Sefton Park Palm House: Liverpool’s Victorian Botanical Jewel
Explore Liverpool’s iconic Victorian glasshouse, a lush tropical oasis and vibrant cultural hub nestled in historic Sefton Park.
Sefton Park Palm House is a stunning Victorian glasshouse located within Liverpool’s expansive Sefton Park. Built in 1896 as a generous gift from Henry Yates Thompson, this Grade II* listed structure showcases a rich collection of exotic plants under its soaring iron and glass dome. The Palm House offers visitors a tranquil tropical retreat and vibrant cultural events year-round, making it a cherished landmark and community hub in Liverpool.
A brief summary to Sefton Park Palm House
- Sefton Park, Liverpool, L17 1AP, GB
- +441517269304
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more peaceful experience inside the Palm House.
- Take time to explore the surrounding Sefton Park, including its lakes, bandstand, and the Peter Pan statue.
- Check the Palm House’s event calendar for live music, exhibitions, and family-friendly workshops.
- Enjoy refreshments at the on-site tea room, perfect for a relaxing break during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus
Several local bus routes serve Sefton Park, with stops within a 10-minute walk of the Palm House. Buses from Liverpool city centre take approximately 20-30 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4 for a single journey. Service frequency is generally every 15-30 minutes during the day.
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Car
Driving to Sefton Park Palm House is straightforward with parking available nearby on public streets. Travel time from Liverpool city centre is about 15 minutes depending on traffic. Note that parking is limited and may require payment during peak times.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central Liverpool to the Palm House typically takes 10-15 minutes and costs approximately £8-£12. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially outside public transport hours.
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Cycling
Cyclists can access Sefton Park via dedicated bike lanes and secure bike racks are provided at the Palm House. Cycling from central Liverpool takes about 20-30 minutes depending on route and fitness.
Sefton Park Palm House 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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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sefton Park Palm House
A Gift of Victorian Grandeur and Community Spirit
Sefton Park Palm House was constructed in 1896, funded by Henry Yates Thompson, Liverpool’s first Lord Mayor and a wealthy local benefactor. His generous donation of £10,000 enabled the Liverpool Parks Committee to commission Mackenzie and Moncur Ltd, leading glasshouse designers of the era, to create this magnificent conservatory. Designed in the tradition of Joseph Paxton’s iconic glasshouses, the Palm House was intended as the crowning jewel of Sefton Park, which had opened to the public in 1872 without a central feature. The Palm House quickly became a symbol of civic pride and a place where residents could encounter exotic plants from around the world without leaving Liverpool.Architectural Elegance and Botanical Richness
The Palm House is a Grade II* listed building, notable for its intricate iron framework and a soaring three-tier dome that reaches 25 metres in height. This architectural marvel creates an airy, light-filled environment ideal for the tropical and subtropical plants it houses. Visitors can wander through a lush collection of palms, ferns, orchids, and other exotic species sourced from continents including Asia, Australasia, Africa, and the Americas. The plant displays are carefully curated to evoke a vibrant tropical atmosphere, with colourful blooms and towering foliage providing a feast for the senses.Survival, Restoration, and Renewal
The Palm House has endured significant challenges over its history. During World War II, it was camouflaged to avoid detection by enemy bombers, but a nearby bomb blast shattered much of its glass. Post-war restoration replaced the glass in the 1950s, but decades of neglect led to its closure in the 1980s due to safety concerns. A passionate public campaign and fundraising efforts culminated in a comprehensive £3.5 million restoration project, supported by Heritage Lottery and European funds, which saw the Palm House painstakingly rebuilt and fully reopened in 2001. Today, it stands as a testament to Liverpool’s dedication to preserving its cultural and historical heritage.A Hub for Culture, Community, and Wellbeing
