Events in Liverpool Old Town: What’s On in the Historic City Centre
Liverpool is one of Britain’s most active cities for events, festivals and cultural programming. The Old Town, as the historic core of the city, hosts a range of events throughout the year that draw both local residents and visitors.
Heritage Open Days
Heritage Open Days — the annual national celebration of Britain’s architectural and cultural heritage — typically includes access to buildings in Old Town Liverpool that are not normally open to the public. Liverpool Town Hall, in particular, offers special tours during Heritage Open Days in September. This is one of the best opportunities of the year to see the interior of the Town Hall’s magnificent state rooms.
Liverpool City of Culture Programming
Liverpool was the European Capital of Culture in 2008, and the legacy of that designation continues to influence the city’s cultural ambition. The annual calendar of cultural events in and around the Old Town is substantial — check Liverpool City Council’s events pages and the What’s On Liverpool website for current programming.
Castle Street Events
Castle Street has hosted outdoor events including street food markets, festivals and seasonal markets. These events are particularly common in summer, when the street’s relative narrowness creates an intimate outdoor venue. Check Castle Street venues’ social media for current event programming.
Annual Liverpool Events
Several major annual Liverpool events take place near or within easy reach of the Old Town: the Grand National in April (Aintree, accessible by public transport), Liverpool International Music Festival in summer, Light Night (a city-wide arts festival) in autumn, and various Christmas and New Year events throughout December and January.
Frequently Asked Questions
What events happen in Liverpool Old Town?
Heritage Open Days in September, Castle Street outdoor events in summer, Christmas markets in December and various cultural programming throughout the year. Check Liverpool’s official events calendars for specific dates and programming.
When is Heritage Open Days in Liverpool?
Heritage Open Days typically takes place in September. Check the Heritage Open Days national website and Liverpool City Council’s events pages for specific 2025 dates and participating venues.
Explore Old Town Liverpool on the Action Path
Walk the historic streets of Liverpool’s Old Town with purpose and awareness. Our self-guided Action Path connects the city’s most powerful locations in one conscious urban journey.