Liverpool Sightseeing
Running a race in Liverpool, or just visiting? The waterfront, the Beatles sites, the cathedrals and the parks make it worth staying an extra day.
One of the things Liverpool is known for among runners is its Liverpool marathon history, with road races that have drawn entrants from all over the world. The city's modern marathon started up in 2011 and has run under different names and organisers since then. But whether or not you are in town for a race, there is plenty more to do in Liverpool than running.
Things you can do in Liverpool
Taking a guided tour is a good way to see the sights and learn about the city's history. Liverpool has some remarkable architecture, from the Royal Liver Building, the Cunard Building and the Port of Liverpool Building on the waterfront to the Georgian streets around Rodney Street. The city also has two very different cathedrals, the huge Anglican cathedral and the round, modern Metropolitan Cathedral, linked by Hope Street.
Of course, Liverpool is the city where The Beatles were formed. If you are a die-hard Beatles fan you can make a pilgrimage to the Cavern Quarter, the Albert Dock and the band's childhood neighbourhoods. The city is also known for its theatres, with shows in a wide variety of genres to suit everyone's taste, and for its football, with two Premier League clubs.
Outdoor spaces
Liverpool has great outdoor spaces that are family-friendly. Sefton Park, with its lake and Palm House, is a favourite for picnics and easy runs, and the Otterspool Promenade along the Mersey is ideal for a gentle shakeout jog the day before a race. Depending on the season, there are often events, markets and entertainment in the parks and on the waterfront, so there is usually something for the whole family.
When is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time for Liverpool sightseeing is usually between May and September, when the days are long and the weather is at its mildest, although you should always pack a waterproof. The summer months and big event weekends are also the busiest, so hotel prices can be higher then and it is worth booking early. Outside the peak season, and in the quieter weeks of winter, accommodation is often easier to find and cheaper.
Combine a race with a city break
If you are travelling for a race, plan your sightseeing after the event rather than before. A long day on your feet around the docks is not ideal preparation. Read our marathon running tips for race-week advice.
