Museum of Liverpool

About

The Museum of Liverpool is a striking new addition to the city’s cultural landscape, opening its doors in 2011 on Pier Head. Designed by the innovative firm 3XN and built at a cost of £72 million, the museum sits on the former site of the National Maritime Museum and boasts a cutting‑edge, 8,000‑square‑metre layout that brings Liverpool’s vibrant history to life. Visitors are treated to four thematic galleries – The Great Port, Global City, People’s Republic, and Wondrous Place – each exploring the city’s maritime heritage, industrial rise, multicultural identity and modern aspirations. The museum’s centerpiece, the Little Liverpool gallery, offers immersive, interactive displays tailored for children and an engaging, story‑driven narrative that appeals to families and solo wanderers alike. Beyond the permanent exhibitions, the museum regularly hosts temporary shows, audio‑visual events, and educational workshops that celebrate the city’s creative spirit. Its 180‑seat theatre hosts performances and lectures, while the History Detectives resource centre invites visitors to dig into archaeological finds and historical records, making the Museum a dynamic learning hub for everyone from school groups to history buff tourists. A signature feature is the City Soldiers gallery, chronicling Liverpool’s military heritage through artifacts, personal stories, and multimedia presentations. The building itself is a landmark, featuring a striking glass facade and sweeping staircases that echo the ship‑shape of Liverpool’s maritime past. The museum welcomes everyone free of charge, encouraging spontaneous visits and making it a convenient stop for anyone exploring the city’s cultural offerings.

Highlights

• Little Liverpool
• City Soldiers Gallery
• 180‑Seat Theatre
• Free Admission

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At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes