Duke's Dock Liverpool: Historic Canal Terminus and Leisure Spot
One of Britain’s oldest docks, Duke's Dock blends historic canal heritage with tranquil riverside leisure in Liverpool’s city centre.
Duke's Dock Liverpool, located on Gower Street, is one of the oldest surviving docks in Britain, built in 1773 by the Duke of Bridgewater as a coastal terminus for his canal. Today, this small preserved dock sits quietly on the banks of the River Mersey, blending rich industrial heritage with modern leisure and tourism uses in Liverpool’s vibrant city centre.
A brief summary to Dukes Dock Liverpool
- Gower St, Liverpool, L3 4AS, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience before the city’s bustle begins.
- Bring a camera to capture the dock’s historic warehouses and scenic Mersey views.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like King’s Dock and Albert Dock for a full day of exploration.
- Check local weather as the dock is an outdoor site and can be windy by the river.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the number 10 or 17 bus to the 'Gower Street' stop; from there, it is a short 5-minute walk to Duke's Dock. Buses run frequently with fares around £2-£3.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Liverpool Lime Street Station, then take a 20-minute walk through the city centre to reach Duke's Dock, passing notable landmarks en route.
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Taxi
A taxi from Liverpool Lime Street Station to Duke's Dock takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10.
Dukes Dock Liverpool location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Dukes Dock Liverpool
Origins of Liverpool’s Oldest Canal Dock
Duke's Dock was constructed in 1773 under the direction of the Duke of Bridgewater, a pioneering figure in British canal engineering. It served as the coastal terminus for the Duke of Bridgewater’s Canal, which linked inland industrial Manchester to Liverpool’s port. This dock was among the earliest purpose-built docks designed to facilitate the transshipment of goods between canal barges and seagoing vessels, playing a crucial role in the expansion of Liverpool’s maritime trade.Architectural and Functional Features
Though small by modern standards, Duke's Dock was innovative for its time. It featured a multi-storey warehouse built between 1780 and 1783, one of the first of its kind in Liverpool. The warehouse was designed with internal shipping holes allowing barges to float inside, enabling cargo to be unloaded directly under cover. Hoists and doors on each floor facilitated efficient vertical movement of goods, reflecting early industrial logistics ingenuity.Location and Urban Context
Situated on Gower Street near King’s Dock, Duke's Dock occupies a strategic position on the western shore of the River Mersey. It was originally accessed via a tidal water channel and formed part of a larger dockland complex that grew with Liverpool’s maritime infrastructure. Today, the dock is nestled within Liverpool’s city centre, surrounded by a mix of historic and modern developments, offering a tranquil contrast to the bustling nearby Albert Dock and Pier Head areas.Transition to Leisure and Tourism
With the decline of commercial shipping and canal freight transport, Duke's Dock has transitioned from industrial use to a focus on leisure and tourism. It now serves as a quiet and scenic spot for visitors and locals alike, offering picturesque views of the Mersey and a sense of Liverpool’s rich maritime past. Its preserved structures and waterside setting make it a unique heritage asset within the city’s docklands.Significance in Liverpool’s Maritime Heritage
Duke's Dock stands as a testament to the early canal and dock engineering that helped establish Liverpool as a major global port. Its association with the Duke of Bridgewater and the Bridgewater Canal highlights the dock’s importance in the industrial revolution and the development of integrated transport networks. Preserved as a historic site, it offers insight into 18th-century dock construction and the evolution of maritime commerce.Contemporary Experience and Atmosphere
Today, visitors to Duke's Dock can enjoy a peaceful waterside environment that contrasts with the more commercialized docks nearby. The dock’s intimate scale and historic character provide a reflective space within Liverpool’s urban fabric. Its location on Gower Street makes it accessible while maintaining a quieter ambience, ideal for leisurely strolls, photography, and appreciating the city’s industrial heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Albert Dock Pride Sculpture
0.1 km
A vibrant public artwork at Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock celebrating LGBTQ+ pride, diversity, and the city’s rich maritime heritage.
Old Wall Arch Albert Dock UK
0.2 km
Historic Georgian gateway at Liverpool’s Albert Dock, blending maritime heritage with vibrant cultural life and scenic waterfront charm.
'The Great Escape' statue
0.3 km
A powerful bronze horse symbolising freedom and human liberation at Liverpool's historic waterfront.
Legacy Sculpture
0.4 km
A powerful bronze tribute at Royal Albert Dock honoring Liverpool’s migrant heritage and the hopeful journeys to the New World.
