Visiting Liverpool but unsure on the best things to do with your kids? Liverpool’s vibrant cultural scene rivals that of London, so no wonder it’s one of tourists top British cities to visit. Liverpool’s fantastic range of museums and art galleries generally have great have family-focused areas and activities, so you can all enjoy a dose of culture. And there’s plenty of fun and games to be found in this welcoming city too. Whether you have an active toddler or an energetic eight year old, you won’t be stuck for ideas on a rainy day!
So read on to discover the Best Things to Do with Kids in Liverpool and the surrounding areas with your children.
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1. Spring City
Liverpool’s first trampoline park is situated on Brunswick Docks. It is home to almost 100 trampolines, basketball nets, dodge ball courts and a large café. The trampolines are suitable for children aged 4 and over (as well as adults!). In addition, there is an excellent soft play area for younger ones too. In other words, a fantastic place for kids to expend their endless energy!
Address: Units 1 & 2 Glacier Buildings, Harrington Road, Brunswick Business Park, Liverpool
2. World Museum
Spread over five floors, this family-focused museum offers a huge range of treasures from around the world. That will certainly get young minds engaged and excited. And guess what…It’s free!*
Explore Egyptian mummies, dinosaur remains and a Planetarium. Also Hands-on activities and special workshops run throughout the year. Check the website for up to date events.
*some exhibitions and workshops may be charged
Address: William Brown St, Liverpool L3 8EN
3. Imagine That!
A unique space for children’s creativity to come alive. Imagine That has many different areas including a construction site, art area, water area and a science zone. Let their minds explore and their hands get dirty! Imagine That is popular with school groups during term times. However there are dedicated toddler sessions where little ones can run around without the crowds.
Address: 26-32 Faraday Rd, Liverpool L13 1EH
4. The Climbing Hanger
Kids are great natural climbers and this is the perfect place to show those monkey skills. The Little Hangar is for children aged 4 to 7, however younger children are welcome too. In addition to the beginner’s climbing wall, there’s a pirate ship, crawling tunnels and slides to explore. However, children must be supervised by yourself at all times. The centre also offers children’s climbing classes taken by a professional instructor, don’t miss it!
Address: 6 Birchall St, Liverpool L20 8PD
5. Merseyside Maritime Museum
Throughout the museum you’ll find exhibits, trails and free events perfect for the little ones. Discover the city’s pivotal role as the gateway to the new world.Located in the heart of the Albert Dock,ship models, ship wrecked objects, uniforms. Free entry.
Address: Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AQ
6. Bubbles World of Play
Just across the Mersey in New Brighton, this indoor play centre provides hours of entertainment for ages 0-11. Themed areas, soft play and role play will keep them entertained, whilst you relax with a coffee and free Wifi. Themed areas include the Wild West, Central Park New York, and Dinoland! In other words, a great place for them to let off some steam on a rainy day. And in the summer, there’s a Puddles Outdoor Splash Water Play Area.
Address: Marine Point, King’s Parade, Wallasey CH45 2HZ
7. Tate Liverpool
Ok so a modern art museum may not seem like the best place to entertain the kids, but there are actually loads of free activities aimed at families at this world famous institute in Albert Dock. For example there are activity packs and trails to follow, a dedicated family space and creation stations where the kids can release their inner artist. And lastly, don’t miss the magnificent views across Albert Dock from the cafe.
Address: 315 The Colonnades, Liverpool L3 4AB
8. ODEON Kids Club at Liverpool ONE
A trip to the cinema can be a great way to stave off boredom for kids on a rainy afternoon. So if you’re after some light entertainment, head for the 18 screen Odeon cinema at Liverpool ONE. The Odeon kids club runs every Saturday and Sunday, and every day during the summer holidays. Tickets are priced at just £2.50 (including for adults!) and the family friendly films change every 6-8 weeks. You can be comfortable in the knowledge that the audience is made up of fellow parents, so you won’t feel embarrassed if your kids won’t sit still the whole time!
Address: 14 Paradise St, Liverpool L1 8JF
9. Inflata Nation, Cheshire
A 40 minute drive from the city, this inflatable theme park is bound to be a hit with the kids. It is home to the UK’s first inflatable double drop slide, as well as giant bouncy pillows, an obstacle course and an inflatable climbing wall. Little ones will love bouncing around the different activities, and adults can join in all the fun too. There are dedicated Inflata Tots sessions where under 4’s can enjoy the space without the crowds.
Address: Elite House, Shaw St, Runcorn WA7 5TZ
10. Dunes Splash World, Southport
A 40 minute drive from Liverpool, Dunes Splashworld is a great place to entertain water babies. It is currently undergoing a big refurbishment, ready for the 2020 summer holidays. Splashworld is best suited to younger children, with gentle slides, a great toddler pool and water play area. And more importantly, it is kept at a constant 84 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the perfect place to visit in any weather. Lastly, you can refuel at the poolside café which has a revamped new menu.
