathedrals can be found on a road called Hope Street isn’t lost on Liverpudlians.

On one end of Hope Street stands the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. This modernist structure, completed in 1967, boasts a unique circular design, and its many stained glass windows make for a colourful interior.

At the opposite end, you’ll find the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that took over 70 years to complete. Construction began in 1904, and the cathedral was consecrated in 1924. Its soaring spires and intricate details leave visitors in awe! 

Here’s a fun fact : I first visited these cathedrals as a kid on a school trip. I felt super unwell that day, and I very nearly threw up inside the Anglican Cathedral! That would NOT have been a good look…

Anyways – these cathedrals represent a harmonious blend of old and new, and their presence on Hope Street shows off Liverpool’s diverse religious heritage. You’ll also find one of the best hotels with private balconies on Hope Street- the Hope Street Hotel !

7. Menlove Avenue

Menlove Avenue, an unassuming street in Liverpool, holds a significant place in the history of one of the world’s most iconic musicians, John Lennon. This residential road is forever etched in Beatles history since Lennon’s childhood home, Mendips, is on this street.

The house called Mendips is located at 251 Menlove Avenue, and it’s still standing! It was bought by Lennon’s aunt Mimi in 1945 and was where John grew up, often playing guitar with Paul in the glass-panelled porch. 

The house was privately owned for some time until 2002, when it was listed for sale and was bought by none other than John’s wife, Yoko Ono, who donated it to the National Trust. She wanted it to be a place that Beatles fans from all over the world could visit. Thanks, Yoko!

Tragically, Menlove Avenue also holds a sombre connection to Lennon’s life. It was on this very street that his mother, Julia Lennon, met with a fatal car accident in July 1958. This heartbreaking event had a profound impact on Lennon’s life and shaped his artistic journey.

Most Liverpool Beatles tours will drop you off here for a short time, but, unfortunately, you can only go inside the house on official National Trust tours.

8. Water Street

Water Street, one of Liverpool’s most iconic streets, dates back to the 18th century. It played a vital role in Liverpool’s role as a global trading hub back in the day.

It runs from the Mersey River to the Liverpool Town Hall, making it one of the main streets in the city. Many Liverpool walking tours and bus tours start here. It makes sense – this location is just gorgeous!

Notable landmarks adorn Water Street, including the iconic Royal Liver Building with its famous Liver Birds, and the Port of Liverpool Building stands as another architectural gem.

This is such a wonderful place to walk along and snap photos as you go – it’s one of the prettiest streets in Liverpool.

Oh, and it doesn’t hurt that the beloved Beatles statue is just a stone’s throw away!

Today, Water Street remains a hub of commerce, culture, and finance in Liverpool. Elegant buildings house financial institutions and cultural organisations, and, of course, the blend of old-world charm and modern commerce is pretty cool.

9. Forthlin Road

Another unassuming residential street in Liverpool that’s famous is Forthlin Road, and that’s because it’s here that you can find the childhood home of one of the greatest musicians of our time (not that I’m biassed 😉), Paul McCartney. 

Paul and his family moved to 20 Forthlin Road when he was around 13 until he was famous! It was on this street that he honed his musical skills, collaborating with John Lennon and laying the foundation for his world-changing career.

Regular people still live in the houses on Forthlin Road neighbouring Pauls, but, provided you’re not being obnoxious, they won’t mind you hanging out to check out Paul’s house and snap some photos.

Today, like Mendips, 20 Forthlin Road is owned and managed by the National Trust. Also like Mendips, you can only go inside the house on an official National Trust tour . All other Beatles tours will just take you to the street and the outside of the house.

10. Lark Lane

Lark Lane, just outside of Liverpool city centre, is a hidden gem if you’re a tourist – it perfectly embodies the city’s bohemian spirit.

Stroll along Lark Lane and you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of independent shops, quirky boutiques, and restaurants serving creative dishes of local produce. This is the obvious place to go for a lovely weekend brunch in Liverpool .

This is where you’ll find some of the best Sunday carveries in the city !

In the evenings, the street comes alive with the sounds of live music spilling from its cosy pubs and bars. From jazz and blues to folk and rock, there’s always a melody to accompany your night out. 

It’s one of the most famous roads in Liverpool for creatives!

11. Admiral Grove

Admiral Grove, a modest residential street in Liverpool in the working-class neighbourhood of the Dingle, holds the childhood home of one of the most iconic drummers in history – Ringo Starr.

Born as Richard Starkey, Ringo lived on Admiral Grove from the mid-1940s until the early 1960s. The famous inhabitant put an unassuming terraced street on the map! Today, you’ll be able to pick out Ringo’s house thanks to its pink and white painted exterior.

Today, Admiral Grove stands as a testament to Starr’s humble beginnings. He’s the real “working class hero” of the Beatles boys. 

12. Hanover Street

Hanover Street is one of the top streets in Liverpool thanks to the countless restaurants and bars that line the road.

From trendy tapas joints to authentic Italian trattorias, from bustling German beer gardens to cosy bistros, Hanover Street offers a gastronomic adventure like no other. It’s well worth a visit !

Liverpool’s food enthusiasts flock to this street, as it has earned a reputation as one of the top places to eat in Liverpool. 

Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night in Liverpool, a quick bite, or a lively night out with friends, Hanover Street’s bars and restaurants cater to every taste and occasion.

13. Arnold Grove

In the Wavertree suburb of Liverpool, you’ll find one of the most iconic streets in Liverpool – Arnold Grove. 

This was the childhood home of George Harrison, the lead guitarist of the Beatles . He lived here for six years, before moving to another house on a street called Upton Green, which is in Speke.

You didn’t think I would write an entire Liverpool post without spending a good chunk of it writing about the Beatles, did you?

This unpretentious terrace is, like Ringo’s house, privately owned, but, again – provided you’re not obnoxious it’s totally fine to visit and take a few photos of the outside of the house. The owners and neighbours are used to it by now!

FAQs About Famous Streets in Liverpool

What is the main street in Liverpool?

The main street in Liverpool is arguably the busy shopping area of Church Street. This popular shopping street is home to an array of high-street stores and is just outside Liverpool One. Although it’s not one of the most famous streets in Liverpool, it’s arguably the “main” street in the city.

What is the most popular street in Liverpool?

According to TripAdvisor, Hotels.com, and my own experience, the most popular street in Liverpool is Matthew Street. This iconic street is known for its lively nightlife, particularly its live music scene. The world-famous Cavern Club, where The Beatles first performed, is located on this street and draws visitors from all over the globe. 

What is the oldest street in Liverpool?

It’s not quite clear what the oldest street in Liverpool is, but one of the oldest is Castle Street, which dates back to the 13th century. It was one of the original seven ancient streets in the city and is home to a variety of historic buildings. Despite this, it’s not one of the most famous streets in Liverpool.

Conclusion: Most Famous Streets in Liverpool

In conclusion, the streets of Liverpool are known all over the world! From the iconic Beatles sites like Penny Lane and Mathew Street, to the diverse offerings of Bold Street and Lark Lane, each street tells a unique story and offers a totally different experience. 

So, put on your walking shoes, explore these famous streets, and get ready to fall in love with Liverpool just like I did!

Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

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12 Places Along Liverpool’s Bold Street That Are Well Worth A Visit

These spots put the bold in Bold Street.

Bold Street connects two Liverpool areas, Knowledge Quarter and Georgian Quarter, to the main retail shopping part of the city, however it most certainly shouldn’t be overlooked when getting from A to B. This Liverpool street boasts shops, cafés, bars, restaurants, culture and entertainment all on one long straight road, and honestly it’s hard to resist making a pit stop or even spending a fair few hours here. So you don’t pass this road by in the blink of an eye, check out our guide to all the best places to visit on Bold Street.

1. Bold Street Coffee

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But first coffee. Whether you’re on the go, looking for a spot to catch up with friends over brunch or need a space to answer emails, Bold Street Coffee is the one. The café serves up freshly ground coffee and even puppacinos for your pooch as well as delicious doughnuts and a fantastic brunch and lunch menu. If you’re peckish, be sure to try Bold Street Coffee’s signature buoys- brioche buns filled with wonderful breakfast fillings such as egg, sausage, bacon, cheese, avocado, hash brown, scrambled tofu and unbelievable onion jam.

Bold Street Coffee, 89 Bold Street, L1 4HF

Maray is a big favourite with the people of Liverpool hence why it has three branches- Albert Dock, Allerton and Bold Street. The restaurant serves food inspired by the flavours of the Middle East alongside incredible wine and bold, delicious cocktails. Maray uses a number of local suppliers such as beer from Love Lane Brewery and gin by Turncoat Gin. There’s something for everyone on their menu with plenty of meat, fish and veggie options such as aubergine shawarma; lamb kofta; and saffron and pimenton sautéed king prawns. Plus, you can enjoy their weekday lunch deal of one mezze dish and two plates for £15.

Maray, 91 Bold Street, L1 4HF

3. News From Nowhere

Selling books and promoting women’s rights – well, here’s a bookshop that can do both. The iconic Liverpool bookshop on Bold Street, News From Nowhere , has been at the heart of the city’s feminist movement since opening on May Day in 1974. The radical community bookshop and not-for-profit women workers’ collective has an ever-expanding, carefully curated stock with books on history, politics, local travel, poetry, and fiction all found within these walls. If you’re after something to read over a cuppa and want to support a local bookshop in the process, think no more and pop into News From Nowhere.

News From Nowhere, 96 Bold Street, L1 4HY

LEAF began as a small tea shop run by friends in a Liverpool city centre gallery in 2007, with the goal of bringing quality loos-leaf tea to the city in an intimate and bohemian space. The teashop stocks over 60 rare loose leaf teas from across the globe and has even won Great Taste Awards for several of their blends such as Secret Garden, Autumn Fire, Peppermint and Pure Life Wellness. Their Bold Street branch set in a beautiful Art Deco building was formerly a tea room in the 1920s, a cinema in the late 20th Century and most recently Microzine clothes shop before becoming a teashop, restaurant and events space all in one.

