There are so many unique and interesting museums in the city of Liverpool—you really will be spoilt for choice! Whether you’re a Beatles fan, interested in Liverpool’s maritime history, or if you enjoy gazing at 500-year-old art, there is a museum in Liverpool for every preference. To help you plan your next day out in Liverpool, here are thirteen of the most interesting fee paying and free museums in Liverpool that the city has to offer.Â
What You Will Find Here
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Free Museums In Liverpool
1. Museum of Liverpool
Set proudly on Liverpool’s waterfront, the Museum of Liverpool showcases the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. While strolling through the museum, you’ll learn how Liverpool’s port, sport, and people have shaped the city. And through the museum’s captivating exhibits, you’ll be teleported back in time to Liverpool’s humble beginnings.
With an impressive collection of artefacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations, the past really comes back to life. And that’s what museums are all about, right?
Every corner of the museum gives a glimpse into Liverpool’s past—offering information that will interest everyone in your party.
Family Activities
The Museum of Liverpool is one of the best museums in the city for kids. With a hands-on fantasy world for children under 6. An interactive gallery with costumes, toys, and books for children under 5. And an aquarium and a planetarium for kids to learn all about the oceans and space, there is no place better to broaden their knowledge and ignite their imaginations.
Other Important Information
The Museum of Liverpool is open daily throughout the school summer holidays from 10 am to 5 pm. However, from September onwards, the museum is closed on Mondays. During the bank and Liverpool school holidays, the museum will be back open on Mondays as usual.Â
Entry into the museum is free for all ages. And you can leave donations to help support the gallery. A café on the ground floor is open from 10 am to 3.45 pm Tuesday to Sunday.
Address: Pier Head, Mann Island, Liverpool L3 1DG, UK
2. Merseyside Maritime Museum
Visiting Liverpool and not learning all about its maritime history would be almost criminal. After all, in the 19th century, it was one of the busiest and wealthiest ports in the world. With the Merseyside Maritime Museum also conveniently placed directly on Liverpool’s waterfront, Liverpool’s maritime heritage is right at your fingertips.Â
Housed in the historic Albert Dock, the Merseyside Maritime Museum has exhibits detailing the city’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. Its role during both World Wars. And even stories about the most well-known ship to ever set sail—the Titanic.
With a basement full of UK Border Forced seized contraband. And the methods they use to combat smugglers, the Merseyside Maritime Museum is a fantastic addition to your Liverpool itinerary.
Family Activities
Even families can enjoy an afternoon in the maritime museum. If you have little ones under the age of 5, then head to the Sea Urchins Drop-in Play Area. Located on the first floor of the museum, the play area has books, activities, and dress up costumes.
Depending on when you visit—as schedules change often—there are also live performances for kids. With themes like pirates, these performances are guaranteed to engage and educate your little ones.
Other Important Information
The Merseyside Maritime Museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm Tuesday to Sunday. The museum also opens up on bank holiday Mondays.
Admission to the museum is free for all ages. And donations are welcome if you’d like to support the cause. There is also a café open from 10 am to 3.45 pm Tuesdays to Sundays.
Address: Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AQ, United Kingdom
3. Open Eye Gallery
The Open Eye Gallery is a niche gallery. But photographers will feel right at home. This gallery—one of the UK’s first photography art spaces—has exhibits filled with captivating images. And although it may not be for everyone, it’s worth checking out if you’re in the Liverpool area.
The gallery’s evolving exhibitions push the boundaries of traditional photography by highlighting and addressing social and cultural topics through thought-provoking images.
Through its immersive exhibitions and engaging workshops, the gallery connects artists, enthusiasts, and those who enjoy something a little different.
Other Important Information
The Open Eye Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. Entry into the gallery is free, and no bookings are required.Â
Address: 19 Mann Island, Liverpool L3 1BP, UK
4. Liverpool World Museum
The World Museum in Liverpool is the city’s oldest museum. And one of the best places to learn all about natural history. Home to the longest-surviving British planetarium, Egyptian mummies, and dinosaur bones, the World Museum captivates everyone that visits.
With plenty of exhibits, you could spend hours wandering around the museum, taking in all it has to offer.