Address: Esplanade, Southport PR8 1RX
More Things to Do with Kids in Liverpool? Read on…
11. Blue Planet Aquarium, Cheshire
Just 30 minutes drive from Liverpool, this large aquarium is home to thousands of marine species, including one of Europe’s largest shark collections. Admire them in the Underwater Shark Tunnel, before visiting the colourful Coral Cave and the Flooded Forest. In addition, the Aqua Theatre and Pirate Playground provide even more entertainment for your little ones.
Address: Cheshire Oaks, Longlooms Rd, Ellesmere Port CH65 9LF
12. The Everyman Theatre
This independent cinema and theatre offers a great range of family friendly shows at both its Liverpool venues. From children’s modern classics such as Zog, to the legendary Christmas panto, there’s sure to be something to entertain the whole family. Current showings for 2020 include Frog and Friends and the new West End musical, Six.
Address: 5-11 Hope St, Liverpool L1 9BH
13. Darkstar Ultimate Laser Tag Arena, St Helen’s
Got kids who are thrill seekers, or fancy yourself as the next MI5 agent? Then you’ll be pleased to know the ultimate laser tag adventure awaits in nearby St Helen’s. Play against up to 40 players in the dark, using the most advanced laser tag equipment. A great family day out for adrenaline junkies. This activity is suitable for ages 6 and over.
Address: The Arena, Central St, St Helens WA10 1TZ
14. Wigan Roller Rink
Kids keen to burn off some energy? Then head for Europe’s largest indoor roller rink, just 40 minutes away in Wigan. Aimed at young families, this huge arena offers lessons, parties and special activities and events during the school holidays. However, it’s best to book ahead as it does get busy on weekends.
Address: Unit 2, Eckersley Mill, Swan Meadow Rd, Wigan WN3 5BD
15. Mersey River Cruise
Top of our list of Liverpool Kids Activities has to be a cruise on the famous Mersey River. Discover Liverpool’s musical and maritime past on this 50 minute cruise, which the kids will love. It takes in historic landmarks such as the Albert Dock, the Three Graces, and two cathedrals. This is overall a wonderful way to admire the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed waterfront and learn about the Beatles connection. Most importantly, maybe the kids will start to love their music!
16. Otterspool Adventure
A fun-filled activity park for little ones, where they can climb, swing and jump around the wooden activity equipment. There is luckily no entrance fee for the outdoor play area. But if you purchase an Adventure Pass you will get discounted entry to the four chargeable attractions. For example, your children will experience Bouncing Pillow, Mini Quad Bikes Race Course, Volvo Diggers and the Maze.
Address: 37 Otterspool Dr, Liverpool. L17 5AL
Opening Times: Open daily 9:30 am – 6pm
17. New Brighton Beach
Across the Mersey on the Wirral peninsula, New Brighton is a fantastic place for a family day out. As a result of its recent multi-million pound investment, families can now enjoy a huge array of attractions. There is consequently a mile long stretch of clean, golden sand, a bowling alley, amusement arcade and a small fairground. Also, from the beach you can admire striking views of Liverpool city’s skyline, and watch ships sailing out to the Irish Sea.
Address: Kings Parade, New Brighton, Merseyside, CH45 3QW
18. Croxteth Hall and Country Park
This impressive country estate encompasses a working farm, a Victorian walled garden and a 500-acre country park. Firstly, wander around the beautiful grounds and historic house. After that, take the little ones to explore the adventure playground, miniature railway and orienteering trail. And lastly, refuel at the cafe, which serves delicious homemade cakes.
Address: Muirhead Avenue East, Liverpool. L11 1EH
Opening hours: Open daily from March to September, from 10:30am – 5pm
19. Sefton Park
Liverpool’s most popular public park spans over 200 acres and features a boating lake, a café and a large playground. Most importantly, at its centre is the famous Palm House – a stunning Grade II listed Victorian greenhouse. In the summer, families love to bring a picnic and soak up the tranquil atmosphere of the park. Wet weather? No problem, you can immerse yourselves in the amazing botanical plants in the Palm House all year round.
Address: Mossley Hill Drive, Liverpool L17 1AJ
Opening hours: Park open 24/7. Palm House open 10:00 am – 4:00pm
20. Adventure Dock Co.
The Adventure Dock Co is one of Liverpool’s newest family attractions that’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. For instance, the giant inflatable obstacle course on the water is set in Duke’s Dock on the famous Liverpool waterfront. Here, you can also bounce your way around the huge inflatable slides, trampolines and rafts on this fun-filled course. This Liverpool kids activity is suitable for aged 6 and over. And lastly, it is open from April to October.
Address: Gower St Dukes Dock, Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD
21. Knowsley Safari
Enter this amazing 550 acre Safari Park and get acquainted with over 700 wild animals, from baboons to camels, wildebeest to rhinos. Children under 3 go free, so its a great choice if you have toddlers. The lion enclosure is definitely a highlight, or the brave can head on foot to the brand new Amur Tiger Trail. Undoubtedly one of the most exciting Liverpool kids activities.
