The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do with Kids in Liverpool: Family Adventures Made Easy
Updated April 2026
If you’re planning a weekend in Liverpool with kids, this guide covers everything from where to stay to how to get around.
I’m a mum of two, Eliza (5) and Kimi (12), and I spent over 20 years growing up on the Wirral. Now, I get to return every school holiday with my own children, rediscovering all the best days out – from old favourites I loved as a child to new places we’re exploring together.
I’ve created this guide to help other families find the very best things to do in Liverpool and the North West, whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for fresh ideas close to home.
Contact me on abbie@mmbmagazine.co.uk
👨👩👧👦 Who This Liverpool Guide Is For
This guide is aimed at families visiting Liverpool with children, whether you’re planning a day trip or turning it into a weekend break.
It works particularly well if:
- you’ve got a mix of younger and older kids
- you want somewhere easy to get around without loads of travel
- you’re looking for a mix of indoor and outdoor activities
Introduction
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Liverpool with kids, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re planning a family day out, visiting for the weekend, or just trying to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays, Liverpool is packed with brilliant options for all ages.
From hands-on fun museums and soft play centres to outdoor adventures, free days out, there’s something here for toddlers, older kids and even things to do for teenagers in Liverpool.
I grew up on the Wirral and now visit Liverpool regularly with my two children, Eliza (5) and Kimi (12), so this guide is a mix of places I’ve loved for years and new discoveries we’ve found together. I’ve pulled everything together to help you easily find the best days out – whether you’re local or visiting Liverpool.
Table of Contents
Best Things to Do in Liverpool with Kids (Top Picks)
Liverpool is a city full of iconic landmarks and attractions that offer unique and exciting experiences for families. From learning about history to sparking creativity and exploring fascinating exhibits, these destinations are sure to captivate kids and adults alike.
My top ten things to do in Liverpool with Kids
You will find them all listed in more detail below in the guide and in our reviews.
1/. The Museum Of Liverpool
2/. Imagine That – Read our review of Imagine That
3/. Merseyside Maritime Museum – Currently closed for a major redevelopment project, expected to reopen 2028
4/. World Museum Liverpool
5/. Liverpool Comic Con (Seasonal check next date)
6/. Duck Tours
7/. The Beatles Story Museum – Read Our Review of the Beatles Story Museum
8/. Visit the largest Lush store in the UK and pick a bath bomb off the conveyor
9/. Knowsley Safari
10/. Flip Out
Pro Tip for Visiting Iconic Attractions: Many of these attractions are within walking distance of each other. For instance, the Museum of Liverpool, Merseyside Maritime Museum, and Tate Liverpool are all located around the Albert Dock area, making it convenient to plan a day exploring multiple sites.
💰 How Much Does a Family Trip to Liverpool Cost?
- Attractions: It can be expensive, but there are lots of low-cost and free things to do to help with costs
- Food: £–££ depending where you eat
- Hotels: ££–£££ for central stays
👉 Top tip: staying just outside the centre can reduce costs, but you’ll trade off convenience.
🚆 Liverpool Train Tips (Quick & Easy for Families)
Getting around Liverpool with kids is honestly one of the easiest parts of the trip. The train network is simple to use, well connected, and once you’re in the city centre, most attractions are within walking distance.
🚉 Main Stations to Know
- Lime Street Station (Main Station)
- Best for: museums and central attractions
- Easy access to: long-distance trains (including Blackpool)
- Ideal if you’re arriving from further afield
- Liverpool Central
- Best for: Liverpool ONE, shops (including Lush), and the city centre
- Handy for: switching lines and heading out to other areas
- Easy links to: Southport
- James Street
- Best stop for: Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
- Closest station for the main family attractions
- Also walkable to Liverpool ONE in just a few minutes
🚉 Key Train Lines to Know
- Wirral Line
- Great for getting into Liverpool (e.g. from Spital)
- Easy connections to:
- Chester
- Port Sunlight Village – a lovely quieter day out (parts of Peaky Blinders were filmed here)
- Northern Line
- Connects Liverpool Central to:
- Southport
- Great if you’re extending your trip
- Connects Liverpool Central to:
- City Line (from Lime Street)
- Good for heading out of the city
- Stops include Wavertree (handy for getting to attractions like Imagine That! science centre)
💡 Why it’s so easy with kids
- Trains are modern, frequent, and simple to use
- Most places are either a short walk or one easy change
- Liverpool ONE and Albert Dock are only a 5–10 minute walk apart
👉 It genuinely takes the stress out of getting around—especially with tired kids at the end of the day.
