Exploring Liverpool and beyond: six destinations within an hour of the city

Being a student at LJMU means you get to study and live in one of the greatest cities in the world.  

Did you know Liverpool was named the seventh best city in the world by Time Out Magazine and the best place for students to study in the UK by StudentCrowd. Not only is Liverpool itself an amazing city but there’s so many places to explore nearby. 

From historic cities to seaside towns and picturesque nature reserves, here are six must-visit destinations around an hour from the city, worth exploring if you’re studying at LJMU.

Liverpool City Centre 

The city centre is a buzz of activity with iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and a vibrant atmosphere. You can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Royal Albert Dock, home to the Merseyside Maritime Museum and the Beatles Story Museum. There are also architectural gems like Liverpool Cathedral (home to LJMU graduations) and the Liver Building with its iconic Liver Birds. You can also explore the vibrant street art scene with murals across the city, catch live performances at one of Liverpool’s many theatres or enjoy the free exhibitions at Museum of Liverpool and World Museum. Not far from the city centre is Sefton Park, a great place to hang out in the summer and nearby Lark Lane for independent shops, cafes and restaurants.

Formby 

Located only 30 minutes away, Formby is a coastal village known for its sand dunes and pine woodlands. Take a walk along Formby Beach, where you can see the outline of Wales and Blackpool across the water. You can also explore the pine forests and dunes of the National Trust nature reserve, which is home to the resident red squirrels. Following a day at the beach, head into the village for fish and chips or visit one of the many cafes and shops.

Chester 

Located just 30-45 minutes away from Liverpool by train or car, Chester is a great place to visit. The city has its own vast history and is known for its well-preserved Roman walls, medieval buildings, and iconic Tudor-style houses. You can walk along the city walls, visit the Chester Cathedral, with its Gothic architecture, or stroll along the Chester Rows and the Roman Amphitheatre. There's also a vibrant selection of shops, cafes, restaurants and galleries plus Chester Zoo!

Manchester 

Manchester at one hour away is full of historic landmarks, shopping and dining options. Visit Manchester Museum with an impressive collection of natural history exhibits and catch a football match at the iconic Old Trafford stadium. The Northern Quarter is a hotspot for art galleries, cafes and boutiques.

Lake District National Park, Cumbria  

Ok so not technically within an hour’s drive of Liverpool but at just 90 minutes away from the city centre you can find yourself 90 minutes north of Liverpool in the Lake District National Park. Home to Lake Windermere, Ambleside and the highest peak in England; Scafell Pike, the Lake District is well known for its beautiful waterways, rugged fell mountains and historic literary associations.

Snowdonia National Park, Wales 

Another destination that’s just over an hour away from Merseyside is Snowdonia National Park. Cross the border into Wales and you’ll find yourself in a network of craggy trails and lakes. Home of Mount Snowdon the highest peak in Wales and with views across the sea to Ireland, Snowdonia is well worth a visit if you’re living in Liverpool.

Exploring Liverpool and beyond 

Find out more about studying at LJMU and living in Liverpool.