Wheelchair Friendly Things to do in Liverpool is a handpicked selection of wheelchair accessible attractions in Accessible Liverpool. The growing list includes our days out in a wheelchair, days out from other disabled bloggers and wheelchair accessible things to do we find along the way.
This post is simply an overview of wheelchair friendly things to do in Liverpool. It’s important to check with each attraction to make sure it suits your personal needs. As you know, wheelchair accessible, disabled friendly and suitable for wheelchair users can all mean different things.
These days out and attractions in Liverpool may also be suitable for slow walkers, people with mobility problems and mobility scooter users, although some scooters may be too big to access all or part of the attraction – Check first before you visit Liverpool, we accept no responsibility.
If there are any wheelchair friendly days out or things to do in Liverpool you’d like me to add to the list, let me know in the comments – Ta!
Wheelchair Friendly Things to do in Liverpool
The Mersey Ferry
No trip to Liverpool would be complete without a trip on the World-Famous Mersey Ferry. There simply is no better way to see the fabulous Liverpool skyline than a cruise along the river. The main deck of the ferry is accessible to wheelchairs, has an accessible toilet, as do the ferry terminals. Staff can assist people with poor mobility to get on and off the ferry.
Access: Accessibility Onboard and at the Ferry Terminals
The Pier Head
Once the beating heart of Liverpool, the Pier Head is part of the UNESCO world heritage site and is the gateway to everything Liverpool has to offer. Bask in the sunshine against a backdrop of the Three Graces, or get involved in one of the many festivals, markets and events now staged at the Pier Head.
Access: Terrain mainly flat, some well-laid cobbles. Accessible toilet in ferry terminal building.
Royal Albert Dock
The Albert Dock was the catalyst for the regeneration of Liverpool. A destination in its own right, the Albert Dock is home to museums, galleries, cafes, bars and shops. As a listed building, there are cobbles in and around the dock. They can be avoided as there are paving slabs down the middle of the walkway.
Access: Accessibility and Visitor Information for the Albert Dock
The Beatles Story
If you are a fan of the Fab Four you’ll love The Beatles Story. The ultimate Beatles experience. Immerse yourself in the mania, memorabilia and story of four lads from Liverpool who went on to conquer the world. The Beatles Story is accessible to wheelchair users although some restrictions apply.
Access: We endeavour to ensure access into The Beatles Story is uncomplicated for all visitors
The Cavern Club
Experience where it all began. For decades, the Cavern Club has been delighting music fans from around the world. Still a thriving venue for live music and possibly the most famous club in the world. The Cavern Club is accessible via a lift and has internal ramps.
Access: Disabled Access Statement for the Cavern Club
St Johns Beacon
If you have ever seen a picture of Liverpool’s skyline, you’ll recognise the iconic, 400 foot tall St Johns Beacon. Home to Radio City, there simply are no better views of Liverpool, North West England and North Wales. St Johns Beacon tours are fully accessible to wheelchairs.
Access: St Johns Beacon described as “Totally Wheelchair Friendly” on Tripadvisor
The Wheel of Liverpool
For spectacular views over Liverpool, Wirral Peninsula and North Wales, the Wheel of Liverpool is a must. Standing at 196ft the wheel has two accessible capsules which hold one wheelchair per capsule. Access to the capsule is via ramps and wide capsule doors.
Access: Access Information Difficult to Find – Taken from Ticket Quarter
Liverpool Anglican Cathedral
If you need a bit of serenity and break from the hustle and bustle of Liverpool city centre, stop off at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral. The largest Cathedral in the UK, Liverpool Anglican Cathedral takes accessibility seriously and works hard to welcome each and every visitor.
Access: Visiting Liverpool Anglican Cathedral with Mobility Problems
Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King
The Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King is truly a stunning building. The largest Catholic Cathedral in England, you will be in awe of its majesty, it’s a vision that will stay with you forever. The cathedral is accessible to wheelchair users and people with mobility problems.
Access: Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King Access Details
St Georges Hall
St Georges Hall is a remarkable example of Victorian opulence. Taking pride of place, St Georges Hall is more than a building, it’s arguably Liverpool’s most important building because it’s in the hearts of Liverpool people. St Georges Hall describes itself as fully DDA accessible.
Access: Limited Access Information – Watch Out for Our Personal Access Review
Liverpool Football Club Tour
Liverpool Football Club is one of the world’s most supported clubs and Anfield is one of the world’s most iconic stadiums. When you visit Liverpool, take a Tour of Anfield, visit the museum, sit in the Kop and get a closeup of the pitch graced by so many giants of the game.
