Liverpool is undoubtedly one of the liveliest cities in England and has a reputation among English people as being one of the best places for a great night out. Whether you’re looking for a fun activity to enjoy with friends or a unique date idea, there’s a boatload of things to do in Liverpool at night.
I spent most of my teenage years traveling back and forth from Manchester to Liverpool to visit new bars and restaurants or to visit my family. As a result, I’ve come to know some of the best things to do in Liverpool at night, and I’m sharing them with you in this article.
From exploring Liverpool’s nightlife areas on a private beer bike to watching magic unfold right before your eyes, your next night out in the city promises to be packed with fun.
Best Things To Do in Liverpool
I lived in Liverpool, England, for a few years, and my family still lives there now, so I visit pretty regularly. I’ve compiled this list based on my own experiences, as well as some of the most popular and well-loved tours that I think are worth knowing about.
I’ve tried to include a range of activities, including free things to do in Liverpool at night, plus alcohol and non-alcohol-related experiences. Here are my favorites:
1. Cocktails at Carpathia
Carpathia Restaurant & Bar is a rooftop bar situated in the heart of the city center. Sipping a cocktail on their beautiful outdoor terrace is among my favorite things to do in Liverpool at night. It offers a fabulous vantage point to see some of the city’s attractions, including Albert Dock, The Strand, and the Three Graces, from a completely different perspective.
It’s not just cocktails that you’ll find here, though. They also serve a range of delicious food items which can all be enjoyed alongside sweeping views of the city. You could also consider a stay at 30 James Street Hotel, which is the hotel Carpathia sits within.
This pretty venue is my go-to hangout spot on a Saturday night in Liverpool in the summer months. You can also visit during winter, but make sure to wrap up as it will be fresh! Book ahead to avoid disappointment, especially on weekends.
Address: 30 James St, Liverpool L2 7PQ
2. Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience
Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience is one of the more unique things to do in Liverpool at night. I’d recommend it to couples looking for a fun, immersive date night, or a group of friends wanting to try something different.
This ‘bar behind bars’ popped up in my hometown of Manchester a while ago, and while I haven’t been to the Liverpool venue as yet, I can vouch for the experience as a whole. Inspired by Alcatraz prison in San Francisco, you’ll sit in your cell for the night while you’re entertained by the guards and fellow long-standing ‘inmates’.
Don’t bother dressing up, as upon arrival you’ll be expected to become an ‘inmate’ and wear an orange boiler suit. This will help you smuggle in your ‘contraband’ (alcohol), which a mixologist will then whip up into 4 cocktails per person. Click here for more information and to book tickets.
Address: 36 Seel St, Liverpool L1 4BE
3. Get Spooky on a Ghost Tour
Discover the ‘dark side of Liverpool’ with a spooky ghost history tour of the city – one of the more unusual things to do in Liverpool at night. You’ll get to hear about the city’s grisly stories as you tour Liverpool’s historic buildings, including two cathedrals.
You’ll then make your way along one of Northern England’s most haunted streets, listening to tales from your guide as you go. Finally, you’ll finish your tour in St James’ Gardens, where 58,000 souls have been laid to rest.
The later you start this tour, the more eery it is, with dark nights and a crisp evening chill enhancing your experience. Hide behind your partner for reassurance on this spine-chilling tour. Click here to get your tickets.
Address: The meeting point for this tour is at 36 Hope St, Liverpool L1 9BX
4. Private Liverpool Beer Bike Tour
Grab as many of your friends as you can (well, up to 14) for this experience – a private beer bike tour of the city. With unlimited, all-you-can-drink beer, it’s undoubtedly one of the most fun nights out in Liverpool.
Hop aboard your customized beer bike and cycle the full length of the Baltic Triangle – one of Liverpool’s well-known nightlife areas. Your guide will take you to some hidden gems, concealed in side streets you wouldn’t usually think to venture down.
You’ll have a speaker at your disposal to pick your own cycle party tunes. You’ll then finish up your tour at Love Lane Brewery and Cains Brewery Village, where you can explore vintage market stalls, bars, and food vendors at your own pace. Book your tour here.
Address: The meeting point for this activity is at 44 Jamaica St, Liverpool L1 0AF
5. Benidorm Bingo Cabaret Show
Looking for unique things to do in Liverpool at night for adults? If so, this Benidorm Bingo Cabaret Show should be at the top of your must-do list. This fun-filled, extravagant night is led by a team of glamour drag queens who will ensure you have an amazing experience.
Enjoy an included glass of fizz upon arrival, then let loose and dance away your inhibitions. Get involved in a series of lip-sync battles and twerk-offs, before enjoying a game of Benidorm Bingo.
There’s unlimited popcorn for the duration of the event, plus an option to add on a two-course meal with your ticket if you think you’ll be peckish. Don’t forget to grab some pictures with your drag queen hosts! Buy your tickets here.