⚽ Bonus tip (football fans!)
From Liverpool Central or Lime Street, you can easily connect to:
- Stadium tours for Liverpool FC
- And Everton FC
Indoor Things to Do in Liverpool with Kids
1. Imagine That! Science and Discovery Centre
Station: Wavertree Technology Park
This hands-on play centre combines fun and learning in one unforgettable experience at Imagine That.
What Kids Will Love:
- Imagination Village: Pretend play in a pint-sized supermarket, salon, and construction site.
- Science Zone: Erupt volcanos, create slime, and explore exciting experiments.
Parent Tips
- Ideal for younger children and Kimi who was 10yrs also loved it.
- Book online to avoid disappointment.
Read our full review of Imagine That Liverpool The Ultimate Discovery Centre
2. Flip Out Liverpool
Station: Liverpool Central
This indoor trampoline park offers high-energy fun for kids of all ages. Lots to do and a large seating area for parents. Great for older kids as well.
What Kids Will Love:
- Ninja obstacle courses, foam pits, and massive trampolines.
- Dedicated toddler sessions for little ones.
Parent Tips:
Wear comfortable clothing and grip socks (available for purchase).
Why not read our top soft plays in Liverpool for more inspiration?
3. Liverpool Upside Down House
A great addition to Liverpool one. Read our full review of the Liverpool upside down house. Grab some great family pictures with out any moaning from the kids. Get some Insta-worthy pictures and some great memories. There is also a revolving house right next to it if your motion sickness is up for it!
Top Tips: Ask the staff for the right camera settings to get some of the best ideas and photos.
A great choice if it starts to rain! Check out our full what to do with kids in Liverpool when it’s raining guide.
4. Merseyside Maritime Museum – Currently closed for a major redevelopment project, expected to reopen 2028
Address: Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AQ
Station: James Street
Learn about Liverpool’s maritime heritage at this iconic waterfront museum, which houses a treasure trove of fascinating stories and artifacts.
What Kids Will Love:
- Titanic Displays: See real items recovered from the shipwreck and learn about its connection to Liverpool.
- Hands-on activities: like knot-tying, ship steering simulators, and costume try-ons.
- Parent Tips:
- The museum is free, but donations help support its programs.
- It’s stroller-friendly and located right at the Albert Dock, making it easy to combine with other attractions.
5. Liverpool Cathedral Tower Experience
Address: St James Mt, Liverpool L1 7AZ
Marvel at Liverpool’s stunning skyline from the tallest cathedral tower in the UK. The adventure begins with a climb to the top, making it a memorable experience for older kids.
- What Kids Will Love:
- The sense of adventure is climbing up the spiral staircase to the tower.
- Stunning panoramic views of the city and the River Mersey.
- Parent Tips:
- Suitable for kids 7+ who can manage the climb (or younger ones who love a challenge).
- Kids will enjoy the whispering gallery inside the cathedral, a fun and unique feature.
6. Everton FC Football Tour Hill Dickinson Stadium
Address:
Website: Hill Dickinson Stadium
Cost: ££ (Roughly from around £26 adult, £16 for under 14’s under 4 free)
Station:
Time Spent:
If you’ve got football-mad kids, this is one of those Liverpool experiences that feels genuinely special. Set on the historic Bramley-Moore Dock. The new Everton stadium tour gives you a proper behind-the-scenes look at a world-class ground. We were lucky enough to attend the first match,, and it was something special.
You’ll explore the club’s history through interactive displays, then step right into the action — from the Men’s First Team dressing room to walking through the tunnel and out pitchside. There’s even the chance to sit in the dugout (which kids absolutely love for photos).
What makes it great for families:
- Walk through the players’ tunnel and stand pitchside
- Peek inside the first team dressing room
- Sit in the press room like a real manager
- Stunning views over Liverpool from the South Stand
- Fully accessible and suitable for all ages
It’s not just a tour — it’s one of those experiences where kids can properly feel what matchday is like.
Top tip: Book ahead online and allow time at the end — there’s exclusive merchandise you can only buy on the day (and yes, they will definitely want something from the shop).
7. The Beatles Story Museum
Address: Britannia Vaults, Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD
Cost: Adults £20.00 (Ages 16 years plus) Concessions £16.00 (Seniors and Students rates) Children £11.00 (Ages 5-15 years). Babies 0-4 Free
Website: Home | The Beatles Story Museum, Liverpool – The Beatles Story Museum, Liverpool Museum Beatles Museum in Liverpool
Station: James Street
Step into the world of Liverpool’s most famous band at this immersive museum. Even if your kids don’t know The Beatles yet, the vibrant displays and interactive zones will keep them engaged.
What Kids Will Love:
Discovery Zone: A dedicated area for kids featuring hands-on activities, puzzles, and musical instruments where they can create their own tunes.
Bright, colourful exhibits that bring the story of The Beatles to life.
- Parent Tips:
- Consider downloading the child-friendly audio guide so they can enjoy the exhibits at their own pace.
- Stop by the café for a quick snack and recharge before continuing your day.
- It’s not a cheap day out, but it is a great day out and well worth popping on your list if the budget allows.
Free Things to Do in Liverpool with Kids
1. World Museum
Address: Pier Head, Liverpool Waterfront, Liverpool L3 1DG
Station: James Street
Website: World Museum | National Museums Liverpool
Cost: Free (Excluding the planeterium)
Time: We spend 2/3 hours
Explore Liverpool’s rich heritage at this family-friendly museum filled with interactive exhibits. The kids loved the fact that things mum had were so old they were in a museum!!!!
Lots for them to do, touch, and interact with. It’s a brilliant gem, and the older kids will love it too, with the music and pop culture side. I must admit I love nipping in the gift shop as well as some really cool bits to take home with you.
There’s also a fab little artisan doughnut shop just in front of Brasco, part of the lounges chain, so great for the kids and you to grab a bite, as well as games and great food to keep them occupied, and a small toddler play area.
- What Kids Will Love:
- The hands-on gallery is designed especially for children, featuring puzzles, games, and touch-screen activities.
- Life-size models of trains, boats, and even a recreated Liverpool street scene.
- Parent Tips:
- Admission is free, making it a budget-friendly activity for families.
- The museum is stroller-friendly, with plenty of seating areas for breaks.
- The gift shop always has some great local gifts as well.
- There are a few eateries directly opposite the museum, and we love Brasco for the kids, with games to play while they wait for food. But keep your eye out for the best doughnut shop, 2 shops up, Doogles Donuts, which is well worth a visit.
- You are also close to the Liverbirds, so don’t forget to look out for them
2. World Museum Liverpool
Address: William Brown St, Liverpool L3 8EN
Station: Lime Street
Website:
Time Spent: 2/3 hours
Cost: Free
This multi-floor museum is packed with wonders, from ancient artefacts to interactive science displays and a full-sized T. rex skeleton. Explore Liverpool’s rich heritage at this family-friendly museum filled with interactive exhibits. The exhibits change, our favourite at the moment is making you a dinosaur come to life, the kids will love this. Draw your own dinosaur and see it walk across the big screen. It is often overlooked, but it’s really a great free day out. We never get bored with popping in as the kids always find something new to see. They often have things happening in the school holidays, and we always love it if we get the chance to get into the room to see all the curated articles for the kids to explore, pulling out drawers, and they even have some green hand signs so they can touch. It’s such a great free visit, so make sure it’s on your list if you have never been before.
What Kids Will Love:
- Planetarium: Journey through space with exciting shows tailored to children.
- Natural History Gallery: See fossils, bugs, and bring your dinosaurs to life on the screen.
- Aquarium: A small but fascinating underwater world where kids can learn about marine life.
- Egyptian floor: Travel back in time and meet the mummies
Lockers – The lockers are available for use at all times for a charge of £2 (and £3 deposit you receive back when you return the locker wristband).
Buggy park and lockers – During school holidays, there is a free buggy park, there are buggy lockers with a charge of £2 (and a £3 deposit).
5. Tate Liverpool (Currently Closed For Renovation Relcoated Close By)
Address: Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4BB (This is the Tate not the relocated postcode)
6. Calderstones Park Storybarn
Address: The Storybarn, Calderstones Park, Liverpool, L18 3JB
Website: The Storybarn – The Reader
A cozy space for storytelling and creative play for little ones. Also, right next to the ice cream shop, so you can grab a sweet treat as well.
- What Kids Will Love:
- Interactive storytelling and hands-on crafts.
Outdoor Days Out in Liverpool for Families
1. Knowsley Safari Park
Address: Knowsley Safari, Prescot, L34 4AN
Website: Knowsley Safari – A Truly Wild Family Day Out in the North West.
Cost: Same day £27.50 adults (16 plus), Children (3-15) £25.00. Cheaper if you advance book
Station: Lime Street to change for Prescot. Prescot train station is only a few minutes taxi ride from Knowsley Safari, or less than 30 minutes’ walk.