Billy Fury
0.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of Liverpool’s rock and roll pioneer with the iconic Billy Fury statue at the historic Royal Albert Dock.
Viewing window to the Old Dock
0.5 km
Step through a glass window into the world’s first commercial wet dock, the birthplace of Liverpool’s global maritime legacy.
Mann Island
0.5 km
Contemporary waterfront landmark reflecting Liverpool's maritime heritage through striking architecture and cultural innovation.
The Port Of Liverpool Building
0.6 km
The oldest of Liverpool’s Three Graces, this Edwardian Baroque masterpiece at Pier Head is a powerful symbol of the city’s golden age as a global port and a defining feature of its historic skyline.
The Bluecoat
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant art scene at The Bluecoat, Liverpool's oldest art center, showcasing contemporary exhibitions and cultural events.
The Liverpool Waterfront
0.8 km
Discover the beauty and history of Liverpool Waterfront, where iconic landmarks meet vibrant culture along the banks of the River Mersey.
Pier Head
0.8 km
Explore the stunning waterfront of Liverpool at Pier Head, a vibrant ferry terminal rich in maritime heritage and cultural attractions.
The British Music Experience
0.8 km
Explore the vibrant history of British music at The British Music Experience, an interactive museum celebrating iconic artists and genres in Liverpool.
Cunard Building
0.8 km
A majestic waterfront landmark embodying Liverpool’s rich maritime history and Cunard’s legacy of luxury ocean travel.
The Three Graces
0.8 km
Iconic trio of waterfront buildings symbolizing Liverpool’s maritime heritage and architectural grandeur at the Pier Head.
Coopers Building
0.8 km
Discover Coopers Building, a striking early 20th-century landmark that enriches Liverpool’s historic Church Street with timeless architectural charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Beatles Magical Mystery Tour
0.1 km
Liverpool's longest-running Beatles tour: visit iconic homes, legendary landmarks, and the Cavern Club where it all began.
Wheel Of Liverpool
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Liverpool’s iconic waterfront from the 60-meter-high Wheel of Liverpool.
The Beatles Story Museum, Liverpool
0.1 km
Immerse yourself in the ultimate Beatles experience at Liverpool’s iconic waterfront museum celebrating the Fab Four’s legendary journey.
Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
0.1 km
A beautifully restored 19th-century dock turned vibrant waterfront hub of culture, dining, and history on the River Mersey.
Liverpool wheel
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Liverpool’s iconic waterfront from the 60-meter Wheel of Liverpool at Royal Albert Dock.
Magical Mystery Tour
0.1 km
Explore Liverpool’s Beatles heritage on the iconic Magical Mystery Tour, visiting legendary sites from childhood homes to the world-famous Cavern Club.
Liverpool City Sights Tour Bus
0.1 km
Discover Liverpool’s iconic landmarks and rich history aboard a flexible hop-on hop-off open-top bus tour with live, engaging commentary.
M&S Bank Arena
0.2 km
Liverpool’s premier waterfront arena, hosting world-class concerts, sports, and events in a flexible 11,000-capacity venue.
Salthouse Dock Liverpool - UK
0.2 km
One of Liverpool’s oldest docks, Salthouse Dock is a quiet stretch of water steeped in salt-trade history, now part of the Albert Dock’s UNESCO waterfront.
Salthouse Quay
0.2 km
Historic Liverpool dock with scenic waterside moorings, rich maritime heritage, and vibrant connections to the Royal Albert Dock waterfront.
House of Spells
0.3 km
Step into Liverpool’s largest fandom shop at Albert Dock, where magic, cult TV, and iconic collectibles come alive across two immersive floors.
The Dock Traffic Office, Liverpool
0.3 km
Historic Grade I listed Dock Traffic Office in Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock, a symbol of maritime heritage and Victorian industrial design.
Maritime Museum
0.3 km
Explore Liverpool’s maritime past at the free Merseyside Maritime Museum, nestled in the historic and vibrant Royal Albert Dock.
Pump House
0.3 km
Waterside Victorian pumphouse turned lively pub-restaurant on Albert Dock, serving classic British dishes and seasonal ales with dock views.
Tate Liverpool
0.3 km
Discover Tate Liverpool’s vibrant contemporary art and family activities at RIBA North, Mann Island, amidst Liverpool’s iconic waterfront.
Essential places to dine
Lunyalita
0.1 km
Authentic Catalan tapas and deli delights with stunning Albert Dock views in Liverpool’s historic Britannia Pavilion.