Family Activities
The World Museum is one of the best museums for families in Liverpool. Inside the museum, you’ll find a bug house, an aquarium, and a planetarium. You’ll also witness ethnology collections focusing on Africa, the Americas, Oceania and Asia and dinosaur displays.
It’s not every day your kids can learn all about the world and its inhabitants in a fun and engaging way. But a trip to the World Museum does just that.
To find out more information on tours and special family events, check the World Museum website.
Other Important Information
The World Museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm on Tuesdays to Sundays. You can also visit the museums on bank holiday Mondays and during Liverpool school holidays.Â
Entry to the museum is free for all guests. However, there are extra ticketed events you can pay for and donations are always welcome.Â
Address: William Brown St, Liverpool L3 8EN.
5. Bluecoat Display Centre
Bluecoat is set in a Grade I listed building and acts as Liverpool’s contemporary arts centre. Bluecoat is located in the city centre and offers decorative art exhibitions, a bustling cafe, and independent shops. There is even a peaceful courtyard that is open year-round.
Other Important Information
Bluecoat is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 11 am to 5 pm. The gallery is free to enter, and there is a free children’s corner with activity packs.
Address: 8 School Ln, Liverpool L1 3BX, United Kingdom
6. International Museum of Slavery
An eye-opening museum aimed at older children and adults is the International Slavery Museum. With displays spread across three galleries, the museum tells stories of slavery and the trauma that came with it.
Did you know that the port of Liverpool was once involved with the British Empire’s trade of enslaved people? Over 1.5 million African people were sent to plantations in the Caribbean and North America from Merseyside.
Through the museum’s art, stories, and exhibits, you better understand the importance of ending modern-day human trafficking.
Family Activities
Although children can enter the museum, there may be exhibits that young ones find upsetting. So, that’s something to consider if you’re considering visiting with your kids.Â
Other Important Information
The free museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm on Tuesdays to Sundays, as well as bank holidays.Â
Address: Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AQ, United Kingdom.
7. Walker Art Gallery
The Walker Art Gallery has one of the most comprehensive art collections in England outside of London. Known for its Victorian art, Tudor portraits, and Netherlandish paintings, the gallery has paintings that date back centuries. You can even see a Banksy sculpture—the Cardinal Sin.
Family Activities
Surprisingly, the gallery is an extremely family-friendly location in Liverpool. Kids under eight can make artwork, read books, dress up, and play with puppets. There is even a chill-out room if the gallery gets too much.Â
Other Important Information
The Walker Art Gallery is open from 10 am to 5 pm, Tuesdays to Sundays. It is also open on bank holiday Mondays with free entry for all guests. However, some special exhibits in the gallery require an entrance fee.Â
Address: William Brown St, Liverpool L3 8EL, United Kingdom.
8. Tate Gallery
The Tate Liverpool is housed in one of the old dock buildings and displays modern art for all to enjoy. Part of the well-known Tate gallery family, the Tate Liverpool stretches over four flours and has an impressive amount of art to explore.
The artwork inside the gallery changes regularly, meaning no two visits will be the same. Plus, with its excellent views over the Mersey, it is an iconic Liverpudlian destination.
Family Activities
The Tate Liverpool has many free activities for families to enjoy. Kids can pick up a free sketchbook, take on drawing challenges, and play in the Clore Studio. The Clore Studio is a part of the gallery dedicated to families—an excellent place to let kids be kids.
Other Important Information
Entry to the gallery is free. However, it is recommended to book tickets before arriving. The Tate Liverpool is open Mondays to Sundays from 10 am to 5:50 pm.
Address: Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4BB, United Kingdom
9. Victoria Gallery and Museum
The University of Liverpool—a gothic red brick building—houses the Victoria Gallery and Museum. With 6,500 fine art items, ceramics, sculptures, and fossils, the museums are a magnificent place to explore while visiting Liverpool.
Grab a coffee at its cafe, gaze at the marvellous exhibits, or just enjoy the gallery’s beautifully tiled hallways. No matter how you spend your time at Victoria Gallery, it won’t be time that is wasted.
