7 of Liverpool’s Hidden Tourist Gems

Liverpool is blessed with plenty of famous and spectacular tourist attractions. For the music fan, there’s The Cavern on Mathew Street, the architecture fan can be treated to the most listed buildings outside of London and for the football fan there’s Prenton Park on the Wirral (or one of those stadiums North Liverpool). Scratch beneath the surface though, and there’s lots more to see and do. Here, The Guide Liverpool continues it’s mission to bring you some of the less obvious jewels in Merseyside’s crown. Whether you are visiting the city, showing someone around or simply being a tourist for the day yourself, take a look at some of these fantastic tourist stops.

The Hardman’s House

This National Trust building on Rodney Street is a great time capsule of 1950s British life as well as a fascinating insight into the work of an important photographer in history. E. Chambre Hardman was an Irish photographer who spent much of his life in Liverpool. His Rodney Street home is open to visitors 11.30am to 3.30pm daily with regular 90 minute tours. As well as the remarkably preserved studio and darkroom which was ran by Hardman and his wife, there is also a beautiful walled garden at the address.

Williamson Tunnels

These mysterious and fascinating tunnels which were ordered to be dug by the eccentric businessman and philanthropist Joseph Williamson (AKA ‘The Mole Of Edge Hill) are a must-visit in our opinion. While Williamson’s motives for digging the tunnels are disputed, a journey into subterranean Liverpool is an experience not to be missed. Friends of Williamson’s Tunnels are busy excavating the tunnels which extend to a network across the entire city centre. Their visitor centre is occasionally open to the public and also holds night time events. Go to williamsontunnels.com/ for more info.

Open Eye Photography Gallery

Another one for the photographer or anyone who is a fan of the art form. Open Eye Gallery, situated in the Mann Island complex near to the Pier Head is a lovely minimalist designed space which always has interesting, provocative exhibitions. The donation-based entry fee also means you pay what you can afford.

Lutyens Crypt and Treasury

Underneath the imposing edifice of the Catholic Cathedral is another place of true architectural interest. The Crypt beneath the Metropolitan Cathedral is the only completed part of the original design for the building drafted by famous architect Edwin Lutyens. It’s another bargain afternoon out with admission £3 per person for a slice of history.

Princes Road Synagogue

A real asset to the city which many people don’t even know exists, Princes Road Synagogue was the first Grade I listed Synagogue outside of London. No matter what your faith this truly spectacular building is well worth a visit. Pre-booked tours from Monday to Thursday are possible through special arrangement. Go to princesroad.org for more info and contact details.

Hobo Kiosk

This Aladdin’s Cave of weird and wonderful objects collected from flea markets and car boots sales across the region and further afield is a new addition to the thriving Baltic Triangle area of the city. Pop in to have a browse at the vintage clothes, curio objects and vinyl. It’ll be a trip down memory lane if nothing else. Check them out on facebook here

Berry and Rye

Photo BarMagazine.co.uk

Truly a hidden gem, after a hard day of taking in all the sights the city has to offer, relax with a cocktail at this speakeasy on Berry Street, if you can find it! You’ll need to knock on the door and then you’ll be let in only if there are seats available.