If you're planning a trip to Liverpool and want to see all the places where the Fab Four lived, worked and played, we've got you covered. There are so many Beatles things to do in Liverpool, from bus tours to visiting John Lennon’s house.
In this travel guide we’re sharing everything you need to know about The Beatles history and the must-see Beatles landmarks in Liverpool. We'll also suggest some of the best Beatle's tours in Liverpool and a few pubs, bars, and sights to stop at along the way.
Where Are The Beatles From?
All four members of The Beatles were born and raised in Liverpool, England. They formed the band while they were teenagers and went on to become one of the most famous bands in history. The northern city of Liverpool is today filled with attractions, statues, and memorabilia of the band, making it the perfect destination for Beatles fans.
The Beatles History
The Beatles were formed around the original members John Lennon and Paul McCartney, who first performed together in Liverpool back in 1957. They performed with a changing cast of band members and under various different band names before settling on their final four and name in 1962 when Ringo Starr joined.
The group's first single was "Love Me Do" (1962), followed by "Please Please Me" (1963). Their third single, "From Me to You" (1963), reached number one on the British charts. By this time the group had already appeared on national television shows and had made several trips to London for recording sessions at EMI Studios and Decca Records. From here, The Beatles fame continued to grow rapidly, quickly making them one of the most famous bands in the world.
Beatles Attractions In Liverpool
There are so many Beatles things to do in Liverpool, but we’ve rounded up our top 5 Beatles attractions in Liverpool for the best experience during your trip to the city.
Paul McCartney And John Lennon’s Houses In Liverpool
If you're looking for an iconic Beatles landmark in Liverpool, make sure to check out two of the National Trust's properties: Mendips, which was John Lennon’s house in Liverpool; and 20 Forthlin Rd, where Paul McCartney lived with his mother.
Mendips is an elegant 1930s home at 251 Menlove Avenue in Liverpool. Inside is like stepping back in time to The Beatles early days, as the home has been wonderfully recreated using accounts from lodgers that use to live with the Lennon family. You'll travel back to John Lennon's childhood growing up with his and Uncle George and Aunt Mimi. Learn all about his tumultuous life with his family in the home. You’ll enter Mendips through the back door in the garden, which was the only way Aunt Mimi would allow Paul McCartney in to the house thanks to his scruffy looks! See John’s small bedroom which is where he wrote some of his very first songs and experience the closed off front porch which is where the boys were sent to practice by Aunt Mimi.
Paul McCartney's childhood home is not far away and also included in the National Trust tour. The terraced house is claimed to be the birthplace of The Beatles as it is where the four spent hours rehearsing and composing when they first formed the band. The typical post-war council house still stands as it did, with threadbare furniture, clutter, and mismatched wallpaper. Tickets are £11 each for adults and can be purchased on the National Trust website.
Beatles Bus Tour Liverpool
One of the best Beatles tours in Liverpool is the Magical Mystery Tour which takes you on the wonderful colourful tour bus around the city. The two hour tour heads out to many Beatles attractions in Liverpool including Strawberry Field, Penny Lane and the Cavern Club. It is one of the easiest ways to see all the sights while also learning all about The Beatles history in the city. A fully qualified guide will take you through all the best Beatles things to do in Liverpool from the comfort of the Magical Mystery bus. Hosted by the famous Cavern Club, you can book your space on the Beatles bus tour here.
The Cavern Club
It isn’t a list of Beatles attractions in Liverpool without including the famous Cavern Club, also known as The Beatles pub in Liverpool. It is hailed as the most famous club in the world, and while it might look inconspicuous, it holds a special place in The Beatles history. The cellar club has been a hub for local musicians for seven decades, and The Beatles performed at the Cavern Club 292 times. This club is the beating heart of the buzzing music scene in Liverpool, and as well as being an iconic sight for Beatles fans, it still hosts live music 7 days a week. There’s no need to book your visit to the Cavern Club, just turn up and enjoy the music!
Strawberry Field
Strawberry Field was immortalised by John Lennon in the song ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’, and the iconic site only opened its doors to the public in 2019. It has quickly become one of the best Beatles attractions in Liverpool and is definitely worth a visit. It was once the site of a children’s home where John Lennon loved playing in the grounds. Today, Strawberry Field has been transformed into an interactive exhibition and beautiful gardens. The original Strawberry Fields gates still stand tall, and there is also a visitor shop and café.
The piano which John Lennon used to compose and record the hit ‘Imagine’ has been loaned to Strawberry Field since 2020. This piano was used by George Michael for his around the world tour as a symbol of peace, and now sits within a place steeped with Beatles history. Visitors to the Beatles attraction in Liverpool can marvel at a massive piece of musical history. Book tickets online to avoid disappointment.
The Beatles Statue Liverpool
If you want Beatles things to do in Liverpool without breaking the bank, head to The Beatles statue right on the River Mersey. You can take a memorable photo with the Fab Four and enjoy the stunning views across the river. You can find the statue on Pier Head, in front of the Cunard Building, just along the river from Albert Dock.
The Beatles Statue can be found just a five minute walk away from easyHotel Liverpool City Centre. Our hotel in Liverpool is the perfect place to stay when you want to be right in the heart of the action. The Cavern Club is right behind the hotel, less than two minutes walk away, and many other unmissable Beatles attractions are nearby. easyHotel Liverpool City Centre is affordable and comfortable, giving you everything you need to get out and explore the city.