Maray Albert Dock
0.1 km
Mediterranean and Middle Eastern small plates in a vibrant waterfront setting at Liverpool’s historic Royal Albert Dock.
Madre
0.1 km
Vibrant Mexican taqueria at Albert Dock: authentic tacos, killer margaritas, and waterfront terrace vibes in Liverpool's heart.
Rudy's Pizza Napoletana - Albert Dock
0.1 km
Authentic Neapolitan pizzas served in a lively waterfront setting at Liverpool’s historic Albert Dock.
Floating Grace
0.1 km
Dine and cruise the Mersey aboard a historic vessel, combining fresh cuisine with scenic waterfront views and entertaining skipper commentary.
PANAM Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
Savor Scouse stew and craft cocktails amid Albert Dock's glittering waters—PANAM blends Liverpool's maritime soul with vibrant brunches and live music nights.
Miller & Carter Albert Dock
0.1 km
Savor expertly crafted British and Irish steaks with panoramic Albert Dock views in Liverpool’s vibrant waterfront steakhouse.
What's Cooking
0.1 km
Hearty American-Mexican grills with Mersey views in Liverpool's historic Albert Dock—a dockside dining staple since 1978.
The Botanist Albert Dock
0.2 km
A lush botanical bar and restaurant at Liverpool’s Albert Dock, blending garden-inspired charm with creative cocktails and vibrant dining.
Revolución de Cuba Liverpool
0.2 km
Discover authentic Cuban cuisine at Revolución de Cuba Liverpool—where vibrant culture meets exquisite flavors in a lively lounge setting.
Gusto Italian
0.3 km
Stylish Italian dining in Liverpool’s Edward Pavilion, blending classic Milanese flavors with a sleek, inviting atmosphere.
The Exchange Restaurant
0.4 km
Elegant British dining with seasonal menus and scenic park views at Hilton Liverpool City Centre’s premier restaurant.
Churrasco Steak House - City - Liverpool
0.5 km
A vibrant Liverpool steakhouse blending South American flair with British quality steaks and interactive dining in the city centre.
Amalia - Italian Restaurant Liverpool
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Amalia, Liverpool’s beloved family-inspired Italian restaurant in Campbell Square.
FATBACK
0.5 km
Savor gourmet burgers crafted with fresh ingredients in Liverpool’s vibrant waterfront setting at FATBACK.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Fab4 Store
0.1 km
Liverpool's ultimate Beatles emporium: official merch, rare finds, and Fab Four magic at Albert Dock's heart.
Annabel's Accessories
0.2 km
Fashion accessories in Liverpool's historic Royal Albert Dock, blending style with UNESCO heritage at The Colonnades.
Nature's Treasure
0.2 km
Intimate jewellery boutique in The Colonnades, offering handcrafted pieces, bespoke commissions and restoration inside Liverpool’s historic Albert Dock.
The Nest Liverpool
0.2 km
Unique gifts and local crafts in Liverpool's historic Royal Albert Dock—a perfect waterfront stop for authentic Scouse souvenirs.
With Love From Liverpool
0.2 km
Liverpool's ultimate souvenir haven in the Royal Albert Dock, brimming with Beatles treasures, Scouse spirit, and authentic gifts that capture the city's unbeatable vibe.
Lost Soles
0.2 km
Unique graphic tees and menswear in Liverpool's historic Albert Dock – independent style with waterfront flair.
Off The List Luxury
0.2 km
Discreet luxury watch boutique in Liverpool's business heart, offering Rolex Datejust and elite timepieces with expert, professional service.
Pride of Liverpool
0.3 km
Whistle-stop souvenirs celebrating Liverpool pride and Britain's iconic cities in the heart of Royal Albert Dock's historic colonnades.
Oliver Bonas
0.6 km
Colourful, design-led fashion and homeware in Liverpool ONE — a boutique atmosphere for stylish gifts and everyday statement pieces.
KENJI Liverpool ONE
0.6 km
Discover cute plushies, quirky gifts, and local makers in Liverpool ONE's playful arcade-gift haven—perfect for unique souvenirs and fun finds.
Urban Outfitters
0.6 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired fashion and eclectic homewares at Urban Outfitters Liverpool, a vibrant hub for style and culture in the city centre.
Utility
0.6 km
Independent Liverpool gift shop specialising in quirky, design-led presents, cards and small homewares with a friendly, well-curated atmosphere.
Menkind
0.7 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.
