You know those days when the piggy bank looks so empty that, if it could, it would pack its bags and look for a new place to live? Those moments when your bank account seems as deserted as a beach on a rainy day? We’ve all been there. But hey! That’s no excuse to waste your day watching shopping programs on TV.
Liverpool has many affordable options that allow entire families to go out and have fun, even on those days when every penny counts. Don’t believe us? Then check out our list of great ideas for cheap days out in Liverpool.
1. Explore Liverpool’s Waterfront
Those who visit or live in Liverpool have the great advantage of being able to have fun without spending a penny. Just put on some trainers and appropriate clothing for the season, and head out to wander around the city.
One of the favourite places for both locals and tourists is the waterfront. The area extends for several miles, so to explore it in its entirety, set aside a whole day. Some points of interest include the Albert Dock, Museum of Liverpool, Liver Building, and Pier Head. Small businesses, like ice cream carts, are scattered throughout the area in case you need a quick and affordable snack.
2. Visit the Museum of Liverpool
Since we’re here, how about stepping into the Museum of Liverpool? But first, take a photo of this spectacular building. Make sure your chosen angle captures the River Mersey in the background and the Wirral skyline on the other side of the canal. Don’t worry about the cost – entry to the museum is entirely free. Get ready to be amazed by what you’ll find inside.
The Museum of Liverpool explores the city’s history from a unique perspective. You’ll see why Liverpool became an important hub of global trade and how, even today, the city is a melting pot of cultures and peoples from all over the world. Both the good (like the city’s culture and its connection to football) and the bad moments (such as links to slave traders) are detailed so visitors can understand how the city’s strong personality was shaped.
3. Enjoy the Liverpool Cathedral
The grandeur of Liverpool Cathedral will leave you speechless. This sumptuous building has great historical importance and is one of the largest cathedrals on the planet.
On the outside, its Gothic architecture impresses with a complex and highly elaborate design. Inside, intricate stained glass windows, vast open spaces, and an enormous ceiling height immediately give visitors a sense of connection to something much larger – be it God or simply the creative vision of those who designed the structure.
Depending on where you are in the cathedral, the feelings can be radically different. The gothic arches – the largest in the world – can convey a sense of humility, while admiring the immense organ – the largest in the UK – can bring inner peace.
The price for all this? Zero pounds. Yes, that’s right, entry is free, but donations are always welcome.
4. Twist and Shout in The Cavern Club
No visit to Liverpool would be complete without a trip to the iconic The Cavern Club. This venue is one of the world’s most famous temples of music, mainly known as the place where The Beatles first performed. Although it is a pilgrimage site for Beatles fans from all over the globe, The Cavern Club’s influence extends far beyond the Fab Four. Some of the biggest names in world music have played there, demonstrating the concert hall’s significant influence.
Today, the Cavern is recognised not only for its influence but also for its intimate atmosphere and quaint architecture (hey, don’t forget we’re talking about a cave here). A visit to Liverpool would be incomplete without stopping by this landmark. And the best part: the shows start nice and early, at 11 a.m., and the entrance fee is just £5.
5. Ride City Explorer Liverpool
If you want to make the most of the city while spending minimal amounts, the best option is to hop on the City Explorer Bus Tour. We are an open-top bus tour passing through 11 of the UK’s most iconic tourist spots, including Royal Albert Dock, Pier Head, Liverpool Central Library, St George’s Hall, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, to name a few.
Adults pay only £12, while children aged 5 to 15 pay £7. Concession tickets are available for seniors and students at £9.00. And here is the coolest part. We offer a Family Pass for only £35.00, covering two adults and three children. Tickets are valid for two days, giving you lots of time to explore. It’s an unmissable benefit! In addition to the shockingly low price, our tour allows you to explore Liverpool at your own pace and with the support of professional guides who will tell you everything you want to know about the city.
6. Travel to Parallel Universes at the Liverpool Central Library
Why visit just one city when you can explore the entire universe? Well, at least that’s the feeling you get when entering the stunning Liverpool Central Library, one of the largest libraries in the UK. Before diving into the books, admire the Literary Pavement, a 72-foot-long walkway engraved with famous books, cinema, and music titles. The white names contrast with the grey granite, and you can’t help but notice a seemingly random sprinkling of red letters hidden among the words. These red letters are a puzzle that visitors need to solve. Can you do it?
Once inside, you will be amazed by the vast collection of classic and contemporary works. How about relaxing with a classic in the Picton Reading Room, an elegant circular room often likened to the British Museum’s Reading Room in London? It will be an unforgettable experience.
7. Encounter Mind-Bending Experiences at the Quirky Quarter
The Quirky Quarter is one of Liverpool’s most exciting and unique attractions, and it has surged in popularity in recent years. Based on Duke Street, this attraction offers various interactive experiences that stimulate the brain and create incredible photo opportunities. Each room you enter will contain puzzling challenges, upside-down places, oddball encounters, and much more. The Quirky Quarter is suitable for people of all ages, and if you do go, make sure you take a camera – you won’t want to miss a great snap to share on social media!