LEAF, 65–67 Bold Street, L1 4EZ

5. St Luke’s Bombed Out Church

For a spot of history and for jaw-dropping photos head up to the top of Bold Street towards the Georgian Quarter to St Luke’s Bombed Out Church (it also has a lovely beer garden). The structure was built between 1811 and 1832 as both a church and concert hall, however it suffered catastrophic damage during the May Blitz of 1941. The large fire that ensued swept through the building, causing its stained glass to burst from within, its roof to collapse, and several of its bells to cascade down the tower to the ground. Amazingly, all that remained standing after the blaze was the church’s exterior stonework, hence the name ‘Bombed Out Church’.

St Luke’s Bombed Out Church, Leece Street, L1 2TR

6. Café Tabac

The little café at the ‘top of the hill’ has been at the heart of Liverpool city centre Bohemian cafe/bar scene for over 40 years. Established in 1974, Café Tabac has always been a hub for the creative residents of Liverpool, attracting artists, actors, singers and performers amongst its varied and colourful clientele. Plus, this little Bold Street café is possibly the only place in Liverpool where you can have breakfast 12 hours a day, seven days a week- who says bacon on toast isn’t an evening meal before a night on the town? Also, be sure to try Café Tabac’s espresso martini.

Café Tabac, 126 Bold Street, L1 4JA

7. Jimmy’s

This three-story iconic premises lies at the head of Bold Street, opposite the Bombed Out Church, and is steeped in musical history. Bar and gig venue Jimmy’s was once the home of the infamous Cabin Club, which operated in their music venue down in the bar’s basement, which now hosts live music and club nights throughout the week. As well as plenty of music, Jimmy’s boasts a restaurant and bar serving all-day brunches (bottomless on Saturdays), their signature BBQ evening menu, Sunday roasts with teapots filled with gravy plus a range of beers, cider and cocktails.

Jimmy’s, 130 Bold Street, L1 4JA

8. Maggie May’s

Some would say Maggie May’s is a right of passage for the full Liverpool experience. This Bold Street café is a great place to head to for a classic bowl of Scouse (Liverpool’s infamous stew) and considered one of the best places to have it. Maggie May’s serves this winter warmer, as well as a fantastic fry-up, at a bargain price and the portions are a decent size too. But the big question is “Are you Team Pickled Red Cabbage or Team Beetroot?” when it comes to your Scouse side.

Maggie May’s, 90 Bold Street, L1 4HY

9. Fat Hippo

New on the street is one of the best burger purveyors up north that is Fat Hippo . The Bold Street branch features their renowned beef burger, PB and Double J, that includes two beef patties, American cheese, chunky peanut butter, bacon jam and smoked chilli jello. And if you’re feeling ultra hungry, they even serve a four-patty beef burger! Fat Hippo is famed for its quirky flavours, which also appear in their tasty starters such as fried crinkle cut pickles, trash browns (deep-fried tater tots, liquid cheese and cajun onion strings) and wachos (waffle fries with classic nacho toppings). If you’re after a hangover cure and you find yourself on Bold Street, Fat Hippo should hopefully ease things.

Fat Hippo, 78 Bold Street, L1 4HR

After some new garms? COW on Bold Street offers amazing vintage clothes for all. From leather jackets to dazzling jewellery, this Bold Street vintage shop boasts plenty of shelves and rails to rife through in order to create a new look. Plus, it’s one way to do your bit for the planet and it’s always a win to get pre-loved clothes at a cheaper price.

COW, 15 Bold Street, L1 4DN

11. Ropes & Twines

For all your wine needs there’s Ropes & Twines. Serving speciality coffee and wine, it’s perfect whether you’re after a bottle to take home or to a party, as well as sit down and enjoy a glass or bottle with friends. For a great post-work getaway, hit up this Bold Street wine bar that boasts outdoor seating on warmer days. Sip on their recommended rosé with the sun shining and be transported to the wonderful Mediterranean. The wine bar also hosts tasting experiences and serves up natural and low intervention wines.

Ropes & Twines, 70 Bold Street, L1 4HR

12. Home Bargains

Any Liverpudlian will tell you it’s Home and Bargains not Home Bargains- and they’re not wrong. You can find anything and everything all under one roof here to help spruce things up at home, but on a budget and maybe in there for a little too long. From pillows to paddling pools, candles to containers, you can always rely on this shop to come through with the homeware goods. Even if we accidentally stumble out with more than we intended to go in for…

Home Bargains, 34-36 Bold Street, L1 4LF

Read more: 10 Of Liverpool’s Prettiest Streets That You’ll Dream About Forever

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Lost Liverpool streets that disappeared off the map

If you take a walk around Liverpool city centre, you'll find traces of how we used to live.

From 'ghost signs' of lost shops to a plaque outside Liverpool Crown Court that shows where the Castle of Liverpool once stood. Like any modern city, Liverpool has had to adapt and grow over the years, meaning some of its old streets have disappeared off the map.

Outside the city centre during the 20th century, Everton saw some of the most prominent redevelopment, resulting in uprooted communities and vanished streets. Today the only signs of some of these streets that remain are in photographs and memories of those who lived there.

Back in 2022, the ECHO compiled a list of some of Liverpool's lost streets, which we take a look back on below. This list offers only a small selection of streets that have either gone completely or are only a shadow of what they used to be. If you have any memories of other vanished streets in the city that you'd like to share, please let us know in the comments below .

READ MORE: Mansion knocked down and rebuilt more than four miles away

READ MORE: Lost city centre subway 80s and 90s shoppers will remember

Gloucester Street

Before Lime Street Station was extended, Gloucester Street ran from Lime Street to Copperas Hill. The above image, dated 1954, found in the Getty archives shows the view from Gloucester Street, looking down past St George's Hall and into the heart of the city centre.

The extensive changes around Lime Street since this photo was taken in the mid-1950s, particularly following the Lime Street Gateway Project which commenced following 2008 Liverpool's European Capital of Culture year, saw the demolition of the aging retail parade in front of the station.

The improved frontage and public plaza constructed in its place has seen the area completely transformed over the years. Gloucester Street itself was believed to have been built and named around 1814.

Fairy Street

The long gone Fairy Street in Everton was one of the classic steep streets off Netherfield Road that are still fondly remembered. Many of the streets full of terraced houses were demolished in the 1960s as part of the controversial slum clearances, although there are still references to Fairy Street in the British Newspaper Archive (BNA) up until the mid-1980s.

Ken Rogers, author of the best selling Lost Tribe book spoke about Everton's lost streets with the Liverpool Echo in 2011. Ken said: "No doubts many of the old houses were in desperate need of repair and even demolition. But just about everything was wiped out - every street, every corner shop and most of the famous pubs that were all part of the community."

For more nostalgia stories, sign up to our Liverpool Echo newsletter here.

Fairy Street also suffered heavy damage during the 1941 May Blitz during WWII. References to the street in the BNA go back to the mid-19th century.

Manchester Street

Manchester Street which used to run alongside the entrance to the Queensway Tunnel in Liverpool city centre was once a popular street for shops and cafes. Before the tunnel was built, the street had a more prominent role, linking Victoria Street with Dale Street.

Following the construction of the Churchill Way flyover, Manchester Street became little more than "dog-leg" of a road cutting back on itself to Victoria Street. The flyover has since been demolished and the lost Manchester Street is now part of Old Haymarket.

Among some of the street's attractions over the years was the X-rated Glamour Cinema Club, Shank's Bar, Yates's Wine Lodge, an amusement arcade and the Royal Tiger nightclub. On the corner of Victoria Street and Manchester used to be a shop called Game which sold board games and fantasy role playing game paraphernalia.

Hale Street

Hale Street was a narrow alleyway connecting Dale Street and Tithebarn Street (between Moorfields and Vernon Street). Although, technically, a remnant of the street is still present in the city centre and can be found on Google Maps, it's not the atmospheric side street it once was.

One of the most prominent buildings on the street was Hale Street Warehouse, which was a group of former courtyard structures, built to allow smaller businesses to operate in side streets and alleyways that backed onto Dale Street. The buildings were said to be reserved for those involved in manufacturing and craftsmen.

Join our Liverpool memories and history Facebook group here.

Much of the original street vanished following post-war development in the city centre. Thankfully, similar alleyways such as Hackins Hey and Eberle Street have survived.

Everton Terrace

Everton Terrace was more akin to a series of multi-level streets interconnected by steep steps leading to rows of terrace housing. The photograph above, dated May 5, 1927, shows the Netherfield Road entrance to the terrace which was demolished in the 1960s.

Following the slum clearances, some of the housing was replaced by high-rise flats in the 1960s, such as the group of 14-storey three tower blocks nicknamed "the Piggeries". They were unpopular and soon fell into disrepair and subsequently demolished in the 1980s.

The clearances radically transformed the landscape of Everton, opening up the environment that still presides over the city with lofty views of the docks and skyline from its hills. The land once occupied by Everton Terrace eventually made way for Everton Park which was built in the 1980s.

Havelock 'Mountain' Street

The mighty Havelock Street , once considered Liverpool’s steepest street, was an imposing blacktop in the heart of Everton. The joke went that you needed an oxygen mask to make the ascent towards one of the highest points in Liverpool, according to Ken Rodgers, author of the 2010 book ‘Lost Tribe of Everton & Scottie Road’.

The Everton ‘Mountain’ was such a vertical challenge it needed a free-standing handrail to give local residents a chance of reaching the top. Everton has its fair share of steep streets - but there was nothing quite like Havelock Street.

In the 1960s, the bulldozers took to the street and local residents who occupied the terraced houses in the neighbourhood were scattered far and wide to random destinations across the city. These days the terraced houses that flanked Havelock Street have gone, along with all the others that swept down from Northumberland and Everton Terrace.

