17 Best Date Ideas in Liverpool for 2024
Liverpool offers a variety of fantastic date ideas for couples to enjoy. Whether you’re into art, music, history, or just, a bar and a bag of crisps – we’ve got the best date ideas in Liverpool for you.
Liverpool is synonymous with music, history, football and lots more. But it can also be a pretty romantic city too. It’s set by water, which makes simply strolling along the docks one of the great date ideas in Liverpool. It’s also free.
Or if you fancy exploring new art, old history or seeing live shows, Liverpool is the epi-center of culture. Ok…we won’t talk about how it lost its ‘UNESCO City of Culture status’, because it still remains one of the most fascinating and lively cities in the UK.
There’s lots of things to do in Liverpool on a date whether you’re looking for something in the evening, afternoon or early morning. We’ve made a list of arguably some of the most romantic activities that you can enjoy doing with your partner for any time of day. From afternoon tea to evening waterfront walks, here are 15 top dates in Liverpool to inspire you.
15 romantic things to do in Liverpool
For your next great date (or 15) in Liverpool, why not work your way through our list of these affordable date ideas in the city?
1. Visit The Beatles Story
If you’re a fan of the Fab Four, the Beatles Story Museum is a must-visit. Explore the history of the Beatles and their impact on music and culture. It’s a fascinating journey through the story of four young Liverpudlians who rose from humble beginnings to incredible fame and fortune.
Explore authentic replicas of Mathew Street, Abbey Road Studios, and The Cavern, which recreate the early ’60s atmosphere and let you step into the places that contributed to The Beatles’ rise to global stardom.
If your date is a Beatles fan, a music lover or you’re just looking for something different to do then this is a great spot for a date.
2. Take a romantic walk along the waterfront
The Albert Dock and the Pier Head offer beautiful views of the River Mersey. What’s more romantic than strolling hand in hand, enjoy the architecture, and maybe even take a ferry ride.
Liverpool’s waterfront is a prime spot for a romantic walk. The views of the River Mersey and the city skyline can set a wonderful atmosphere for a date. You can watch the sunset over the water or simply enjoy the scenery of the waterfront. The iconic Royal Liver Building and the trio of majestic buildings along the waterfront add a touch of grandeur to your date.
3. Visit the World Museum
The World Museum in Liverpool has an array of exhibits, including art, natural history, and archaeology. It’s a great place for couples to discover something new together.
Discover incredible objects from around the world, explore outer space and meet live creatures! There’s an aquarium, a natural history collection, an ancient egyptian gallery, a planetarium and approximately 80,000 artefacts from across the ancient world and notable for its egyptian, greek, roman and anglo-saxon collections. It’s open six days a week and is free!
A perfect date for the endlessly curious and the history lovers.
4. Listen to music together at the Philharmonic Hall
If you both enjoy classical music or orchestral performances, catch a concert at the Philharmonic Hall. It is a renowned venue, known for its exceptional acoustics and elegant interior.
The Philharmonic Hall hosts a wide range of performances, including classical concerts, contemporary compositions, and orchestral renditions of popular music. The hall’s stunning architecture makes for a rather special and romantic setting for your date too.
5. Wander hand in hand around Tate Liverpool
For art enthusiasts, the Tate Liverpool features contemporary and modern art exhibitions. It’s a great place for a cultural date. Located in the Albert Dock, the museum combines contemporary art, thought-provoking installations, and a dynamic roster of temporary exhibitions, making it a perfect destination for an art-centric date night.
The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, which means that no two visits are ever the same. These exhibitions often feature themes or artists that are relevant to contemporary issues, providing an excellent conversation starter for your date.
A cultural evening at Tate Liverpool offers an intellectually stimulating kind of date.
6. Eat lunch at the Baltic Market
This cool food market is perfect for a casual lunch date. Enjoy a variety of foods from different vendors. It’s located in the Cains Brewery Village and open Wed & Thurs 5pm-10pm, Friday 12pm-11pm, Saturday 11am-11pm and Sunday 11am-9pm. There’s no need to make reservations, just turn up. Baltic Market is a place for vegans, meat lovers, the gluten free and the never full.
It’s Liverpool’s first street food market with special events throughout the year from jazz and wine nights, Eurovision watch parties and oktoberfest celebrations. Check their social media for any extra special events to impress your date with.
7. Marvel at Liverpool Cathedral
Liverpool Cathedral is a magnificent and iconic landmark that offers a beautiful setting for a date. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or simply looking for an interesting place to explore together, Liverpool Cathedral has so much to offer.
It is one of the largest cathedrals in the world and boasts stunning Gothic Revival architecture. The interior is equally impressive, featuring a grand nave, beautiful stained glass windows, and intricate stonework. The sheer scale and beauty of the cathedral make it a wonderful place to visit.
