The Dock Traffic Office, Liverpool: A Historic Maritime Landmark
Historic Grade I listed Dock Traffic Office in Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock, a symbol of maritime heritage and Victorian industrial design.
The Dock Traffic Office, a Grade I listed heritage building in Liverpool's Royal Albert Dock, stands as a testament to the city's maritime legacy. Designed by Jesse Hartley and Philip Hardwick in 1846-7, this iconic brick and sandstone structure once managed dock operations and later served diverse roles including a WWII anti-aircraft gunnery school. Today, it complements the vibrant Albert Dock area, blending historical significance with cultural vitality.
A brief summary to The Dock Traffic Office, Liverpool
- Hartley Quay, Salthouse Quay, Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool, L3 4AX, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit in the morning on weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and better photo opportunities.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the dock area features historic cobblestones and extensive walking paths.
- Explore nearby attractions in Royal Albert Dock such as the Maritime Museum and Tate Liverpool for a full cultural experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the building’s distinctive Victorian architecture and scenic waterfront views.
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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Train
Travel to Liverpool Lime Street Station, the city’s main rail hub. From there, it’s approximately a 20-minute walk to the Dock Traffic Office, crossing pedestrian-friendly areas. Train services run frequently from major UK cities, with ticket prices ranging from £10 to £30 depending on origin.
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Bus
Take bus numbers 82 or 86 from Liverpool Lime Street Station area towards the waterfront. Alight at the 'Albert Dock' stop, then walk about 5 minutes to the Dock Traffic Office. Bus fares typically cost around £2.50 per journey, with services running every 10-20 minutes.
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Walking
From Liverpool city center, enjoy a 15-25 minute walk to the Dock Traffic Office along mostly flat, paved routes. The area is accessible for wheelchairs, but note that some cobbled surfaces may be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
The Dock Traffic Office, Liverpool 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 The Dock Traffic Office, Liverpool
Architectural Heritage and Design Legacy
The Dock Traffic Office was constructed between 1846 and 1847, designed initially by architect Philip Hardwick and later modified by engineer Jesse Hartley, who added a second floor shortly after its completion. Built primarily of brick with red sandstone dressings, the building features distinctive battered chimney stacks and an iron cornice and pediment composed of seven castings, reflecting the industrial elegance of mid-19th-century dock architecture. Its Grade I listing underscores its exceptional architectural and historic interest within the UK.Role in Liverpool’s Maritime Operations
Situated on Hartley Quay within the Royal Albert Dock complex, the Dock Traffic Office was integral to Liverpool’s bustling port activities during the height of the British Empire. It functioned as the administrative hub coordinating dock traffic, facilitating the efficient handling of goods and ships that made Liverpool a global maritime powerhouse. The building’s strategic location and design symbolized the city’s pioneering advancements in dock technology and port management.Historical Transformations and Wartime Use
Beyond its commercial maritime role, the Dock Traffic Office adapted to changing times. During the Second World War, it served as an anti-aircraft gunnery school for Merchant Navy personnel, contributing to the war effort by training crews in vital defense techniques. After a period of dereliction, the building was repurposed in the 1980s as television studios for Granada’s news productions, exemplifying adaptive reuse of historic industrial spaces.Integration within Royal Albert Dock’s Cultural Revival
The Dock Traffic Office forms part of the Royal Albert Dock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Victorian-era dock buildings and warehouses. The dock itself was a groundbreaking development in dock construction, being the first in Britain built entirely from cast iron, brick, and stone with no structural wood, making it fireproof. Today, the dock is a lively cultural precinct hosting museums, galleries, shops, and eateries, with the Dock Traffic Office contributing to the rich tapestry of Liverpool’s maritime heritage and urban regeneration.Visitor Experience and Surrounding Attractions
Visitors to the Dock Traffic Office can appreciate its imposing industrial architecture and historical significance amid the scenic waterfront setting of the Royal Albert Dock. Nearby attractions include the Merseyside Maritime Museum, Tate Liverpool, and The Beatles Story, offering a diverse cultural experience. The area’s cobbled quays and restored warehouses create an atmospheric backdrop for photography, walking tours, and exploration of Liverpool’s storied past.Preservation and Contemporary Significance
The building’s preservation as a Grade I listed site ensures its architectural integrity and historical narratives endure for future generations. It stands as a symbol of Liverpool’s maritime innovation and resilience, bridging the industrial age with modern cultural life. The Dock Traffic Office remains a key piece of the city’s heritage landscape, reflecting the evolution of dock technology and the enduring legacy of Liverpool’s port.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Billy Fury
0.2 km
Celebrate the legacy of Liverpool’s rock and roll pioneer with the iconic Billy Fury statue at the historic Royal Albert Dock.
Legacy Sculpture
0.2 km
A powerful bronze tribute at Royal Albert Dock honoring Liverpool’s migrant heritage and the hopeful journeys to the New World.
Albert Dock Pride Sculpture
0.3 km
A vibrant public artwork at Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock celebrating LGBTQ+ pride, diversity, and the city’s rich maritime heritage.
Mann Island
0.3 km
Contemporary waterfront landmark reflecting Liverpool's maritime heritage through striking architecture and cultural innovation.
'The Great Escape' statue
0.3 km
A powerful bronze horse symbolising freedom and human liberation at Liverpool's historic waterfront.
Old Wall Arch Albert Dock UK
0.3 km
Historic Georgian gateway at Liverpool’s Albert Dock, blending maritime heritage with vibrant cultural life and scenic waterfront charm.
Viewing window to the Old Dock
0.3 km
Step through a glass window into the world’s first commercial wet dock, the birthplace of Liverpool’s global maritime legacy.
The Port Of Liverpool Building
0.3 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.
Cunard Building
0.5 km
A majestic waterfront landmark embodying Liverpool’s rich maritime history and Cunard’s legacy of luxury ocean travel.
Royal Liver Suite
0.5 km
Celebrate your special moments with panoramic Mersey views in Liverpool’s iconic Royal Liver Suite, blending heritage and elegance.
Sir Alfred Lewis Monument
0.5 km
A striking bronze memorial at Liverpool’s Pier Head honoring Sir Alfred Lewis Jones, maritime pioneer and founder of tropical medicine research.
Oriel Chambers
0.6 km
Oriel Chambers: Liverpool’s revolutionary 1864 office building that pioneered the metal-framed glass curtain wall and modern skyscraper design.
The Wall Of Fame - Mathew Street
0.6 km
Explore Liverpool's musical heritage at The Wall of Fame on Mathew Street, where legendary names celebrate the city's rich artistic legacy.
Cavern Club
0.6 km
Discover the Cavern Club, the iconic live music venue in Liverpool where The Beatles began their journey and experience a vibrant atmosphere of music and history.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pump House
0.0 km
Waterside Victorian pumphouse turned lively pub-restaurant on Albert Dock, serving classic British dishes and seasonal ales with dock views.
Maritime Museum
0.1 km
Explore Liverpool’s maritime past at the free Merseyside Maritime Museum, nestled in the historic and vibrant Royal Albert Dock.
Salthouse Quay
0.1 km
Historic Liverpool dock with scenic waterside moorings, rich maritime heritage, and vibrant connections to the Royal Albert Dock waterfront.
RENNIE BRIDGE
0.1 km
Historic iron swing footbridge linking Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock, showcasing John Rennie’s engineering legacy and maritime heritage.
Tate Liverpool
0.2 km
Discover Tate Liverpool’s vibrant contemporary art and family activities at RIBA North, Mann Island, amidst Liverpool’s iconic waterfront.
The Piermaster's House
0.2 km
Step into a 19th-century dock official’s home, now a 1940s wartime time capsule on Liverpool’s historic waterfront.
Graving Docks
0.2 km
Historic 18th-century dry docks at Canning Dock, Liverpool, now opening as a transformative cultural and contemplative waterfront space.
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.
House of Spells
0.2 km
Step into Liverpool’s largest fandom shop at Albert Dock, where magic, cult TV, and iconic collectibles come alive across two immersive floors.
Waterfront Pier Head Promenade Liverpool
0.2 km
Explore Liverpool’s iconic waterfront promenade featuring historic landmarks, vibrant culture, and stunning views of the River Mersey.
Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
0.2 km
A beautifully restored 19th-century dock turned vibrant waterfront hub of culture, dining, and history on the River Mersey.
Liverpool wheel
0.2 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
0.2 km
Explore Liverpool’s Beatles heritage on the iconic Magical Mystery Tour, visiting legendary sites from childhood homes to the world-famous Cavern Club.
Beatles Magical Mystery Tour
0.2 km
Liverpool's longest-running Beatles tour: visit iconic homes, legendary landmarks, and the Cavern Club where it all began.
The Beatles Story Museum, Liverpool
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in the ultimate Beatles experience at Liverpool’s iconic waterfront museum celebrating the Fab Four’s legendary journey.
Essential places to dine
Gusto Italian
0.0 km
Stylish Italian dining in Liverpool’s Edward Pavilion, blending classic Milanese flavors with a sleek, inviting atmosphere.
Revolución de Cuba Liverpool
0.1 km
Discover authentic Cuban cuisine at Revolución de Cuba Liverpool—where vibrant culture meets exquisite flavors in a lively lounge setting.
Miller & Carter Albert Dock
0.2 km
Savor expertly crafted British and Irish steaks with panoramic Albert Dock views in Liverpool’s vibrant waterfront steakhouse.
Floating Grace
0.2 km
Dine and cruise the Mersey aboard a historic vessel, combining fresh cuisine with scenic waterfront views and entertaining skipper commentary.
Madre
0.2 km
Vibrant Mexican taqueria at Albert Dock: authentic tacos, killer margaritas, and waterfront terrace vibes in Liverpool's heart.
Maray Albert Dock
0.2 km
Mediterranean and Middle Eastern small plates in a vibrant waterfront setting at Liverpool’s historic Royal Albert Dock.
Rudy's Pizza Napoletana - Albert Dock
0.2 km
Authentic Neapolitan pizzas served in a lively waterfront setting at Liverpool’s historic Albert Dock.
Lunyalita
0.2 km
Authentic Catalan tapas and deli delights with stunning Albert Dock views in Liverpool’s historic Britannia Pavilion.
PANAM Restaurant & Bar
0.2 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.
The Exchange Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant British dining with seasonal menus and scenic park views at Hilton Liverpool City Centre’s premier restaurant.
The Botanist Albert Dock
0.3 km
A lush botanical bar and restaurant at Liverpool’s Albert Dock, blending garden-inspired charm with creative cocktails and vibrant dining.
What's Cooking
0.3 km
Hearty American-Mexican grills with Mersey views in Liverpool's historic Albert Dock—a dockside dining staple since 1978.
Churrasco Steak House - City - Liverpool
0.4 km
A vibrant Liverpool steakhouse blending South American flair with British quality steaks and interactive dining in the city centre.
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.
Etsu
0.4 km
Authentic Japanese flavors and warm hospitality await at Etsu, Liverpool’s premier destination for refined dining on The Strand.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Off The List Luxury
0.1 km
Discreet luxury watch boutique in Liverpool's business heart, offering Rolex Datejust and elite timepieces with expert, professional service.
Pride of Liverpool
0.2 km
Whistle-stop souvenirs celebrating Liverpool pride and Britain's iconic cities in the heart of Royal Albert Dock's historic colonnades.
Lost Soles
0.2 km
Unique graphic tees and menswear in Liverpool's historic Albert Dock – independent style with waterfront flair.
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.
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.
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.
Annabel's Accessories
0.3 km
Fashion accessories in Liverpool's historic Royal Albert Dock, blending style with UNESCO heritage at The Colonnades.
The Fab4 Store
0.3 km
Liverpool's ultimate Beatles emporium: official merch, rare finds, and Fab Four magic at Albert Dock's heart.
Oliver Bonas
0.4 km
Colourful, design-led fashion and homeware in Liverpool ONE — a boutique atmosphere for stylish gifts and everyday statement pieces.