And if you’re after more ideas for animal-mad kids, check out our post on the best safari parks to visit with your kids in 2020.
Address: Prescot L34 4AN
22. Chester Zoo
A list of Liverpool kids activities isn’t complete without mention of the UK’s number one zoo, conveniently located in nearby Chester. Chester Zoo is home to over 27,000 endangered and exotic animals based in beautiful, award-winning zoological gardens. In other words, a fab day out for all ages.
Address: Chester CH2 1EU
23. Southport Pleasureland
Pleasureland is one of Southport’s top attraction for families, where you’ll find a fun mix of rides and amusements for little ones. Highlights include a log flume, a classic roller coaster, teacup rides and flying swings. And best of all, entry to the park is free and ride tokens are just £1 each! So it’s great for families on a budget who might not be able to afford big name theme parks. Open from March to October.
Address: Marine Dr, Southport PR8 1RX
24. Model Railway Village in Southport
This Southport attraction is ideal for kids who love trains. Many could spend all day watching their favourite locomotive as it chugs around the 1.5 acres of miniature landscape. And parents will love just sitting and relaxing here in peace on a sunny day. Finally there is also a gift shop, a café and plenty of places for a picnic.
Address: King’s Gardens, Lower Promenade, Southport PR8 1QX
25. Birkenhead Park
Less than a 10 minute train journey from Liverpool city centre, visitors can discover this historic park’s meadows, woodland and lakes. There’s also a great adventure playground for the kids. As well as two cricket clubs, tennis courts, bowling greens, football pitches and a cafe.
Address: Park Dr, Birkenhead CH41 4HY
26. Championship Adventure Golf in New Brighton
Challenge your family to a round of golf on this purpose built fun course, just across the River Mersey. There are two courses, one inspired by the world’s famous golf courses, and one inspired by Merseyside landmarks.
Please note Under 5’s go free and a family ticket is just £20.
Address : King’s Parade, Wallasey CH45 2HZ
27. Farmer Ted’s Adventure Farm
Enjoy a day of farmyard fun at this adventure park, which includes rides, animal experiences and a Shaun the Sheep Adventure. In the summer you can also tackle the Mammoth Maize which incorporates an amazing AR (augmented reality) experience! And if the weather turns wet, there are plenty of indoor attractions. Such as slides, rope bridges and climbing frames. In other words, a fantastic venue for toddlers and young children.
Address: Worrall House Farm Larder, Flatman’s Ln, Ormskirk L39 7HW
28. Formby Red Squirrel Reserve
A large area of beach, sand dunes and pine woods which is part of the National Trust owned nature reserve. Enjoy a picnic, stretch your legs by the sea and soak up all the glorious fresh air. The city will feel miles away.
Address: Victoria Rd, Formby, Liverpool L37 1LJ
29. Calderstones Park
Calderstones is a pretty 4 acre family park in leafy Allerton, South Liverpool. Firstly, the park boasts beautiful Japanese and English gardens, woodland, a lake and a one thousand year old oak tree. Secondly, you will also find the Harthill Botanical Gardens here, showcasing almost 4000 species of plants from all over the world. And lastly, little ones will love feeding the ducks in the lake and making use of the play area, before refuelling in the cafe.
Address: Calderstones Rd, Liverpool L18 3JD
30. Martin Mere Wildfowl & Wetland Trust
If weather permits, you can enjoy a great day out in this beautiful wetland centre close by Liverpool. Your children will enjoy exploring all the wild birds and will certainly have fun meeting with otters. A perfect outdoor activity for the whole family and a good way to exercise too.
Address: Lane, Burscough, Ormskirk, Lancashire, L40 0TA
31. Breakout Liverpool
We have found this escape room that is worth checking out, especially on a rainy day in Liverpool. The game can be played with a team of 2 up to 5 players. You will be locked in a room for 60 minutes trying to solve different puzzles and clues in order to complete the game and escape. The game takes inspiration from famous movies and TV series such as Fort Boyard, The Crystal Maze or The Cube. Will you beat the clock to escape the room with your family?
Address: 7-11 Sir Thomas St, Liverpool L1 6BW
32. Liverpool Football Club Stadium Tour
Last but not least, your visit to Liverpool won’t be complete if you don’t pay a visit to the famous Anfield stadium. The venue organises multiple tours that are worth to check out even if you are not a massive football fan (or soccer as the American say). You will learn everything about the history of Liverpool FC and has a unique opportunity to visit the dressing rooms and the Players’ Tunnel. Make sure to pre-book your tickets before hand.
So there you have it. You now have our favourite activities to do with your children on your next trip to Liverpool on a sunny day. Most importantly, don’t forget to tell us if you’ve tried any of these, or you have some others too add. We’d love to hear from you! So as you can see, visiting Liverpool with your kids is the perfect opportunity for a your Family Holiday. Which of these activities in Liverpool will you choose? Let us know about your trip! We’d love to hear from you.
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