House Of Gifts
0.8 km
A fun-filled Liverpool novelty shop packed with souvenirs, local memorabilia, and quirky gifts for visitors and locals alike.
Gift Insanity
0.8 km
Discover Liverpool’s most delightful gift shop, where quirky and unique treasures await every occasion on St James Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Long Shot Bar
0.0 km
Liverpool's premier dockside sports bar: epic screens, killer cocktails, and stacked sandwiches amid Albert Dock's historic charm.
The One O'Clock Gun
0.1 km
Raise a glass to Liverpool's maritime heartbeat at this dockside pub, where historic time signals meet modern merriment and Mersey views.
Revolution Liverpool - Albert Dock
0.2 km
Vibrant cocktails, riverside vibes, and non-stop nightlife in Liverpool's legendary Albert Dock—where dockside history meets modern revelry.
Baltic Fleet
0.3 km
Historic flat-iron pub in Liverpool's docks, pouring craft ales and cask brews amid maritime heritage and Baltic Triangle buzz.
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.
Sub Rosa
0.5 km
Quirky outdoor bar in Liverpool's Baltic Triangle: fire pits, craft brews, street food, and industrial charm for unforgettable gatherings under glitter balls and warehouse skies.
The Duck and Swagger
0.7 km
Cozy Baltic Triangle pub serving hearty scouse, all-day brekkies, and local ales in multi-roomed splendor—Liverpool's welcoming hidden gem.
Hobo Kiosk
0.7 km
Liverpool's tiniest, quirkiest pub: vintage chaos, craft pours, and community vibes in the Baltic Triangle's creative heart.
The Slaughter House
0.7 km
Historic Liverpool pub blending hearty gastropub fare with lively live music and comedy in a warm, rustic setting.
Kazimier Garden
0.7 km
Liverpool's original garden bar: quirky outdoor oasis with craft brews, live gigs, and fairy-lit magic in the heart of Ropewalks.
Alcotraz Liverpool: Cell Block Three-Six
0.7 km
Experience immersive cocktails and themed nights at Alcotraz Liverpool: Cell Block Three-Six, a unique cocktail bar that offers an unforgettable night out.
Moonshine Saloon Liverpool
0.8 km
Step into Liverpool’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure blending live theatre, bespoke drinks, and interactive fun.
Be At One - Liverpool
0.8 km
Liverpool's cocktail epicenter: 100+ mixes, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclass shakes in a chic Seel Street hotspot.
Yard
0.8 km
Container bar buzz in Liverpool's creative Baltic Triangle – craft drinks, street art vibes, and industrial cool await.
The Alchemist Liverpool
0.8 km
Experience Liverpool’s premier cocktail bar where molecular mixology meets bold flavors and vibrant city vibes.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Playground Liverpool
0.4 km
Liverpool's luxury nightclub haven in the Hilton, pulsing with upscale beats by the Mersey waterfront – exclusive nights await in the heart of the city.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
0.5 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.
LEVEL Nightclub Liverpool
0.8 km
Liverpool’s expansive multi-floor nightclub offering diverse music, VIP areas, and a buzzing party atmosphere in the heart of Ropewalks.
ELECTRIK WAREHOUSE
0.8 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
0.8 km
Liverpool's ultimate cheesy pop haven: 90s bangers, cheap drinks, and dance-'til-dawn vibes in the heart of Ropewalks.
Modo, Liverpool
0.8 km
Liverpool's Concert Square legend: multi-room nightclub with cocktails, sports screens, heated terrace, and epic party spaces for every vibe.
Flares - Liverpool
0.9 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Flares on Mathew Street, where great cocktails and unbeatable party vibes meet iconic music heritage.
Concert Square Bars And Clubs Liverpool
0.9 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Liverpool at Concert Square Bars and Clubs, where diverse bars and clubs create an unforgettable experience.
BrooklynMixer
0.9 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.
Baa Bar Liverpool
0.9 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.
EBGBS
0.9 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.
Mambo Club Liverpool
0.9 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Mambo Club, where electrifying music and lively crowds create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Heebie Jeebies
0.9 km
Liverpool's eclectic nightlife heart: multi-level bar, live music basement, courtyard hangs, and anthemic nights until dawn on Seel Street.
Heaven Nightclub Liverpool
0.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and inclusive spirit at Heaven Nightclub in Liverpool, a top destination for nightlife enthusiasts.
Ink Bar Liverpool
0.9 km
Liverpool's premier R&B and house nightclub, where stylish cocktails, thumping beats, and luxury vibes fuel unforgettable nights on Wood Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly