Liverpool Playhouse Theatre: Historic Hub of Performing Arts in Williamson Square
Historic Liverpool Playhouse Theatre in Williamson Square offers intimate performances with modern facilities and full accessibility in the city’s cultural heart.
The Liverpool Playhouse Theatre, located in Williamson Square, is a distinguished performing arts venue known for its traditional proscenium arch auditorium and intimate atmosphere. With seating for up to 650 across three levels, it hosts a diverse range of performances including theatre, dance, and lectures. The theatre supports accessibility with wheelchair spaces and modern technical facilities, making it a cultural cornerstone in Liverpool’s vibrant city centre.
A brief summary to Liverpool Playhouse Theatre
- Williamson Square, Liverpool, L1 1EL, GB
- +441517083700
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance for popular shows to secure the best seats, especially in the Stalls or Circle levels.
- Use the wheelchair-accessible seats in the Circle or Stalls for easy access and excellent views.
- Visit the Gallery Bar on the top floor for city views and a relaxed atmosphere before or after performances.
- Check the theatre’s website for special events, workshops, and accessible performance listings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple city bus routes serve stops near Williamson Square, with frequent service intervals. Travel times from Liverpool Lime Street station are approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2 to £4 depending on distance.
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Train and Walk
Liverpool Lime Street railway station is about 1.2 km from the theatre, a 15-minute walk through the city centre. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can reach Williamson Square directly. Travel times vary from 5 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £5 to £10 within central Liverpool.
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Car
Limited on-street Blue Badge parking is available near the theatre. Nearby public car parks offer hourly rates from approximately £2 to £4. Note that city centre traffic and parking can be busy during peak times.
Liverpool Playhouse Theatre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Low-Visibility Conditions
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Liverpool Playhouse Theatre
A Storied Venue in Liverpool’s Cultural Heart
The Liverpool Playhouse Theatre stands proudly in Williamson Square, Liverpool’s bustling city centre. Established as a key venue for performing arts, it has long been a place where local and touring productions captivate audiences. The theatre’s location in this lively square situates it amidst a mix of historic architecture and modern urban life, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere and accessibility.Architectural and Seating Features
The Playhouse features a traditional proscenium arch stage, offering classic theatre aesthetics and sightlines. Its auditorium accommodates up to 650 patrons across three levels: the Stalls, Circle, and Balcony. The seating layout fosters an intimate connection between performers and audience, enhancing the theatrical experience. The venue includes wheelchair-accessible seating on both the Stalls and Circle levels, with level access seats and spaces designed to accommodate up to six wheelchair users.Technical Capabilities and Versatile Usage
Equipped with modern projection, sound, lighting, and flying facilities, the Playhouse supports a wide variety of events beyond theatre, including dance performances, lectures, conferences, and gigs. A dedicated technical team ensures high-quality production support, making the venue a flexible space for creative expression and community engagement.Additional Spaces Within the Playhouse
Beyond the main auditorium, the Playhouse houses smaller performance and social spaces. The Studio, located on the top floor, is a thrust stage venue seating around 70, ideal for experimental and intimate productions. The Gallery Bar, also on the top floor and accessible by lift, offers seating for 40 with city views, providing a relaxed social environment for patrons before and after performances.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The Playhouse is committed to inclusivity, featuring lift access to all floors, accessible toilets including a Changing Place facility, and designated accessible parking bays nearby. The venue’s staff are attentive to access needs, offering assistance and specialized seating arrangements. Nearby amenities in Williamson Square and Liverpool city centre complement the theatre experience with dining and leisure options.A Living Cultural Landmark
As a cornerstone of Liverpool’s performing arts scene, the Playhouse Theatre continues to attract diverse audiences with its rich programming and welcoming environment. Its blend of historic charm and contemporary facilities makes it a must-visit for theatre lovers and cultural explorers alike, embodying Liverpool’s dynamic artistic spirit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Coopers Building
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Discover Coopers Building, a striking early 20th-century landmark that enriches Liverpool’s historic Church Street with timeless architectural charm.
Liverpool Beatles Museum
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Explore the largest authentic Beatles collection in Liverpool’s historic Mathew Street, celebrating the band’s legendary journey and legacy.
Cilla Black
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Celebrate Liverpool’s beloved entertainer with the life-size bronze statue of Cilla Black on iconic Mathew Street, near the legendary Cavern Club.
Viewing window to the Old Dock
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Step through a glass window into the world’s first commercial wet dock, the birthplace of Liverpool’s global maritime legacy.
Queen Victoria Monument
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Discover the magnificent Queen Victoria Monument, a symbol of history and elegance in the heart of Liverpool's Derby Square.