A steep path with wide steps replaces the old Havelock Street, rising up through the trees of Everton Park.

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Things to do in Moscow: how to visit Moscow | Unmissable, cool & unusual

• September 2, 2023

What are the best things to do in Moscow? What to do in Moscow? First, I will list the main places to visit by theme, passing by the must-sees, but also more unusual places in Moscow. Then, I will describe what to see in Moscow in one day and how to visit Moscow in 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 days. Let’s go!

Good to know. For more information, click on the places to open the dedicated blog posts.

Main places to visit in Moscow & best things to do in Moscow

I worked in Moscow and I loved this city for its dynamism and energy. We find there from time to time to see friends, remember good memories and enjoy this giant city! Then the time has come for us to share with you our practical guide.

TOP 5 must-see places in Moscow

• Moscow Red Square
• St. Basil’s Cathedral
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Bolshoi Theatre

Places of cultural, historical and religious interest in Moscow

• Novodevichy Convent and cemetery
• Tretyakov Gallery
• Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
• Kremlin Izmaïlovo (pseudo-historic place, recently built in the image of the old, one of the best things to do in Moscow for your Instagram account 😉 )
• Park and ancient village of Kolomenskoye

Visit Moscow of the Soviet era

• Moscow State University and Sparrows Hill
• VDNKh and the Museum of Astronautics, one of the key landmarks of the Soviet era in Moscow
• GULAG Museum
• Metro stations
• The Stalinist skyscrapers, scattered all over the city

Less touristy places in Moscow

• Gorky Park and the GARAGE museum
• The old Krasny Oktyabr factory
• Zaryadye Park
• Center for Contemporary Art, WINZAVOD
• Business center, Moscow City

Main districts of Moscow to visit

• Patriarch Ponds
• Tchistye Prudy
• Kuznetsky most
• Arbat Street

However, regardless of the length of your stay, whether you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days or in 2, you need a visa. The article Obtaining a tourist visa for Russia could then be useful in any case.

What to do and see in Moscow in one day?

List of things to see and do in Moscow in one day:

• Go to Red Square
• Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral
• See Kremlin walls (but not to visit)
• Visit Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Discover Kuznetsky most districts and see Bolshoi Theatre building
• And if you have time at the end of the day: go to the Sparrows Hill or to the Moscow City for a beautiful view

Things to do in Moscow in 2 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, there are 2 purposes: do not miss the essential places of Moscow and optimize travel.

• First day: Red Square , Saint Basil’s Cathedral , Zariadye Park, Bolshoi Theatre , Kremlin
• Day 2: Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the former Krasny Oktyabr factory on Balchug Island, Gorky Park, Moscow State University (one of the Seven Sisters buildings ) and Sparrow Hill

As 2 days os really short, be sure to choose an accommodation in the best districts where to stay in Moscow .

Walking on Red Square in Moscow: one of the unmissable things to do in Moscow

Iconic place and one of the must-see places in Moscow and even in Russia! Besides, if there was only one place to visit in Moscow in 2 days, this place would then be Red Square, without hesitation. Therefore, starting the city tour with Red Square is ideal . Several buildings are on the square, but not all of them have to be visited. Check out my blog post about Moscow’s Red Square in detail to learn more and not miss anything.

Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside

Even more emblematic than Moscow’s Red Square! Built in the middle of the 16th century under the orders of Tsar Ivan Le Terrible, this cathedral is one of the most beautiful monuments of Orthodox art, and definitely one of the unmissable places in Moscow. Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside is one of the most beautiful things to do in Moscow!

• Visit estimate time : 1h30
• Entry ticket : 700 RUB. Tickets can be purchased on the cathedral’s official website 45 days before the tour.
• Audio guide (recommended): 500 RUB
• Opening hours : June to August 10 am-6pm; from November to April: 11 am-5pm; May, September, October 11 am-5pm. Cathedral closed on Wednesdays. Entrance is closed 45 minutes before closing.
• Find out more in the dedicated article: Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow

Take a walk in Zariadye park: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow after visiting Red Square

Zaryadie Park is just a 10-minute walk from St. Basil’s Cathedral, so it’s easy to include in your itinerary if you’re going to visit Moscow in 2 days. From its heights, you can see the red walls of the Kremlin. But, the most impressive point of view is the platform which overlooks the Moskva river. A must see! And clearly one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

• Open 24 hours a day
• Good to know! Park Zaryadye is also a place to visit in Moscow in winter. Find out more here: What to do in Moscow in winter?

See the Bolshoi Theatre and discover the Kuznetsky Most district

The Bolshoi Theatre is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy entrance tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets

The Bolshoi Theater is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets are located north of the theater. It is therefore very pleasant to find them to leave the main axes of the megalopolis.

Visit the Moscow Kremlin

Visit Kremlin is on top of things to do in Moscow. A place of power for centuries, the Kremlin then shows us a whole different image when viewed from the inside. If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, the Kremlin is certainly one of the must-see places in Moscow.

• Opening hours : Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thursday.
• See our blog post about visiting the Moscow Kremlin

Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior

This impressive Moscow Cathedral is the seat of the Russian Orthodox Church. It is a must see if you visit Moscow in 2 days and clearly one of the things to do in Moscow. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior was first built in 1883 in memory of Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s Grand Army. Then in 1931 Stalin ordered its destruction. It was then rebuilt again (identically) only in 2000.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 15. At the foot of the Kropotkinskaya metro station.
• Opening hours . Daily: 10: 00-17: 00, except Monday: 13: 00-17: 00
• Free entry (some closing restrictions, for example a short)

Good to know! In orthodox religious places, one must avoid excessively uncovered clothing. Women should cover their heads. After visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you can explore Bolotny Island and Gorky Park. This is one of the routes our guide to Moscow.

The old Krasny Oktyabr factory: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow

If you cross the Moskva River by a pedestrian bridge which is located just in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the city and at the same time you can discover Balchug Island. Furthermore, if you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, you can include this island in your itinerary between the cathedral and Gorky park. Here is the old confectionery factory Krasny Oktyabr, which has gradually turned into a fashionable micro-district. There are then some elements of street art, cafes and restaurants and some Moscow bohemian side. At the end of the island you can see a gigantic 98-meter-high monument dedicated to the Russian reforming tsar Pierre The Great.

Good to know! You can find on this island are the trendiest nightclubs in Moscow. On weekends, there are taxi caps after midnight so there are so many people. On the other hand, if you go there in winter and during the day, the island is quite empty and less interesting to see.

Gorky Park is one of the TOP places to visit in Moscow, because it allows you to better understand the life of the locals and their rhythm. In fact, it’s a huge entertainment park. For example, in winter there is a giant ice rink and in summer – free dance or yoga lessons, sandy beaches for playing volleyball, an outdoor cinema. So, like the locals, have a Stakantchik (ice cream or cooked corn), and enjoy the atmosphere of the place: that’s one of the interesting things to do in Moscow to discover the city.

• Where? Krymsky Val 9. 20 minutes’ walk from Krasny Oktyabr, along the quays.

Sparrow Hill and Moscow State University

The Sparrow Hill, Vorobiovy Gori in Russian, is the highest point in Moscow. It is rather known to Russians, but less to travelers. A nice view on Moscow opens from the hill, and in particular on the Luzhniki Stadium. In addition, on the hill itself is the Moscow State University: an impressive skyscraper from the Soviet era.

• How to get there? By bus T7 (35 min) from Oktyaborskaya station, near Gorki Park. By metro (Vorobiovy Gorki station) + climb the hill on foot. On foot along the Moskva along the Gorky Park (1h30) + climb in funiculars.

Good to know! It is possible to cross the Moskva river by funicular. We actually tested it and it was pretty cool! That is one of our favorite things to do in Moscow!

What to do in Moscow in 3 days?

If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days, it would be interesting to dive into the Soviet era which strongly marked the country and the city. After the Bolshevik Revolution, the capital was transferred from Saint Petersburg to Moscow, in order to mark the change of power. Moscow then became the world showcase for communist ideology. Here are the best things to do in Moscow for 3-day-trip!

VDNKh, visit Moscow of the Soviet era

VDNKh is a large exhibition center in the north of Moscow, where there are still several striking witnesses of the USSR. The most interesting are the Museum of Cosmonauts and the Statue of the Worker and the Kolkhozian , which will certainly impress you with its size!

GULAG History Museum

The explanations of the museum are very well done. We really have the feeling of going back in time. If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days and you are interested in history and this subject in particular, I recommend this museum. Visit the GULAG History Museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Moscow.

Discover the Patriarche Pounds district

It’s a nice neighborhood in Moscow where you can come across rather affluent locals, but not necessarily very bling-bling. Take a walk in this area is really a cool thing to do in Moscow! In addition, the Ponds of Patriarch is one of the places of Bulgakov’s novel “Master and Margarita”. As this is an interesting area to see, we have included it in a walking tour of Moscow. The route ends at the Moscow Kremlin, which is very convenient, because you will be able to visit Moscow in 3 days by optimizing your trips.

What to visit in Moscow in 4 days: TOP things to do in Moscow in 4 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 3 days, you will already see a lot of things. On the other hand, if you stay one more day, you have plenty to do! The Novodevichy Convent, the Tchistie Proudy district and the Izmaylovo Kremlin are very good candidates for you, if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days.

Visiting Novodevichy Convent in Moscow

The Novodevichy Convent is one of the most brilliant examples of Russian architecture, according to UNESCO. This beautiful complex was built in 1524 and today consists of the convent, but also of a cemetery whose status could be compared to that of Père-Lachaise in Paris. Visiting Novodevichy Convent is one of the great things to do in Moscow, if you want to go a little bit outside of the center!

