There’s a reason Liverpool welcomes thousands of students and tourists each year.
Alongside our world famous football clubs, our iconic museums, the thriving music scene and our historic architecture, Liverpool is a pretty special place to go for a drink.
No matter what kind of night out, post-work pint or lunchtime tipple you're after, Liverpool has plenty of bars and pubs on offer to suit everyone - whether you’re a local or a tourist.
In no particular order, here are 50 bars you just have to try this year:
Berry and Rye
Tucked away on Berry Street, this little bar seems like a city centre secret.
Reminiscent of old-fashioned speakeasies, guests have to knock on the darkened door and hope there’ll be enough room inside to visit.
Jazz music plays while the extensive cocktail menu is hidden in vintage books to add to the illusion of secrecy.
48 Berry Street, L1 4JQ
Mojo
A rock and roll themed cocktail bar serving a variety of rums where guests are encouraged to dance on the tables.
The bar opened in 1996 and prides itself on being a party venue so it’s an ideal spot to visit on a big night out.
The Stables, Back Berry Street, L1 4LG
The Merchant
With a huge selection of spirits and craft beers, the Merchant is a laid back city centre bar that provides a quirky spot for a pint or a pizza.
With its stripped back walls, hanging lush green plants and expansive beer garden, it’s worth popping in for a drink all year round.
40 Slater Street, L1 4BX
The Jacaranda
Another Slater Street venue, this pub is popular among music lovers for its selection of vinyl record players that are littered around the space.
It serves cocktails, beers and even hot drinks while hit music plays.
21-23 Slater Street, L1 4BW
Love and Rockets
This Lark Lane favourite offers a laid back atmosphere with 16 ales, lagers and ciders on draught as well as new guest ales each week.
Stone baked pizza and is aplenty while all live sport events are showcased on multiple screens.
There’s also a decent sized garden in front of the pub which overlooks the lane.
52 Lark Lane, L17 8UU
The Philharmonic Dining Rooms
One of our most iconic watering holes, the Phil is a must-visit.
With its ornate, Victorian decor and extensive range of alcohol, the pub has proved popular among locals, tourists and even celebrities - recently being featured on The Late, Late Show’s Carpool Karaoke segment with legend Paul McCartney.
Not every pub can boast world-famous toilets, either.
36 Hope Street, L1 9BX
The Albert
A down-to-earth, traditional style pub in the heart of bohemian Lark Lane, the historic pub offers a range of gins, craft beers and independent ales.
The popular south Liverpool pub also hosts live bands and quiz nights.
66-68 Lark Lane, L17 8UU
Red Door
Offering a wide selection of cocktails, this city centre bar is a popular late-night bar that often offers live music.
Cocktails and drinks are free-poured by experienced bartenders, while the roof terrace is worth a visit on warm summer evenings.
21-23 Berry Street, L1 9DF
Frederiks
Nestled between our iconic cathedrals, this Brooklyn-style bar has a selection of craft beers and a popular cocktail menu.
The spacious venue has plenty of seating and sofas surrounding a roaring fireplace, so it’s an appealing spot to visit as the seasons start to change.
32 Hope Street, L1 9BX
The Pilgrim
A little pub with a big reputation.
Tucked away on Pilgrim Street, you can get beer, spirits and even a slush in this popular pub.
Comedy nights, quiz nights and pop-up theatre shows are often a feature in the bar.
34 Pilgrim Street, L1 9HB
The Florist
With artful floral displays, two huge blossom trees in the entryway and a variety of plush seating, this bar is an impressive, decadent spot to stop for a drink.
Located in the Old Blind School, there’s a range of beers and ales plus an extensive cocktail and mocktail menu.
24 Hardman Street, L1 9AX
The Everyman Bar and Bistro
The Everyman Theatre is a Liverpool institution, with its annual Christmas panto being an essential part of many Liverpool families’ festive traditions - but its bar is not to be missed, either.
Stocking a range of beers and lagers on draught, a variety of bottles plus an extensive collection of spirits, it’s definitely worth popping in for a beverage.
Liverpool Gin is the main ingredient in many of its cocktails, too.
5-11 Hope Street, L1 9BH
Santa Chupitos
If you’re a fan of cocktails, then this is one city centre bar that cannot be missed.
The snug bar boasts a wide variety of cocktails, including its famous Five Dollar Shake which is made with real dairy ice cream, among other equally creative choices.