Quaker Alley Murals
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Explore Quaker Alley Murals in Liverpool, a vibrant outdoor art gallery showcasing stunning street art that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Derby Square
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Explore Derby Square in Liverpool, a historical architectural gem offering tranquility and a glimpse into the city's vibrant past.
Liverpool Town Hall
0.6 km
Explore Liverpool Town Hall, a stunning Georgian masterpiece and historic civic venue at the heart of Liverpool’s cultural heritage.
1 Exchange Flags
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Historic Liverpool landmark featuring WWII command bunker, elegant architecture, and a courtyard rich with maritime and mercantile heritage.
Nelson Monument
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Discover the Nelson Monument in Liverpool, a tribute to Admiral Horatio Nelson and a gateway to the city's maritime history.
Tithebarn Building
0.6 km
A modern office landmark on Liverpool’s historic Tithebarn Street, bridging medieval heritage and today’s Knowledge Quarter.
Exchange Flags
0.7 km
Explore the historic Exchange Flags in Liverpool, a vibrant square at the heart of the city, blending architectural beauty with rich commercial heritage.
Oriel Chambers
0.7 km
Oriel Chambers: Liverpool’s revolutionary 1864 office building that pioneered the metal-framed glass curtain wall and modern skyscraper design.
Western Approaches
0.7 km
Explore Liverpool's rich wartime history at Western Approaches, an engaging museum that brings the past to life through artifacts and interactive exhibits.
St Luke’s Bombed Out Church
0.7 km
A roofless Gothic memorial where wartime tragedy transformed into cultural renaissance and timeless celebration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Williamson Square
0.0 km
Discover Liverpool’s lively Williamson Square, where historic theatre meets vibrant city life in a welcoming urban oasis.
St Johns Beacon
0.0 km
Liverpool’s tallest tower offering panoramic city views, rich history, and a vibrant broadcasting hub in the heart of the city.
St Johns Shopping Centre
0.1 km
Liverpool’s largest covered shopping centre, offering over 100 stores, diverse dining, and a vibrant city-centre retail experience since 1969.
Metquarter Liverpool
0.2 km
Discover Liverpool’s stylish Metquarter, where luxury boutiques, curated shops, and vibrant dining create a sophisticated city centre shopping experience.
Clayton Square Shopping Centre
0.2 km
A compact, light-filled shopping arcade in central Liverpool — ideal for essentials, coffee and a quick stop near Lime Street and Liverpool Central stations.
Eleanor Rigby Statue
0.2 km
A moving tribute to loneliness and legacy, the Eleanor Rigby Statue invites reflection beside Liverpool’s iconic Beatles landmark.
Everyman Liverpool
0.3 km
Boutique cinema in Liverpool offering gourmet dining, cocktails, and vibrant events in a stylish, welcoming setting.
St George's Hall
0.3 km
Liverpool’s iconic neoclassical masterpiece blending grand architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural events under one majestic roof.
St John's Gardens
0.3 km
A tranquil historic sculpture garden in Liverpool’s city centre, blending Victorian memorials with peaceful green spaces beside St George’s Hall.
The Bluecoat
0.3 km
Liverpool's creative heart: where 300 years of history meets contemporary art and community.
Hillsborough Memorial
0.3 km
A powerful tribute in Liverpool honoring the 96 victims of the Hillsborough disaster, symbolizing community resilience and the quest for justice.
Stanley St Gaay Quarter LGBT Bars And Clubs
0.3 km
Liverpool’s compact Pride Quarter: Stanley Street’s cluster of LGBT+ bars, clubs and colourful street life at the heart of the city.
Mathew St
0.3 km
Experience the legendary Mathew Street, Liverpool’s iconic music hub and birthplace of Beatlemania, alive with history, live music, and vibrant culture.
Tourist Attraction - Redisson Red Hotel
0.3 km
Stylish and contemporary accommodation in Liverpool’s vibrant city centre, steps from top attractions and cultural landmarks.
Bluecoat Display Centre
0.3 km
Discover Liverpool’s vibrant hub for contemporary craft, showcasing unique handmade art from over 250 talented makers since 1959.
Essential places to dine
Casa Italia
0.3 km
A Liverpool institution since 1977, serving hearty pasta, wood-fired pizzas and classic Italian desserts in a lively, retro setting on Stanley Street.
Shiraz Palace
0.3 km
Lively Mediterranean bistro in Liverpool famed for generous grilled meats, vibrant breakfasts, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Villa Romana - Italian Restaurant Liverpool
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Liverpool at Villa Romana.