Beyond its botanical appeal, Sefton Park Palm House serves as a vibrant cultural venue. It hosts a diverse programme of events including live music, art exhibitions, workshops, and family activities throughout the year. The venue is also popular for private hires such as weddings and corporate events, contributing significantly to the local economy. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, relax in the on-site tea room, or explore the surrounding Sefton Park with its lakes, bandstand, and iconic Peter Pan statue. The Palm House’s accessible grounds welcome people of all ages and interests, making it a cherished community asset.Engaging Stories and Historical Layers
The Palm House’s history is rich with intriguing stories, from the discovery of an unexploded suffragette bomb in 1913 to its role during the Liverpool Blitz. Statues around the exterior honour famous botanists, explorers, and scientists, while inside visitors can find tributes such as the figure of Highland Mary, beloved by poet Robert Burns. The Palm House’s layered past enhances its character, inviting visitors to connect not only with nature but also with Liverpool’s social and cultural narratives.An Oasis in the Heart of Liverpool
Set within the vast greenery of Sefton Park—the largest public park in Liverpool—the Palm House offers a peaceful escape from urban life. Its blend of historic architecture, botanical diversity, and community spirit creates a unique destination where nature, history, and culture converge. Open seven days a week with free admission, it remains a beloved landmark and a living legacy of Victorian innovation and local generosity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
12 Arnold Grove
2.3 km
The humble Victorian birthplace of George Harrison, where The Beatles' quiet genius began his extraordinary journey.
Huskisson Memorial
3.0 km
A solemn mausoleum in Liverpool honoring William Huskisson, the first prominent victim of a railway accident and a figure of complex historical legacy.
Red Brick Market Liverpool
3.1 km
Discover the eclectic charm of Red Brick Market in Liverpool, a hub for local crafts, delicious street food, and vibrant community events.
Chinese Arch
3.4 km
Europe’s tallest Chinese ceremonial arch, a vibrant gateway to Liverpool’s historic Chinatown and symbol of enduring cultural ties with Shanghai.
The Christmace Truce Memorial Statue - St Luke's Church
3.5 km
A powerful tribute to the 1914 Christmas Truce, set within Liverpool’s evocative Bombed Out Church, symbolizing peace and unity amid war.
St Luke’s Bombed Out Church
3.5 km
A roofless Gothic memorial where wartime tragedy transformed into cultural renaissance and timeless celebration.
Wade Smith Mural by Paul Curtis
3.8 km
Explore the Wade Smith Mural by Paul Curtis in Liverpool, a vibrant expression of art reflecting the city's dynamic culture and heritage.
Nordic Church and Cultural Centre
3.8 km
Discover the beauty and cultural richness of the Gustav Adolf Scandinavian Church in Liverpool, a serene hub celebrating Nordic traditions.
Wolstenholme Square
3.9 km
A historic Georgian square reborn through art and regeneration, crowned by a vibrant public sculpture.
Old Wall Arch Albert Dock UK
4.1 km
Historic Georgian gateway at Liverpool’s Albert Dock, blending maritime heritage with vibrant cultural life and scenic waterfront charm.
'The Great Escape' statue
4.1 km
A powerful bronze horse symbolising freedom and human liberation at Liverpool's historic waterfront.
The Bluecoat
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant art scene at The Bluecoat, Liverpool's oldest art center, showcasing contemporary exhibitions and cultural events.
Wheel Of Liverpool
4.1 km
Experience breathtaking views of Liverpool from the iconic Wheel, a must-visit tourist attraction for stunning city panoramas.
Dukes Dock Liverpool
4.2 km
Explore Duke's Dock in Liverpool, a scenic waterfront gem rich in maritime history, perfect for leisurely strolls, dining, and cultural experiences.
St Johns Beacon Viewing Gallery
4.2 km
Discover breathtaking views of Liverpool from St Johns Beacon Viewing Gallery, an iconic landmark blending history, culture, and stunning panoramas.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sefton Park
0.2 km
Explore Sefton Park’s vast Victorian landscapes, iconic Palm House, serene lake, and rich cultural heritage in the heart of Liverpool.
