Let’s face it, waking up without a headache, hangxiety, or missing a debit card is always the dream, but what do you do in Liverpool if you’re not downing downing Tequila Rose in the Brookhouse?
Now exam season is done and dusted, and you’re already mourning your last few weeks in the city before you move out, it’s time to start ticking off that bucket list you started in first year. Even though the sun has been shining, not everything has to revolve around falling into a beer garden in the afternoon and ending up in Dirty O’Shea’s at 4am.
Whether your in your sober era, trying to save the end of your student loan over summer, or just giving your body a break from the chaos of Concert Square, here’s your guide on how to have the best time in Liverpool, with zero pints involved, but with 100 per cent good vibes.
Sunrise stroll and grabbing coffee
Kick off your day by pretending to be a person who’s actually got their life together. A walk down Otterspool Prom or the Albert Dock gives you both good views, and the satisfaction of being up before noon without a craving for a Lucozade Sport and a takeaway. On your way, have a wander through the docks and grab a coffee from Rough Hand Made, or any of your favourite spots in the area. However, here’s a warning, because starting your day with coffees and pastries can get dangerously addictive.
Art galleries, because being cultured feels fancy
Take a visit to the Tate’s pop up gallery on your way back to town. You don’t have to understand modern art to enjoy it, just stand in front of a piece of art and say “it’s a commentary on something” and congrats, you are now a cultural icon. If modern art is not your vibe, then perhaps a visit to the Walker Art Gallery might be more to your taste.
Going on a Baltic Market food crawl
The Baltic Market has everything to offer, from bao buns, halloumi fries, and pizza, to great live music and a brilliant vibe in the sunshine. Try out a spot like Pattersons, Little Furnace or Hafla Hafla – they’re basically a foodie’s heaven. So why not swap out the basic pub crawl out for a food crawl, save the hangover, and give your body and break for a change? Your bank account will thank you too.
Having a browse in Red Brick Market
Sticking to the Baltic Market theme, going for a browse around Red Brick Market is the perfect wholesome weekday activity. It’s the kind of place where you easily spend hours getting emotionally attached to vintage windbreakers and peculiar trinkets. You might not need another corduroy jacket, or pair of 90s jeans, but who’s to stop you? You might leave with one anyway.
Watching an underground film at FACT
Sure, the Odeon in Liverpool ONE is fine, but FACT on Wood Street is one for the true film fans. It shows everything from A24 flicks to foreign films, and even hidden gems from LGBTQ+ cinema. Plus, its right next to Leaf if you fancy a chai latte beforehand. It’s the ultimate sober solo date plan, trust me.
Popping down to Lark Lane for a much needed reset
Lark Lane is what Bold Street wants to be when it grows up. It’s full of indie cafes, weird art shops, and pubs that smell like the 1900s. You don’t need to hit up the boozers to have fun though. Pop for a spot of brunch at Pippins Corner, and pay a visit to Freida Mo’s to trawl through a vintage treasure trove. If you can brave the queue for Lunko, then it’s your perfect opportunity to live out your dream lifestyle. It’s giving “local girl who drinks oat lattes and paints on the weekends”. We love it.
It’s safe to say you don’t need to spend your weekend downing vodka in BaaBar to enjoy the sights around Liverpool. The city is packed with unforgettable stuff to do, and when there aren’t any pints involved, there’s a chance you’ll actually remember it all the next day. The time we spend at university flies by, so take the time over the summer to soak up some of the best bits, and go easy on that student loan.
