Destination Dupe: Liverpool or London?

Looking for a city break in the UK this summer? London is often seen as the ultimate destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life. But did you know you can find all that in Liverpool?

Offering many of the same thrills and experiences but with a more affordable price tag for your budget, you can pack a whole host of activities into your city break itinerary in Liverpool.  

From Liverpool’s vibrant cultural scene to the world-famous music offering, stunning architecture, lively nightlife and beautiful outdoor spaces, Liverpool has something for everyone.

We’ve rounded up a list of activities you can add to your itinerary with the same buzz as London but with that famous Liverpool vibe!

Plan your journey with Avanti West Coast

Plan your trip to Liverpool from London with Avanti West Coast. With prices starting from just £26, the direct route runs frequent services throughout the day and takes just 2 hours and twenty minutes!

Booking in advance means you can secure your seat, sit back and relax ready for your Liverpool adventure. With free WiFi, an on board shop and charging facilities, you have everything you need to make your journey as easy and comfortable as possible. 

Book your trip to Liverpool with Avanti West Coast here. 

London & Liverpool Destination Dupes 

Big Ben - Royal Liver Building

While Big Ben is known around the world for its iconic clock tower, the Royal Liver Building in Liverpool is equally impressive. While Big Ben is renowned, the Royal Liver Building’s clock faces are actually larger, making it home to the largest clock faces in the UK!

As one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, visitors can enjoy the Royal Liver Building 360 Tour, which includes an immersive audio-visual show inside the historic clock tower and spectacular 360-degree views of the Liverpool skyline from the 15th-floor viewing platform.

St Paul’s Cathedral - Liverpool Cathedral

Whilst St Paul’s Cathedral is a masterpiece of architecture in London, did you know that Liverpool Cathedral is the largest in Britain? 

Liverpool Cathedral needs to be seen from the inside to be believed. The awe-inspiring building stuns with its soaring Gothic Revival architecture, dramatic vaulted ceilings, and panoramic views of the city from its tower. 

Enjoyed as a place of worship and reflection, the cathedral is also known for hosting a calendar of cultural events from art exhibitions to music and family friendly activities so make sure to check out what they have coming up.

Extra Fact: History of the Red Telephone Box

The iconic red telephone box is a familiar sight in London and across the UK as a symbol of British culture. 

But did you know it was designed by the renowned architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, the mastermind behind Liverpool Cathedral?

This connection highlights the architectural brilliance that links these two cities, making Liverpool Cathedral a must-visit for those appreciating historical and cultural landmarks. You can even find a red telephone box inside the Cathedral - one to add to the Instagram grid. 

Abbey Road - The Beatles Story

Abbey Road in London is synonymous with The Beatles, but as we all know, Liverpool is the true home of the Fab Four. 

There’s so many things to do in Liverpool if you’re a Beatles fan, from visiting Strawberry Field to The Cavern Club, The Magical Mystery Tour and the Liverpool Beatles Museum - but at The Beatles Story, you can visit a recreation of Abbey Road!

The Beatles Story is the largest permanent exhibition that tells the story of the biggest band in the world and offers an immersive experience into the band’s history, making it a pilgrimage site for music lovers. 

London - Liverpool’s Food Scene

London might be known as a foodie paradise, we’ve all seen those viral TikToks, but Liverpool's food scene is equally exciting and diverse. 

So much so that Liverpool was named Time Out's Foodie City of the Year in 2025, thanks to its vibrant culinary offerings!

From trendy food markets like The Baltic Market, Duke Street Market and Southport Market, to fine dining at The Art School, Belzan and NORD, the buzzing foodie hotspots of Castle Street, Bold Street and the Royal Albert Dock and not forgetting our local dish, Scouse, there’s so much to explore if you’re looking for a foodie city break. 

Did you know that Liverpool is home to the most museums and art galleries outside of London?

London is renowned for its art galleries like the Tate Modern and the National History Museum, but Liverpool holds its own with world-class cultural institutions too.

The Walker Art Gallery boasts an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, while Tate Liverpool, which is currently undergoing a major refurbishment, is known for its contemporary and experimental pieces. You can visit Tate Liverpool's current collaboration with RIBA North at Mann Island in Liverpool. 

FACT Liverpool is home to an ever evolving programme of digital and video art whilst the Lady Lever Art Gallery houses one of the UK’s finest collections of fine and decorative art. 

London’s Parks vs Liverpool’s Green Spaces

London is known for its vast parks across the city but the green spaces across Liverpool City Region are equally stunning! 

Liverpool’s Sefton Park offers a tranquil escape with its beautiful gardens, lakes, and historic Palm House. Additionally, Birkenhead Park in Wirral, is another fantastic green space. Known as the world’s first publicly funded park, Birkenhead Park inspired the design of Central Park in New York City. Its picturesque landscapes, lakes, and bridges make it a wonderful spot for relaxation and recreation.

Not only do we have parks but we also have beautiful beaches too! Head to Crosby Beach to see the famous Iron Men statues, Formby Beach to roam about the sand dunes and New Brighton, West Kirby and Thurstaston in Wirral for coastal walks and scenic views. 

London Eye vs. The Wheel of Liverpool

The London Eye is one of the most iconic attractions in the capital, offering panoramic views of the city. However, Liverpool has its own impressive counterpart: The Wheel of Liverpool.

Located in between Royal Liver Building and M&S Bank Arena, this 60-metre-high observation wheel provides breathtaking 360° views of the city, including landmarks such as the Royal Albert Dock, the Three Graces, and the River Mersey.

Shakespeare North Playhouse vs. Shakespeare's Globe
 

London's Shakespeare's Globe is a renowned replica of the original Elizabethan theatre, offering an authentic experience of Shakespearean plays. However, the Shakespeare North Playhouse in Knowsley, near Liverpool, provides a unique northern counterpart.

Opened in 2022, this 450-seat theatre replicates the historic Royal Cockpit theatre, offering a similarly immersive experience. The Shakespeare North Playhouse features a Tudor-inspired auditorium and modern facilities, including an outdoor performance garden, exhibition gallery, and café. 

This venue not only celebrates Shakespeare's connections to the north but also revitalises the local cultural scene, making it a must-visit for theatre enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or simply looking for a vibrant city experience, Liverpool has something for everyone. 

From its iconic landmarks and world-class museums to its thriving food scene and beautiful parks, the city provides a diverse range of attractions that cater to all interests. 

Plus, with the convenience of travelling with Avanti West Coast, getting to Liverpool from London is both quick and easy at only 2 hours and 20 minutes! So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider exploring the many delights of Liverpool!