Discovering Tchistye Proudy district

It’s one of the most popular areas of Moscow, with many cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. It is therefore a place to discover if you want to visit Moscow in 4 days. It is just as pleasant for a stroll as for the discovery of local life. For example, in winter the pond turns into an ice rink.

Visiting the Izmaylovo Kremlin, one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

The Izmaylovo Kremlin is more of a tourist than a historic place. On the other hand, it is a pretty impressive place to discover, especially on weekends. Inside the Kremlin, there is a flea market where you can find a little bit of everything, but mostly good souvenirs to bring from Moscow. For example, chapka, traditional Russian scarves or matryoshka (Russian dolls). Add the Kremlin and the Izmaïlovo market to your itinerary if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days, because it is a nice and very colorful place! Visiting the Izmailovo Kremlin is one of the things to do in Moscow, if you want to put colors in your Instagram account! 😉

In 4 days, we will have the opportunity to see several Moscow: Classic Moscow, Moscow of old Russia, Soviet Moscow and a little bit of the new Moscow. So what to visit in Moscow on the 5th day of travel?

What to visit in Moscow in 5 days?

Art lovers will be delighted to discover the Tretyakov Gallery and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, while others will prefer to stroll along Arbat Street, see the buildings of Moskva-City or visit Bunker 42.

Admiring Russian art at Tretyakov Gallery

Founded in 1856 by an industrialist and great lover of art, the gallery has grown over the decades, and then bequeathed to the state. Today the collection includes more than 140,000 pieces, 15,000 of which are paintings. Visiting the Tretyakov Gallery is one of the things to do in Moscow if you want to discover Russian art!

• Where? Pereoulok Lavrouchinski 10. A 5-minute walk from Tretiakovskaya station
• Opening hours. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Closed on Mondays.
• Entry tickets. 500 RUB.

Visiting the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts presents the treasures of ancient Egypt, the paintings of Rembrandt and Cézanne, a fine collection of Impressionism.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 12
• Opening hours. Daily: 10: 00-20: 00, except Thursday: 11: 00-21: 00. Closed on Mondays. The boxes close an hour before closing.
• Entry tickets. The prices vary according to the collections from 300 to 750 RUB.

Walking on Arbat Street

All Russians know Rue Arbat. So, walking on Arbat street is one of the things to do in Moscow. However, after the years, little by little it became very touristy. This is a pedestrian street only. There are souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes there, but it is no longer the most authentic neighborhood in the city.

Seeing the buildings of Moskva-City (Moscow City)

Moskva-City is Moscow’s business center, much like Paris’s Defense district. The skyscrapers of Moskva-City are among the tallest in Europe: 373 meters high! Very nice place to see at dusk.

Good to know! You can admire a nice view of Moscow City from the docks of Tarasa Shevchenko. It’s especially beautiful in the evening with all the lights on.

Bunker 42, one of the most unusual things to do in Moscow

Bunker 42 is a secret military complex which was to be used by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear attack: a space of 7000 m² 65 meters underground!

• Where? 5 Kotelnitcheski Lane, 11.
• Prices. 2200 RUB per person
• Opening hours. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Restaurant inside. Original, but rather a tourist trap.

What to visit in Moscow in 6 days or more?

There are still so many places to see, because Moscow is a big megalopolis and there is always something exciting to do there. For example: the ancient Kolomenskoye village or the WINZAVOD contemporary art center .

If you are interested in history and want to see Russian cities on a rather “human scale”, it would certainly be interesting for you to discover the cities of the Golden Ring . For example, it is very easy to get to Sergey Posad from Moscow (less than 2 hours in train). Visiting the Golden Ring is one of the best things to do in Moscow if you are staying more than a 5-6 days.

There are still plenty of places to see in Moscow, however I did my best to list here the best things to do in Moscow, what to see in Moscow in one day, but also in 2, 3, 4 or 5 days in Moscow!

Moscow travel tips:

• Airport transfer: how to go to Moscow?
• Where to stay in Moscow (hotels, districts)?
• Tourist voucher for Russian visa
• Christmas and New Year in Moscow
• What is the best time to visit Moscow?

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A swiftie’s guide to liverpool: exploring the city through taylor swift's eras, welcome, swifties as you plan your trip to liverpool, why not explore our vibrant city through the lens of taylor swift's iconic eras .

From where it all began with "Taylor Swift" to the romantic escapades of "Lover," Liverpool offers experiences that perfectly match the mood and essence of each Taylor Swift era. Let’s dive into the must-see spots and activities in Liverpool that will make your trip a memorable one!

Taylor Swift Era: The place where it all began 

Channel Taylor Swift’s debut Era and new beginnings in music with a trip to The Cavern Club . Known as the birthplace of The Beatles, the venue is synonymous with kickstarting global music success with everyone from the Fab Four to Adele, Arctic Monkeys and Queen having graced the stage over the years. It’s the perfect place to experience a piece of music history in the city - you never know who might be there!

If museums are more your thing, take a trip to British Music Experience to learn all about the history of British pop and rock music over the decades. See pieces of music history from bands including The Spice Girls, The Beatles, David Bowie, Sam Ryder and lots more. 

Fearless Era: Test your fearless side

What better way to see the sights of Liverpool than from above? And there are plenty of places you can challenge your fearless side at great heights.

Head to the top of Liverpool’s most iconic building, The Royal Liver Building and take in the 360 views of the city from under the famous Liver Birds on the RLB360 Tour . Learn all about the history of the building, go behind the scenes and experience something special inside one of the clock towers. 

Liverpool isn’t short of iconic buildings to venture to the top of. Liverpool Cathedral , the largest Cathedral in Britain, invites you to explore their famous tower tour. Make it to the top and you’ll be rewarded with incredible views across the region. 

Or you can climb to the top of St John’s Beacon , home of Hits Radio for panoramic views out across Liverpool and on a clear day, see as far as Wales!

If you really wanted to test your adventurous side then see if you can take on the Anfield Abseil. Climb to the top of Liverpool FC’s Anfield Stadium and abseil 100ft down the side of their main stand.  

Does it get better than this? 

Speak Now Era: Become enchanted by the theatre 

The Speak Now era is all about grand expressions, dramatic declarations, and the magic of storytelling, much like the world of theatre. 

Begin your theatrical journey at the Liverpool Empire Theatre , one of the city's most iconic venues. With its grand architecture and a history of hosting major West End productions, catch a musical, play, or opera and let the grandeur of the performances captivate you.

Royal Court Theatre is known for its vibrant and varied productions. This theatre offers a mix of comedy, drama, and musical performances with lots of local home grown talent treading the boards.  

For a touch of avant-garde and contemporary drama, head to the Everyman Theatre . This venue is celebrated for its innovative productions and support for emerging artists alongside its sister venue The Playhouse Theatre , which has been a cornerstone of Liverpool’s cultural life since the 19th century. 

Taylor Swift’s lyrics are often compared to that of William Shakespeare so a trip to Shakespeare North Playhouse when in Liverpool is an obvious choice! The theatre’s Cockpit Theatre is at the heart of the building and is a magical place to enjoy a show on your visit to the region.  

Red Era: We’re in our red (and blue) era

Aside from music, Liverpool is known across the world for its two famous football teams, Liverpool FC, known as ‘The Reds’ and Everton FC, ‘The Blues’.

Taylor Swift will be performing three sold out shows at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool FC, so if you’re lucky enough to have tickets you’ll get to see inside the iconic stadium. If not, you can always go on a behind the scenes tour of the famous grounds on a LFC Stadium Tour . See the player’s changing rooms, walk down the tunnel, stand pitch side and so much more!

If you want to explore the blue half of the city then a trip to Everton's Goodison Park Stadium is for you. Just across the park from Anfield, you’ll get a behind the scenes look at the workings of the first major football stadium built in England before they relocate to their new ground at Bramley Moore Dock. 

1989 Era: It’s all about style

By now, you’ve probably got your whole outfit planned out for attending the Eras Tour in Liverpool but if you’re still in need of some ideas then there’s lots of shops for you to explore for those last minute accessories. 

Take a trip to Liverpool ONE for all your favourite high street brands including Zara, Pull & Bear, Bershka, M&S, New Look, Stradivarius and lots more. 

Or you can head down Church Street and Lord Street to check out Primark, H&M and TK Maxx.

There’s lots of independent clothes shops to discover too, head down Bold Street for a whole whole of vintage stores including COW, Pop Boutique and Resurrection or visit Red Brick Market in the Baltic Triangle for some vintage finds and even some Taylor Swift inspired pieces too. 

Reputation Era: Liverpool’s got a big reputation

Liverpool is known around the world for having some of the coolest hangout spots, with the Baltic Triangle having recently been voted The Coolest Neighbourhood in the UK by Time Out - so it’s got a big reputation as the place to be!

Known for its underground vibes, trendy bars, and artistic spaces, explore the graffiti art, visit the unique district of the city, and experience Liverpool’s cutting-edge culture.

We’d recommend checking out The Baltic Marke t, BOXPark and Camp and Furnace - there’s always something going on down here. 

Lover Era: All you need is love

Celebrate the romantic and inclusive spirit of Taylor Swift’s Lover era by exploring Liverpool's vibrant LGBTQ+ Quarter . This lively district, centred around Stanley Street, is home to many bars to dance the night away including The Lisbon, the Poste House, Masquerade and lots more!

If you’re visiting Liverpool in July then you won’t want to miss the Pride in Liverpool celebrations. Pride Classical, a 32-piece orchestra will take over Liverpool’s Waterfront for a show stopping event on 26 July whilst the annual March with Pride will take place on 27 July. 

Find out more about this year’s Pride in Liverpool here. 

folklore & evermore Eras: ‘tis the season to explore the outdoors 

Enjoy the serene beaches, lush countryside, beautiful woodlands and city parks on your trip to Liverpool and delve into the folklore and evermore eras. 

