Fiona Outdoors logo My independent guide to the best of Scotland outdoors

Out of the City: One-day getaways from Liverpool

Written by Fiona

June 03 2026

A short break in the UK city of Liverpool offers the chance to explore many attractions. But it’s also a great base for visiting other places nearby. A well-developed rail and bus network makes these trips convenient and not too exhausting. To stay connected, even in the most remote parts of the country, a stable internet connection is essential. eSIM Plus provides just that, allowing you to check your maps and share your experiences with friends. Here is a list of places to visit from Liverpool:

Credit: Rachel Hannah / unsplash

Chester

Chester, a historic city located just 25km from Liverpool, is surrounded by a 3km stone wall that was built by the ancient Romans. Walking along this fortified structure, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city. The main historical streets – Eastgate, Northgate, and Watergate – were laid out approximately 2000 years ago and they are lined with beautiful half-timbered buildings from the Victorian era, which now house hotels, shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Among the city’s famous sights are the Bridge of Sighs and the Eastgate Clock, an antique clock from 1897 that is considered one of England’s most photographed landmarks after Big Ben. The medieval Chester Cathedral, with its stunning architecture, is also a must-see for tourists. Visitors can climb its tower for a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.

Crosby Beach

Crosby Beach is located just 10km from Liverpool. This long stretch of sand on the shores of the Irish Sea offers a unique experience for visitors. People come to this beach not only to admire the stunning scenery, but also to witness the local attraction – Anthony Gormley’s Another Place installation. Composed of 100 iron figures in the shape of naked people facing the sea, this artwork changes its position as the tides come and go, leaving some figures submerged in the water.

Credit: Jorry Verducci / unsplash

Manchester

The large industrial city of Manchester, located 55km from Liverpool, is famous for its numerous attractions, pubs, bars, and vibrant nightlife. Manchester is also home to the Manchester United football club, making it a popular destination for sports fans. Visitors can also explore Chetham’s Oldest Public Library in the UK, the John Rylands Library, Manchester Art Gallery, National Football Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, and the Greater Manchester Police Museum. A stroll through Albert Square is a must for anyone visiting Manchester.

Southport

Southport is a coastal town located 27km from Liverpool. It is famous for its world-class golf courses, annual air shows over the beach, a major flower show, and the British Musical Fireworks Championship. Tourists should also pay attention to the Botanical Garden, the second-largest pier in England, the British Lawn Mower Museum, the miniature railway on the lake shore, and the renovated Southport Pleasureland amusement park.

Port Sunlight

The charming village of Port Sunlight, 9km from Liverpool, was built in 1888 to house the workers of the soap factory. Today, it has become a popular destination for day trips from Liverpool, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the tranquility of an authentic English village. Its traditional architecture and rich history captivate visitors, and the local museum provides insight into the history of the soap factory, one of the largest manufacturers in the world.

Visitors can also explore the Lady Lever Art Gallery and the scenic city park, located on the banks of the Mersey River. From here, you can enjoy magnificent views of Liverpool’s waterfront, Cathedral, and Albert Dock.

Speke Hall

Speke Hall is a Tudor manor house that was built in the 16th century and has since become an architectural landmark. It is located approximately 13km from Liverpool. Visitors can enjoy authentic interiors that were restored in the 19th century, including the Tudor Great Hall, and the equipped kitchen and maid’s quarters from the Victorian era. The manor is richly decorated with Jacobean stucco and intricately carved furniture.

On the estate, there is a shop, restaurant, playground for children, a maze, an orchard, and a magnificent park.

Credit: Tanya Barrow / unsplash

Lake District National Park

The Lake District is the largest national park in the United Kingdom. This stunning location is an excellent choice for a day trip from Liverpool. The park is home to Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England (978m), and Wastwater, the deepest glacial lake in the country (79m).

One of the most popular destinations in the park is Lake Windermere, where visitors can enjoy a picnic, boat trips, bike rentals, walks around the area, and relaxing in cafés and restaurants. Various activities are available on the park’s territory, including a rope park, archery, climbing, and more. Additionally, visitors should not miss the atmospheric medieval village of Hawkshead, slate and copper mines, and Roman ruins.

Sefton Park

A beautiful park with a palm garden under a glass dome, a lake, a boat station, and a statue of Peter Pan. The park also has a stage where jazz musicians and orchestras perform. Stand-up comedians often perform there as well. There are also several playgrounds equipped for children.

Knowsley Safari

The menagerie is located about a dozen kilometers from the city center and offers an opportunity to get acquainted with some of the most amazing animals and plants. These include those that were brought to Liverpool many years ago, and the flora and fauna of the park is no less rich and diverse than the city’s architectural masterpieces. Wild dogs, zebras, giraffes, rhinos, and elephants roam freely over a vast territory, making it a great place for the whole family to visit.

Dazzle Ferry

One of the most iconic sights in Liverpool is the Dazzle Ferry, designed by Sir Peter Blake and known for its iconic album cover, Sgt. Pepper. This ferry has become an iconic symbol of the city, and visitors can see it during a river cruise along the Mersey River.

Final Thoughts

A sunset turning the red sandstone of Chester pink, or the last sip of ale in an old pub at the foot of the Welsh mountains – a day outside Liverpool flies by like a flash, but remains in the memory for a long time.

More Like This

Adventure

The essential camping checklist for a weekend outdoors

Adventure

Why more UK adventurers are choosing late-season skiing

Adventure

Machu Picchu adventures: Essential tips for efficient travel days

Adventure

Review: MSR Hubba Hubba LT two-person tent

Adventure

The scenic route: Where epic landscapes meet iconic entertainment

Adventure

Book review: Gravel Rides Edinburgh, Fife & the Lothians