Turtle Bay Liverpool Hanover St
0.3 km
Vibrant Caribbean jerk and cocktails in central Liverpool's most colourful, energetic dining destination.
Dale Street Kitchen & bar by Shino
0.3 km
Award-winning breakfast and brunch spot in Liverpool’s city centre, celebrated for its full English and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Liverpool Victoria St
0.4 km
Lively Caribbean dining and cocktails in Liverpool’s historic Produce Exchange, blending authentic flavors with vibrant island vibes.
Cosy Club
0.4 km
Stylish British dining with vintage charm and all-day menus in the heart of Liverpool’s vibrant city center.
Blakes Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience British classics with a Beatles twist in Liverpool’s iconic Hard Days Night Hotel restaurant.
Las Iguanas - Liverpool
0.4 km
Vibrant Latin American dining and cocktails in Liverpool's premier shopping destination.
Shiraz BBQ
0.4 km
Charcoal-grilled Mediterranean excellence with generous portions and unbeatable value in central Liverpool.
Ropewalks Bar And Kitchen
0.4 km
Stylish and welcoming, Ropewalks Bar And Kitchen serves hearty British and international dishes in Liverpool’s vibrant city center.
Smoke & Dough
0.4 km
Interactive BBQ dining in Liverpool One where you grill premium meats at your table, paired with vibrant cocktails and a lively city terrace.
Hanover Street Social
0.4 km
Lively modern brasserie in Liverpool serving seasonal British classics and renowned Sunday roasts in a warm, social atmosphere.
NYL Restaurant and Bar
0.4 km
Stylish American dining and cocktails in Liverpool's commercial heart, where upmarket meets approachable.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Liverpool
0.4 km
Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature dishes in a stylish, lively brasserie setting at Liverpool ONE’s Bread Street Kitchen & Bar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
LFC Official Club Store
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Discover authentic Liverpool FC merchandise and immerse yourself in the club’s vibrant spirit at the heart of Liverpool city centre.
The Liverpool Gift Shop
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Discover authentic Liverpool souvenirs and memorabilia in the heart of Williamson Square, open daily for all fans and visitors.
Rebellious Fashion
0.1 km
Discover trendy, affordable women's fashion in Liverpool’s vibrant Houghton Street boutique with extended weekday hours and a youthful style vibe.
F&G Discounts
0.1 km
Explore unique gifts and souvenirs at F&G Discounts, the ultimate gift shop in St. John's Precinct, Liverpool.
Beats of Liverpool
0.1 km
Discover authentic Liverpool memorabilia and Beatles-inspired souvenirs in the heart of the city’s historic Whitechapel district.
Liverpool Souvenirs and Gifts
0.2 km
Discover unique Liverpool keepsakes and exceptional service at this friendly souvenir shop in the heart of the city.
Scouse Bird Shop (inside Boutique 56 & online)
0.2 km
Discover cheeky Liverpool gifts and local charm at Scouse Bird Shop, nestled inside the stylish Boutique 56 hotel on Stanley Street.
Bleu Prints
0.2 km
Stylish clothing boutique in Liverpool's vibrant L1, curating unique apparel and accessories for fashion-forward urban explorers.
Cavern Walks - Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Boutique shopping arcade in Liverpool's Beatles epicentre, linking stylish retail to Cavern Club legacy on vibrant Mathew Street.
As Above So Below Emporium Ltd
0.3 km
A darkly elegant witchy emporium in Liverpool’s historic Cavern Walks, blending mysticism, tarot, and alternative culture.
COW Liverpool
0.3 km
A compact Bold Street vintage haven where curated retro clothes, approachable staff and frequent one-off finds reward close, unhurried browsing.
Menkind
0.4 km
Discover quirky gadgets and imaginative gifts for men and boys at Menkind Liverpool, your go-to spot for unique presents in the city centre.
Hard Days Night Shop
0.4 km
Explore the heart of Beatles heritage with exclusive memorabilia and authentic merchandise at Liverpool’s iconic Hard Days Night Shop.
Cool Britannia
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Liverpool's vibrant gift shop packed with Britpop t-shirts, Beatles nods, and Cool Britannia souvenirs—your one-stop for cheeky, affordable UK mementos in the city center.
The Gallery
0.4 km
Discover Liverpool’s musical heritage and unique local crafts at The Gallery, your destination for Beatles memorabilia and authentic souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brass Monkey
0.2 km
Liverpool's quirky cocktail haven on School Lane, blending inventive drinks, British bites, and lively vibes from midday to late-night revelry.
