World Museum Liverpool
Explore five floors of free exhibits from ancient civilizations to the cosmos in Liverpool’s engaging World Museum.
Located on William Brown Street in Liverpool city centre, the World Museum offers free entry to extensive collections spanning archaeology, ethnology, natural and physical sciences. Highlights include a planetarium, a Natural History Centre, an aquarium, and galleries dedicated to Ancient Egypt, world cultures, and space exploration. The museum’s six-storey atrium and interactive exhibits make it a captivating destination for visitors of all ages.
A brief summary to World Museum
- William Brown St, Liverpool, L3 8EN, GB
- +441514784393
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the planetarium shows for immersive astronomy experiences, but check showtimes in advance as they may require booking.
- Allow several hours to explore all five floors, especially if visiting the Natural History Centre and aquarium.
- The museum is closed on Mondays; plan your visit Tuesday through Sunday between 10am and 5pm.
- Use nearby public transport or city centre parking, as the museum does not have its own car park.
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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Train
Liverpool Lime Street Station is approximately a 10-minute walk from the museum. Frequent train services connect Liverpool with major UK cities. From the station, the walk involves gentle slopes and paved streets, suitable for most visitors.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve William Brown Street near the museum, with journey times varying from 10 to 30 minutes depending on origin. Buses run regularly throughout the day. Check local timetables for specific routes and times.
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Car
No dedicated parking at the museum; nearby pay-and-display car parks are available on William Brown Street and Hunter Street. Parking fees typically range from £2 to £10 depending on duration. Expect busy city centre traffic during peak hours.
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Walking
If staying in Liverpool city centre, the museum is accessible on foot within 15 to 20 minutes from most central hotels. The route is mostly flat with pedestrian crossings and paved sidewalks.
World Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about World Museum
A Rich Legacy of Discovery and Learning
The World Museum in Liverpool stands as a beacon of knowledge and exploration, founded in 1851 with a generous natural history collection from the 13th Earl of Derby. Over the years, it has evolved into a vast cultural institution, housing diverse collections that encompass archaeology, ethnology, and the natural and physical sciences. A major refurbishment completed in 2005 doubled the display space, introducing a striking six-storey atrium and a central entrance hall that welcomes visitors into a world of discovery.Immersive Exhibits Across Five Floors
Visitors can explore five floors packed with engaging galleries and interactive displays. The Natural History Centre offers close encounters with live insect colonies and historic zoological exhibits. The aquarium captivates with vibrant marine life including starfish, rays, and jellyfish. The Ancient Egypt gallery invites you to journey through 5,000 years of history, revealing mummies, hieroglyphs, and burial practices. The World Cultures gallery showcases artifacts from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Oceania, while the Space and Time galleries feature telescopes, rockets, and a planetarium that brings the cosmos to life.Scientific Wonders and Natural Treasures
The museum’s physical sciences collection, rebuilt after wartime losses, includes significant items from local institutions and universities. The geology exhibits trace Earth’s history with over 40,000 fossils and extensive rock and mineral collections. The award-winning Clore Natural History Centre enhances the experience with interactive displays that deepen understanding of biodiversity and ecosystems.Family-Friendly Exploration and Education
Designed to engage visitors of all ages, the World Museum offers hands-on learning opportunities, making it a popular destination for families and school groups. Children delight in the Bug House’s live insects and arachnids, while the aquarium’s viewing bubble provides an immersive marine experience. Educational programs and behind-the-scenes tours add depth to visits, fostering curiosity and appreciation for science and culture.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The museum’s blend of historic and modern architecture creates a dynamic setting for its collections. Its location on William Brown Street places it among Liverpool’s cultural landmarks. The museum’s commitment to accessibility ensures all visitors can enjoy its offerings, with lifts, accessible toilets, and assistance available throughout.Free Admission with Rich Experiences
Entry to the World Museum is free, encouraging repeat visits to fully explore its vast collections. While special exhibitions may occasionally require a fee, the core galleries provide an enriching experience without charge. This accessibility, combined with the museum’s educational focus and diverse exhibits, makes it a cornerstone of Liverpool’s cultural scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tithebarn Building
0.5 km
A modern office landmark on Liverpool’s historic Tithebarn Street, bridging medieval heritage and today’s Knowledge Quarter.
