SAVE at 50! Exploring Liverpool’s outstanding built heritage

From the Three Graces via the Turner Prize-winning Granby Four Streets to the newly grade I listed Paddy’s Wigwam

As Nikolaus Pevsner wrote, ‘there is no town in England, London apart, that has so fine a series of Georgian streets’ – a testament to Liverpool’s extraordinary architectural heritage. From classical grandeur to bold reinvention, the city’s historic environment is both vast and varied. This full-day tour (on foot and by coach) offers an in-depth exploration of Liverpool’s remarkable architecture – from civic landmarks and cultural institutions to the imaginative reuse of once-forgotten buildings and neighbourhoods.

We begin at Lime Street Station, the world’s oldest grand terminus, then continue on foot through the historic city centre, passing celebrated monuments such as St George’s Hall, before entering the former commercial quarter, where broad boulevards and hidden lanes reveal layers of architectural and social history. Highlights include the Royal Albert Dock and its surrounding waterfront, as well as cultural landmarks like the Bluecoat Arts Centre and the Cavern Club, which have left an indelible mark on Liverpool’s rich artistic and musical legacy.

In the afternoon, we venture further afield by mini coach to the Georgian Quarter and Hope Street – home to the Everyman Theatre, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, and both of the city’s cathedrals. We’ll also pass the schools once attended by Lennon, McCartney and Harrison.

Selected interior visits include the Granby Winter Garden – part of the Turner Prize-winning community regeneration of Granby Four Streets – the former North Western Hotel (now Radisson RED Liverpool), Liverpool Central Library, and the striking Metropolitan Cathedral, locally known as Paddy’s Wigwam, whose listing was recently upgraded to grade I.

Liverpool remains ‘one of the finest Victorian cities in the world’ (John Betjeman).  This tour offers an opportunity to experience that legacy up close and to see first-hand the results of relentless advocacy, community collaboration, and lasting impact in a city where SAVE's campaigns have not only protected historic buildings but also safeguarded the spirit of its neighbourhoods for future generations. This energy, resilience, and creativity continues to shape the city's ever-evolving architecture.

Jonathan Brown MRTPI is a town planner, campaigner, author, and director of the urban consultancy Share the City. Specialising in master planning, conservation and urban study tours across the Liverpool and Manchester city region, Jonathan brings extensive expertise to his work. He has played an instrumental role in SAVE's Liverpool campaigns and has contributed to many of our publications over the years. Jonathan is also an experienced lecturer, having spoken at prestigious institutions including the Paris Sorbonne and the Victoria & Albert Museum. He works closely with community groups, media, conservation charities and government bodies such as the Empty Homes Agency. His work is guided by a deep commitment to preserving urban heritage and promoting sustainable development. 

Timings: The day runs from 11:30 at Lime Street Station to 17:00 at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, with a one-hour independent lunch break around 13:30. The morning walking tour will last at least 90 minutes. The itinerary is full, with interior visits*, and timings may shift by up to 15 minutes.

Ticket prices: £50 Friends & Saviours | £60 General Public | £25 Students
(includes a guided walking tour, interior visits*, afternoon tour by mini coach, expert commentary throughout, Eventbrite booking fees, and all logistics arranged by SAVE)