A great day out with the UK’s longest safari drive, but don’t worry, you don’t need a car to enjoy this day as a foot safari as well. We will be bringing our full 2026 review soon.
2. Sefton Park
This sprawling green space is perfect for a family day out, with activities to suit kids of all ages.
- What Kids Will Love:
- The boating lake and feeding ducks.
- Exploring the enchanting Palm House filled with exotic plants.
- Tips:
- Bring a picnic for lunch or grab a snack at the park café.
2. Splash Tours Liverpool
An amphibious adventure that combines a bus ride with a splash into the docks! The tour guides are great fun and its a must do!
What Kids Will Love:
- The thrill of transitioning from land to water.
- Seeing Liverpool’s landmarks in an exciting way.
Parent Tips:
Book tickets in advance, as tours can sell out quickly.
3. Speke Hall
A National Trust property with plenty of activities to entertain families.
- What Kids Will Love:
- Woodland play areas and family trails.
4. Otterspool Adventure
Address: Otterspool Promenade, 37 Otterspool Dr, Liverpool L17 5AL
Cost: 💷 ££
Website: Otterspool Adventure Centre | The Best Family Days Out in Liverpool | Kids Activities & Fun
Station: Nearest train station is Aigburth Station on Mersey Road, with an 8-minute walk.
👶 Best for: Toddlers to older kids
🍽 Food: Café on site
Otterspool is one of those places we always come back to when we want something a bit more than just soft play.
There is an indoor play area, but what makes it stand out is everything else alongside it. You’ve got outdoor play, rides and loads of space for the kids to run around, which is ideal if you’ve got a mix of ages or kids who don’t want to sit still for long.
Eliza absolutely loves it here, especially being able to move between indoor and outdoor play, and it’s one of those places where you can easily spend a few hours without needing to plan anything else.
👉 Mum tip:
If the weather’s decent, this is a really good option as a full day out rather than just a quick play session.
5. The Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
Address: 3-4 The Colonnades, Liverpool L3 4AA
Station: James Street
The Royal Albert Dock isn’t just a historic landmark—it’s a vibrant hub of family-friendly activities, with plenty to see and do for kids.
- What Kids Will Love:
- Watching the boats come and go from the dock.
- Exploring the carousels and pop-up events often held at the dockside.
- Parent Tips:
- Look out for special events during the holidays, such as Christmas markets and summer festivals.
- The area is stroller-friendly, with plenty of dining options nearby.
6. Mersey Ferry – River Explorer Cruise
Address: Pier Head Ferry Terminal, Georges Parade, Liverpool L3 1DP
Station: James Street from Liverpool or Hamilton Square From Birkenhead side
Highlights:
- Scenic River Cruise: A 50-minute journey offering panoramic views of Liverpool and the Wirral’s waterfronts.
- Educational Commentary: Onboard narration provides insights into the city’s maritime history and landmarks.
Parent Tips:
- Check the timetable in advance, as cruise times may vary.
- Dress appropriately for the weather, as the upper deck is open-air.
Things to Do with Kids at the Albert Dock
Liverpool’s Albert Dock is a hub for family-friendly activities, offering museums, tours, and play areas all within walking distance. James Street is the best train stop.
1. Merseyside Maritime Museum (Closed for the foreseeable due to the waterfront transformation project)
Address: Royal Quay, Liverpool L3 4
Cost: Free (Donations encourage but not essential if you are on a tight budget)
Station: James Street
Website: Maritime Museum | National Museums Liverpool
Explore Liverpool’s maritime history with interactive exhibits and hands-on displays.
- What Kids Will Love:
- Titanic-themed exhibits and shipwreck artefacts.
- The Play Zone is perfect for younger children.
- Walking through the old street to board the ship ( I remember this from my primary school trip over 38 yrs ago!)
- Smugglers – Can you spot a modern day smuggler, hands on exhibts
- Parent Tips:
- Entry is free, but donations are encouraged.
2. Splash Tours Liverpool
Board this amphibious bus right at the Albert Dock for an unforgettable land-and-water adventure.
3. Yellow Submarine Soft Play
Address: Yellow Sub, Atlantic Way, Brunswick Business Park, Liverpool L3 4BE
Website: Home – Yellow Sub
Cost: £
Station: James street but a good 25 min walk, but a nice walk in good weather along the front.
Located just 10 minutes from the Albert Dock, this vibrant indoor play centre is perfect for younger kids.
What Kids Will Love:
- Multi-level play frames, slides, and ball pits.
- Toddler-friendly areas for little ones.
Parent Tips:
Relax in the on-site café while your kids play.