Take a trip to Southport on the train with Merseyrail to explore Formby Woods and the stunning sand dunes at Formby Beach or the famous Iron Men on Crosby Beach .

Wirral is home to a collection of amazing parks and seaside spaces including Birkenhead Park and Port Sunlight , a picturesque village with beautiful architecture and gardens, perfect for a poetic day trip.

Or you can take a stroll around Sefton Park , a 200 acre Grade I listed park, home to the beautiful Palm House, a Victorian glass house with an incredible collection of botanical plants. 

Midnights Era: Meet us at midnight?

Cap off your Liverpool adventure by embracing the Midnights era with a night out on Liverpool's famous party scene. The city is packed with chic cocktail bars, live music venues, clubs and quirky pubs so whether you’re in the mood for dancing the night away or reflecting on your journey over a cocktail, there’s a place for you.

Find out more about some of the best bars in Liverpool to visit.  

The Tortured Poets Department Era: Immerse yourself in works of art

Embrace your inner artists and poets with a trip to William Brown Street. Here you’ll find a selection of some of Liverpool’s most impressive buildings including St George’s Hall, The Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool Central Library and the World Museum, all must visits on a trip to Liverpool.

St George’s Hall is a beautiful Grade I listed building and the perfect spot for your Swiftie selfies with the giant Taylor Swift banner!

Make sure to visit Liverpool Central Library , home to the Picton Reading Room and surround yourself with shelves and shelves of books in the breathtaking library.

If you’re into classical art then the Walker Art Gallery needs to be on your list. The gallery’s stunning collection is full of incredible pieces to explore and they are currently home to a very special piece from the National Gallery. See the free exhibition, ‘National Treasures: Velázquez in Liverpool’ until 26 August as the ‘The Rokeby Venus’ sits pride of place in the gallery. 

There's so much going on across Liverpool to celebrate Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour being in the city, find out more about what's happening and all about the Taylor Town Trail here.  

Sophie Shields

Sophie is the Communications and Social Media Manager and looks after the social media for VisitLiverpool alongside shouting to the world's press and media about all things Liverpool.

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The best things to do and places to visit in Moscow, Russia

Updated On 14th October, 2021

While Moscow isn’t always at the top of everyone’s Europe bucket list , it’s certainly one of the best places to visit in Europe if you’re looking for a more alternative adventure! In this blog post I plan on sharing some of the free things to do in Moscow, as well as the best places to visit in Moscow, so that you can enjoy some of the best things to do in Russia! 

Moscow, the capital of Russia, sits in the European part of the country. It’s an incredibly beautiful city, which I personally found to be more beautiful than Saint Petersburg (which is often people’s preference). The capital is certainly a lot busier, and less laid back than Saint Petersburg , but it’s a much more colourful and vibrant city, full of stunning and unique architecture.

Visiting famous landmarks such as The Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral, enjoying some of the green space in Gorky Park, watching a ballet in the Bolshoi Theatre… these are just a few reasons that you should visit Moscow! On top of that, because of visa restrictions (we’ll get onto that later), it’s also one of the most unique destinations in Europe. 

There is a common misconception that Moscow is a dangerous city, but now that I’ve visited, I don’t believe this to be true. I would say the same rules apply here as to other large cities: avoid walking in dark areas alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings on public transport, and be streetwise. There’s no reason to avoid visiting this energetic city and miss out on these amazing things to do in Moscow! 

It would take months if you wanted to truly explore Moscow because it’s a huge city, but I’m going to share some of my favourite things to do in Moscow and places to visit in Moscow so that you can prepare for your upcoming adventure! Even if you’re only there for a few days, you should be able to fit in these highlights from my trip. 

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Where is Moscow?

If you’re wondering ‘Where is Moscow, Russia?’ then you’ve come to the right place! Moscow in in west Russia, the European part, and it’s the capital city. 

How do you get to Moscow?

Getting a visa for moscow:.

To get into Russia, you need to get a visa. The processing time is approximately 20 days, and you’ll need to have your fingerprints taken at a visa centre in London , Edinburgh or Manchester. You can find out more about getting a visa for Russia here.  

Getting to Moscow:

Once you’ve got your visa, the easiest way to get to Moscow from the UK is by flying. Direct flights between London and Moscow take just under four hours, and with an airport layover you’re looking at a 6-7 hour trip. You can also fly in from many other major European and international cities. 

Top tip: Check out flights to and from Copenhagen on  Skyscanner here.

Check out how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here.

16 best places to visit in Moscow...

1. st basil’s cathedral.

The most iconic building in Russia and one of the most iconic buildings in the world. St Basil’s Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Moscow, if not the best! 

St Basil’s is situated on Red Square, where you’ll also find many other popular places to visit in Moscow. In my opinion this still stands out against them all. There’s something about the multi coloured domes against the Moscow skyline that I found quite spectacular. 

Although I’d already been in Russia for several days, it wasn’t until I was at this amazing piece of architecture that I really felt I was in Russia.

The cathedral was built by order of Ivan the Terrible, and apparently after the architect completed it, Ivan blinded him so that he could never build anything more beautiful. Whether or not this story is true, it certainly adds a bittersweet feeling as you stand admiring the beauty of St Basil’s Cathedral.

Inside is a museum displaying many historic items once used at the cathedral, which costs 700 rubles to enter. In my opinion it’s worth the entry fee, as simply seeing the ornate interior walls is a spectacle in itself.

2. The Kremlin

This historic fortress that sits on Red Square is probably the largest landmark and one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. It’s the official residence of the President, although he doesn’t actually live there. It’s been rebuilt many times since it was first constructed in 1147 out of wood, before Ivan III the Great ordered it to be made from stone, which is the Kremlin you’ll recognise today. 

This place is huge, and there’s quite a lot to see. The first problem I had was finding where the entrance was. Even though I had a pre-booked ticket, I was then told I still had to visit the ticket office to exchange it for another ticket. I also needed my passport, so make sure you have yours if you plan to visit the Kremlin. After a lengthy queue I finally had a ticket I could use to enter the Kremlin, and had to go through security. The security here is thorough, so make sure you don’t take too much in with you. I had my pockets full, and it was a nightmare emptying them and explaining each item, before I was finally allowed in. Once inside you can pay for extra tickets to visit the various museums, however there’s also quite a lot to see simply on the grounds if you don’t want to spend too much. 

See more tips for travelling on a budget here. 

There’s so much to see here, including The Assumption Cathedral, Ivan the Great Bell Tower Complex, the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Armoury Chamber and Diamond Fund. There is also the Tsar Cannon (a huge artillery cannon), and the Tsar Bell. The Tsar Bell is the largest bell in the world. An incident with a fire and water being poured over the bell caused it to crack and for a slab to break off from it, which can now be seen propped up next to it.

As you walk around the grounds you’ll hear the sound of whistles. The guards patrolling the area will blow a whistle at anyone walking where they shouldn’t. Even if it’s just on the grass, or towards more restricted areas. This can sometimes be funny to watch, as often the tourists will be in a world of their own whilst a guard is blowing a whistle at them. Sometimes a guard will be stood face to face with a tourist angrily blowing their whistle before the tourist realises they need to get back onto the main path.

This is perhaps one of the more unusual places to visit in Moscow! Gum is a huge department store situated on Red Square. It’s an interesting department store to walk around, with several levels, although the shops inside are certainly quite pricey. It’s a beautiful building when it’s lit up at night, and it seems to fit in nicely amongst the other famous sights on Red Square. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything here, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to take a quick look inside, although bear in mind there are usually security checks before entering.

4. State Historical Museum

The large crimson building on Red Square is now the State Historical Museum. It was originally the first pharmacy in Russia, and later a University before finally becoming the museum it is today.

Unfortunately I didn’t go inside as my time was limited and there was so much else I wanted to see, but if you have the time I think it would be one of the best things to do in Moscow. There are items dating back to the 6th century, and maybe even further. There’s also a library inside storing many ancient manuscripts and the largest coin collection in Russia. 

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi means big in Russian, so it roughly translates to large theatre. The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the foremost ballet companies in the world. The exterior of the building is an impressive sight, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow, and it’s certainly worth admiring from the outside. There are guided tours of the interior, but if you really want to experience the theatre, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to watch a ballet here.

I was torn between booking a seat, but the ballets were very expensive. I’d have liked to have seen “Swan Lake”, (as at least I may have recognised some of the music). Unfortunately there were no performances on the days I was in Moscow, so I decided to pass. But if I return to Russia, then watching a ballet will be on my list of things to do.

6. Sparrow Hills

If you want a good view of the city, then Sparrow Hills is one of the best places to visit in Moscow. It’s a bit of a trek outside of the centre, but if you have the time then it offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. There’s a viewing platform here which gives you fantastic panoramic views of Moscow.

Nearby you’ll see the magnificent Moscow State University building, which is one of the seven sisters of Moscow.

7. Seven Sisters

Whilst in Moscow, you’ll no doubt notice these magnificent soviet skyscrapers dotted around the city. At the time of construction they were the tallest buildings in Europe, Moscow State University being so until 1997. There are, as the name suggests, seven in total, which are: Hotel Ukraina, Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Apartments, the Kudrinskaya Square Building, the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya Hotel, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Moscow State University, and the Red Gates Administrative Building.

If you visit Sparrow Hills, then you’ll come across Moscow State University, but I’m certain as you explore the city, you’ll see more of these giants against the Moscow skyline. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to see if you can locate all seven as you wander round the city! 

8. Nikolskaya Street

The start of this street is found by Red Square. It’s one of the most prominent pedestrianised streets in Moscow, filled with shops, restaurants and bars, so one of the best places to visit in Moscow if you’re looking for a bite to eat or some souvenirs!

What makes this street extra special are the thousands of bright lights in the sky above. After dark it looks simply magical with the many colourful lights overhead as you walk beneath them. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to visit Nikolskaya Street after dark and see them for yourself. It almost feels like Christmas in London!