Access: Read this great review of the Anfield Tour on Euan’s Guide
Everton Football Club Tour
Everton Football Club is known as “The People’s Club” and “The Friendly Club”. If you’re a Toffees fan then a Tour of Goodison is a must. You’ll get to see the players changing rooms, sit in the director’s box and get pitchside through the player’s tunnel.
Access: Everton Football Club has confirmed the tour is fully accessible in a wheelchair.
Wheelchair Friendly Tours in Liverpool
The Magical Mystery Tour
The Magical Mystery Tour takes you on a journey through the life, times and iconic destinations made famous by The Beatles. The tour bus is not accessible to full-time wheelchair users as there are 3 steps to get on and off the tour bus. Wheelchairs can be carried in the luggage area of the coach.
Access: There is limited access for part-time wheelchair users on the Magical Mystery Tour
Liverpool City Sights
Liverpool City Sights operate a fleet of open top tour buses. With multiple tours including Liverpool City Centre sights and Beatles Tours, you’re sure to find a tour that suits you. The fleet of double-decker buses is accessible for wheelchair users on the lower deck.
Access: Liverpool City Sights – Access Statement
Fab Four Taxi Tours
Take a private black cab tour around Liverpool with Fab Four Taxi Tours. Visit the childhood homes of John, Paul, George and Ringo. Experience Penny Lane, Strawberry Fields, Eleanor Rigby’s tombstone and many more iconic Liverpool attractions. All from the comfort of a wheelchair accessible black cab.
Access: The fleet of Black Cabs and Peugeot E 7’s can accommodate one wheelchair per vehicle.
Liverpool City Walks
For a more in-depth look at Liverpool, take a walking (wheeling) tour with Liverpool City Walks. A co-operative of qualified local tours guides have put together a range of tours, some suitable for wheelchair users. You are advised to contact the tour guide to make sure the tour can accommodate you.
Access: It is Liverpool City Walks intention to make their tours accessible to all
Wheelchair Friendly Museums in Liverpool
Merseyside Maritime Museum
Based on the Royal Albert Dock, the Merseyside Maritime Museum is home to a collection of objects which document the social and commercial history of Liverpool. Inside, there are ongoing and rotating exhibitions. The main museum and galleries are accessible to wheelchair users.
Access: Considering the building the museum is housed in, it has very good disabled access
International Slavery Museum
The only museum of its kind, the International Slavery Museum documents historical and contemporary slavery. The museum is also a hub of human rights resources. The museum is accessible to wheelchair users, however, restrictions apply due to evacuation procedures.
Access: Disabled Access at the International Slavery Museum in Liverpool
Museum of Liverpool
The Museum of Liverpool is a fantastic addition to the cities museums. Charting Liverpool life through the ages, the Museum of Liverpool is a must visit tourist attraction as well as a great day out for the whole family. As you would expect in a purpose-built museum, the whole site is accessible to wheelchairs.
Access: Museum of Liverpool Access Guide
World Museum
A magnificent museum, the World Museum houses collections and artefacts spanning archaeology, ethnology and the natural and physical sciences. On display until 28th October 2018 is China’s First Emperor and Terracotta Warriors. The World Museum has won awards for its accessibility.
Access: Disabled Access in the World Museum in Liverpool
British Music Experience
Music fans, you’ll love the British Music Experience. Telling the story of popular British music, the experience uses costumes, instruments, memorabilia and performances to bring the story to life. The British Music Experience is wheelchair accessible, however, there is a separate entrance for wheelchair users.
Access: Wheelchair access at the British Music Experience in Liverpool
Wheelchair Friendly Galleries in Liverpool
Walker Art Gallery
Home to one of the largest and most important art collections in England, the Walker Art Gallery is a must when you visit Liverpool. Renaissance masterpieces, Tudor portraits, Victorian and Pre-Raphaelite and contemporary art are all part of the collection.
Access: Disabled Access in the Walker Art Gallery
Tate Gallery
Liverpool’s own Tate Gallery is situated on the historic Royal Albert Dock complex. Exhibiting British and International art, the modern and contemporary pieces challenge and broaden our understanding of art. The Tate Gallery is accessible to wheelchair users and has five wheelchairs for hire.
Access: Accessibility at the Tate Gallery in Liverpool
The Bluecoat
The Bluecoat, Liverpool’s oldest city centre building, is 300 years old and Grade 1 listed. Ironic really, when you think it’s home to some cutting-edge designers, creatives and is Liverpool’s centre for contemporary arts. The old wing of the building has limited access, however, the new wing is fully accessible.
Access: Wheelchair Access at The Bluecoat Liverpool
RIBA North
After reading rave reviews, I decided to include RIBA North. RIBA North is the Royal Institute of British Architects National Architecture Centre. A bit specialist for some, but a hit with the public and professionals alike. Opened in 2017, RIBA North is accessible to wheelchair users.
