Museum of Liverpool, Liverpool (must see)

The Museum of Liverpool opened in 2011. Its striking modern building on Mann Island at Pier Head, right on the waterfront between the Royal Albert Dock and the Three Graces was purpose-built to tell the story of the city, its people, and its influence far beyond the Mersey area.

Once inside, you’ll enter the large central atrium. Before exploring, look for the information desk and the museum shop nearby. Lockers are available on the ground floor, so this is a good place to leave any heavy bags before you begin. A convenient way to visit is to take the lift toward the upper galleries first and gradually work your way back down.

On the second floor, follow the signs for The People’s Republic and Wondrous Place. The People’s Republic focuses on everyday life in Liverpool-its neighbourhoods, communities, housing, politics, religion, health, and education. Wondrous Place turns to the city’s creative side, covering Liverpool’s musicians, performers, writers, artists, comedians, and sporting culture.

While you’re on this level, head toward the large windows at the river-facing end of the building. From here, you get one of the museum’s best views across the River Mersey. Turn toward Pier Head, and you can also look across to the Royal Liver Building, easily identified by its two clock towers topped with Liver Birds.

Now, make your way down to the first floor. Follow signs for History Detectives, where archaeological finds, maps, objects, and interactive displays explore Liverpool’s much longer history. Nearby, City Soldiers tells the story of the King’s Regiment and Liverpool’s military connections.

Continue downward to the ground floor, where The Great Port section explains how Liverpool developed into one of the world’s major ports. Look out for large transport exhibits connected with the docks and the historic Liverpool Overhead Railway. The nearby Global City displays examine Liverpool’s international connections as well as the people and ideas that arrived here through trade and migration.

Families with young children can also look for Little Liverpool, a hands-on gallery designed especially for younger visitors.

Before leaving, return to the atrium for the museum shop, where many souvenirs focus on Liverpool landmarks, music, football, and the famous Super Lambanana. Allow time simply to enjoy the building itself. Its broad windows deliberately connect Liverpool’s history inside the museum with the docks, river, and skyline immediately outside.