Penny Ln
1.2 km
Explore Penny Lane, Liverpool’s legendary street immortalized by The Beatles, where music history and local charm converge in a timeless tribute.
Sudley House
1.3 km
Discover Sudley House, Liverpool’s hidden Victorian gem with original art masterpieces and tranquil gardens in a historic merchant’s home.
The Penny Lane
1.5 km
Explore the legendary Penny Lane in Liverpool, a cultural gem featuring delightful pubs, historic charm, and a rich connection to The Beatles.
St Barnabas Penny Lane
1.6 km
Discover the enchanting St Barnabas Penny Lane in Liverpool, a vibrant church and live music venue rich with history and cultural significance.
The Penny Lane Shopping Centre
1.6 km
A vibrant community shopping centre in Liverpool’s L15, offering diverse stores, accessibility, and extended hours for a convenient retail experience.
Princes Park
1.6 km
A historic Victorian park in Liverpool with serene lake views, vibrant sports facilities, and family-friendly playgrounds nestled in elegant surroundings.
Ringo Starr Mural
1.9 km
A vibrant, large-scale mural celebrating Ringo Starr’s Liverpool roots and musical legacy in the heart of Toxteth.
10 Admiral Grove
1.9 km
Explore the modest Victorian home where Ringo Starr grew up, a cornerstone of Beatles history nestled in Liverpool’s vibrant Toxteth district.
Wavertree Botanic Gardens
2.7 km
Discover Liverpool’s historic green oasis with stunning cherry blossoms, tranquil gardens, and family-friendly spaces open year-round.
Calderstones Park
2.7 km
A historic 126-acre green oasis in Liverpool blending ancient heritage, Georgian architecture, botanical gardens, and vibrant community culture.
Georgian Quarter
2.9 km
Historic elegance meets vibrant culture in Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter, a charming neighborhood of classic architecture and creative spirit.
Williamson Tunnels Heritage Centre
3.0 km
Explore Liverpool’s mysterious 19th-century underground tunnels and discover the legacy of Joseph Williamson’s enigmatic labyrinth.
St James Mount And The Gardens
3.0 km
Historic gardens and tranquil green space beneath Liverpool Cathedral, blending quarry heritage, Victorian cemetery remnants, and a natural spring.
Friends of Williamson's Tunnels - FoWT
3.0 km
Explore Liverpool’s mysterious 19th-century underground tunnels, a hidden labyrinth of sandstone chambers and industrial heritage.
Essential places to dine
Belzan
1.2 km
A lively Liverpool bistro blending seasonal British small plates, natural wines, and warm hospitality in a vibrant neighbourhood setting.
Gustum Bar & Restaurant
1.4 km
A vibrant grill and Mediterranean restaurant on Liverpool’s Rose Lane, blending bold flavors with warm hospitality in a lively urban setting.
Spire
1.6 km
Modern European dining with seasonal creativity and a plush, welcoming atmosphere in Liverpool’s vibrant Wavertree district.
5 Fifty Bistro
2.4 km
A cozy, intimate bistro on Aigburth Road serving refined European-inspired dishes in a warm, welcoming setting.
The Art School Restaurant
3.1 km
Elegant fine dining in a stunning Victorian setting near Hope Street, blending local ingredients with artistic culinary flair.
The Quarter
3.2 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with fresh Italian flavours in Liverpool’s historic Georgian Quarter, open daily till late.
The London Carriage Works
3.2 km
Historic elegance meets refined British cuisine in Liverpool’s boutique Hope Street Hotel dining gem.
Camp and Furnace
3.3 km
Industrial charm meets vibrant nightlife at Camp and Furnace, Liverpool’s premier restaurant, bar, and live events venue.
Restaurants Liverpool
3.4 km
Authentic Italian cuisine meets Liverpool’s creative Baltic Triangle in a stylish, welcoming setting perfect for casual daytime dining.