Address: Blundell St, Liverpool L1 0AJ
6. Sightseeing River Cruise
A sightseeing River Cruise is a great option for those wanting to go sightseeing in Liverpool at night. Take the 6 p.m. departure for this tour, and you’ll get to see the city from a different perspective by night when the skyline is lit up.
Be transported to a bygone era as you learn the history of the Beatles and Mersey Ferries on a river cruise. You’ll get to see the beautiful waterfront from your spot on deck, gliding past iconic buildings at Albert Dock and seeing the amazing architecture of the 3 Graces.
Plug into a guided audio tour to hear tales of the city’s heritage, smuggling stories dating back to the 1960s, and much more. This activity is one of my favorite things to do at night in Liverpool with family – just be sure to layer up if you’re visiting in winter… Click here to book your tickets.
Address: You’ll start your cruise at the Mersey Ferries dock
7. Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt
For a fun and unique way to explore Liverpool, consider embarking on a self-guided treasure hunt. Perfect for families or groups of friends wanting to discover the city at their own pace, this activity is one of the coolest things to do in Liverpool at night.
Captain Bess will drop you a series of text messages, trying to scope out some new pirates to join her ship. She’ll test you by sending you along a carefully planned route, feeding you cryptic clues to solve.
The treasure hunt takes you to some of the city’s must-see attractions, as well as some lesser-known hidden gems. You’ll hear interesting stories along the way, and leave with a better understanding of Liverpool and its history. Click here to book this experience.
Address: Your treasure hunt begins at the top of Bold Street
8. Fine Dining at Panoramic 34
Panoramic 34 is arguably the best way to see Liverpool City at night. As the highest fine-dining restaurant in the city, sitting 300 feet above sea level, Panoramic 34 has gorgeous, sweeping views of the lit-up skyline below. Views are made all the better by floor-to-ceiling windows, which you can sit by and watch the world go by from a bird’s eye view.
Their fine-dining tasting menu experience is a great way to spend an evening in the Liverpool. Beautifully prepared dishes such as British-reared sirloin of beef and responsibly sourced cod cheek are on offer, and come so attractively presented that you’ll have to take a picture to share with your Instagram followers.
This isn’t a cheap experience – it costs approximately $190 per person with wine – but it’s worth it and is perfect for a special occasion. Book via their website here.
Address: West Tower, Brook St, Liverpool L3 9PJ
9. Magic on the Mersey
Self-proclaimed as ‘the best night out in Liverpool’, Magic on the Mersey is a show that will leave you feeling both entertained and bewildered. Hosted by one of the UK’s top magicians, Steve Price, you’ll enjoy a night of magic hosted in one of Liverpool’s Grade II-listed buildings.
If you want to enjoy a light-hearted evening of premier entertainment, enjoying something a little different, this one is for you. You’ll no doubt leave wondering ‘How did he do that?’. Book now to see it for yourself.
Address: The experience is hosted within Aloft Liverpool Hotel. 1 N John St, Liverpool L2 5QW
If you’re looking for budget-friendly things to see in Liverpool at night, you can always depend on Liverpool Naval Club. Tickets are as cheap as £3 / $5 for some of their events.
Music enthusiasts will love their entertaining shows, which host some of the city’s finest acts. Whether you prefer funk, Motown, or tribute singers, there’s a show for you. Dance the night away and let the club take care of the rest.
Address: 38 Bowring Park Rd, Childwall, Liverpool L14 3NN
Quick Travel Itineraries For Liverpool
Ready to start planning your travel itinerary? Check out these suggestions for different lengths of stay, below. I recommend spending 2-3 days in the city to make the most of it.
1 Day in Liverpool Itinerary
Start your day at a museum; eiher the World Museum of Beatles Story Museum, before grabbing lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, make your way to the waterfront to hop aboard an early evening River Cruise to see the city’s many historical sites.
As the day turns to night, discover the city on a Ghost Tour. Enjoy a fine-dining meal at Panoramic 34, then finish off your evening with an immersive cocktail experience at Alcotraz.
2-3 Days in Liverpool Itinerary
Enjoy the same itinerary as mentioned above for day 1 of your trip. On Day 2, take part in a self-guided treasure hunt of the city to see some hidden gems. In the evening, prepare yourself for a fun-filled Bingo evening hosted by a glamorous team of drag queens.
Once you’ve recovered from a night of hedonism, enjoy a morning/afternoon at leisure. Here are some fun, suggested activities. In the evening, make your way to Aloft Liverpool where Steve Price will perform an amazing magic show that is sure to leave you pleasantly baffled.
Finish your night at Carpathia Restaurant & Bar, where you can enjoy rooftop cocktails on their outdoor patio.
3+ days in Liverpool Itinerary
I’ve lived in Liverpool previously, and I don’t necessarily think you need more than three days to see all the city has to offer. Here are some more activities in Liverpool to try out should you have more time to spend:
Where to Stay in Liverpool
These are a few of the best neighborhoods in Liverpool for tourists:
Albert Dock – Best for Families
Albert Dock is perfect for families as it’s close to numerous bars, restaurants, and attractions (including the famous Beatles Story Museum). It’s also within walking distance of the city center. All the amenities a family needs are nearby, with close proximity to the waterfront too.