Present Company
0.2 km
Intimate Liverpool cocktail bar blending expert drinks, music culture, and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Motel Bar
0.3 km
A moody, music-first Fleet Street dive bar famous for band-backed karaoke and late-night crowds in Liverpool city centre.
Rubber Soul
0.3 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife and Beatles heritage at Rubber Soul, a lively bar with three unique atmospheres and nightly live music.
Soho Bar Liverpool
0.4 km
Liverpool's neon-charged party hub in Concert Square: cocktails by day, club beats by night, perfect for epic nights out.
Ex-Directory
0.4 km
Discover Liverpool’s hidden speakeasy with quirky charm, expertly crafted cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere on Vernon Street.
Be At One - Liverpool
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Liverpool's cocktail epicenter: 100+ mixes, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclass shakes in a chic Seel Street hotspot.
Slug & Lettuce - Liverpool
0.4 km
Liverpool's ultimate cocktail spot in a historic building—2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and three floors of festive vibes for groups and celebrations.
Kazimier Garden
0.4 km
Liverpool's original garden bar: quirky outdoor oasis with craft brews, live gigs, and fairy-lit magic in the heart of Ropewalks.
The Lime Kiln - JD Wetherspoon
0.4 km
Affordable ales and hearty meals in a historic warehouse pub at the pulse of Liverpool's nightlife district—daytime calm meets evening energy.
The Jacaranda
0.5 km
Iconic Liverpool music venue where The Beatles began, blending historic charm with vibrant live performances and a vinyl café.
MOLOKO
0.5 km
A music-led cocktail bar in the Old Stables with a beer garden, late DJs and an over-25s disco energy for evening socialising.
The Bierkeller Liverpool
0.5 km
Experience the ultimate Bavarian beer hall vibe in Liverpool with giant steins, live Oompah bands, and a lively party atmosphere.
The Slaughter House
0.6 km
Historic Liverpool pub blending hearty gastropub fare with lively live music and comedy in a warm, rustic setting.
The Alchemist Liverpool
0.6 km
Experience Liverpool’s premier cocktail bar where molecular mixology meets bold flavors and vibrant city vibes.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Liverpool
0.3 km
Liverpool's ultimate cheesy pop haven: 90s bangers, cheap drinks, and dance-'til-dawn vibes in the heart of Ropewalks.
ELECTRIK WAREHOUSE
0.3 km
Liverpool's multi-floor warehouse nightclub: three dance floors of dance, RnB, indie, and chart hits in quirky industrial surrounds, open Thu-Sat till 4am.
XOXO Nightclub Liverpool
0.3 km
Dive into Liverpool's electric basement beats at XOXO Nightclub, where diverse DJs and immersive vibes craft unforgettable weekends from 10pm till dawn.
Flares - Liverpool
0.3 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Flares on Mathew Street, where great cocktails and unbeatable party vibes meet iconic music heritage.
Mansion Nightclub
0.4 km
Liverpool’s vibrant nightclub with the UK’s largest LED ceiling, laser shows, and a dynamic party atmosphere in the city centre.
Mambo Club Liverpool
0.4 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Mambo Club, where electrifying music and lively crowds create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Modo, Liverpool
0.4 km
Liverpool's Concert Square legend: multi-room nightclub with cocktails, sports screens, heated terrace, and epic party spaces for every vibe.
LEVEL Nightclub Liverpool
0.4 km
Liverpool’s expansive multi-floor nightclub offering diverse music, VIP areas, and a buzzing party atmosphere in the heart of Ropewalks.
Aura
0.5 km
Dive into Liverpool's pulsating beats at Aura Nightclub, where Afrobeats and R&B fuel intimate, high-energy nights in Ropewalks' vibrant core.
Baa Bar Liverpool
0.5 km
Two floors of house and R&B beats, £2 shooters, and courtyard vibes in Liverpool's nightlife epicenter—perfect for students and party-hoppers alike.
GBar Liverpool
0.5 km
Liverpool's legendary late-night gay club: pop upstairs, bass downstairs, dancing till dawn on Eberle Street's vibrant strip.
Elysium Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic DJ events and an energetic atmosphere at Elysium Nightclub, open late on weekends.
Ink Bar Liverpool
0.5 km
Liverpool's premier R&B and house nightclub, where stylish cocktails, thumping beats, and luxury vibes fuel unforgettable nights on Wood Street.
BrooklynMixer
0.6 km
Liverpool's original R&B haven on Seel Street: three floors of hip-hop beats, craft cocktails, leather lounges, and private party vibes from dusk till dawn.
Pure Nightlounge
0.6 km
Liverpool’s boutique R&B nightspot with VIP booths, tight dancefloor energy and a late-night, fashion-forward vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