Liverpool Beatles Museum
0.5 km
Explore the largest authentic Beatles collection in Liverpool’s historic Mathew Street, celebrating the band’s legendary journey and legacy.
Cilla Black
0.6 km
Celebrate Liverpool’s beloved entertainer with the life-size bronze statue of Cilla Black on iconic Mathew Street, near the legendary Cavern Club.
Coopers Building
0.6 km
Discover Coopers Building, a striking early 20th-century landmark that enriches Liverpool’s historic Church Street with timeless architectural charm.
1 Exchange Flags
0.7 km
Historic Liverpool landmark featuring WWII command bunker, elegant architecture, and a courtyard rich with maritime and mercantile heritage.
Liverpool Town Hall
0.8 km
Georgian grandeur meets civic ceremony in Liverpool's most magnificent 18th-century building.
Cotton Exchange Bldg Old Hall Street
0.8 km
Historic heart of Liverpool’s cotton trade, blending Edwardian grandeur with modern business life on Old Hall Street.
Western Approaches
0.8 km
Explore Liverpool's rich wartime history at Western Approaches, an engaging museum that brings the past to life through artifacts and interactive exhibits.
Derby Square
0.8 km
Explore Derby Square in Liverpool, a historical architectural gem offering tranquility and a glimpse into the city's vibrant past.
Viewing window to the Old Dock
0.9 km
Step through a glass window into the world’s first commercial wet dock, the birthplace of Liverpool’s global maritime legacy.
Oriel Chambers
0.9 km
Oriel Chambers: Liverpool’s revolutionary 1864 office building that pioneered the metal-framed glass curtain wall and modern skyscraper design.
Mount Pleasant
0.9 km
Explore the heart of Liverpool, a city rich in maritime history, vibrant culture, and the legendary birthplace of The Beatles.
Hargreaves Buildings
0.9 km
Victorian banking landmark preserving Liverpool's golden age of maritime commerce and financial power
Liverpool Parish Church (Our Lady and Saint Nicholas)
1.0 km
Historic Anglican parish church in Liverpool, symbolizing centuries of maritime heritage and resilience through tragedy and renewal.
William MacKenzie's Tomb
1.0 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and historical significance of William MacKenzie's Tomb in Liverpool, a must-visit destination for history and nature lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Central Library
0.1 km
A stunning blend of Victorian grandeur and modern innovation, Liverpool Central Library is a cultural landmark and vibrant hub of knowledge.
William Brown St
0.1 km
Discover Liverpool’s cultural heart through William Brown Street’s iconic neoclassical landmarks and rich civic heritage.
Hillsborough Memorial
0.1 km
A powerful tribute in Liverpool honoring the 96 victims of the Hillsborough disaster, symbolizing community resilience and the quest for justice.
St John's Gardens
0.1 km
A tranquil historic sculpture garden in Liverpool’s city centre, blending Victorian memorials with peaceful green spaces beside St George’s Hall.
Walker Art Gallery
0.1 km
Explore centuries of European and British art masterpieces in Liverpool’s iconic Walker Art Gallery, where history and creativity converge.
St George's Hall
0.2 km
Liverpool’s iconic neoclassical masterpiece blending grand architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural events under one majestic roof.
Queen Victoria - Equestrian Statue
0.2 km
A majestic bronze statue of young Queen Victoria riding side-saddle, set against Liverpool’s historic Lime Street and St George’s Hall backdrop.
Liverpool Empire
0.2 km
Experience Liverpool’s grandest two-tier theatre blending historic elegance with world-class live performances on Lime Street.