For a more adventurous king of date, consider taking one of the tower tours. You and your partner can climb the tower for sweeping views of the city and the River Mersey. The sights from the tower can be glorious during the evening as the sun sets over Liverpool.
Liverpool Cathedral is known for its exceptional acoustics, and it often hosts concerts and musical events. Check the cathedral’s events calendar to see if there’s a performance that aligns with your visit, if you and your date love live music.
8. Head to the Royal Albert Dock
This bustling area is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s perfect for a leisurely day of dining and shopping, whilst the views of the River Mersey and the architecture of the dock buildings create a great atmosphere for a romantic date.
The dock offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You can have a more sophisticated traditional dinner date while enjoying the waterfront views.
If you and your date enjoy shopping, the Royal Albert Dock has a selection of boutique stores selling unique gifts, fashion, and artisan products. You can browse for souvenirs or pick up something special. While you’re there, why not do as they do in Paris and Venice and buy a padlock to symbolise your love?
In the evenings, the Royal Albert Dock comes alive with a buzzing nightlife scene. Some of the bars and venues host live music, and you can enjoy cocktails and live entertainment for a fun filled date night.The dock also provides a front-row seat to some breathtaking sunsets over the river. Consider timing your visit to catch this gorgeous moment, which can add a touch of romance to your date.
9. Have a picnic in Sefton Park
Enjoy a peaceful walk in Sefton Park, a beautiful urban park that offers an escape from the city. Sefton Park is known for its lush, manicured lawns, tree-lined avenues and flower displays. This expansive park offers a delightful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, and it’s an excellent choice for nature lovers and couples looking to relax outdoors.
The Sefton Park Palm House is a beautiful glasshouse filled with exotic plants and seasonal displays. It’s a wonderful place to visit and perhaps enjoy a quiet moment surrounded by greenery.
The park also features a boating lake where you can rent rowboats or pedalos. You can even rent pedalos in the shape of swans, which is obviously a very romantic date idea in Liverpool. A boat ride on the lake could add a touch of romance and novelty to your time in the park together. Or you could even pack a picnic and enjoy an alfresco meal on one of the park’s open lawns or find a secluded spot by the lake.
Sefton Park provides a setting for a date where you can escape the city’s noise and immerse yourselves in the beauty of nature. Whether you’re taking a boat ride, having a picnic, or simply strolling hand in hand, this park offers the opportunity for quality time together.
10. Laugh out loud at the Hot Water Comedy Club
If you and your partner have a shared love for laughter and enjoy a good sense of humour, a comedy night at the Hot Water Comedy Club in Liverpool can make for an incredibly entertaining date.
The club offers an intimate setting, creating a cosy atmosphere for the audience. The small venue ensures that you get up-close and personal with the comedians, allowing for an interactive and potentially hilarious experience.
Laughter is a fantastic way to bond, and enjoying a comedy night together can create lasting memories and inside jokes that you’ll share for years to come. It offers a light-hearted, and incredibly fun kind of date. It’s an opportunity to let loose and, more importantly for first dates, break the ice!
11. Take a Beatles Tour
If you’re both Beatles fans, consider a guided Beatles tour that takes you to key locations associated with the band’s history. It’s no doubt one of the best date ideas in Liverpool if you love music.
Numerous tour operators in Liverpool offer guided Beatles tours. You can choose from various options, including walking tours, bus tours, and even self-guided tours with informative audio guides. Your tour guide will likely be a passionate Beatles expert, providing you with fascinating insights and anecdotes.
The tour will take you to iconic locations that are part of The Beatles’ history. This may include Penny Lane, Strawberry Field, childhood homes of band members, and of course, the famous Cavern Club.
Whether you and your partner are lifelong Beatles fans or are discovering their music for the first time, a Beatles tour offers an opportunity to bond over a shared passion for music and history.
12. Enjoy a day trip to the Wirral
A day trip to the Wirral offers a delightful escape from the city and an opportunity to explore beautiful parks and coastal landscapes just across the River Mersey from Liverpool.It’s easily accessible by car or public transport, with several scenic routes that take you through the countryside and along the stunning coastline. The drive itself can be a part of the adventure!
Explore Wirral Country Park, which boasts breathtaking views of the River Dee and the Welsh hills. The park is crisscrossed with walking and cycling trails, providing an opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the landscape.
If you and your date love the beach then make your way to West Kirby, a coastal town with a sandy beach and a marine lake. You can enjoy a seaside picnic, take a walk along the promenade, or try your hand at sailing!
Birkenhead Park is a picturesque Victorian park designed by Joseph Paxton, who later designed Central Park in New York City. The park’s expansive lakes, pathways, and historic features make it a great place for a relaxed afternoon. Depending on the timing of your visit, consider staying to watch the sunset over the Dee Estuary. It’s a romantic way to conclude your day trip and appreciate the natural beauty of the Wirral Peninsula.
