Search hotels in Merseyside

Merseyside is a county located in North West England. The area comprises five boroughs incorporating the City of Liverpool, St. Helens, Sefton, Knowsley and Wirral. It is known as one of the friendliest and historically significant regions in the country. With world-class shopping, cultural exhibits, seaside towns, a rich maritime history and an abundance of local attractions, it’s a fascinating area to visit.

In the centre of Merseyside, sits the city of Liverpool. Its museums and cultural attractions are second to none. Highlights include the Cavern Club where The Beatles began their career, Albert Dock with museums and galleries and William Brown Street, peppered with buildings of historical significance. Visitors will be treated to incredible shopping, lively nightlife and an abundance of cultural attractions. The borough of Sefton steps away from the hustle and bustle of the city and to the seaside. One of its largest towns is Southport. The town is home to botanical gardens, a pier, Pleasureland amusement park and a Model Railway Village. Keen golfers can indulge in a round of golf at the world famous Royal Birkdale Golf Club. Visitors interested in art should head for Crosby Beach, where sculptor Antony Gormley showcases one of the most intriguing and eerie exhibits ever seen. In other areas, St. Helens is home to the famous Haydock Park Racecourse and the North West Museum of Road Transport. Wirral is an upmarket area with coastal and country parks, art galleries and luxury boutiques. Knowsley is perfect for families as it is home to the famous Knowsley Safari Park.

The easiest way to begin an exploration of Merseyside is from Liverpool. Most cities in the UK offer rail and bus transport into the city. Trains from Liverpool Central Station operate to Southport, Formby and Crosby. Buses also run from Queen Square bus station to the coastal towns and the borough of St. Helens. To reach Knowsley Safari Park and Wirral, visitors will find that trains operate from Liverpool Lime Street Station. A ferry service also runs from Liverpool Waterfront to Wirral. Renting a car is a great option for getting around, as all boroughs and attractions are well signposted. Alternatively, taxis and Uber are available.

The county of Merseyside was created in 1974 when governments merged some towns of Lancashire and Cheshire with the Liverpool area. The region is divided by the Mersey estuary, with Wirral located on the west side and the remaining boroughs to the east of the river. They are linked by two Mersey tunnels, the ferry and railway. Merseyside is a popular place for visitors of all ages, as it incorporates seaside fun, cultural attractions and city life.