Tourist Attraction - Redisson Red Hotel
0.2 km
Stylish and contemporary accommodation in Liverpool’s vibrant city centre, steps from top attractions and cultural landmarks.
Ma Egerton's Stage Door
0.3 km
Step into Ma Egerton's Stage Door, a historic Liverpool pub where theatrical legends gathered and rustic pizzas delight in a warm, storied atmosphere.
St Johns Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Liverpool’s largest covered shopping centre, offering over 100 stores, diverse dining, and a vibrant city-centre retail experience since 1969.
Williamson Square
0.4 km
Discover Liverpool’s lively Williamson Square, where historic theatre meets vibrant city life in a welcoming urban oasis.
Liverpool Playhouse Theatre
0.4 km
Historic Liverpool Playhouse Theatre offers intimate performances in a classic proscenium arch setting at the heart of Williamson Square.
St Johns Beacon
0.4 km
Liverpool’s tallest tower offering panoramic city views, rich history, and a vibrant broadcasting hub in the heart of the city.
Everyman Liverpool
0.4 km
Boutique cinema in Liverpool offering gourmet dining, cocktails, and vibrant events in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Essential places to dine
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.
Casa Italia
0.5 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
0.5 km
Lively Mediterranean bistro in Liverpool famed for generous grilled meats, vibrant breakfasts, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Liverpool Victoria St
0.6 km
Lively Caribbean dining and cocktails in Liverpool’s historic Produce Exchange, blending authentic flavors with vibrant island vibes.
Shiraz BBQ
0.6 km
Charcoal-grilled Mediterranean excellence with generous portions and unbeatable value in central Liverpool.
NYL Restaurant and Bar
0.6 km
Stylish American dining and cocktails in Liverpool's commercial heart, where upmarket meets approachable.
Blakes Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience British classics with a Beatles twist in Liverpool’s iconic Hard Days Night Hotel restaurant.
Villa Romana - Italian Restaurant Liverpool
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Liverpool at Villa Romana.
Turtle Bay Liverpool Hanover St
0.7 km
Vibrant Caribbean jerk and cocktails in central Liverpool's most colourful, energetic dining destination.
Las Iguanas - Liverpool
0.7 km
Vibrant Latin American dining and cocktails in Liverpool's premier shopping destination.
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Liverpool
0.7 km
Modern Italian dining and cocktails in the heart of Liverpool, with a stylish terrace and a unique vaulted private dining room for special occasions.
Cosy Club
0.7 km
Stylish British dining with vintage charm and all-day menus in the heart of Liverpool’s vibrant city center.
Castle St Townhouse
0.7 km
A stylish all-day dining venue in Liverpool’s historic heart, blending heritage charm with vibrant food, drinks, and social atmosphere.
San Carlo - Liverpool
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian elegance and vibrant city dining at San Carlo Liverpool, where classic flavors meet stylish ambiance.
Bacaro
0.8 km
Experience vibrant Venetian small plates and authentic Italian flavors in the stylish heart of Liverpool’s Castle Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
F&G Discounts
0.3 km
Explore unique gifts and souvenirs at F&G Discounts, the ultimate gift shop in St. John's Precinct, Liverpool.
Rebellious Fashion
0.3 km
Discover trendy, affordable women's fashion in Liverpool’s vibrant Houghton Street boutique with extended weekday hours and a youthful style vibe.
LFC Official Club Store
0.4 km
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
0.4 km
Discover authentic Liverpool souvenirs and memorabilia in the heart of Williamson Square, open daily for all fans and visitors.
Beats of Liverpool
0.4 km
Discover authentic Liverpool memorabilia and Beatles-inspired souvenirs in the heart of the city’s historic Whitechapel district.
Liverpool Souvenirs and Gifts
0.5 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)
0.5 km
Discover cheeky Liverpool gifts and local charm at Scouse Bird Shop, nestled inside the stylish Boutique 56 hotel on Stanley Street.