41 Slater Street, L1 4BX
The Alchemist
Specialising in a concoction of elaborately mixed cocktails, this is one bar definitely worth visiting.
The bar is based in a Grade II listed building and features signature cocktails that are influenced by the elements and expertly mixed by the “mixologists”.
5 Brunswick Street, L2 0UU
Cosy Club
Based in Liverpool ONE, this pub has floor to ceiling windows overlooking the popular shopping area.
There’s golden chandeliers hanging above an extensive range of seating, while the drinks and cocktail menu offer every tipple you could possibly fancy.
37c Paradise St, L1 3EU
Alma de Cuba
Regularly packed with people looking for a good time, this Seel Street bar is housed in a former church and provides customers with an eclectic mix of Cuban, Hispanic and Latin American influences.
There’s often shows featuring Brazilian dancers and fire artists to provide entertainment while enjoying a cocktail or two.
St Peter’s Church, Seel St, L1 4BH
The Peacock
Taking up a decent sized corner plot on Seel Street, the bar has an extensive range of gins and beers to suit all kinds of tastes.
The popular venue also regularly hosts disco nights and DJs.
51 Seel Street, L1 4AZ
Peter Kavanagh’s
The CAMRA pub of the year for 2019, Peter Kavanagh’s was built in 1844 and has had a host of names throughout its history in Toxteth’s Georgian quarter including The Grapes, Peter’s Hotel and Peter’s.
The pub has a traditional feel thanks to the stained glass windows, wooden shutters, wooden benches and the assortment of photographs adorning its walls.
The popular pub serves a range of ales, ciders and spirits.
2-6 Egerton Street, L8 7LY
The Grapes
A city centre local that was refurbished and extended in 2016, the popular pub occupies a corner plot that is often buzzing with people.
The attractive cream and red building offers live jazz every Sunday and serves beers from local and regional breweries, cider and a variety of rums so whatever your favourite drink may be, there’s something for everyone.
60 Roscoe Street, L1 9DW
Doctor Duncan’s
One of Liverpool’s most ornate pubs, even the tiles in this Victorian style pub are awe-inspiring, decorating the walls and fireplaces throughout the entire building.
The pub serves a selection of cask ales.
Built for Pearl Insurance in 1901, it features medical memorabilia throughout, including a Victorian pharmacy cabinet which is a nod to its namesake, William Henry Duncan, the UK's first medical officer of health.
St John's Lane, Liverpool City Centre, L1 1HF
Be At One
Boasting a pop-art decor complete with neon lights, this popular cocktail bar has a huge cocktail menu while still offering the classic beers and lagers expected of a bar.
There’s also a large outdoor garden to relax in with a few drinks.
13-21 Seel St, L1 4AU
Sanctuary Bar
Just a five minute walk from Lime Street station, the ‘beer emporium’ has six cask ales, a selection of ciders and more than 50 different bottles of beer as well as alcoholic milkshakes and cocktails.
On its website, the pub describes itself as “a refuge from the chaos” and aims to provide customers with a relaxed bar to enjoy a few pints.
72 Lime Street, L1 1JN
The Pumphouse
This tourist hotspot is a traditional pub based in a Grade II listed converted Victorian pumphouse.
Overlooking our historic waterfront and docks, the pub serves a wide range of beers, ciders and wines alongside a food menu of pub classics.
There’s an outdoor seating area so visitors can make the most of the iconic view.
Albert Dock, Hartley Quay, L3 4AN
Panoramic 34
Not only does it serve a huge range of drinks, but Panoramic 34 offers an incredible view across the Mersey.
The bar and restaurant has been a popular choice for celebrities – including Sir Paul McCartney – and is always a go-to when looking to celebrate.
From its position on the 34th floor you can even catch a glimpse of Wales and Manchester, while sipping cocktails, beer, wines and soft drinks.
4th Floor, West Tower, Brook St, Liverpool, Merseyside L3 9PJ
Goodness Gracious
The rooftop bar at Oh Me Oh My, Goodness Gracious is one of the best spots in the city to get a stunning view and soak up the sun.
Sitting on the top of the eight-storey building at West Africa House, the bar serves a range of different beverages for guests to make the most of - it even has a feature fireplace, and is surrounded by a six-foot glass wall, perfect for watching the world go by.
West Africa House, 25 Water St, Liverpool L2 0RG
Matou
A must-try on Liverpool’s iconic waterfront, Matou sits above the ferry terminal and offers the perfect place for people watching.