Leonardo Hotel Liverpool is my go-to for family breaks in Liverpool.
Ropewalks – Best for Nightlife
Those visiting the city to check out all the things to do in Liverpool at night should stay in Ropewalks. Ropewalks is a popular area of Liverpool as it’s home to a variety of lively bars and the famous Heebie Jeebies, one of Liverpool’s most well-known clubs.
Duke Street Boutique Hotel is a good option if you want to be in the heart of the action (and still be able to sleep!).
City Center – Best for First-Time Visitors
First-time visitors to Liverpool should most definitely stay in the city center. You’ll have access to all of the city’s main attractions, plus an abundance of restaurants, bars, and shopping facilities.
I’d recommend a stay at Aloft Liverpool if you’re staying in the city center.
Best Restaurants in Liverpool
If you’re wondering where to eat on your visit to Liverpool, I’ve got you covered! Here’s a selection of my favorites for all tastes and budgets:
The Art School
The Art School is my favorite restaurant in Liverpool, home to amazing fine dining in a beautiful building. All of the dishes are made with seasonal ingredients and come beautifully presented. Depending on what you’re looking for, they have a couple of different menus to choose from.
Duke Street Food & Drink Market
This industrial-style food hall is home to food vendors offering cuisines from across the globe. Whether you’re looking for Mexican, Latin American, or Asian-inspired fare, you’ll find it here, all under one roof.
The Brunch & Cocktail Club
Brunching doesn’t get much better than at The Brunch & Cocktail Club. Their Eggs Oscar Benedict – eggs benedict with fresh crab – is my go-to dish. It’s a good place to stop after shopping at Liverpool ONE, which is just a short walk away.
Bacaro
Bacaro is my favorite spot for Italian food in Liverpool. They serve a mix of tapas-style dishes with Italian and Spanish influences. Super chilled and reasonably priced, it’s a great spot for groups of friends to catch up over a jug of limoncello sangria.
The Philharmonic Dining Rooms
To try some traditional pub grub, head to The Philharmonic Dining Rooms. This authentic British pub serves classic pub dishes such as shepherd’s pie, and a ‘famous’ array of homemade pies.
Getting to Liverpool
Liverpool is an extremely accessible city, with efficient transport links from major cities and its own airport. If you’re arriving from cities such as Manchester or London, you can easily catch a direct train or coach service.
If you’re arriving from a different country, your best option is to fly into Liverpool John Lennon Airport. You’ll find plenty of cheap flights with the likes of low-cost budget airlines such as Ryanair and Easyjet. From the airport, it’s a short 40-minute drive by car or bus from the airport. There’s a frequent airport bus you can catch to the city center if you’re not hiring a car.
You could opt to fly into Manchester, which may have cheaper airfares due to the larger size and popularity of the airport. You can then rent a car or take a train to central Liverpool. It’s an hour’s drive or an approximate 50-minute train journey.
You don’t necessarily need to hire a car to get around Liverpool unless you are planning on venturing much further out of the city center. The city has a great network of commuter trains and buses that cost between $1.50 and $3 per journey. You can also get around easily by Uber or black cab.
Things To Do in Liverpool at Night: FAQs
Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about visiting Liverpool:
Yes, Liverpool’s nightlife is considered among English people as one of the best in the UK. There are lots of bars, clubs, entertainment venues, and activities to enjoy at night.
I’d consider Liverpool’s nightlife to be one of the best among England’s larger cities. There is an eclectic mix of venues to suit all tastes and budgets!
There isn’t a singular street that hosts all of Liverpool’s nightlife. You’ll find bars, clubs, and entertainment venues on the likes of Hanover Street, Seel Street, Victoria Street, and Castle Street.
There are all sorts of things to do in Liverpool at night! From magic shows to a sightseeing river cruise and live music events to ghost tours, you’ll find a little something for everyone. You can view Liverpool’s night-out guide here.
Kingdom nightclub used to be a popular spot for footballers in Liverpool, however, it’s since closed down. They have been known to dine at the Italian restaurant San Carlo though.
There isn’t a known place or any particular nightclubs in Liverpool that celebs are known to party at. You could spot celebs at any high-end restaurant or hotel in the city.
A night out in Liverpool can be tailored to your budget. There are plenty of options to cater to all budgets, from free activities to luxurious fine-dining meals. Liverpool is comparatively cheaper than larger cities such as London.
In Closing
Ready to discover the best night out in Liverpool? There’s so much to experience in the city that I’d recommend spending a few nights there, so you can get a feel for Liverpool and its culture.
Let me know if you try out any of the activities listed in this article, or if you have any suggestions from your own travels. I’m always looking to discover more of Liverpool’s nightlife myself!