There is another street nearby which also features similar lights, “Kuznetskiy Most”, which is also quite beautiful, but I thought “Nikolskaya Street” was ever slightly more impressive.

9. Izmailovo Kremlin and Izmaylovskiy Bazar

Did you know that The Kremlin in Red Square is not the only Kremlin in Moscow? Kremlin actually means a type of fortress, so there are many in Russia.

The Izmailovo Kremlin is a fairly new addition to the city, having been built in 2007 as a cultural centre. With its multitude of colours and historic style, it has a real fairytale feel to it. There are several small museums here for you to explore, devoted to subjects such as Russian folk art, vodka and bread (yes, bread). Visiting these is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Moscow! 

It’s a little way out of the centre, but it’s an interesting place to visit in Moscow to see something a little bit different, and it won’t be as overcrowded with tourists. 

Next to the Izmailovo Kremlin is the best market in Moscow for souvenirs. You’ll find good and poor quality items, but you’ll certainly pick up a bargain if you take your time and haggle for a good price. Many of the items here you’ll get for half the price you would in souvenir shops in the city centre. It’s here that I picked up several Matryoshka dolls for a very good price. I think I’d have paid more than double, or possibly even triple if I’d have bought them elsewhere.

10. Izmailovsky Park

Not too far from Izmailovo Kremlin you’ll find this huge park, one of the prettiest places to visit in Moscow. It’s easy to get lost here, so try to make sure you keep track of where you entered if you plan to go back the same way. There’s a lot to see in this park, a round pond, ferris wheel, playgrounds and sports grounds, shooting galleries, cinemas and a skate park.

There are often festivals, concerts and exhibitions at the park, on top of firework displays and dance parties.

The main reason I chose to visit the park was to find the painted trees. A local artist “Yevgenia Khlynina” has been painting on trees in this park, and one of the best things to do in Moscow is to explore the park looking for them. One of the most famous pieces of hers is the “Hedgehog in the Fog” from a famous soviet cartoon.

11. Gorky Park

The most famous park in Moscow is named after the writer “Maxim Gorky”. Although it’s likely you’ve heard it mentioned in the song “Wind of Change” by “The Scorpions”. 

There’s lots to do and see in the park with sports facilities and exhibitions. During the summer months this is one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Moscow; there are often open air concerts and an open air cinema. There are many statues and sculptures in the park, including a small sculpture park area which features many interesting pieces.

One piece of advice: don’t visit Gorky Park or any other parks on 2nd August if you’re in Russia. 2nd August is Paratrooper day, which usually encourages a lot of drinking in the park, which is not always very welcoming.

12. Arbat Street

One of the oldest and busiest streets in Moscow, and the most famous pedestrian street in the city. Arbat is one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. There are several shops including many dedicated to souvenirs, but although these will have a good range of goods, they will be quite expensive . You may see street performers and buskers, and there are often poets reciting famous works, if not their own works.

It’s within walking distance from the Kremlin, which should only take around 10 minutes.

There are actually two streets with this name, Old Arbat Street and New Arbat Street. Old Arbat Street is where you’ll find the pedestrianised area. New Arbat Street is a separate street which runs alongside a main road, filled with many bars and restaurants.

13. Metro station art

The best way to get around Moscow is by using the metro, and the metro is a tourist attraction in itself.

Although I obviously didn’t visit every metro station, I believe that every single station is unique in its own beautiful way. Many of the stations I passed through were impressive, quirky or simply jaw dropping. You’ll more than likely pass through many of them on the way to other sights, but I’d recommend the following:  Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Teatralnaya, Arbatskaya, Prospekt Mira and Ploschad Revolutsii (be sure to pet the dog statue for good luck).

There are of course many others for you to explore, but these are the ones I considered to be some of the most impressive places to visit in Moscow (even if they’re only metro stations!).

VDNKh is an exhibition centre with many monuments and museums. Now that it’s combined with the Botanical Garden and Ostankino Park, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to spend the day at this recreational centre enjoying a mix of nature and culture. The most popular museum in the complex which you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Moscow is the Museum of Cosmonautics.

15. Lenin's Mausoleum

Despite requesting to be buried with his mum in St Petersburg, it is at the foot of the Kremlin on Red Sqaure that you will find Lenin’s Mausoleum, where Vladimir Ilych Lenin has been frozen in time since 1924. It’s only open for a few hours a few times per week. Photography is not allowed, and you should line up on the western corner of the square (near Alexander Garden) to wait you turn to see the embalmed body. 

16. Novodevichy Convent

Novodevichy Convent, on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow. Located south west of the centre you’ll find this stunning monastery. Inside you’ll find a cathedral and several churches, surrounded by high walls and 12 towers.

Where are your favourite places to visit in Moscow?

What about the best things to do in Moscow? Anything you’d add?

Love as always and happy adventuring…

I’m Spike! Solo traveller, cultural explorer and world adventurer! With 57 countries under my belt, I live and breathe travel. I never plan to stop exploring new destinations and experiencing new cultures.

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I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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The Top Things to Do in Moscow

As a vibrant capital and Europe’s largest city, Moscow is a powerful mix of history and edginess, full of world-famous sites. Russia ’s capital was just a small town when it was first recorded 800 years ago, but there is enough here today to keep you busy for months. Here’s the ultimate first-timer’s list of things to do in Moscow, from exploring the Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral to getting a cable car from Sparrow Hills or skating in Gorky Park.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

The heart of Russia’s capital, Red Square is surrounded by striking sites including the Kremlin, St Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, and is where so much of the country’s history has unfolded. What was once a humble market square has become known as the place where rebels have been executed, protests staged and military strength put on show throughout Russia’s tumultuous history.

St Basil’s Cathedral

However long you’re visiting Moscow for, you must set aside some time to soak up the archetypal image of Russia’s capital with the glistening rainbow roofs of St Basil’s Cathedral. The onion-shaped domes were designed to make the building look like flames on a bonfire. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it so beautiful he ordered that the architect be blinded so they would never surpass this creation.

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The love-it-or-hate-it of Russia attractions, Lenin’s Mausoleum houses a glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of the legendary Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. First opened to the public in August 1924, the Mausoleum attracts around 2.5m visitors a year, who presumably don’t mind queueing and going through a thorough search to enter Lenin’s presence.

Moscow Kremlin

The biggest active fortress in Europe , Moscow’s Kremlin offers a week’s worth of attractions on its own. Once you get behind the 2,235m (7,332ft) of walls, there are five squares to wander around, various buildings to explore, 20 towers to learn the names of, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see.

State Historical Museum

An attraction in its own right, the State Historical Museum, founded in 1872 by Ivan Zabelin and Aleksey Uvarov, was once the principal medicine store, also containing antiquaries owned by the royal family. It now houses an impressive collection, which includes relics of prehistoric tribes that once inhabited the territory of present-day Russia, the country’s largest coin collection, as well as 6th-century manuscripts and artworks collected by the Romanov dynasty, among other treasures.

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Russia’s main department store, GUM’s stunning interior houses a variety of high-end boutiques. Built between 1890 and 1893 and known as the Upper Trading Rows until the 1920s, the legendary store is now home to over 100 boutiques selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your list of what to do in Moscow, the GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries.

Arbat Street

An elegant, pedestrianised street right in the historic city centre, Arbat is one of Moscow’s most touristy spots. With lots of cafes and restaurants , live music performers and caricaturists, as well as souvenir shops and tattoo parlours, monuments and a theatre, Arbat draws crowds of visitors every day.

Tretyakov Gallery

Built between 1900 and 1905, Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. Designed by Viktor Vasnetsov, the gallery is home to one of the largest collections of Russian art in the world. Here you can see icons including Rublev’s Trinity, and pre-revolutionary masterpieces such as Girl With Peaches by Valentin Serov, Demon by Mikhail Vrubel and The Rooks Have Come Back by Alexei Savrasov.

Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts

The largest foreign art museum in Moscow comprises three branches housing a collection of incredible works by masters of ancient civilisations, the Italian Renaissance and the Dutch Golden Age. The main building contains masterpieces by Botticelli, Tiepolo, Veronese and Rembrandt, some of which had never been displayed before. The Gallery of European and American Art, located next door, stores an incredible collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings.

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park offers entertainment for every taste: outdoor dancing sessions, yoga and fitness classes all summer, as well as beach volleyball and ping-pong, rollerblading, skateboarding and cycling opportunities, along with Segway and boat rentals. In winter, half the park turns into one of the city’s biggest ice skating rinks. The park is also home to an open-air movie theatre and one of the less obvious places to visit in Moscow for art lovers, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art.

Sparrow Hills

If you take a walk from Gorky Park along the Moscow river embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbour, here you can take a closer look at the tallest of the seven Stalinist skyscrapers (the Moscow State University), admire the view from the observation deck or get a cable car ride.

Bolshoi Theatre

Opened in 1856, the legendary Bolshoi Theatre is one of the pest places in Moscow for an evening of entertainment. It’s the home of Bolshoi Ballet and the Bolshoi Opera – among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world. Alongside the classics, the theatre also stages contemporary works by young international composers and choreographers. The theatre’s imperial decor was restored in a six-year refurbishment that finished in 2011.

VDNKh All-Russian Exhibition Centre

The enormous VDNKh contains about 400 buildings and is said to cover an area bigger than Monaco. The centre started out as the all-Soviet agricultural exhibition in 1935, and now serves as an open-air museum of Soviet architecture. With the iconic fountain at its entrance, the park complex is home to a number of museums, shopping pavilions, multiple eateries , a massive oceanarium, a zip-line, a horse-riding rink and a Russian space shuttle. In winter a skating rink opens – the largest in Europe.

Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

The former summer residence of Empress Catherine the Great was commissioned in 1775, and succumbed to deterioration during the Soviet era. The whole of Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve has been fundamentally renovated since the 1980s to look even brighter than the original. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything: from handmade items to Soviet antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces, where you can hide from the city buzz.

Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time. Now it’s still the best observation deck with a glass floor and 360 degree views. So be sure to book one of the hourly tours; the speedy elevators will take you 337m (1,105ft) in no time.

Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city centre will take you to Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Medieval Moscow looked like. Here you’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow and a favourite estate of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

Novodevichy Convent

Founded in 1524, the Novodevichy Convent is a place steeped in history. Behind the walls that once served as a fortress, there are four cathedrals with a fascinating icon collection and a venerable cemetery. Back in the day it was common for women from noble families to retire in monasteries, and the Novodevichy Convent had some notable residents such as Princess Sophia and Eudoxia Lopukhina, both related to Peter the Great (and imprisoned by him). The former was his half-sister who claimed the throne; the latter was his first wife, who stood in the way of his marriage to Catherine I.

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

One of Russia’s most visited cathedrals, Christ the Saviour is a truly remarkable site. The grandiose cathedral was built in the 1990s where a 19th-century church of the same name stood before it was demolished in 1931 by the Soviet authorities. Designed to look like its predecessor, the modern building also contains the icon Christ Not Painted by Hand by Sorokin, which survived the demolition of the original cathedral. The cathedral was the site of feminist punk collective Pussy Riot’s 2012 protest that led to the imprisonment of several members.

Moscow City

Home to Europe’s tallest office building, Moscow City, also referred to as Moscow International Business Centre, is one Russia’s most ambitious engineering projects of recent years. With its various high-rises, the business district is where you should come for great crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

Izmailovsky Market

For those on a budget, ditch window shopping at the exclusive GUM and take a foray into the bustling world of Izmailovsky, Russia’s best flea market. Delve into the bargains, rifle through the artisan crafts, admire the local handiwork and be tempted by the silky smooth traditional fur hats. Expect walls of matryoshka dolls, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and glittering hand-crafted jewellery. Head up to one of Izmailovsky market’s cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

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9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

 Sir Francis Canker/Getty Images

In most cases, you'll be entering Red Square from the north, passing landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre and Duma parliament building as you make your way southward. Although you don't necessarily have to pass through the Voskresensky (or Resurrection in English) Gates in order to gain access to the square these days, they definitely provide a sense of arrival, to say nothing of the way their left arch frame's St. Basil's Cathedral if you look from just the right angle.

An interesting fact is that while a gate of some kind has stood here since the mid-16th century, the one you currently see wasn't built until 1994, having been destroyed in 1931 so that tanks could enter and exit Red Square during military parades.

St. Basil's Cathedral

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Few sights are as iconic not only of Moscow and Red Square but indeed of Russia than St. Basil's Cathedral, whose colorful, onion-shaped domes are a symbol of the country around the world. Officially known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, this church has stood since 1561, which is quite miraculous when you consider all the turbulent history that has transpired since then.

Among other things, religion was severely prohibited during the Soviet period , which led some to believe that this emblem of the Russian Orthodox church might not withstand the tenure of the USSR. 

An interesting fact is that St. Basil's is the so-called "Kilometer Zero" of Russia; all of Moscow's main roads (which can take you anywhere in Russia) begin at the exits to Red Square. In this way, St. Basil's iconic status also has an extremely tangible element.

The Kremlin

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

When you think of The Kremlin, it's unlikely that positive images enter your mind. The fact that simply saying the word "Kremlin" is too vague a descriptor (most Russian cities have their own Kremlin complexes; you should say "Moscow Kremlin") notwithstanding, this misunderstood place is incredibly beautiful, even if you don't like the policy that comes out of it.

Senate Square

In spite of its name, which refers to the role the building that rises above the square played during Imperial Russia, Senate Square is actually home to Russia's presidential administration, currently helmed by Vladimir Putin. In order to see where Russia's legislature operates from, walk just outside Red Square to the Duma parliament building.

Dormition Cathedral

Dating back to the year 1479, the gold-domed Dormition Cathedral pays homage to an Orthodox religious feast that commemorates the death of the Virgin Mary . As is the case with St. Basil's, it is curious that such a conspicuously religious structure was able to survive through the Soviet period.

Armoury Chamber

Though it takes its name from the fact that it housed Russia's royal arsenal when it was built in the 16th century, the most notable resident of the Kremlin's Armoury Chamber today is the Russian Diamond Fund.

Notable Kremlin Towers

Robert Schrader

The interior of the Moscow Kremlin is more beautiful and inviting than you'd expect, but the walls and towers that rise around it better live up to the intimidation with which the complex is associated. 

Borovitskaya Tower

Named to commemorate the dense forest that once stood atop the mount where it's built, this tower is extremely picturesque. Built in the late 15th century, it's visible from most places in the square, and also as you walk along the Moskva River.

Nikolskaya Tower

Also built in the year 1491, this tower currently suffered destruction at the hands of Napoleon's army in the 19th century. What you see now is the result of an 1816 re-design and renovation, though artillery fire during the Russian Revolution also caused superficial damage to the tower, named to honor St. Nikolas of Mozhaysk , so it's difficult to know which elements of it are original.

Spasskaya Tower

Known in English as the "Savior's Tower," this iconic, star-topped tower is perhaps the best-known of all the Kremlin's towers. Built in 1491 like the other two towers on this list, it's certainly the most photographed. As a result of its proximity to St. Basil's, it often makes its way into tourists' pictures.

Mausoleum of Lenin

Just as it's strange to learn how many religious monuments survived through the Soviet period, it's a bit odd to think that Lenin's preserved body still sits in a mausoleum just beneath the walls of the Kremlin on Red Square, given the lack of consensus about the ultimate impact of his Revolution, even in Russia.

It's not guaranteed that you'll be able to see the body (which, believe it or not, seems to be improving with age ) when you go, and if you do you will likely have to wait in line, but even strolling past the outside of the Lenin Mausoleum, flanked by stone-faced guards that almost look like statues, illuminates the gravity of his body still being here.

GUM Shopping Center

You might cringe, at least initially, when you realize that one of the most iconic stops on a tour of Red Square is a department store—until you see said department store, that is. Built in 1893 and known during Soviet times as the State Department Store, GUM  ( Glávnyj Universáľnyj Magazín​ or Main Universal Store in English) hearkens back to the grandeur of the late 19th century, both seen from the outside (especially, when lit up at night) and the interior, which might have you feeling like you're further west in Europe.

A trip inside GUM is a particularly good idea during winter, when frigid temperatures outside will have you savoring the heat, the quality of souvenirs, confections and other goods sold inside notwithstanding. Also, make sure not to confuse GUM with CDM, which sits near the Bolshoi Theatre, even though both are stunning and iconic in their own right.

State Historical Museum

The Russian State Historical Museum is located near Voskresensky Gates, though you should wait until after you've seen the first few attractions of Red Square and the Kremlin to head back there and go inside. To be sure, as you pass by its facade (whose late-19th century grandeur somewhat obscures that fact that it's currently a museum accessible to the public) you might not even think to try and gain entry.

Once inside the museum, you can plan to spend at least a couple of hours, given that artifacts here date back to the very beginning of the Russian state in the ninth century. As is the case with GUM, this will be a particularly alluring prospect if you visit in winter, when Moscow is arguably at its most beautiful, but certainly at its least tolerable. 

Minin-Pozharsky Monument

It's somewhat easy to disregard this monument, which pays homage to the two Russian princes who ended the so-called "Time of Troubles" in the mid-16th century, during which Polish-Lithuanian forces occupied Russia, among other awful things including a famine. That's because the statue currently sits just at the base of St. Basil's Cathedral, which makes it very difficult to photograph or even see without being overwhelmed by that much more famous edifice.

Though the statue originally sat at the very center of Red Square, it came to be an obstacle to the movement of tanks during the Soviet period, much like the Voskresensky Gates. As a result, authorities moved it during that time, and it's stayed where you currently find it ever since.

Kazan Cathedral

Taken by itself, the smokey-pink Kazan Cathedral is an architectural marvel; originally built in the 17th century, the church you find here today, located just north of the GUM department store, dates back only to 1993.

Unfortunately, since it sits not only in the shadow of GUM, but also in the shadow St. Basil's and the Towers of the Kremlin, it's easy to miss entirely if you aren't looking. As a result, you might wait until you've seen just about everything else in Red Square before coming here to take photos, and to appreciate the understated beauty of this oft-overlooked cathedral.

Moskva River

As you head south from St. Basil's Cathedral to exit Red Square, make sure to walk onto Bolshoy Moskvoretskiy Bridge, which crosses the Moskva River. If you look due north, you can get an excellent shot of the church framed, on the left, by the towers of the Kremlin. Directing your gaze a bit to the west allows you to see the skyscrapers of Moscow City as they rise above the Kremlin's walls.

Walking westward along the riverbank is also a worthwhile excursion, for the views it provides of Red Square and the Kremlin, as well as the fact that doing so takes you to other iconic Moscow attractions, including Gorky Park and the Pushkin Museum. The views you enjoy from the river and the bridge are particularly stunning at night, though you should make sure you bring a tripod if you want to get a clear picture, given how strong winds over and near the river can be.

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Election latest: Sir Keir Starmer challenged to make 'lying PM' claim 'stick' - as minister doubles down on row

Amid the raging tax row, a former Scottish Labour leader has told Sky News that if Sir Keir Starmer can "make it stick" with voters that the PM "lies", he'll have won the argument. Meanwhile, a Treasury minister has denied that the Tory party's claim about Labour's tax plans is false.

Wednesday 5 June 2024 23:28, UK

• General Election 2024

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Election news

• Battle For No 10: PM and Starmer taking part in Sky News special
• Bulletin: Catch up on the latest news from the campaign trail
• Exclusive: Reform gains ground on Tories in new poll
• Starmer accuses PM of lying | Watchdog 'looking into' tax claim
• Treasury minister denies that Sunak lied | Starmer challenged to 'make it stick'
• Welsh FM won't quit after losing confidence vote
• Top chef explains Labour backing
• Live reporting by Ben Bloch and (earlier)  Faith Ridler

Expert analysis

• Adam Boulton: Starmer's been given licence to say 'liar'
• Sophy Ridge: No party's being honest about challenges to come
• Jon Craig: Starmer needs to be a bit less Mark Darcy
• Ed Conway : The £13,000 omission in PM's tax warning

Election essentials

• Have your say: Be in the audience for our election leaders event
• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Campaign Heritage: Memorable moments from elections gone by
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | How to register to vote | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Your essential guide to election lingo | Sky's election night plans

Thank you for joining us for live coverage of another busy day on the general election campaign trail.

For a short burst of everything that happened today, see our evening round-up here .

Join us again from 6am as the battle for the keys to No 10 continues.

The Liberal Democrats are tonight weighing in on the tax row that has engulfed the general election campaign since last night's testy debate.

Rishi Sunak claimed that Labour's policies will see a £2,000 tax hike if it wins power - but that is highly disputed by experts,  including Sky's economics and data editor Ed Conway .

Sarah Olney, Treasury spokesperson for the Lib Dems, is seemingly siding with Labour in this row, saying in a statement that the Tories are "fooling absolutely nobody".

"Their chaos and mismanagement have damaged the economy and left British families worse off, saddling them with £41bn of unfair stealth taxes worth hundreds of pounds for every household," she said.

"Hard-working families deserve so much better. Voters will never forgive the Conservative Party for saddling them with unfair tax hikes and failing to tackle the cost of living crisis, while giving tax cuts to the big banks and oil and gas giants."

David Duguid has said on social media that the Scottish Conservatives have prevented him from standing again as a candidate for the party.

He served as the MP for Banff and Buchan from 2017 until parliament was dissolved for this general election, but has spent many weeks in hospital receiving treatment in intensive care for a spinal illness and pneumonia.

The general election "came as a surprise", but on 23 May, he announced that he would stand to win his seat once again.

Although he said he would be able to campaign, he also said he would not be able to canvass in person as he remains in a rehabilitation ward.

He said on social media this evening that although he was selected by local party members as their candidate once again, the Scottish Conservatives told him "that they have decided not to put me forward as their chosen candidate for Aberdeenshire North and Moray East" (the name of his former constituency following the boundary review).

A spokesperson for the Scottish Conservatives said: "David Duguid is unfortunately unable to stand in this election.

"David has been an excellent MP and great local representative for the last seven years.

"We thank David for all his hard work for the party, we look forward to his recovery to full health, and hope that he will want to rejoin frontline politics in the future."

It is understood that the party feels it is taking the decision in the best interests of Mr Duguid's health.

By  Faye Brown , political reporter

Rishi Sunak has pledged to cut rail fares for veterans and "enshrine their rights in law" in an election offering on the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

The prime minister has announced a raft of measures aimed at making the UK "the best place in the world" to have served in the armed forces.

This includes reducing the price of the Veterans Railcard from £30 per year to £21, bringing it in line with how much serving personnel pay for the HM Forces Railcard.

The Tories also want to extend the existing national insurance relief for employers who hire ex-military members, in a move the party said will incentivise companies to continue offering jobs to veterans.

But Labour said the Tory record on veterans is "shameful" and their election plans "mean no change".

The measures will be covered by a new Veterans Bill, which will also ensure military qualifications have an equal standing with civilian qualifications in law for the first time.

Read more here:

It's been a day of fiery fallout from last night's debate between the prime minister and Labour leader.

Rishi Sunak has faced backlash over his claims that Labour's plans will cost households £2,000 more in tax, with Sky's economics and data editor Ed Conway among those questioning the figures.

Here's everything you need to know about what happened in the general election today:

• We'll start with Labour's no-nonsense response to Rishi Sunak's claims about their tax plans last night, which peaked with Sir Keir Starmer accusing the prime minister of repeatedly lying ;
• Mr Sunak's claim is also being looked into by the UK's statistics watchdog, while doubt has been cast on his allegation by a top Treasury official, who said the civil service had nothing to do with it;
• The Tories have stood by the claim that households will pay an extra £2,000 , but Labour insist working families won't be out of pocket;
• Ed Conway has written about why you should probably be sceptical of those claims and says even if true, the amount is nowhere near the extra burden placed upon taxpayers in recent years;
• But tonight, the Tories are doubling down, and making more pledges around taxes on housing, which you can read here .
• Nigel Farage's return to frontline politics this week has also dragged down the Tories' ratings in our latest election polling;
• Our exclusive survey from YouGov shows Mr Farage's party have pulled within two points of the Conservatives , with Labour on 40%, the Tories on 19% and Reform on 17%;
• Speaking of Mr Farage, a woman has been charged after he had a milkshake thrown over him in Clacton yesterday.
• Elsewhere, the Welsh first minister has lost a vote of no confidence , having been left in tears as the Senedd debated his future;
• Vaughan Gething faced the vote after concerns were raised about a campaign donation he received, allegations he misled the COVID Inquiry, and Plaid Cymru withdrawing from its co-operation deal with Labour - but he has said he won't quit ;
• In Scotland, Scottish Labour has been extolling the virtues of the party's plan for Great British Energy , which would be headquartered in the country;
• Campaigning has been quieter in England, as party leaders assembled with royalty and veterans for D-Day commemorations in Portsmouth.

Sky News has also had its own announcement to make this evening, with Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer agreeing to take part in a special leaders' programme .

The Battle For Number 10 will air from 7pm next Wednesday.

Here are some other stories you might want to read:

Our essential political podcast,  Politics At Jack And Sam's ,  is going out every week day through the election campaign to bring a short burst of everything you need to know about the day ahead as this election unfolds -  here is today's edition .

Tap here to follow Politics At Jack At Sam's wherever you get your podcasts .

The Labour Party has hit out at "desperate claims" from Rishi Sunak as the Tories unveil another guarantee not to raise taxes.

The chancellor is tonight announcing what the Tories are calling the "Family Home Tax Guarantee", which is a pledge to:

• Not increase the number of council tax bands, re-evaluate it, or cut existing discounts;
• Maintain the Private Residence Relief - meaning people with one home that has always been their sole residence, and the grounds are less than 5,000 square metres will continue to not pay capital gains tax if it is sold;
• Not increase the rate or level of stamp duty.

The Tories are continuing to claim that Sir Keir Starmer is going to raise taxes on families by £2,094 - something that is highly disputed by experts, including Sky's economics and data editor Ed Conway .

The party also says that shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves proposed changing council tax to a property tax, and are challenging Labour to match this new pledge.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt said in a statement: "Rachel Reeves has previously called for a range of damaging new taxes on the family home just like Labour are looking at doing in Labour-run Wales; and that means she and Keir Starmer are coming for your family home.

"Only Rishi Sunak and the Conservatives will protect your family home to give you peace of mind with our guarantee that there will be no rises in such taxes for the whole of the next parliament."

But Labour has blasted the claims from the Conservative Party, saying in a statement: "We will not be raising taxes on working people. The Conservatives cannot be trusted on tax and taxes are at a 70-year high on their watch.

"These are more desperate claims from Rishi Sunak who lied to the British people before and is lying to them again."

By Alexandra Rogers , political reporter

Faiza Shaheen, who was blocked from representing the Labour Party in the general election, has announced she will stand as an independent.

Ms Shaheen, who initially won the Labour nomination for Chingford and Woodford Green, said she had decided to run as an independent after voters told her they felt "disenfranchised" by the party's decision to remove her as a candidate.

Labour removed Ms Shaheen as its candidate for the London constituency after she allegedly liked a series of social media posts that downplayed antisemitism accusations.

Yesterday she  announced her resignation from the party , accusing it of embodying a "hierarchy of racism".

She said she was weighing up whether to stand as an independent in Chingford, and on Wednesday afternoon, confirmed that decision.

The Liberal Democrats have announced a rail fare freeze as one of their manifesto commitments.

It would be funded via clamping down on tax avoidance and evasion, which the party says totals £38.5bn a year, and save commuters £115m.

Under the Tories, the Lib Dems say train tickets have soared while services have got worse.

The party's Treasury spokeswoman Sarah Olney said: "From Winchester to Wokingham, it is disgraceful that every day passengers are having to pay more for trains which are increasingly delayed or cancelled."

According to the party's analysis, commuters in Winchester, Hampshire, have seen season ticket prices climb by more than £1,000 since 2019, now standing at £6,432 a year.

In Harpenden, Hertfordshire, train commuters are paying £820 more, with tickets now costing £4,792 a year.

Rail fare reform would be implemented within five years, the party said.

By Sam Doak, OSINT Producer

As the country heads towards a general election, political parties have been competing through social media to get their messages to the public.

Sky News tracked the performance of the six highest polling parties across X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to see how the race for online audiences is shaping up in the early days of the election campaign.

You can read about how they're doing below:

By Dan Whitehead , West of England and Wales correspondent

Seventy-eight days into the job and Vaughan Gething has lost the confidence of the Welsh parliament.

It may well be only by a narrow margin and because two Labour members were off sick - but whatever the factors behind this loss, it’s not a great look.

The first minister says he'll carry on, saying the vote was a gimmick. The Tories, Plaid, and Lib Dems here in Wales are all calling for him to resign.

D-Day commemorations tomorrow may put a momentary pause on the controversy - but Mr Gething now has a problem.

Do nothing, and he'll be constantly reminded the Senedd does not have confidence in his leadership. 

Resign, and trigger yet more political upheaval.

It may not be his choice: the Conservatives could put forward another vote of no confidence in the government, not just Mr Gething. They now are considering their next step.

All this amid an election campaign - with four weeks to go, what happens next in the Senedd could have a wider impact in UK politics.

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