Bleu Prints
0.6 km
Stylish clothing boutique in Liverpool's vibrant L1, curating unique apparel and accessories for fashion-forward urban explorers.
As Above So Below Emporium Ltd
0.6 km
A darkly elegant witchy emporium in Liverpool’s historic Cavern Walks, blending mysticism, tarot, and alternative culture.
Cavern Walks - Shopping Centre
0.6 km
Boutique shopping arcade in Liverpool's Beatles epicentre, linking stylish retail to Cavern Club legacy on vibrant Mathew Street.
Cool Britannia
0.6 km
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
0.6 km
Discover Liverpool’s musical heritage and unique local crafts at The Gallery, your destination for Beatles memorabilia and authentic souvenirs.
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.
COW Liverpool
0.6 km
A compact Bold Street vintage haven where curated retro clothes, approachable staff and frequent one-off finds reward close, unhurried browsing.
House Of Gifts
0.7 km
A fun-filled Liverpool novelty shop packed with souvenirs, local memorabilia, and quirky gifts for visitors and locals alike.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ex-Directory
0.4 km
Discover Liverpool’s hidden speakeasy with quirky charm, expertly crafted cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere on Vernon Street.
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
0.6 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
0.6 km
Intimate Liverpool cocktail bar blending expert drinks, music culture, and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed setting.
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.
Motel Bar
0.6 km
A moody, music-first Fleet Street dive bar famous for band-backed karaoke and late-night crowds in Liverpool city centre.
Soho Bar Liverpool
0.7 km
Liverpool's neon-charged party hub in Concert Square: cocktails by day, club beats by night, perfect for epic nights 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.
The Lime Kiln - JD Wetherspoon
0.8 km
Affordable ales and hearty meals in a historic warehouse pub at the pulse of Liverpool's nightlife district—daytime calm meets evening energy.
Kazimier Garden
0.8 km
Liverpool's original garden bar: quirky outdoor oasis with craft brews, live gigs, and fairy-lit magic in the heart of Ropewalks.
The Alchemist Liverpool
0.8 km
Experience Liverpool’s premier cocktail bar where molecular mixology meets bold flavors and vibrant city vibes.
The Slaughter House
0.8 km
Historic Liverpool pub blending hearty gastropub fare with lively live music and comedy in a warm, rustic setting.
The Jacaranda
0.8 km
Iconic Liverpool music venue where The Beatles began, blending historic charm with vibrant live performances and a vinyl café.
MOLOKO
0.8 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
0.9 km
Experience the ultimate Bavarian beer hall vibe in Liverpool with giant steins, live Oompah bands, and a lively party atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
XOXO Nightclub Liverpool
0.5 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
0.5 km
Liverpool’s vibrant nightclub with the UK’s largest LED ceiling, laser shows, and a dynamic party atmosphere in the city centre.
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.
Elysium Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic DJ events and an energetic atmosphere at Elysium Nightclub, open late on weekends.
GBar Liverpool
0.6 km
Liverpool's legendary late-night gay club: pop upstairs, bass downstairs, dancing till dawn on Eberle Street's vibrant strip.
Popworld - Liverpool
0.6 km
Liverpool's ultimate cheesy pop haven: 90s bangers, cheap drinks, and dance-'til-dawn vibes in the heart of Ropewalks.
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.
Modo, Liverpool
0.7 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
0.7 km
Liverpool’s expansive multi-floor nightclub offering diverse music, VIP areas, and a buzzing party atmosphere in the heart of Ropewalks.
Aura
0.7 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
0.8 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.
Ink Bar Liverpool
0.8 km
Liverpool's premier R&B and house nightclub, where stylish cocktails, thumping beats, and luxury vibes fuel unforgettable nights on Wood Street.
Pure Nightlounge
0.9 km
Liverpool’s boutique R&B nightspot with VIP booths, tight dancefloor energy and a late-night, fashion-forward vibe.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Educational
- Relaxing
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
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
