Liverpool is a fantastic spot in northern England brimming with attractions like the historic Albert Docks, the Beatles Museum, and Anfield Football Ground. It’s also an excellent base for exploring nearby areas, with many wonderful day trips available.
Liverpool’s location makes it perfect for exploring the nearby coastline, North Wales, and the Lake District National Park. I’ve visited Liverpool for years and always enjoy escaping the city to explore the beautiful nature surrounding it. Here, I’ve compiled a selection of day trips from Liverpool by car, bus, boat, and some excellent tours, offering something for everyone—families, couples, and solo travelers.
A Guide to Day Trips from Liverpool
1. Manchester: Just over half an hour’s train ride from Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester offers a rich music scene and historical sites. Visit Old Trafford, take a city canal cruise, or explore the vibrant city center. Direct trains leave every 30 minutes, costing from £7.50.
2. Chester: Located 30 miles south of Liverpool, Chester is a historic city known for its well-preserved Roman walls and charming shopping and dining options. Direct trains depart from Liverpool Lime Street four times an hour.
3. Crosby Beach: A short 7-mile trip from Liverpool, this beach is famous for Anthony Gormley’s art installation. With its golden sands and sculptures, it’s a perfect spot for a walk and a picnic.
4. North Wales: Home to Snowdonia National Park and Mount Snowdon, North Wales is a stunning area. Conwy Castle is also worth a visit. The area is best explored by taking a tour, as it’s rich in natural beauty.
5. Lake District: Known for its picturesque landscapes, Windermere, quaint villages, and hiking trails, the Lake District is ideal for nature lovers. You can get here easily by car or book a tour for a more guided experience.
6. Yorkshire Moors and Dales: This region is home to rolling hills, ancient villages, and scenic beauty. It’s a wonderful escape into nature with places like Hawes and Haworth offering local specialties and charming views.
7. Mersey Ferry and Wirral: Taking the Mersey Ferry offers a unique way to explore the Wirral peninsula. Visit Birkenhead Park, New Brighton, and coastal parks perfect for outdoor activities.
8. Strawberry Fields: Located south of Liverpool, this site is famous thanks to the Beatles and is now home to gardens and a Beatles exhibition.
9. Peaky Blinders Tour: For fans of the TV show, this tour covers filming locations around Liverpool and the history of the real gang.
10. Martin Mere Nature Reserve and Wetland Centre: Explore beautiful countryside and spot wildlife. It’s a 45-minute drive north of Liverpool.
11. Formby: Just 12 miles north of Liverpool, Formby boasts a gorgeous coastline with dramatic cliffs and sand dunes. It’s a haven for wildlife and home to two offshore shipwrecks.
12. Blackpool: Known for its pleasure beach and traditional seaside attractions, Blackpool is perfect for a family day out.
13. York: This historic city offers a wealth of attractions including York Minster, Roman walls, and the Shambles. It’s reachable by a two-hour train ride from Liverpool.
14. Southport: A charming seaside town north of Liverpool, Southport features beautiful beaches, a historic pier, and plenty of attractions.
15. Bradford: Located 60 miles from Liverpool, Bradford is packed with museums, parks, and historic buildings. It’s a great destination for exploring England’s industrial heritage.
FAQs on Day Trips from Liverpool
Popular day trips from Liverpool include visits to Manchester, the Yorkshire Dales, and North Wales. Crosby Beach, Southport, and Strawberry Fields are also fantastic options close to the city. Three to four days are ideal for exploring Liverpool itself, but with these day trips, a week would provide ample time to see the surroundings too. For those with a car, the Lake District offers unrivaled freedom to explore. The cities of Manchester, York, Chester, and Southport are easily accessible by train. Snowdonia National Park and the Lake District are among the most beautiful areas near Liverpool.
Liverpool is not just a destination city; its proximity to so many incredible places means you can enjoy a variety of experiences, from historic cities to picturesque nature spots. Be sure to include a few of these day trips in your itinerary when visiting Liverpool.
