Activities for Kids in Liverpool are a-plenty, and this is even the case if you’re looking for some budget-friendly family fun for the Summer.
Liverpool offers so many undiscovered opportunities for fun for us Southerners! There’s an absolutely stunning waterfront, gorgeous skyline, and because of one of the most famous bands that is ever to have lived- the Beetles- it’s one of the most photographed cities. I can’t mention how great a city it is without also mentioning their successful football club.
It’s hard to find activities for children without breaking the bank, especially during the summer holidays. Liverpool is a city in the UK that’s full of activities, history, culture and a treasure trove of free activities for families. Here’s your guide to free things to do with kids in Liverpool.
There’s so much history, cultural heritage, green open spaces, restaurants, waterside activities to do… the list goes on. So if you’re looking for a new city to discover for you and your kids, definitely add Liverpool to your list! But we do have to acknowledge that trips away with children do tend to be costly, so if you want to find activities for kids in Liverpool that won’t break the bank- check out my guide below for free or low cost things to do.
Visit Liverpool’s World Class Museums
There are loads of museums in Liverpool that provide a whole days worth of activities for kids, and many are free. Check out these ones perfect for curious young minds:
1. Museum of Liverpool
Located at the famous Pier Head, the Museum of Liverpool tells the story of the city’s history and culture. Kids will love:
- The Liverpool Overhead Railway exhibit: Step back in time and experience what it was like to ride the “Dockers Umbrella,” complete with sights and sounds from the early 20th century.
- The Little Liverpool gallery for under 6s: This hands-on area lets young children explore Liverpool’s port, markets and homes through play and interactive displays.
- Interactive displays about the city’s musical heritage: Hear the sounds of Liverpool, from sea shanties to the Beatles, with touch screen jukeboxes and listening stations.
2. World Museum
This is a little explorer’s paradise. The World Museum has:
- A cool aquarium: Get up close to aquatic life from around the world, including clownfish, seahorses and even sharks.
- A planetarium (small charge applies, but worth it): Go on a journey through space and time in this dome theatre, perfect for budding astronauts. Even if you’re not into space you’ll find this really interesting.
- Dinosaur exhibits and bug house: Meet life-size dinosaur replicas and explore the world of insects with live specimens and interactive displays.
3. Merseyside Maritime Museum
A dream for those who love all things sea related, this museum has:
- Ship models and maritime paintings: Admire detailed models of famous ships and beautiful seascapes that bring Liverpool’s maritime history to life.
- The Titanic and Liverpool: The Untold Story exhibition: Find out the city’s connection to the ill-fated ship through personal stories and artefacts.
- Interactive displays about life at sea: Try your hand at ship navigation, learn about sea rescue and explore a recreated captain’s cabin.
Pro tip: Check the museums’ websites for special events and workshops during school holidays. These are often free and include craft sessions, storytelling and science experiments.
Find Liverpool’s Green Spaces
There are loads of parks, gardens, and green spaces in Liverpool. This is perfect for outdoor adventures, a good run-around or family picnics.
4. Sefton Park
This is a massive Victorian park which has:
- A big playground for kids: With separate areas for younger and older children, climbing frames, swings and slides.
- The Palm House (free entry): A beautiful glass conservatory with exotic plants from around the world, often with free events and concerts.
- Boating lake and cafes: Rent a pedal boat (small fee) or have a picnic by the lake and watch the swans and ducks.
5. Calderstones Park
This is a secret gem in South Liverpool with:
- The Storybarn (free storytelling sessions): A lovely and imaginative space where stories come to life through interactive storytelling and play.
- Miniature railway (small charge): Take a ride on the mini train that goes around the park. This is a winner with my train loving toddler.
- Japanese and Old English gardens: Explore these beautiful gardens. Perfect for a peaceful walk if you have a little baby or a game of hide and seek with older kids.
6. Croxteth Hall and Country Park
Croxeth Hall itself has an entry fee, but the park is free and has:
- Victorian walled garden: Wander through this lovely garden. You can learn about historical plant varieties and gardening techniques.
- Nature trails and wildlife spotting: Follow the marked trails through woodlands and meadows and keep an eye out for the local wildlife like squirrels and birds.
- Big playground: Let the kids run wild on the colourful swings, slides and climbing frames.
Experience Liverpool’s Culture
7. Take a Beatles Walking Tour
You can’t visit Liverpool without a nod to the Beatles. You can make your own free Beatles tour:
- Visit Penny Lane and Strawberry Field gates: See the real-life locations that inspired some of the Beatles’ most famous songs.
- Get a photo at the Beatles statues at Pier Head: Pose with the life-size bronze statues of the Fab Four, this will make for a great family photo.
- Explore Mathew Street, home of the Cavern Club: Entry to the club isn’t free but you can soak up the atmosphere of this famous street and see the Wall of Fame.
8. Liverpool Cathedral
Did you know Liverpool has the biggest cathedral in the UK?!
- Free entry (donations are welcome): Explore this amazing building and admire the stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
- Children’s trail with activities: Pick up a free trail guide and turn your visit into a fun treasure hunt for the kids.
- Tower views (small charge): For a small fee climb to the top for great views of Liverpool and beyond.
Free Festivals and Events in Liverpool
Liverpool has loads of free events throughout the year for family days out.
10. Liverpool International Music Festival (LIMF)
Usually in July LIMF has:
- Free music: A variety of music genres across multiple stages with local and international artists.
- Family activities: Music workshops, face painting and interactive art installations for all ages.
- Food stalls and festival atmosphere: Try local food and enjoy the festival vibe in a family friendly environment.
11. River Festival
Usually in June this festival celebrates Liverpool’s maritime heritage with:
- Tall ships and naval vessels: Climb aboard the ships and learn about life at sea from real sailors.
- Street theatre and pop-up performances: Surprise performances and interactive shows throughout the festival area.
- Water sports demonstrations: Jet skiing, flyboarding and other water sports on the Mersey.
12. Light Night
This May event turns Liverpool into a cultural playground with:
- Interactive light installations: Dazzling light displays and projections that turn the city into a wonderland.
- Late night museum openings: Explore the museums and galleries after hours with special activities and performances.
- Family friendly workshops and performances: Creative workshops and performances for all ages.
Budget Tips for Your Liverpool Trip
- Pack a picnic: Save on food costs by making sandwiches, snacks and drinks at home and eating in one of Liverpool’s parks.
- Use public transport – kids go free on buses with a paying adult: Make the most of Liverpool’s bus network to see the city for less.
- Check local event listings for free activities during your visit: VisitLiverpool often list free events and activities happening around the city.
- Take a free walking tour: Join a guided walk with a local organisation to see Liverpool’s history and culture for free.
Free Indoor Activities in Liverpool for Rainy Days
The weather shouldn’t stop you. Liverpool has plenty of free indoor activities too.
13. Central Library
More than just books, Liverpool’s Central Library has:
- A rooftop with city views: Climb to the top for a free 360 degree view of the city.
- Storytelling sessions for kids: Free interactive storytelling events that bring books to life for kids.
- Interactive displays and exhibitions: Changing exhibits on local history, literature and culture with many hands-on elements for kids.
14. Tate Liverpool
Some exhibitions charge but the ground floor is always free:
- Kids art activities: Free workshops and art-making sessions to get your little ones creative.
- Modern art: Introduce your kids to world-class contemporary art in a family friendly environment.
- Family trails and activity packs: Pick up free resources to turn your gallery visit into an art adventure for the whole family.
15. Liverpool ONE Shopping Complex.
- A free splash fountain in Chavasse Park (summer months): Kids can cool off and play in the water jets on warm days.
- Free events and performances: Seasonal activities from outdoor cinema to live music and dance performances.
- Craft workshops during school holidays (some may charge a small fee): Make your own souvenirs to take home.
Conclusion: Activities For Kids in Liverpool for Free
Liverpool really is a treasure trove of free activities for families. From world-class museums to beautiful parks and from cultural landmarks to festivals, there’s something for everyone. I’ve certainly found that the best family memories come from the simplest experiences- and you can definitely keep it both simple and fun when visiting Liverpool.
Whether you’re exploring the Beatles’ legacy, picnicking in a Victorian park or marvelling at maritime history, Liverpool has you covered with loads of free family fun!