We visited the Royal Liver Building in September when the Covid restrictions were relaxed. It is the iconic building on the Liverpool Waterfront.
There are limited parking spaces nearby. To get there the nearest Merseyrail stations are Moorfields or James Street, or it is a 20-minute down hill walk from the mainline station of Lime Street. It is also a short walk from the bus station. Or, best of all, you can combine your visit with a cruise on the famous Ferry Cross the Mersey where you get a grandstand view of the whole of the waterfront.
Opening times vary, so it is better to ring up prior to your visit (0151 236 4753) It is best of course on a fine day, and this was the case when we visited. Also take a pair of binoculars with you as there are extensive views. It costs £15 per adult and children aged 7-15 £10.
You enter down a small flight of steps into the booking area – obviously the tour is not suitable for disabled visitors. In this area is a small gift shop for souvenirs and an exhibition. The day we visited there was only one other couple. We wore our masks and were able to socially distance. Then we were given a short introductory film by the guide together with some safety information. Because of the restrictions only two people at a time were allowed in the lift up to the clock tower.
Once there we were treated to a fantastic audio-visual experience digitally projected on the back of the clock face and walls. The story of Liverpool was told with accompanying music. The guide explained that normally when the clock strikes the hour it is very loud, but the clock was stopped for maintenance on the day we visited.
Then we went up 124 steps. Obviously this is unsuitable for anyone who finds it difficult to climb stairs or who has heart problems. I was fine with the steps and hardly got out of breath! Halfway up was a viewing area, where the guide gave us more information, before we went up the final steps. At the top we had a fabulous view all round the city, the river estuary and beyond. Of course, we also got a close up view of the Liver Birds themselves. The story goes that the female bird Bella looks out to sea, watching for the sailors to ensure they return home safely. While the male bird Bertie looks towards the city making sure the pubs are open!
We really enjoyed our visit, not only for the views but the interesting talk by the guide. I would thoroughly recommend it.