The huge glass frontage offers breathtaking views of the Mersey, the Wirral coastline and, on a clear day, even the hills of Snowdonia.
Matou, 2nd floor ferry terminal, George Parade, Liverpool, L3 1BY
Collective
A hub which is set to be home to five independent businesses, Collective launched at the end of 2019, opening only partially - but with much more to come.
The venue is currently home to The Highball Club, a 1920s themed bar which aims to mirror the lavish parties the era came to be known for.
39 Seel Street, Liverpool, L1 4BX
Crazy Pedro’s
What's better than sitting out and enjoying the sun? Sitting out with pizza and a frozen margarita.
The world-renowned Crazy Pedro's opened its doors on Parr Street in Liverpool city centre late in 2017 and launched a summer terrace ahead of the summer.
With seating on both the ground floor and the second floor, it’s ideal for grabbing a drink after work.
25 Parr St, Liverpool L1 4JN
Birdie’s Bar and BBQ
Based outside of Ghetto Golf, Birdies is part of the Parliament Collective and has quickly become “the place to be”.
Earlier this year, the bar doubled in size after undergoing a revamp and now features two outdoor bars, a large indoor seating area and is home to street-food vendor Apocalypse Cow.
There are a range of drink options available from beers and ciders to a huge cocktail menu.
29-31 Parliament St, Liverpool L8 5RN
Albert's
Having launched at the end of 2019, Albert's will be new to many, but it's definitely worth a visit.
Next door to Heebie Jeebies on Seel Street, inside a former garage, Albert's is split across two floors, the ground floor and basement, with a mezzanine area offering some extra privacy, while there are apartments overhead the bar.
82 Seel Street, Liverpool, L1 4NG
Kazimier Garden
A beer garden, open-air mezzanine and a sun trap all in one, Kazimier Garden is one of Liverpool’s most-loved gems.
The outdoor bar and music venue even stays open in the winter and customers can cosy up by large fire burners.
However, it is particularly beautiful in the sun - and it serves pretty much anything you could want.
32 Seel St, Liverpool L1 4BE
Botanical Garden
A hidden gem tucked away in the Baltic Triangle, Botanical Garden is a summertime haven.
Occupying an urban oasis with a heated greenhouse, the intimate hideaway is known for being one of the early residents of the Baltic Triangle.
The bar is all about gin and only opens during the summer months, so visitors will have to be quick to make the most of it.
New Bird Street, L1 0DN
The Dovey
Known for being one of the city's most beautiful pubs- and for its impressive beer garden, The Dovey has a winding history on Penny Lane.
With connections to The Beatles and Freddie Mercury, The Dovey is loved by many in the city, for its huge selection of beverages and for being a great place to soak up the sun,
60 Penny Ln, Liverpool L18 1DG
Ye Cracke
It might be small but it's mighty.
Another pub known for its Beatles connections, Ye Cracke is known for being one of John Lennon's favourite watering holes.
The famous Liverpool pub in Rice Street is popular with regulars for its many charms, including a darts area and a beer garden.
13 Rice St, Liverpool L1 9BB
The Monro
A multi-award winning gastropub in the heart of Liverpool, The Monro has a long Liverpool history dating back to 1815.
The pub offers a retreat, with roaring log fires and Georgian architecture - and plenty of items on the menu too.
92 Duke Street, Liverpool, L1 5AG
The Shipping Forecast
A firm favourite in the Ropewalks area, The Shipping Forecast quickly became known for its ‘non-hipster’ service, since opening in 2010.
Along with its now infamous DJ sets and events, the pub also offers a huge menu of pub grub - with a twist.
With everything from katsu and cheesy chilli burgers, to crab and lobster burgers and whole jerk chickens.
15 Slater St, Liverpool, L1 4BW
The Baltic Fleet
Dating all the way back to the mid-1800s, the Baltic Fleet is a Liverpool tradition, with secret tunnels leading from the cellar to the docklands and the old red light district of Cornhill.
With a roaring fire in the bow of the pub, it's the perfect winter retreat too.
The Baltic Fleet serves up a range of ales, beers, spirits and ciders.
33A Wapping, Liverpool, L1 8DQ
Ma Boyle’s
Ma Boyles isn’t just known for its popular pub quiz but for its delicious food and drink too.
