Markets. Music. Museums. Panto. Lights and magic. Six boroughs. Endless festive possibilities. Welcome to our kind of winter.
Head of Marketing at Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership, Pam Carroll talks about our new VisitLiverpool Christmas campaign and what’s on offer across the region this festive season.
Christmas in Liverpool City Region is something special. Streets sparkle with festive lights, the waterfront comes alive and there’s a wonderful atmosphere across our towns, villages and neighbourhoods.
But there’s so much more to discover beyond the city centre. From world-class culture and festive entertainment to historic villages, beautiful coastline and family adventures, this is the perfect place to turn a Christmas visit into a longer winter escape.
This season, we’ve created the Stay for More campaign to encourage visitors to take their time, explore somewhere new and discover everything our six boroughs have to offer at visitliverpool.com/christmas
Family Adventures
There is no shortage of festive fun for families. Enjoy skating at Skate St George’s, explore Liverpool’s Christmas markets or catch a spectacular show, from Cinderella at the M&S Bank Arena to Elf the Musical at the Liverpool Empire.
Venture further afield for Knowsley Safari’s illuminated Enchanted trail, A Christmas Carol at Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot or the magical Santa’s Secret Forest in Sefton. The new Winter Wonderland at Birkenhead Park, Southport’s festive attractions and pantomimes across the region offer even more reasons to explore.
For something different, discover hands-on science at Catalyst in Widnes or enjoy a family show at the newly reopened Brindley Theatre in Runcorn.
A Winter Escape for Two
From festive shopping and ice skating to cosy cocktail bars, long lunches and candlelit dinners, Liverpool is made for a winter break. Enjoy seasonal screenings at the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall or discover the city’s vibrant food and drink scene.
For a change of pace, explore the picturesque village of Port Sunlight and the Lady Lever Art Gallery, enjoy waterfront views at New Brighton or head to Southport for independent shops, restaurants and Victorian charm.
The Sefton coastline, Formby Pinewoods and Crosby Beach also offer beautiful settings for a refreshing winter walk.
Experiences for Friends
Liverpool’s independent shopping, live music, nightlife and thriving food scene make it an ideal destination for a festive get-together. Try a waterfront sauna at Wyld Sauna, join a Shiverpool ghost tour or explore the city’s diverse bars, restaurants and LGBTQ+ venues.
There’s plenty to discover beyond the city, too. New Brighton combines seafront views with independent venues, while Southport offers traditional seaside charm, shopping and great places to eat. Birkenhead Park’s Winter Wonderland provides another reason to venture across the Mersey.
Culture and Heritage
Liverpool City Region’s cultural offer extends well beyond Christmas lights and markets. Enjoy seasonal concerts at the Philharmonic Hall, Little Shop of Horrors at the Playhouse or the Everyman Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto.
Discover Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at Shakespeare North Playhouse, explore the architecture and art collections of Port Sunlight and the Lady Lever Art Gallery, or enjoy the festive programme at the Brindley in Runcorn and The Atkinson in Southport.
From Liverpool Cathedral and St George’s Hall to the region’s historic villages, museums and waterfronts, there are countless ways to discover the area’s rich cultural and industrial heritage.
Six Boroughs. So Much More to Discover.
One of the great things about a winter break in Liverpool City Region is how easy it is to combine different experiences.
Spend a day exploring Liverpool’s festive markets and waterfront before discovering Knowsley’s illuminated trails. Visit Port Sunlight and the Wirral coastline, enjoy a show at Shakespeare North in Prescot or head to Southport for a traditional seaside escape.
With so much within easy reach, there’s every reason to stay a little longer.
Make a Christmas Break of It
Getting here is easy, with Avanti West Coast offering fast, direct rail connections into Liverpool Lime Street. And with accommodation ranging from family-friendly self-catering to boutique stays and luxury options, there’s something to suit every kind of festive escape.
Whether you’re planning a family adventure, a romantic weekend, a get-together with friends or a cultural break, make time to explore beyond the city centre.
Don’t just visit Liverpool. Stay for More.
Visit VisitLiverpool.com/christmas to explore our Christmas guides, discover accommodation and start planning your festive break.