4. The Beatles Museum Story
5/. Tate Modern
6/. Maritime Museum – Closed for refurb until 2028
7/. Wheel Of Liverpool
Website: Liverpool Wheel
8/. Museum of Liverpool
9/. Indoor Funfair – Seasonal, normally during school holidays
Date:
Location:
Website:
Cost:
10/. Liverpool Comiccon
Date:
Location:
Website:
Cost:
Pro Tip for Albert Dock Visitors:
Visit during the Christmas season to enjoy Liverpool Night Lights and Light Trail at nearby Liverpool ONE, featuring dazzling displays and family-friendly festivities.
Rainy Day Activities in Liverpool
8. Liverpool Empire Theatre
Address: Lime St, Liverpool L1 1JE
Station: Lime Street
Introduce your kids to live performances at one of the city’s premier theatres. The Liverpool Empire frequently hosts family-friendly shows, from musicals to children’s theatre productions.
- What Kids Will Love:
- Spectacular shows like The Lion King, Matilda, or CBeebies Live.
- Interactive performances during special matinees for younger children.
- Parent Tips:
- Check the theatre’s schedule for kid-friendly shows.
- Arrive early to grab snacks and settle in before the performance starts.
2/. Quirky Quarter
Address: The Arch, 142 Duke Street, Liverpool, L1 5DR
Website: Immersive & Interactive Attraction in Liverpool | Quirky Quarter
Best Toddler Days Out in Liverpool
1/. Otterspool Adventure
Address: 37 Otterspool Drive, Liverpool, L17 5AL
Website: Otterspool Adventure Centre | The Best Family Days Out in Liverpool | Kids Activities & Fun
2/. Imagine That! Science Centre
Best Soft Plays In Liverpool
Read our full review of soft plays in Liverpool.
Things to Do in Liverpool with Teenagers
1/. Indoor Fun Fair Liverpool
2/. Football Stadium Tours
3/. Liverpool Comic Con
Read our full things to do with tweens and teenagers in Liverpool for more inspo.
What’s On in Liverpool for Kids (2026)
Read our full guide of what’s on in Liverpool for Kids listings here.
Some great seasonal ones to look out for are:
1. Indoor Funfair Liverpool
2. Liverpool Night Lights
- What It Is: A magical event where the city lights up with spectacular projections and illuminated trails.
- Dates: Late November to early January (check local listings for exact dates).
- Tips: Perfect for an evening outing; wrap up warm and enjoy festive treats from nearby vendors.
3. Christmas Light Trail at Liverpool ONE
- What It Is: A festive trail with glowing reindeer, a giant Christmas tree, and Santa’s Grotto.
- Dates: Mid-November through December.
- Tips: Don’t miss the carousel and family photo opportunities.
3. Where To See Santa In Liverpool 2026
- Read our latest listing of where to see Santa in Liverpool 2026 updated soon.
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Liverpool
Top Recommendations:
- Gusto (Albert Dock): Family-friendly Italian food with a lively atmosphere.
- Rubens Coffee: Great for quick bites with kid-friendly snacks.
- Revolution: Casual dining with plenty of space for families.
- Brasco – Always love the lounges range of venues as catred towards kids but with great menus for parents.
Tips for Visiting Liverpool with Kids
- Plan Ahead: Many attractions, like Splash Tours and Imagine That!, require pre-booking.
- Pack Essentials: Snacks and water bottles can save you some money , and weather-appropriate clothing can save the day.
- Use Public Transport or walk: Liverpool’s buses and trains are family-friendly and quick and efficient, and many attractions are easily accessible without a car.
Conclusion
Liverpool is packed with activities and attractions for families, from the iconic Albert Dock to hidden gems like Imagine That! and Flip Out. Whether you’re splashing into the water on a Splash Tour, exploring history at the Maritime Museum, or enjoying the festive magic of Liverpool Night Lights, there’s something for everyone.
Start planning your Liverpool adventure today, and don’t forget to share your family’s favourite moments with us on Instagram at @MMBMagazine—we’d love to feature your adventures!
FAQs
- What’s the best rainy-day activity for kids in Liverpool?
- The WOW Museum or Imagine That! are fantastic indoor options.
- The WOW Museum or Imagine That! are fantastic indoor options.
- Are there toddler-friendly activities near the Albert Dock?
- Yellow Submarine Soft Play is perfect for little ones.
- Yellow Submarine Soft Play is perfect for little ones.
- When do the Liverpool Night Lights and Christmas Light Trail take place?
- Typically from mid-November to early January.