Other Important Information
Admission to the gallery is free, and it is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.
Address: Ashton St, Liverpool L69 3DR, United KingdomÂ
More Great Museums In Liverpool
10. The Beatles Story
If you’re a Beatles lover, The Beatles Story is a must-do when visiting Liverpool. It’s no secret that the Liverpool-formed band is one of the most well-known bands of all time. So it is no surprise that Liverpool is full of Beatles themed attractions.
Located on Albert Dock, The Beatles Story takes you through the fab fours’ journey from the suburbs to international stardom. Additionally, the museum—the largest permanent Beatles exhibition—is home to iconic Beatles memorabilia that you won’t see anywhere else.
From replicas of the famous Abbey Road studios and Cavern Club to paraphernalia that showcases the band’s evolution, The Beatles Story is the best place to learn all about the most popular band to ever come out of England.
Family Activities
For little Beatles lovers, the Discovery Zone inside the museum has an exciting children’s workshop. With free educational resource packs and Beatles-themed activities, the Beatles Story is a great attraction for the entire family.
Other Important Information
For the most part, the Beatles Story is open every day from 9 am to 6:30 pm. However, it’s best to check the website for your specific date. The kids Discovery Zone is only open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm.
Tickets to the museum sell out quickly, so it’s best to book in advance. Ticket prices are as follows:
- Adult (16+ years) – £19.00
- Seniors and students – £15.00
- Children (5 to 15 years) – £10.50
- Family (2 adults and 2 children) – £50
Address: Britannia Vaults, Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD, United Kingdom
11. Quirky Quarter
The Quirky Quarter is home to interactive experiences, puzzling challenges, and unusual photo opportunities. Truly living up to its name, the Quirky Quarter lets you see things differently. So be sure to have your camera ready!
Other Important Information
The museum is open Wednesdays to Mondays from 10 am to 5 pm. You will need to book tickets, and ticket prices are as follows:
- Adult – £15.50
- Child (5 to 15 years)- £9.00
- Children under 5 – Free
- Seniors – £12.00
- Family of 4 – £40. 00
Address: The Arch, 142 Duke St, Liverpool L1 5DR
12. The Hardmans’ House
Once the home of the famous photographer—E Chambré Hardman—The Hardmans’ House is a National Trust Georgian Terrace time capsule. The house reflects what Liverpool was once like during the 1950s, as all of its furnishings and decorations haven’t been touched since the photographer’s death.
Other Important Information
The Hardmans’ House is only open on select days throughout the year. So it’s best to check the website for more information.
Ticket prices are as follows:
- Adult – £8.50
- Child – £4.25
- Family – £21.25
Address: 59 Rodney St, Liverpool L1 9ER, UK
13. The Western Approaches Museum Liverpool
Western Approaches is an underground bunker in Liverpool, England that played a crucial role in the Battle of the Atlantic during World War II. The Operations Room has remained exactly how as it was left when the doors were closed on 15 August 1945.
Western Approaches were critical in the war effort during World War II as the operational command center for the Battle of the Atlantic. The Battle of the Atlantic was World War II’s longest continuous military campaign, lasting from 1939 until 1945, and was fought between Allied naval forces and German U-boats.
Family Activities
The museum is very family-friendly but also holds regular events for families. The museum holds special holiday events offering an educational yet fun and immersive experience for your little ones! Family Trails are free and are at no extra cost along with your entry ticket.
Important Information
Admission is £13.50 for adults and £11.50 for children.
1-3 Rumford Street, Exchange Flags, Liverpool, Merseyside L2 8SZ
Museums in Liverpool: Conclusion
From the parks and bars in Liverpool to its excellent and informative museums, the Merseyside metropolis is a destination everyone can enjoy. Museums are the perfect activity come rain or shine, and we hope this article has helped you pick your next Liverpudlian attraction.
Karen Beddow founded Mini Travellers in 2014 while doing what she loves most...going on holiday!
Mini Travellers is for parents looking for holiday ideas, destination reviews, days out and things to do with the kids. We also have family travel tips, activity ideas and all other things family holiday related. Take a look at some of our latest reviews for holidays and day trips in the UK.