architecture

Liverpool's Architectural History

Liverpool has always been a city that's been proud of its architecture. We have a waterfront that's as recognisable aNew York, Hong Kong or Sydney, so get yourself on the Ferry and revel in its splendour.

The Liver Building, with its iconic Liver Birds perched atop, is probably the most famous of the "Three Graces", the other two of which are the Cunard Building and the Port of Liverpool Building. They occupy a grand area of plazas, statues and opulence that really give a feel for the early 20th century of their construction.

The whole docklands area, which includes the Three Graces and Albert Dock, has been given UNESCO World Heritage Site status thanks to its evocative architecture and its place in maritime history. More information on Liverpool's Martime History.

St John's Beacon, soaring over 100 metres from the pavement, is visible for miles around and not surprisingly offers exhilarating views of the Northwest, Snowdonia and the streets below. It's now home to Radio City.

St George's Hall is an impressive neo-classical masterpiece of the mid-1800s, which has recently undergone a multi-million pound refurbishment.

Running through the heart of Liverpool's Georgian Quarter - between the two cathedrals - you'll also see the birthplace of former Prime Minister William Gladstone, and the National Trust-run home and studio of photographer E. Chambre Hardman on Rodney Street. The street runs along to meet Liverpool's magnificent Anglican Cathedral, the largest Anglican cathedral in the world. From the Anglican cathedral, Hope Street takes you to the Metropolitan Cathedral a striking 1960s-built concrete and glass crown of thorns; it's known locally as Paddy's Wigwam.

Anglican Cathedral

The Liverpool Cathedral Church of Christ, or Anglican Cathedral, is the largest cathedral in Britain and the fifth largest in the world. The cathedral was designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. Work began on the cathedral in 1904 and was finally completed in 1978.

Metropolitan Cathedral

The Christ the King Cathedral, also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral, was designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd and was consecrated in 1967. Work actually started on the cathedral in 1933 based on a design by Sir Edwin Lutyens, but Lutyen's ambitious design was abandoned because of the outbreak of World War Two and financial problems.