Liverpool sits where the Irish Sea meets the River Mersey, giving this city a unique waterfront charm you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a place full of life, from the sound of its famous music legends to the cheers at its football grounds.
Here, the past and present mix in friendly neighbourhoods, with stories shaped by Irish roots and maritime history. We’ll look at local icons, from the music that put Liverpool on the map to special spots like Kitty’s Launderette that capture the city’s character.
If walking in nature, always follow the Countryside Code, to keep dogs and barnyard friends safe. If visiting the nearby coast, read our post on keeping dogs safe by the seaside. Morecambe Bay is renowned for quicksand, read our post on keeping safe near sinking mud.
The Historic Liverpool Docks
The Liverpool docks are more than just a collection of piers and warehouses; they are a symbol of the city’s rise to prominence. From the 18th century onward, Liverpool grew into one of the world’s busiest ports. Ships from around the globe arrived here with goods like cotton, sugar, and tobacco, making Liverpool central to global trade.
The docks shaped local pride and culture. Workers, sailors, and merchants shared stories and songs that celebrated Liverpool’s strong connection to the sea. The waterfront also inspired art and literature, capturing this vital part of city life.
At the heart of it all stands the Royal Liver Building, with its iconic Liver Birds watching over the docks and the river. These mythical birds symbolize the city’s spirit and resilience. Locals often see them as guardians of Liverpool’s past and future. The building itself is a reminder of the dock’s power and the city’s global reach during its heyday.
Ferries and the Irish Connection
Liverpool’s ties to the Irish Sea run deep—almost like a pulse between two lands. The famous ferry across the River Mersey still carries passengers daily, offering stunning views of the city skyline. The trip is a reminder that this waterway has long connected neighbourhoods, workers, and families.
Beyond the Mersey, Liverpool hosts regular ferry services to Ireland, especially to places like Belfast and Dublin. These routes have helped maintain strong links between Liverpool and its large Irish community. For centuries, people crossed these waters not just for trade, but to visit family or start new lives.
The strong Irish culture means that Liverpool is often called ‘England’s most Catholic city’.
A Non-Profit Community Launderette
Kitty’s Launderette (Liverpool) was named after an Irish immigrant who pioneered the washhouse movement, back in the day when most people had no laundry facilities.
This affordable community launderette offers a community space for tea and chat, plus an eco-dry-cleaning service. It also offers free washing services for those who need it, and a repairs/alterations service for clothing.
Run as a non-profit co-operative by local residents, it also offers services for hotels and restaurants, and will even wash gowns and kits for hair salons and local football teams (the city has two quite good ones!)
The Birthplace of The Beatles
Of course, we can’t talk of Liverpool, without mentioning The Beatles (that remain one of the world’s biggest bands, decades after they split).
John Lennon (murdered at just 40) grew up in Strawberry Fields, and his partnerships with Paul McCartney and George Harrison (who wrote Something) lives on long after his death.
Ringo Starr is widely regarded as one of the best ever drummers (some universities teach his methods). Yet he almost died as a child and was left with such severe food allergies, that he has never eaten onion, garlic or spices. He has never even tasted a curry!
Liverpool FC, Everton, and City Pride
Liverpool’s football scene is defined by two main clubs: Liverpool FC and Everton. Both have strong histories and large, loyal fan bases. The rivalry between them is famous, but it never takes away from the pride the city feels in its teams.
Liverpool FC is known worldwide for its success, iconic anthem “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” and its role in lifting the city’s spirits during tough times. Everton, called “The Toffees,” carries a rich tradition too, with a passionate following that represents another side of the city’s heart.
The Boycott of The Sun Newspaper
In 1989, the tragic Hillsborough disaster led to 97 people being killed (and many more injured) when crushed at a stadium, at a match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest football clubs.
The Sun newspaper (now we know falsely) reported that some Liverpool fans had stolen from victims, and even urinated on dead bodies. The Sun later issued an apology, but many locals still boycott the newspaper to this day. Boris Johnson (while editing The Spectator) approved an article that said drunken Liverpool fans were partly to cause for the tragedy.
To this day, the sign at Liverpool’s FC home ground reads ‘Scouse not English’. When asked why fans booed the national anthem in the FA Cup Final with Chelsea, then-manager Jurgen Klopp replied ‘Fans would not have done this, ‘if there was not a reason’.
Needs More Dog-Friendly Spaces
Due to previous altercations with people who have not trained their dogs properly, Liverpool Council has strong rules on where dogs are allowed, which has made many people with dogs not happy, as it now is often a longer trip to find outdoor space.
Read our post on creating more dog-friendly spaces. This must be done alongside humane dog training to prevent dog bites and fights.
Conclusion
Liverpool stands out for its strong sense of community, shaped by its Irish roots, lively music, and waterfront life. The city’s generosity and pride show in how neighbours come together and celebrate their shared history. Whether through football passion or everyday places like Kitty’s Launderette, Liverpool welcomes visitors with warmth and stories waiting to be discovered.
Exploring Liverpool means experiencing a city that holds tight to its past while moving forward with energy and heart. It leaves you with a clear sense that this city is proud but never closed off, always ready to share its spirit. Take the time to visit or learn more—Liverpool’s story is far from over, and it invites everyone to be part of its next chapter.
