Best things to do in Liverpool

Royal Albert Dock Liverpool is among the country's most architecturally and historically significant collections of buildings, and houses Liverpool's most exciting attractions. It opened in 1846 as Britain's first structure built from cast iron, brick, and stone, and was the world's first fireproof construction. Start in the Beatles Story exhibit, where you'll learn all about the four Liverpudlians and their incredible impact on modern music. View some of the most acclaimed British and international contemporary art exhibits at the Tate Liverpool. Head into Mersey Maritime Museum to discover Liverpool's maritime heritage, and study ancient and modern slavery in the International Slavery Museum. You'll also find a large selection of cafes, restaurants, and shops among the buildings' grand colonnades. Some of the museums have an entrance fee, but a stroll around the complex is free.

Find out about the longest and arguably one of the most important campaigns of World War II at Merseyside Maritime Museum, occupying warehouse block D at the Albert Dock. The city’s seafaring heritage is brought to life at this museum, which was designed to narrate the history of Liverpool’s ongoing international maritime importance. Discover the city’s role in the transatlantic slave trade, emigration, the development of the merchant marine, and the story of RMS Titanic. The museum’s exhibit marking the centenary of the Titanic's sinking includes numerous personal items recovered from the wreck, such as watches, cups, spectacles, and tiepins. The site also includes award-winning dining rooms, along with a gift shop, cafe, and lecture theater.

The largest Anglican cathedral in Europe, Liverpool Cathedral is also the longest cathedral in the world, with a total external length of nearly 190 m (623 ft). Rising 101 m (331 ft) into the air, it is also one of the world’s tallest non-spired church buildings. The cathedral’s 13 bells add to the list of superlatives used when describing this massive building. At 67 m (220 ft) above floor level, the 13 bells are the highest and heaviest ringing peal in the world. Climb the cathedral’s tower, which offers sweeping views of the city and the surrounding area. This building also hosts a wide range of special events, such as concerts, exhibits, and seminars.

° to ensure the preservation of all the Williamson tunnels and associated structures currently in existence

° to see all those parts and structures opened to the public

° to carry out extensive research of the Williamson story

° to achieve widespread awareness and understanding of Joseph Williamson's ideas and works

John Lennon’s round spectacles and George Harrison’s first guitar are just some of the items displayed at The Beatles Story, an award-winning attraction located just a short walk from the city’s center. Take a trip back in time to see how four young boys from Liverpool formed arguably the greatest band of all time. The site includes an interactive discovery zone and the Fab4-D Experience, featuring 3-D animation, 4-D special effects, and an audio guide through the band’s history. Don’t miss a stop at the Hidden Gallery, which showcases previously unseen photos of the band’s members. Book online to choose from various ticket options and build your own ultimate Beatles experience.

At Walker Art Gallery, see one of the UK's largest art collections outside of London. Walk from room to room to view works from the Medieval period to the present. Paintings by Dutch Masters, British Romantics, and French Impressionists all make their home here. Join one of the daily introductory tours to see highlights from the collection. If you're traveling with a child under the age of five, take part in hands-on activities designed for kids. Many of the exhibitions in the Gallery are permanent, but some are temporary. Check the schedule beforehand to see what's showing when you plan to visit.

Seat of the Archbishop of Liverpool, Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King Liverpool is also known as "Paddy's Wigwam" or the "Mersey Funnel." The construction of the modern building took from 1962 to 1967. Visit the bright nave and cathedral for a service or simply pop in to admire Frederick Gibberd's design. Include the crypt under the cathedral in your tour; a different designer prior to World War II constructed it earlier. This sheltered granite hideaway hosts the Liverpool Beer Festival every year, which attracts visitors from the around the world.

Futuristic, angular, and glassy, Museum of Liverpool contains a number of exhibits and collections that tell the story of Liverpool and its people. The museum is divided into four main themes: The Great Port, Global City, People’s Republic, and Wondrous Place. It aims to document the city’s evolution against the backdrop of the Industrial Revolution and the changes that took place in the British Empire. Additionally, the museum features a section for children, including a gallery aimed at children under six.

England's largest theme park, Alton Towers Resort rarely disappoints visitors of any age. If you want your adrenaline to flow, hop on the Smiler, the world's first 14-loop roller coaster. Let go of gravity and fly under footpaths and past trees and rocks on Air. Get wet on Congo River rapids and ride the runaway mine train. Let the special effects of the 4-D cinema dazzle you, and view over 300 species of fish, including sharks and rays, at Sharkbait Reef. Bring your bathing suit if you plan to visit the waterpark here. There are cartoon-themed attractions for little ones, and you can book a room at one of the on-site hotels if you wish to spend the night.

In 2005, a new central entrance hall and a six-story atrium were added to World Museum. After you pass through this grand atrium, you'll find galleries filled with archaeological, ethnological, and scientific artifacts. Inside, the World Cultures gallery allows you to explore the world without leaving Liverpool. If strange creatures are your passion, then check out the Bug House. Admission to the attraction, and the in-house planetarium, is free.

Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales, with an altitude of 1,085 m (3,560 ft). The microclimate and ecological beauty earned it the designation of the National Nature Reserve. Access the top by train or challenge yourself by going on foot. If you enjoy hiking or mountain climbing, choose from a variety of trail paths rated according to difficulty. Once at the top, enjoy some of the farthest-reaching views of the British Isles, including Ireland, Scotland, and England. For the least-strenuous route to the top, board the round-trip Victorian rack-and-pinion train. Either way, you can stop in for a mountaintop lunch at the summit cafe.