Chamber 36 City Centre
3.4 km
Discover vibrant Pan-Asian flavors and crafted cocktails in a serene, stylish setting at Liverpool’s Chamber 36 City Centre.
Roski Restaurant
3.5 km
An intimate Modern British dining experience in Liverpool, blending MasterChef-winning creativity with seasonal elegance and warm hospitality.
Manifest Restaurant
3.5 km
Creative modern British cuisine in Liverpool’s vibrant Baltic Triangle, featuring an open kitchen and bold, seasonal dishes in an intimate setting.
Cowshed Liverpool
3.5 km
A cozy, intimate steakhouse in Liverpool’s city centre, serving expertly cooked beef with attentive service and a unique historic setting.
Golden Dragon
3.6 km
Authentic Chinese dining in Liverpool’s city center, serving flavorful traditional dishes in a casual evening setting.
Maray Bold Street
3.6 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern small plates with bold flavours and plant-based options in the heart of Liverpool’s Bold Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Larks
0.8 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, gifts, and homeware in a vibrant, bohemian shop nestled in Liverpool’s iconic Lark Lane.
Number 13
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Number 13, a welcoming boutique on Liverpool’s vibrant Lark Lane.
Lark Lane Gallery
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local art in the heart of Liverpool’s bohemian Lark Lane at Lark Lane Gallery.
Penny Lane Emporium
1.5 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and antiques in a warm, nostalgic setting at Liverpool’s Penny Lane Emporium.
Unique Fashion Boutique
3.1 km
Discover exclusive ladies' fashion and accessories in a cozy Liverpool boutique known for personalized style and unique collections.
Ingraved Alternative Gift Store
3.1 km
Discover unique, handcrafted gifts and art in Liverpool’s vibrant Red Brick Market at Ingraved Alternative Gift Store.
The Liverpool Crystal Shop
3.1 km
Discover shimmering crystals and healing gems in Liverpool's edgy Red Brick Market, where Baltic Triangle creativity meets earth's ancient energies.
Liverpool Cathedral Shop
3.1 km
Discover unique gifts and spiritual treasures at Liverpool Cathedral Shop, supporting heritage and community within Britain’s largest cathedral.
Albert Dock Mini Market (previously named Hajaj General Super Store)
3.4 km
Discover local flavors and convenience at Albert Dock Mini Market, the heart of Liverpool’s grocery shopping, offering a vibrant selection for every traveler.
Gift Insanity
3.4 km
Discover Liverpool’s most delightful gift shop, where quirky and unique treasures await every occasion on St James Street.
Pop Boutique
3.6 km
Explore Pop Boutique in Liverpool for unique vintage clothing treasures that reflect timeless style and local creativity.
69A
3.6 km
Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures in Liverpool’s vibrant Renshaw Street at 69A, where history meets style.
The Hippy Hole
3.6 km
Discover handmade tie-dye fashion and bohemian treasures bursting with color and spirit on Liverpool’s vibrant Bold Street.
Shared Earth
3.7 km
Discover unique, sustainable gifts at Shared Earth, Liverpool’s hub for fair trade treasures and ethical craftsmanship.
Utility Gift Store
3.7 km
Quirky gifts and unique designs on Liverpool's Bold Street – your indie haven for Moomin magic, scented candles, and cards that say it best. Dog-friendly delight.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tank Room
3.1 km
Liverpool's ruin bar in a fermentation tank: tank-fresh beers, live music, cocktails, and industrial quirk in Cains Brewery Village.
Arts Bar Baltic
3.3 km
A studio‑style café by day and intimate music-and-art bar by night in Liverpool’s Baltic Triangle.
The Font
3.3 km
A lively Liverpool bar famed for cheap cocktails, homemade burgers, and a welcoming atmosphere since 2001.
The Pen Factory
3.3 km
Industrial-chic bistro bar on Liverpool’s Hope Street with seasonal small plates, lively atmosphere, and a popular beer garden.
