River of Light returns to Liverpool from 23 October to 1 November with 13 brand new installations to explore!

 

River of Light returns to Liverpool from 23 October to 1 November, bringing 13 spectacular light installations to locations across the city centre. This year, Royal Albert Dock is once again part of the River of Light trail, with two striking installations to discover. As you explore the artworks, make the most of everything else the dock has to offer, from waterfront restaurants and independent shops to attractions and the historic surroundings of Liverpool’s iconic waterfront.

 

River of Light Installations at The Royal Albert Dock

 

Colour Rush by Liz West

 

Head to the Martin Luther King Building at Royal Albert Dock to discover Colour Rush, a bold and vibrant installation by British artist Liz West.

Featuring colourful illuminated stripes arranged within an octagonal lightbox and set against a mirrored plinth, the artwork plays with colour, reflection and light. Get up close to see the vibrant patterns and your own reflection become part of the experience.

  Three tall rectangular panels illuminated with vibrant vertical stripes in rainbow colours stand against a dark night sky. The colourful light installation features bands of pink, blue, green, yellow, orange and purple, creating a bright geometric display that contrasts sharply with the surrounding darkness.

 

 

The Stars Come Out at Night by Stellar Creates

Head to Anchor Courtyard to discover The Stars Come Out at Night, a striking installation inspired by the beauty and wonder of the night sky.

The large sculptural piece slowly rotates, casting patterns of stars across the ground and nearby buildings. Inspired by our shared connection to the cosmos, the artwork invites visitors to pause and enjoy a moment in a space full of stars.

 

 

A large cylindrical lantern perforated with star-shaped cut-outs glows in a dark outdoor setting, casting illuminated star patterns and text onto the ground. Strings of warm white lights hang overhead, while visitors walk along a path in the background, creating a festive nighttime atmosphere.
 

 

 

See all 13 River of Light installations here.

 

 

Things to do

 

Make a day of your River of Light visit and head to Liverpool early to explore everything Royal Albert Dock has to offer. From attractions and boat tours to independent shops and waterfront experiences, there’s plenty to see and do before you follow the light trail.


The Beatles Story


The Beatles Story is the world’s largest permanent exhibition dedicated to the story of The Beatles. Discover the history of the Fab Four, from their early days in Liverpool and time in Hamburg to recording Abbey Road and their careers as solo artists. With recreated scenes, memorabilia and fascinating stories from the band’s journey, it’s a must-visit for Beatles fans.

 

Four brightly coloured satin military-style band jackets displayed on mannequins, featuring lime green, pink, blue and pale pink designs with decorative braiding and shoulder cords. The costumes are set against a vibrant backdrop of illustrated figures and album artwork associated with Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, under red draped fabric and theatrical lighting.

 

 

Explore with a tour
 

Take to the water with Splash Tours, combining a unique tour of some of Liverpool’s most famous sights with an exciting splashdown into  Salhouse Dock. Alternatively, discover the city by land with one of the sightseeing bus tours departing from Gower Street, including City Sights Liverpool and the City Explorer Liverpool.

 

A brightly coloured blue and pink amphibious tour vehicle enters the water from a cobbled slipway at Liverpool’s waterfront. Trees, a vintage carousel and modern buildings form the backdrop as the vehicle creates a splash entering the dock.

 

Escape Hunt

For something a little different, put your problem-solving skills to the test at Escape Hunt. Work together to solve puzzles, uncover clues and complete your mission before time runs out, with a choice of immersive escape room experiences to enjoy.

 

Three visitors stand in the doorway of a large vault-style door inside an immersive attraction. One visitor holds the door handle while all three look into the room beyond. The setting features patterned wallpaper, dark wood panelling, a metal door with visible locking mechanisms, and an illuminated button labelled “PRESS TO EXIT” on the wall.

 

Do a bit of shopping


Looking for something to remember your visit by? Royal Albert Dock is home to a great selection of independent shops and boutiques, making it easy to pick up a unique gift or souvenir while exploring the waterfront.

 

The Nest

Discover a carefully curated collection of gifts and homeware at The Nest. Showcasing work from local artists and makers, the shop is packed with unique finds, from ceramics and textiles to prints, jewellery and other handcrafted pieces inspired by Liverpool and the North West.

 

A shop with art works and prints on display for people to buy.

 

Liverpool Pictures

Celebrate Liverpool through the work of local artists and photographers at Liverpool Pictures. Browse a collection of prints, photographs and artwork showcasing some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, including the Liver Building, our very own waterfront and so much more.

 

 

House of Spells 

Step into a magical world at House of Spells, where fans of fantasy can discover a wide range of official merchandise, collectables and gifts. With favourites including Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, it’s the perfect place to browse for something a little different during your visit to the dock.

 

Inside a shop which is Harry Potter themed. There are large book cases, a stand that has statues on it and other magical items.

 

Harbour Accessories

Looking for a new accessory or a special gift? Harbour Accessories offers a selection of jewellery, handbags, scarves and other stylish pieces. Take a browse while exploring the dock and find something to add to your wardrobe or take home as a keepsake.

 

 

With Love From Liverpool

Take home a little piece of the city from With Love From Liverpool, with a range of souvenirs and gifts celebrating the city and its culture. From Liver Bird-inspired keepsakes and football-themed gifts to The Beatles memorabilia, there’s something to suit everyone.

 

 

Nature’s Treasures

Explore the natural world at Nature’s Treasures, home to an extensive collection of gemstones, crystals, fossils and unique gifts sourced from around the globe. Discover colourful amethyst, shimmering quartz, fossils and crystal jewellery, with plenty of unique finds to browse.