13. Have a fancy afternoon tea together
Liverpool offers an array of venues where you can indulge in the classy tradition of afternoon tea. This classic experience is perfect for couples looking for the best date ideas in Liverpool that are also sophisticated and centred around food!
Afternoon tea typically includes an assortment of delicate finger sandwiches with various fillings paired with scones and clotted cream. For afters, an array of sweets and pastries, including cakes, tarts, and pastel-coloured macarons are included. These delicious treats are almost too pretty to eat!
Many of Liverpool’s afternoon tea venues are set in historic buildings, boutique hotels, or traditional tearooms. The atmosphere often exudes elegance and sophistication, providing the perfect refined date. You can expect a variety of high-quality tea blends to choose from, ranging from classic English breakfast tea to more exotic options. Some venues even offer a glass of bubbly to make the occasion extra special.
Liverpool boasts a wide selection of venues that offer afternoon tea, from iconic landmarks like the Liver Building to charming tea rooms nestled in the city’s historic quarters such as The Art School Cellars, Oh Me Oh My, Panoramic 34, the aforementioned Palm House or the Hard Day’s Night Hotel. Choose the perfect location to match your date.
14. Learn together with a cocktail-making class
Many bars and restaurants in Liverpool offer cocktail-making classes, where you can learn to craft your own cocktails. If this is you and your partner’s first date then this is the perfect ice breaker – pun fully intended!
Cocktail-making classes are typically led by professional bartenders or mixologists who share their expertise and guide you through the process of crafting a variety of cocktails. Bars such as The Florist, Revolution De Cuba Liverpool and All Bar One, amongst many others, are places that offer them.
These classes are interactive, ensuring that you and your partner get to roll up your sleeves and get involved in the cocktail-making process. You’ll have the opportunity to shake, stir, muddle, and garnish your drinks. As you create your cocktails, you’ll also have the chance to taste your creations.
Some classes add an element of friendly competition, allowing you and your partner to compete with other couples in creating the best cocktails. It can be a fun and lighthearted way to bond and test your mixology skills.
15. Take the escape room challenge
An escape room challenge in Liverpool makes for an immersive and thrilling date that combines problem-solving, teamwork, and a healthy dose of excitement. It’s an ideal choice to bond with your date whilst having fun!
Liverpool boasts a variety of escape rooms, each with its unique theme, story, and difficulty level. Themes can range from historical mysteries and detective adventures to science fiction scenarios and horror-themed rooms. Places include Breakout Liverpool, Escape Live Liverpool and Game Over Liverpool. Choose a theme to personalise the experience to your date’s tastes to show a thoughtful side and a n out of the ordinary date!
16. Sail along on a river cruise
Enjoy a romantic cruise on the River Mersey. There are various options, including dinner cruises and sightseeing tours. A river cruise in Liverpool can be a fantastic idea for a date, offering a unique and memorable experience. Consider taking a harbour tour departing from the Royal Albert Dock. These boat trips offer a different perspective of the city and the waterfront, and they can be a memorable way to spend time together.
Liverpool’s waterfront is beautiful, and a river cruise provides an opportunity to take in the lovely views of the city from a different perspective. You’ll see iconic landmarks, historic buildings, and the River Mersey at its best.
If you like photography, or are just a fan of a selfie, the cruise offers numerous photo opportunities allowing you to capture memories with your date. A river cruise offers a date that stands out from the typical dinner-and-movie options. It’s something that you and your partner are likely to remember fondly forever.
17. Visit the Walker Art Gallery
For art lovers, the Walker Art Gallery features an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative art. It can be a great place for a date, especially if you and your partner appreciate art and culture.
The gallery houses an impressive collection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative art from various time periods. It showcases a diverse range of art styles, from classical masterpieces to contemporary works.
The Walker Art Gallery offers free admission, making it an affordable date option, allowing you to enjoy art and culture without the expense. To add to all the magic, the gallery is housed in a stunning historic building with impressive architecture for added wow factor to the date.
Quicklist of the best date ideas in Liverpool
- Visit The Beatles Story
- Take a romantic walk along the waterfront
- Visit the World Museum
- Listen to music together at the Philharmonic Hall
- Wander hand in hand around Tate Liverpool
- Eat lunch at the Baltic Market
- Marvel at Liverpool Cathedral
- Head to the Royal Albert Dock
- Have a picnic in Sefton Park
- Laugh out loud at the Hot Water Comedy Club
- Take a Beatles Tour
- Enjoy a day trip to the Wirral
- Have a fancy afternoon tea together
- Learn together with a cocktail-making class
- Take the escape room challenge
- Sail along on a river cruise
- Visit the Walker Art Gallery
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