KENJI Liverpool ONE
0.4 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
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired fashion and eclectic homewares at Urban Outfitters Liverpool, a vibrant hub for style and culture in the city centre.
Menkind
0.5 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.
Utility
0.5 km
Independent Liverpool gift shop specialising in quirky, design-led presents, cards and small homewares with a friendly, well-curated atmosphere.
House Of Gifts
0.5 km
A fun-filled Liverpool novelty shop packed with souvenirs, local memorabilia, and quirky gifts for visitors and locals alike.
Hard Days Night Shop
0.6 km
Explore the heart of Beatles heritage with exclusive memorabilia and authentic merchandise at Liverpool’s iconic Hard Days Night Shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
The One O'Clock Gun
0.2 km
Raise a glass to Liverpool's maritime heartbeat at this dockside pub, where historic time signals meet modern merriment and Mersey views.
The Long Shot Bar
0.3 km
Liverpool's premier dockside sports bar: epic screens, killer cocktails, and stacked sandwiches amid Albert Dock's historic charm.
The Bierkeller Liverpool
0.3 km
Experience the ultimate Bavarian beer hall vibe in Liverpool with giant steins, live Oompah bands, and a lively party atmosphere.
The Slaughter House
0.4 km
Historic Liverpool pub blending hearty gastropub fare with lively live music and comedy in a warm, rustic setting.
Baltic Fleet
0.5 km
Historic flat-iron pub in Liverpool's docks, pouring craft ales and cask brews amid maritime heritage and Baltic Triangle buzz.
The Alchemist Liverpool
0.5 km
Experience Liverpool’s premier cocktail bar where molecular mixology meets bold flavors and vibrant city vibes.
Slug & Lettuce - Liverpool
0.6 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.
Rubber Soul
0.6 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife and Beatles heritage at Rubber Soul, a lively bar with three unique atmospheres and nightly live music.
Brass Monkey
0.7 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
0.7 km
Intimate Liverpool cocktail bar blending expert drinks, music culture, and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed 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.
Be At One - Liverpool
0.7 km
Liverpool's cocktail epicenter: 100+ mixes, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclass shakes in a chic Seel Street hotspot.
Moonshine Saloon Liverpool
0.7 km
Step into Liverpool’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure blending live theatre, bespoke drinks, and interactive fun.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Playground Liverpool
0.2 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.
Flares - Liverpool
0.6 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Flares on Mathew Street, where great cocktails and unbeatable party vibes meet iconic music heritage.
Mambo Club Liverpool
0.6 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Mambo Club, where electrifying music and lively crowds create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Heaven Nightclub Liverpool
0.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and inclusive spirit at Heaven Nightclub in Liverpool, a top destination for nightlife enthusiasts.
XOXO Nightclub Liverpool
0.7 km
Dive into Liverpool's electric basement beats at XOXO Nightclub, where diverse DJs and immersive vibes craft unforgettable weekends from 10pm till dawn.
Mansion Nightclub
0.7 km
Liverpool’s vibrant nightclub with the UK’s largest LED ceiling, laser shows, and a dynamic party atmosphere in the city centre.
Stanley St Gaay Quarter LGBT Bars And Clubs
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant Stanley Street Gay Quarter in Liverpool, a hub of LGBT nightlife with diverse bars, clubs, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Popworld - Liverpool
0.7 km
Liverpool's ultimate cheesy pop haven: 90s bangers, cheap drinks, and dance-'til-dawn vibes in the heart of Ropewalks.
GBar Liverpool
0.7 km
Liverpool's legendary late-night gay club: pop upstairs, bass downstairs, dancing till dawn on Eberle Street's vibrant strip.
ELECTRIK WAREHOUSE
0.7 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.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
0.7 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.
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.
Elysium Nightclub
0.8 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic DJ events and an energetic atmosphere at Elysium Nightclub, open late on weekends.
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.
Concert Square Bars And Clubs Liverpool
0.8 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Liverpool at Concert Square Bars and Clubs, where diverse bars and clubs create an unforgettable experience.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- 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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