 

A glass display cabinet filled with polished crystals, mineral specimens and gemstone spheres. Various crystal points in clear, purple, green and dark tones are arranged on glass shelves, while larger stone spheres sit below. The softly lit interior and blurred background create a museum or crystal shop setting.

 

Roly’s Fudge

Treat yourself to something sweet at Roly’s Fudge, where delicious handmade fudge is prepared in small batches in-store. Choose from a tempting selection of classic and seasonal flavours, perfect for enjoying as you explore the waterfront or picking up as a gift to take home.

 

A long role of fudge with someone slicing it into chunks.

 

 

Indulge in dockside dining


Looking for somewhere to refuel while exploring this year's River of Light installations? With cuisines from across the globe, there are so many options to choose from.

 

 

Lunyalita

Enjoy the flavours of Catalonia at Lunyalita, where a menu of delicious Spanish-inspired dishes is designed for sharing. Tuck into a selection of meat, fish and vegetable tapas, alongside hearty paella and other Catalan favourites. It’s a great spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family, right on the waterfront.

 

A big dish of rice, prawns, peppers and mussels, with slices of lemon in the middle.

 

Rosa’s Thai 

Bringing the vibrant flavours of Thailand to Liverpool, Rosa’s Thai serves up authentic dishes packed with fresh ingredients and plenty of flavour. Choose from favourites including Pad Thai, fragrant curries, noodle dishes and stir-fries, with a range of options to suit different tastes. Settle in for a relaxed meal before heading out to explore the River of Light.

 

A plate with noodles and prawns on. Someone is pulling noodles off the plate with chopsticks.

 

Gusto

Enjoy Italian-inspired dining at Gusto, with a menu packed with fresh pasta, pizza, steaks, seafood and other Italian favourites. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re after a relaxed family meal or a few drinks and small plates with friends. Their cocktail menu also offers plenty of choice for those looking to make an evening of it.

 

Overhead view of a restaurant table featuring a selection of dishes, including sliced steak served with a leafy salad topped with grated cheese, a breaded chicken fillet garnished with fresh herbs and spaghetti, a bowl of fries, and a cast-iron skillet filled with roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine and cutlery complete the dining scene.

 

Maray 

Take a break from exploring the lights and head to Maray for a menu of Middle Eastern-inspired small plates, designed to be shared with friends and family. Expect bold flavours, creative combinations and plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, alongside an impressive selection of cocktails. 

 

A table filled with colourful sharing plates, flatbreads, salads, dips and cocktails in a restaurant setting. The dishes are arranged for communal dining on a light wooden table.

 

Francie’s Focaccia & Coffee

For a bite on the go, Francie’s serves freshly baked, hand-stretched focaccia loaded with ingredients imported from Italy. From prosciutto and mortadella to inventive veggie and vegan combinations, it’s perfect for a light bite while strolling along the free 3km light trail.

 

A table with four plates of food on which are sandwiches, salads and bread.

 

Delhi House

Discover bold and vibrant Indian flavours at Delhi House, where traditional dishes are given a modern twist inspired by the bustling streets of New Delhi. From colourful curries and sharing dishes to plenty of vegetarian options, there’s lots to choose from. It’s a great place to warm up with a hearty meal before heading out to discover the illuminated waterfront.

 

Plates on a table with different food dishes on including a curry.

 

Revolution

Head to Revolution for a lively spot overlooking the dock, serving a menu of hearty classics, burgers, pizzas, small plates and cocktails. With floor-to-ceiling windows, a mezzanine and dockside terrace, it’s a great place to grab a bite or settle in for drinks after exploring the River of Light.

 

Rudy’s Pizza 

Pizza fans can enjoy authentic Neapolitan-style pizza at Rudy’s, made with a light, airy sourdough base and quality ingredients. Choose from classic favourites or try one of their more creative combinations, with options to suit meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Pair your pizza with a drink and enjoy a casual meal during your River of Light visit.

 

A pizza with cheese, pepperoni and basil on it being held by someone wearing a black top that says Rudy's.

 

What’s Cooking

If hearty comfort food is what you’re after, What’s Cooking has plenty to choose from. The menu includes burgers, loaded fries, fajitas, steaks and indulgent desserts, making it an easy choice for a satisfying meal. With generous portions and a relaxed setting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

 

 

Pasta Cosa 

Enjoy freshly made pasta at Pasta Cosa, where an open kitchen brings the pasta-making process to life. Choose from freshly made pasta shapes and a selection of authentic sauces, with options including Bolognese, carbonara and portobello mushroom and spinach. Set against the waterfront, it’s a relaxed spot for a meal with friends or family.

 

A restaurant table featuring bowls of pasta and other dishes, with a fork lifting strands of creamy tagliatelle from a plate in the foreground. A can of Diet Coke, glasses of soft drink, and additional meals including pasta and meat dishes are arranged around the table, creating a casual dining scene.

 

The Botanist

Round off your River of Light evening at The Botanist, a lively bar and restaurant with a colourful atmosphere and plenty to choose from. Enjoy a menu of hearty dishes and sharing plates alongside creative cocktails and a wide selection of drinks. Located just moments from the illuminated waterfront, it’s a great place to continue your evening after experiencing the lights.

 

Overhead view of a marble-topped restaurant table set with a selection of contemporary dishes and drinks. A central plate features burrata with tomatoes and herbs, surrounded by croquettes served with peas, fries, coleslaw, and cocktails. Hands reach in to hold a plate and a pink-coloured drink, creating a shared dining atmosphere.

 

You can find out more about the Royal Albert Dock and what they have to offer all year round on their website here.