Soaking up the vibrant musical legacy of Liverpool doesn't have to cost the earth.
From cultural hotspots to quirky hidden gems, there are plenty of activities that cost £20 or less, perfect for cost-savvy city explorers seeking a new experience.
Why not leave the car at home and take the train instead? Not only is travelling by train more affordable when you factor in parking and petrol, but it’s the perfect way to save time and the environment, too! No getting stuck in frustrating traffic and no hunting for parking spaces, just sit back, relax, and let an LNR train take you straight to the heart of the action. With railcard discounts, off-peak tickets, and group savings, travelling by train can make your day out to Liverpool even more cost-effective.
Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or nature lover, read on to explore our favourite things to do in Liverpool for under £20 for an unforgettable day trip by train!
Experiences in Liverpool
Known for its revolutionary music scene, famous football clubs, and UNESCO World Heritage waterfront which was the world’s first commercial enclosed wet dock, Liverpool has something for everyone.
Hop aboard an LNR train to Liverpool, with frequent services running directly to Liverpool Lime Street station from popular cities across the UK including Birmingham, Nuneaton, and London.
Experience the magic of Liverpool Central Library
- 0.2 miles from Liverpool Lime Street
For book lovers far and wide, step inside one of the most beautiful libraries in the UK and explore shelves filled with famous rare editions, much-loved classics, and the historic Picton Reading Room renowned for its stunning domed ceiling. Located just a 5-minute walk from the station, Liverpool Central Library is the perfect place to wander through history and lose yourself in the wonder of books. If you’re travelling with kids, the family-friendly children’s zone, situated in a transformed historic space, is perfect for keeping the whole family entertained. The library also features a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of Liverpool’s unique skyline, and with free entry, what’s not to love?
Step back in time at the Liverpool World Museum
- 0.3 miles from Liverpool Lime Street
History buffs, this one is for you. Located an 8-minute walk from Liverpool Lime Street station, the World Museum is brimming with fascinating exhibitions spanning millions of years of history, from Ancient Egypt to the wonders of space exploration. The museum also features plenty of immersive exhibitions to get up close to history, and if you’re travelling with little ones, the aquarium featuring hermit crabs and smiling sharks is sure to be a hit! Entry is free to the museum, making it a must-visit spot in the city for an affordable day out, or as part of an exciting history tour of Liverpool.
Relax in nature at the Wavertree Botanic Gardens
- 1.6 miles from Liverpool Lime Street
Fancy a break from the hustle and bustle of city life? Liverpool’s Wavertree Botanic Gardens offer the perfect slice of nature in the centre of the city, offering beautiful blooms in a historic 19th-century walled garden and featuring a Grade II listed curator’s lodge, an ornamental fountain, and a vibrant aviary to add to the charm. The garden is free to enter and is the perfect getaway for wildlife lovers, families, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape to nature.
Go underground at the Williamson Tunnels
- 1.1 miles from Liverpool Lime Street
Beneath the streets of Liverpool lies one of the city’s most intriguing hidden gems, transporting visitors back in time through an underground labyrinth. The Williamson Tunnels , constructed by eccentric businessman Joseph Williamson in the early 19th Century, consist of a network of winding passages, with their original function remaining a mystery to modern-day historians. Visitors can take a tour of a section of Williamson’s underground world and uncover the little-known stories of Liverpool’s secretive past through a range of fascinating exhibitions and displays.
Adult entry to the tunnels is just £5, and family entry is £15 for two adults and two children, making it another amazing stop on your Liverpool adventure for a cost-savvy day out.
Glide along the Albert Docks on a river sightseeing cruise
- 1 mile from Liverpool Lime Street
Liverpool owes much of its cultural heritage to its unique dockside location, so it’s only right that you experience the city from the famous water itself! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing sightseeing trip or a unique way to explore the city that doesn’t cost a fortune, hopping on a river cruise lets you see Liverpool from a whole new perspective. Cruise around the 19th Century Albert Docks with commentary from an experienced tour guide, and take in the sights of the city from its lively waterfront.
Admission to the cruise costs £8 for adults and £4 for children, and each ticket includes a 30-minute cruise that drops you back off at the Royal Albert Dock afterwards so you can explore the area for yourself.
Explore the oldest Chinatown in Europe
- 0.6 miles from Liverpool Lime Street
For a unique cultural day out, why not wander the vibrant streets of Liverpool’s Chinatown district, established in the late 1860s as the first Chinatown in Europe? The area came to life after an influx of Chinese immigrants moved to Liverpool to work in the city’s thriving shipping industry, and has since grown to become a bustling hotspot marked by an ornate Chinese arch imported directly from Shanghai. Visiting Chinatown is free, although you may want to bring some money along to sample some of the area’s authentic Chinese and pan-Asian cuisine - you won’t regret it!
Plan your journey
If any of these experiences are calling your name, then why not take the train? Taking an LNR train can make your adventure even more affordable, as well as make your journey part of the adventure. Travelling by train not only cuts out the hassle of city centre traffic and parking, but it also gives you access to great budget-friendly fares, especially when booking in advance or travelling off-peak.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your train now and get ready for an affordable adventure in some of the UK’s best cities!