If you want to see this amazing experience for yourself, tickets cost just £15.50 for adults and £9 for children. Kids under the age of 5 can enter for free. Better yet, you can get an exclusive discount with City Explorer! As one of our customers, show your ticket for any of our tours, and you will get 20% off admission.
Image by Quirky Quarter.
8. Go Underground and See the Williamson Tunnels
One of Liverpool’s most historical sites is the Williamson Tunnels in Edge Hill, built in the early 1800s under the direction of Joseph Williamson, a businessman and philanthropist. A lot of information about the tunnels remains unknown, including why they were created in the first place. One theory is that Williamson developed the tunnels to create jobs for the unemployed, while another speculates they would provide an escape from Armageddon. Regardless of why they were created, the tunnels have become a significant landmark in the city and are one of the most fascinating places to visit. In modern times, volunteers are working hard to preserve the tunnels and uncover new areas.
To learn more about the Williamson Tunnels, we highly recommend booking one of the guided tours run by the Williamson Tunnels Heritage Centre and the Friends of Williamson’s Tunnels. A tour will help you get up close and personal with these stunning tunnels, including a chance to see artefacts that have been discovered. You will also learn lots of fascinating information from the expert tour guides. This is undoubtedly a great cheap day out in Liverpool, with tours costing around £5.
9. Visit an Underground Bunker at the Western Approaches Museum
Another cheap activity to add to your itinerary is the Western Approaches Museum. This fascinating museum on Rumford Street explores the strategic operations during the Battle of the Atlantic in World War II. During the war, Allied and German forces clashed to take control of the Atlantic Ocean, which was a key gateway between North America and Europe, ensuring that soldiers and supplies could safely pass through. A command centre was set up at Derby House in Liverpool to coordinate a defence against attacks by German U-boats and aircraft. The work that went on here is one of Britain’s most significant steps in winning the war.
Therefore, doesn’t visiting this underground bunker for yourself sound exciting? The command centre has been restored to how it looked during the war and is now open as a museum, welcoming visitors daily. As a self-guided tour, you can explore exhibits like the Central Operations room and the Cypher room and see unique collections like a Gaumont Kalee Dragon projector used by Winston Churchill to watch secret footage. We have an exclusive offer with the Western Approaches Museum, so present your bus ticket on arrival to access the attraction for a discounted price.
Image by Western Approaches Museum.
10. Discover the History of the Fab Four at the Beatles Story
Liverpool is the home of the Beatles, the world’s most famous and greatest rock band. The Fab Four never shied away from their heritage, and many of their best hits include references to our beloved city. If you’re a big Beatles fanatic, there is no better way to discover the band’s history than in their hometown. The Beatles Story is a dedicated museum that promises to take you on an immersive journey through the history of the Beatles. You will see recreations of key moments, replicas of iconic locations like Mathew Street and Abbey Road Studios, authentic memorabilia, exclusive photographs, and much more. There is also a souvenir store, a cafe for re-fuelling and a Discovery Zone where you can sing your favourite songs on karaoke loud and proud. Your visit to the museum comes with a complimentary audio media guide available in twelve different languages.
Did you know we also offer a Beatles bus tour? Better yet, the Beatles Story is even cheaper with City Explorer. As one of our partners, we’re happy to provide a combined tour between our Beatles bus and the museum. You can visit the Beatles Story Museum and explore historic Beatles locations across Liverpool for an excellent one-off price. Bus tickets are valid for two days, leaving plenty of time to discover places like Strawberry Field and the band’s childhood homes.
11. Explore the Iconic Metropolitan Cathedral (aka ‘Paddy’s Wigwam!’)
We’ve already talked about the Anglican Cathedral, but Liverpool is graced with not one but two stunning cathedrals! The Metropolitan Cathedral is in the heart of Liverpool’s Knowledge Quarter, and you’ll be happy to know our bus tour stops right outside on Mount Pleasant. The cathedral is nicknamed ‘Paddy’s Wigam’ by locals due to its unique, tent-like design and the city’s Irish heritage. The Metropolitan Cathedral was completed in 1967 and is known for its striking modern appearance that sets it apart from traditional Gothic cathedrals. By visiting, you will enjoy the stunning architectural features up close, including an impressive stained glass lantern town, gorgeous mosaics and intricate brickwork.
Whether you want to admire the architecture, attend an event or just find a peaceful place to relax, this is a must-visit if you’re on a budget. The cathedral is free to enter, but events and special exhibitions may have a fee. You can also take advantage of a free guided tour, during which one of the knowledgeable and friendly guides will show you around the building and tell you about the cathedral’s history and fascinating stories. While the Metropolitan Cathedral is free, they do kindly ask for small donations.
There’s no shortage of cheap things to do in Liverpool; thus, there’s no need to break the bank to enjoy the city. Just bring your energy and eagerness to have fun. Liverpool awaits you with open arms!