Access: RIBA North’s Access Information for Wheelchair Users
Victoria Gallery and Museum
The Victoria Gallery and Museum is run by the University of Liverpool. Here’s what they say about the gallery and museum: “We aim to amaze and amuse, where else would you find the world’s most important display of false teeth under the same roof as an exhibition of fine art?”.
Access: Disabled Access in the Victoria Gallery and Museum
Open Eye Gallery
If you love photography, you’ll love the Open Eye Gallery in Liverpool. Using the power of photography Open Eye explores the world as we see it, it challenges our perceptions and celebrates diversity and creativity. The gallery is accessible to wheelchairs, has internal ramps and a platform lift.
Access: Accessibility at the Open Eye Gallery
Wheelchair Friendly Theatres in Liverpool
Liverpool Echo Arena
Liverpool Echo Arena is a purpose-built concert venue. Opened in 2008 to coincide with Liverpool’s “Capital of Culture” year, it’s where all the big names perform when they come to town. If you fancy seeing your favourite artist in a fully accessible concert venue, the Liverpool Echo Arena is the place to do it.
Access: Accessible Entertainment at the Liverpool Echo Arena
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic
Home to the world-famous Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, the Philharmonic Hall is a must if you’re a classical music fan. The Grade 2 listed building is surprisingly accessible. The Philharmonic organisation strives to make the building and performances as accessible as possible.
Access: Access at the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
Liverpool Empire Theatre
With a long, often turbulent history, Liverpool Empire Theatre is the venue to see the best stage productions. An authentic theatre, “The Empire”, as its known locally, is a prime example of what a theatre should look like. And, despite its age, it’s generally accessible to wheelchair users.
Access: Disabled Access in the Liverpool Empire Theatre
Liverpool Playhouse Theatre
For an intimate night out at the theatre, Liverpool Playhouse is a must. The Playhouse Theatre is a Grade 2 listed building with a 20th-century twist. Despite the age of the building, the theatre strives to be as accessible as possible. I’ve had some great nights watching Shakespeare in the Playhouse, it’s such a homely theatre.
Access: Accessibility at the Liverpool Playhouse
Liverpool Everyman Theatre
Having undergone extensive renovations, the Everyman Theatre has launched the careers of some of Britain’s best-known talent. The Everyman is more than a theatre, it’s a hub for creativity, it’s a space to push the boundaries, its quirky and us Scousers love it.
Access: Accessibility at the Liverpool Everyman Theatre in Liverpool
Royal Court Theatre
The Royal Court holds fond memories for The Bimblers. Believe it or not, I saw and met Paul McCartney and Wings at a private concert in the Royal Court (we went to the same school). Another Liverpool theatre with a turbulent past, the Royal Court has risen like a phoenix to become more than a theatre, it’s an entertainment giant in Liverpool.
Access: Accessibility at the Royal Court in Liverpool
Unity Theatre
The Unity Theatre in Liverpool describes itself as “behaving radically onstage since the 1930’s” how cool is that. I can’t say I have ever been to the unity theatre so it’s on The Bimblers to do list. I also love the fact that they have done a lot to make sure the Unity Theatre is accessible to all.
Access: Disabled Access at the Unity Theatre in Liverpool
Days Out at the Beach Near Liverpool
Crosby Beach
When the excitement of Liverpool is getting too much, maybe it’s time to head for the beach. The nearest beach being Crosby which is also home of Antony Gormley’s 100 Iron Men. The beach is not accessible in a wheelchair, but you can have a nice walk along the promenade.
Access: Crosby Beach is not accessible in a wheelchair. Also, beware of sinking sand on the beach.
New Brighton
If you take the Ferry across the Mersey, you can take a nice stroll/roll along to New Brighton, it’s about a 4-mile round trip. If you don’t fancy the walk, you can drive or take the train. Again, New Brighton beach is not accessible in a wheelchair, but you can still have a great day out without venturing down on to the sand.
Access: There is no specific disabled access information for New Brighton. Once you’re on the seafront, its flat.
Southport
We can’t forget Southport. It’s a train ride away or a 30-minute drive, but it’s worth the effort. The Victorian seaside town, just up the coast from Liverpool, has maintained its character and charm. The beach isn’t accessible in a wheelchair, although at low-tide you can drive onto the beach. You can still enjoy a pleasant stroll/roll along the coast road and around Southport town centre.
Access: No specific access information. There is an accessibility statement for events
Coming Soon on The Bimblers
Wheelchair Friendly Hotels in Liverpool
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An Accessible Day Out on the Mersey Ferry
Wheelchair Friendly Days Out on the North West Coast
