7 things not to miss at St George’s Hall this year

Famous film location, architectural icon, emotional heart of Liverpool, and more.

Since it opened in 1854, St George’s Hall has been a star of the city and as well as having a reputation as one of the finest neo-classical buildings in the world, it’s an ever changing tourist attraction with loads of events and features that bring in the crowds.

And here are 7 things that you won’t want to miss this year…

The Minton Tiles are being unveiled again soon

One of Liverpool’s absolute treasures, the Great Hall is set to reveal its magnificent Minton Tile floor from July 17 to September 2. Usually protected beneath a wooden covering to preserve its intricate craftsmanship, the Minton floor boasts 30,000 decorative tiles depicting the city’s coat of arms, sea nymphs, dolphins and tritons, and reflecting the importance of the sea to Liverpool’s 19th century prosperity. The theme is the unity of the three kingdoms of the UK, with England represented by roses, Scotland by thistles and Ireland by shamrocks.

Candlelight Concerts

There are few venues which look as incredible by candlelight, and St George’s Hall is made even more magical by thousands of flickering flames and the sound of classical musicians playing everything from Fleetwood Mac to Radiohead and the Best of Bridgerton to Abba, The Beatles, Ed Sheeran and Coldplay. There’s a series of Candlelight Concerts across the summer, starting with a Tribute to Fleetwood Mac on Saturday, May 30.

St George’s Hall Beer Festival

You can sample around 250 beers and ciders when well-known city hostelry The Ship and Mitre sails into the hall with its famous Beer Festival. It’s on from Thursday, September 24 to Sunday, September 27, when it will showcase incredible brews from across the UK alongside some of the best local ones. There’ll be entertainment throughout every session bar one – the Friday afternoon is a quiet session for those who prefer a relaxed atmosphere – along with food from regional vendors.

Visit the ever-changing Stable Gallery

The Stable Gallery is the hall’s brand-new arts and exhibition space, created for local artists from across the Liverpool City Region to showcase their work. Until May 30, it’s hosting the Liverpool Schools Football Association Exhibition, with archive materials, memorabilia and personal stories that highlight the LSFA’s impact from the 19th century to today.

St George’s Hall Film Tour

Lights, camera and, action! Liverpool Film Office takes you on an immersive guided experience with the chance to follow in the footsteps of Hollywood legends, multi-platinum musicians … and even a Shelby or two. Discover the behind-the-scenes secrets of the Grade I listed landmark as you explore locations that have doubled for Gotham City, London and New York. You’ll walk through the cells and law courts, the basement, the Great Hall, the Concert Room and more which have featured in tons of film and TV from The Batman to a Coca-Cola ad! From May 20.

The Clink and The Court Tour

From this month The Clink & The Court tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the eerie prison cells hidden beneath the landmark building, as well as the iconic courtroom above. You can hear the chilling stories of its most infamous criminals and the harsh conditions they endured, and whether you’re a history enthusiast, a true-crime fan, or just curious about Liverpool’s past, it’s a riveting insight into the darker side of the city.

Christmas with A Christmas Carol and more

Credit: Swing Into Christmas with Down for the Count Swing Orchestra / St George’s Hall

It’ll be here before you know it, and you can’t beat the festive feel St George’s Hall gives to any end of year event or production whether that’s A Christmas Carol, as GINIFICENT returns with its haunting production of the Charles Dickens classic, or yuletide concerts like Swing Into Christmas with Down for the Count Swing Orchestra and The Christmas Orchestra’s collection of traditional carols, classics and film favourites guaranteed to get you into the festive spirit.