What’s in a name?
There are many theories as to how Liverpool derived its name. The prevailing theory is that in the old English dialect, Liverpool translates to muddy pool, a descriptive name of the local geography at the time. Muddy Pool isn’t exactly the most inviting name, is it!?
People from Liverpool are often referred to as Liverpudlians or Scousers, after the popular local dish scouse. I bet you didn’t know that one either!
Liverpool: UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 2004, Liverpool city centre was given the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was dubbed an excellent example of a commercial port, and received the status due to its 19th and 20th century buildings.
The site includes the Pier Head, Albert Dock, Stanley Dock, the Commercial District, and the Cultural and Merchant’s Quarters.
A city of culture
Liverpool city almost has the highest number of galleries and museums in the UK, it is second only to London. In fact, there is a one street in Liverpool, William Brown Street, that is entirely occupied by cultural buildings.
No wonder Liverpool was named the European Capital of Culture in 2008! Some museums of note include the Merseyside Maritime Museum, the International Slavery Museum, and the World Museum.
And amazing buildings
Did you know that, outside London, Liverpool has the highest number of grade II listed buildings in the United Kingdom? The are over 2,500 listed buildings in Liverpool, 27 of which are grade I and 85 are grade II.
If you’re keen to check some out, at Albert Dock you’ll find an impressive collection of the grade I listed buildings.
The protection of birds
One of the best Liverpool city facts is that there are two liver birds keeping an eye on the city and harbour. They even have names!.
Perched on top of the Royal Liver building, Bertie is said to watch over the citizens of the city, whereas Bella gazes out across the harbour keeping watch over the sailors. Another popular opinion is that Bertie is checking to see if the pubs are open!
Mythical Creatures (and where to find them)
Did you know that liver birds are not an actual species of bird? The liver bird is a legend of sorts that is deeply embedded in the Liverpudlian history, all the way back to King John.
They originate from the first seal that was made for the then borough in the 13th century. Aside from on the Royal Liver building, you can find them in the city’s emblem, on the Mercy Chambers building, and in the museum.
There beneath the blue suburban skies
The Beatles, born in Liverpool, may have travelled the world with their music, but they definitely left a lasting impression in their home city. There is the John Lennon Airport, the A Hard Day’s Night hotel, a yellow submarine, and multiple statues of the band members.
You can follow their footsteps and walk down Penny Lane, or catch a gig at the Cavern Club surrounded by The Beatles memorabilia.
We built this city on rock ‘n roll…
What is Liverpool famous for? Pop music! The Beatles aren’t the only band with roots in this city, bands such as Atomic Kitten, The Wombats, and Ladytron all hail from Liverpool.
Liverpool actually holds the world record for most number one hit singles released, with bands from this city producing 56 in total. In fact, Liverpool was even dubbed The City of Pop in 2001 by the Guinness Book of World Records, and a UNESCO City of Music in 2015.
Quiet on set
It’s not just music that Liverpool is known for in pop culture, it is also a frequent filming location. Fantastic Beasts (2016), Peaky Blinders (2013) and Sherlock Holmes (2009), to name a few, were all filmed in Liverpool. The central library was also said to be a source of inspiration for the sets in Harry Potter.
A grand city
Pop culture aside, what else is Liverpool known for? Big things! The biggest clock faces in the country are also in Liverpool.
Mounted on twin clock towers on the Royal Liver building, these four faces are each an incredible 25ft in diameter. They are actually bigger than those on the famous Westminster Clock Tower, home of Big Ben. So no excuses for running late!