The historic pub dates back to the 1870s but the menu is modern, with traditional afternoon tea featuring alongside bottomless prosecco brunches and two for one burger offers.
Visit for a traditional pub lunch, or plan a day out with friends to take advantage of the "all you can drink" brunches.
Tower Gardens, L3 1LG
Ego at The Punchbowl
Popular throughout the city, The Punchbowl reopened earlier this year as Ego at The Punchbowl, a collaboration with one of the city’s most loved restaurants.
With its rustic character and rural charm, it’s the perfect place for those who fancy a quiet meal and a drink.
Lunt Road, Liverpool, Merseyside, L29 7WA
The Elephant Pub
Taken over by celebrity chef Simon Rimmer in 2014, the Sunday Brunch star has restored this Woolton venue back to its best and made it a community pub again, with quiz nights, live music, summer fetes and more.
And it's got a stunning beer garden too.
1 Woolton Street, L25 5NH
The Lodge
Serving up pub grub alongside cask ales, lager, wines and cocktails, The Lodge offers a gastro pub experience that is popular throughout Liverpool.
The Lodge serves full English breakfasts, Sunday roasts and everything in between, and has an array of beverages on the menu.
33 Lark Ln, Liverpool, L17 8UW
Craft Taproom
Since 2017, Craft Taproom has been bringing the people of Liverpool all their favourite craft beers.
The bar hosts a range of events from Bob Ross parties and quiz nights to Smithdown Road Festival stages.
The venue offers a twist on the classics and is now completely vegan and vegetarian, serving up dishes such as cauliflower wings, seitan burgers, and pie, mash and peas.
174 Smithdown Road, Liverpool, L15 3JR
Duke Street Market
Launched by Graffiti Spirits Group in June 2019, Duke Street Market has been a hit with customers since.
The food hall is home to a 50-cover restaurant, Pilgrim, as well as a range of other vendors including Finca, Indigo Greens and Cinder.
The bar serves everything from draught beers to ice cream cocktails.
46 Duke Street, Liverpool, L1 5AS
81LTD
Hidden away from the untrained eye, 81LTD is an invite-only speakeasy.
The entrance lies within Salt Dog Slim's - and if you get in, there's a completely unique experience waiting for you.
The bar serves an array of drinks if you’re lucky enough to get in.
81 Seel St, Liverpool L1 4BB
Flanagan’s Apple
Famous Mathew Street bar, Flanagan’s Apple underwent a huge refurbishment earlier this year which saw the venue given a whole new look and feel - while retaining its traditional Flanagan’s atmosphere.
The new bar means there’s even more on offer.
18 Mathew Street, Liverpool L2 6RE
Jimmy’s
Inside the former Cabin Club, Jimmy’s is Liverpool’s new music venue.
The bar serves a huge selection of beverages and aims to provide live music seven days a week.
Gigs already planned at Jimmy’s this year include Giant Rocks and Only The Poets.
130 - 132 Bold St, Liverpool L1 4DH
Bread & Butter
Inside the former Clive Hitch bar and bistro, Bread & Butter is a restaurant and bar that’s easy to miss - but shouldn’t be.
Tucked away on Hope Street, the venue features a hidden beer garden that is perfect for summer drinks.
Inside, the restaurant serves a menu inspired by the French countryside but outside guests can enjoy a cosy beer garden with a collection of small tables and benches - and a spiral staircase.
Bread & Butter offers extensive drinks menu including wines, spirits, beers, ciders and liqueurs.
23 Hope St, Liverpool L1 9BQ
The Scholar
Known for its hilarious message boards, The Scholar is a Liverpool staple - if you know where to look.
The Roscoe Street bar serves an extensive menu, and its funny A-boards only add to its charm.
Roscoe Street, L1 2SU
Albert’s Schenke
Inside the former Hub, Albert’s Schenke is a bier hall with more than 20 beers on tap, including special editions, small batches and key keys which change daily.
The restaurant serves up modern takes on classic dishes served across Alpine Europe, while the bar also offers gins, cocktails, prosecco and artisan schnapps.
16 Hanover St, Liverpool L1 4AA
Mason’s Kitchen & Bar
From the team behind EPIC hotels, Mason’s is the chain’s first ever restaurant and bar.
The venue sits 120 people and offers a cocktail lounge for visitors to make the most of the extensive bar.
The menu features dishes such as sharing platters, stone baked pizzas and indulgent desserts.
42 Seel St, Liverpool L1 4AU
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