High Street Liverpool: The Original Centre of Old Town

Medieval High Street

In the original 1207 street plan of Liverpool, the street now known as High Street was called Juggler Street — a name that hints at the markets, performers and commercial activity that animated this central thoroughfare. As the town grew, the street was renamed High Street, reflecting its status as the primary commercial artery of the settlement.

The White Cross

Where High Street met Dale Street stood the White Cross — one of two market crosses that served as focal points for Liverpool’s medieval commercial life. Market crosses were gathering places for traders, places where agreements were made and news exchanged. The White Cross marked the northern limit of the medieval market zone.

Liverpool Town Hall at the Heart

The construction of Liverpool Town Hall in the mid-18th century reinforced High Street’s status as the centre of the Old Town. The Town Hall’s main facade addresses the junction of High Street, Castle Street, Dale Street and Water Street, creating one of the most architecturally significant crossroads in northern England.

High Street Today

Today, High Street is a relatively short pedestrianised stretch running past the front of Liverpool Town Hall. It is surrounded by some of the Old Town’s finest architecture and serves as a gateway to Exchange Flags behind the Town Hall.

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