The waterfront in Liverpool is world famous not only for its history as a trading post but also for its panoramic scenery that makes it a stunning view to experience.
Liverpool Waterfront History
The history of Liverpool’s waterfront stretches back as far as the thirteenth century when the pool area of the Liverpool waters was seen as a great area for anchoring ships ready for the English campaign of Ireland.
Over time the waters around Liverpool became established as a port where trade was carried out from the Americas, China and Africa.
By the nineteenth century the port of Liverpool grew into a huge trading industry with many items from around the world coming and going; as well as steamer ships bringing people to visit.
By 1900 the waterfront became a huge tourist attraction for people visiting the city.
Liverpool Waterfront Today
Today the waterfront is a mixture of old buildings and new structures with the main centre piece of the waterfront being the ‘Three Graces’.
The ‘Three Graces’ are three separate buildings that were constructed at the turn of the twentieth century. These buildings are the Port of Liverpool Building (built in 1907), the Royal Liver Building(built around 1911) and the Cunard Building (built in 1915).
Other structures and buildings found on the world famous Liverpool waterfront are the dock complexes of Albert Dock and the Brunswick Dock, the old White Star Line building, Liverpool’s cathedrals (the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Anglican Cathedral), the customs and excise head quarters and the new Echo Arena and Convention Centre.
Things to do at Liverpool Waterfront
Sample the beauty of the waterfront by taking a walk around the Albert Dock (home of the Tate GalleryMaritime Museum) and experience the architecture of the buildings that make the Three Graces. and
Many hours can be lost walking along the Liverpool waterfront looking close up at the old and new buildings that adorn its skyline. There is plenty of history to discover.
If architecture and the docks are not your cup of tea then choose one of the many wonderful cafes and restaurants that sit along the waterfront and have a drink or bite to eat.
It is especially beautiful to have a romantic meal by the waterfront sitting outside in the summer months as the sun starts to set and the lights of the city make the water spring to life.
For those who love performances take a visit to the new Echo Arena and Convention Centre which has a piazza by the waterfront where outdoor events and performances happen on a regular basis. Performances are especially enjoyable when the sun is out on a warm summer afternoon.