Liverpool Arts Bar
3.3 km
A vibrant creative hub in a historic Masonic Hall, blending local art, live performances, and crafted drinks on Liverpool’s iconic Hope Street.
Botanical Garden
3.3 km
A plant‑filled, seasonal outdoor bar in the Baltic Triangle specialising in gin, street food and relaxed live music under festoon lights.
Yard
3.4 km
Container bar buzz in Liverpool's creative Baltic Triangle – craft drinks, street art vibes, and industrial cool await.
Red Door
3.5 km
A lively cocktail bar on Berry Street offering expertly crafted drinks, vibrant music, and a buzzing rooftop atmosphere in the heart of Liverpool.
Berry and Rye
3.5 km
Knock to uncover Liverpool's speakeasy soul: jazz-infused cocktails, whiskey whispers, and Prohibition magic behind Berry Street's black door.
The Oracle
3.5 km
Liverpool's secret speakeasy where cocktails meet close-up magic—buzz in for illusions, tarot, and vintage vibes that defy reality.
Hobo Kiosk
3.5 km
Liverpool's tiniest, quirkiest pub: vintage chaos, craft pours, and community vibes in the Baltic Triangle's creative heart.
The Duck and Swagger
3.5 km
Cozy Baltic Triangle pub serving hearty scouse, all-day brekkies, and local ales in multi-roomed splendor—Liverpool's welcoming hidden gem.
Salt Dog Slim's
3.5 km
Liverpool's dive bar legend: world beers, fiery cocktails, chili dogs, and secret speakeasy vibes on Seel Street.
Love Lane Brewery, Bar and Kitchen
3.6 km
Discover the heart of Liverpool's brewing scene at Love Lane Brewery, where craft beers meet delicious food in a lively atmosphere.
Bar Bodega
3.6 km
Liverpool's underground disco den: Ibizan house beats in a brick cellar nightclub, pulsing late into the night with cocktails and private party vibes.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Blue Angel Nightclub
3.5 km
Liverpool's dingy dive for 60s rock legends, dirt-cheap drinks, and sweaty throwback dances—where The Beatles once rocked and students still rage till dawn.
Cool It
3.6 km
A multi-level, student-friendly nightclub on Seel Street offering loud DJ nights, bargain entry and packed late‑night dancefloors.
Pure Nightlounge
3.6 km
Liverpool’s boutique R&B nightspot with VIP booths, tight dancefloor energy and a late-night, fashion-forward vibe.
Heebie Jeebies
3.6 km
Liverpool's eclectic nightlife heart: multi-level bar, live music basement, courtyard hangs, and anthemic nights until dawn on Seel Street.
EBGBS
3.6 km
Liverpool's gritty basement nightclub where live indie gigs, craft cocktails, and underground vibes fuel epic nights until 4am in the heart of Seel Street.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
3.7 km
Liverpool's ultimate supper club: fuel up on hearty meals, then dance the night away to drag shows, tributes, and non-stop hits near Echo Arena.
BrooklynMixer
3.7 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.
Ink Bar Liverpool
3.7 km
Liverpool's premier R&B and house nightclub, where stylish cocktails, thumping beats, and luxury vibes fuel unforgettable nights on Wood Street.
Aura
3.8 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
3.8 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.
Concert Square Bars And Clubs Liverpool
3.9 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Liverpool at Concert Square Bars and Clubs, where diverse bars and clubs create an unforgettable experience.
Modo, Liverpool
3.9 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
3.9 km
Liverpool’s expansive multi-floor nightclub offering diverse music, VIP areas, and a buzzing party atmosphere in the heart of Ropewalks.
ELECTRIK WAREHOUSE
3.9 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.
Popworld - Liverpool
4.0 km
Liverpool's ultimate cheesy pop haven: 90s bangers, cheap drinks, and dance-'til-dawn vibes in the heart of Ropewalks.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
