Liverpool has played a key role in UK history over the years and the city’s origins can be traced back as far as 1190. Today, Liverpool is a bustling port city that is known for being the stomping grounds of famous musicians and footballers alike.

Free walking tours in Liverpool provide an affordable and enjoyable way to engage with the metropolitan borough, with a local guide leading the way.

See all the most famous sites and learn about the area’s history as you stroll through the beautiful city squares and streets.

Here's all you need to know about a free walking tour, one of the most engaging in sightseeing tours in Liverpool.

How do free walking tours work?

Free walking tours in Liverpool have become increasingly popular in recent years as they provide tourists with an affordable and authentic way of experiencing this incredible city.

These tours are completely free to book and participate in, but it is encouraged that you tip your tour guide at the end of the tour. The amount you decide to tip is completely up to you.

How much should you tip?

When deciding how much to tip, think about the effort that your guide put into the tour and how much you enjoyed the tour overall.

Most tour participants tend to tip between €10 and €15 per person, but some people tip as much as €50 for outstanding tours.

What are the best free walking tours in Liverpool?

While there are plenty of exciting walking tours in Liverpool, it is worth joining a free tour with a local guide to get an introduction to the city.

Welcome to Liverpool free walking tour

Gain the ideal introduction to the city of Liverpool and learn about its fascinating history throughout the centuries to the present day. Your local guide will take you to the city’s most famous attractions and you’ll also visit a few hidden gems.

The first place that you will visit on this comprehensive walking tour of Liverpool is the Cavern Quarter, where The Beatles grew up and rose to stardom. You’ll also visit Pier Head and discover more about the Church of Our Lady and the Three Graces, among other local landmarks.

Your guide will lead the way to the Royal Albert Dock and you’ll learn about how Liverpool was involved in the story of the Titanic. The dock itself is one of the most famous docks in the entire country and it is steeped in history and legends.

The tour ends at one of the world’s most famous maritime monuments— the very first dock ever built. At the end of this tour, you would have gained a thorough understanding of Liverpool’s historical importance and have a better idea of the city’s landmarks and layout.

Beatles and cathedrals free tour

Did you know that the members of The Beatles were born in and grew up in Liverpool? This tour celebrates the history and success of the famous British band, and also visits some of Liverpool’s most beautiful cathedrals along the way.

The tour begins at the iconic Imperial Chinese Arch, where your guide will give you a brief history lesson on The Beatles and their well-known connection to Liverpool. You’ll also be given some information on Liverpool’s connection to China throughout the ages.

One of the tour’s major highlights is visiting the surroundings of Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, where many famous entertainers made their debut. Another highlight is the

Philharmonic Pub, which has connections to John Lennon and Paul McCartney.

You’ll discover some of the clubs where The Beatles began their adventures, including The Blue Angel and the Jacaranda Club. The tour ends at the Bombed-Out Church, where you’ll gain some insight into World Wars I and II.

Merseystriders free walking tour in Liverpool

Explore the best of what Liverpool has to offer surrounding the Mersey River with a local “lad” as your experienced guide. This tour acts as a great introduction to the city, and by the end of it you’ll know your way around Liverpool’s most popular neighborhoods.

The tour begins at Liverpool Lime Street Station, where you will meet your passionate guide— a Liverpool native. You’ll visit more than 25 local landmarks during the course of the tour including cathedrals, tombs, TV set locations, clubs and so much more.

Your tour guide holds your interest by sharing interesting and entertaining anecdotes, as well as providing “now and then” images that give you a peek into Liverpool’s past and present.

There’ll be many fantastic photo opportunities for you to take advantage of.

The tour ends in the majestic surroundings of St John’s Gardens and St George’s Hall. You’ll receive a complimentary “data drop” email that has links to the landmarks that were visited during the tour, as well as a wealth of helpful information for visitors.

Magical music free walking tour in Liverpool

Liverpool is steeped in rich musical history and the city has ties to a long list of famous musicians. In addition to general Liverpool history, you’ll learn more about the time that The Beatles and many other musicians have spent in the city.

Meet your guide at the Liverpool Pier Head, where you’ll enjoy a leisurely stroll around the surrounding area and learn about Liverpool’s fascinating maritime heritage. You’ll also get to see all the dockland museums, including The Beatles Museum.

Once you have explored the port, you’ll be taken on a walking tour of the city and the Cavern Quarter which is filled with bars, including the famous Cavern Club, that are linked to The Beatles and other bands. The Central Library, Walker Art Gallery and World Museum will also be seen.

There are extensions of this tour, which delve deeper into the lives of The Beatles and the inspirations for their most popular songs, available for an additional cost. You’ll also get to hear your guide sing with his trusty ukulele.

In which languages is it operated?

All free walking tours in Liverpool are operated in English. However, there are also a few tours that also offer walking tours in Spanish. It is important to check that the time slot that you are booking is taking place in your preferred language.

Where does it start?

Most free walking tours in Liverpool begin at easy-to-find landmarks in the city such as well-known cafes and city squares.

Popular meeting points include the Imperial Chinese Arch and Liverpool Lime Street Station. In most cases, your guide describes themselves so that you can locate them without issue.

Remember to arrive at the meeting point at least 5 minutes before the tour’s starting time so that you do not keep your tour guide and other tour participants waiting.

How long does it last?

The typical duration of a free walking tour in Liverpool is 2.5 hours. You’ll most likely cover around 5 kilometers so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.

When is the best time to join a free walking tour in Liverpool?

Take a free walking tour in Liverpool in the morning, so you’ll be able to view important landmarks before they get too busy. As morning tours usually end around lunchtime, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon free to explore Liverpool on your own terms.

It is best to book a walking tour for the beginning of your stay in Liverpool as these tours act as great introductions to the city. You’ll learn about the attractions on offer and gain a better understanding of the city’s layout.

Should you book tickets online?

Booking your free walking tour online is easy and free of charge so there is no reason to not book your tour ahead of time. Free walking tours in Liverpool can fill up very quickly as tours are often limited to a certain number of participants.

It is best to book your preferred walking tour well ahead of time to secure your spot on the tour and avoid disappointment. Once this is taken care of, you can begin planning other aspects of your itinerary and prepare for your trip accordingly.

Book your free walking tour in Liverpool in just a couple of clicks and enjoy the assurance of knowing that your place on the tour is secured.

Free Walking Tours in Liverpool