Graving Docks at Canning Dock, Liverpool
Historic 18th-century dry docks at Canning Dock, Liverpool, now opening as a transformative cultural and contemplative waterfront space.
The Graving Docks at Canning Dock in Liverpool are historic dry docks dating back to 1765, integral to the city's maritime heritage. These docks were used for cleaning and repairing ships, including those involved in the transatlantic slave trade. Currently undergoing a transformative redevelopment to open the site to the public, the docks reflect Liverpool's complex history and its evolving waterfront culture.
A brief summary to Graving Docks
- Unnamed Road, Liverpool, L3 4AN, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architectural details and the waterfront views.
- Explore nearby museums such as the Merseyside Maritime Museum and the International Slavery Museum for deeper historical context.
- Check for guided tours or community events that often highlight the docks’ history and redevelopment.
- Wear comfortable footwear as the site includes stairs and uneven surfaces during redevelopment phases.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
-
Public Bus
Several Liverpool city buses serve stops within a 10-15 minute walk of the Graving Docks, with journey times from the city centre ranging from 10 to 20 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4. Service frequency is typically every 10-20 minutes during the day.
-
Train and Walk
Liverpool Lime Street station is about 2.5 km away, a 30-minute walk or a short taxi ride costing around £6-£10. From the station, walking routes are mostly flat but include some urban pavements.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services provide direct access to the docks, with typical travel times from central Liverpool of 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Estimated fare ranges from £7 to £12.
Graving Docks location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Graving Docks
Foundations of Liverpool’s Maritime Legacy
The Graving Docks at Canning Dock form a crucial part of Liverpool’s maritime infrastructure, originally constructed in 1765 as dry docks for ship maintenance and repair. These docks, known as No.1 Graving Dock, were lengthened and deepened in the early 19th century under the direction of notable dock engineer Jesse Hartley. Their creation coincided with Liverpool’s rapid expansion as a global port during the height of the British Empire, facilitating the upkeep of vessels that sailed worldwide.Historical Significance and Complex Heritage
Beyond their functional role, the docks bear witness to Liverpool’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. Ships repaired here were often those that transported enslaved Africans across the Atlantic, a dark chapter in the city’s history marked by profound human suffering. This legacy is now being recognized and interpreted through community-led projects and redevelopment efforts, aiming to bring this history into public awareness and reflection.Contemporary Transformation and Community Engagement
The Graving Docks are at the heart of a £15 million redevelopment project led by National Museums Liverpool, supported by government funding. This initiative seeks to open the previously inaccessible dry docks to visitors, creating spaces for education, contemplation, and recreation. Collaborations with artists, architects, and local communities ensure that the redevelopment honors the site’s historical significance while fostering inclusivity and dialogue.Architectural and Cultural Revitalization
The transformation involves innovative design elements such as new stop walls, staircases, and lifts that allow public access to the docks’ depths for the first time. The project bridges the Royal Albert Dock with Canning Quayside, enhancing connectivity among Liverpool’s waterfront museums and cultural institutions. This revitalization celebrates the dock’s industrial heritage while adapting it for contemporary cultural use.Environmental and Urban Context
Situated on an unnamed road in Liverpool’s L3 4AN area, the Graving Docks lie within a historically industrial waterfront zone now transitioning to a vibrant cultural precinct. The docks’ proximity to other heritage sites and museums makes them a key element in Liverpool’s waterfront narrative, blending historic preservation with urban regeneration.Experiencing the Graving Docks Today
Visitors to the Graving Docks can expect a contemplative atmosphere enriched by the layered histories embedded in the site. The redevelopment aims to provide interpretive spaces that engage with Liverpool’s maritime past and its broader social histories, encouraging reflection on the city’s global connections and their contemporary resonances.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mann Island
0.1 km
Contemporary waterfront landmark reflecting Liverpool's maritime heritage through striking architecture and cultural innovation.
Billy Fury
0.1 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.
The Port Of Liverpool Building
0.2 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
0.3 km
A majestic waterfront landmark embodying Liverpool’s rich maritime history and Cunard’s legacy of luxury ocean travel.
Sir Alfred Lewis Monument
0.4 km
A striking bronze memorial at Liverpool’s Pier Head honoring Sir Alfred Lewis Jones, maritime pioneer and founder of tropical medicine research.
Royal Liver Suite
0.4 km
Celebrate your special moments with panoramic Mersey views in Liverpool’s iconic Royal Liver Suite, blending heritage and elegance.
Albert Dock Pride Sculpture
0.4 km
A vibrant public artwork at Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock celebrating LGBTQ+ pride, diversity, and the city’s rich maritime heritage.
Viewing window to the Old Dock
0.4 km
Step through a glass window into the world’s first commercial wet dock, the birthplace of Liverpool’s global maritime legacy.
Oriel Chambers
0.4 km
Oriel Chambers: Liverpool’s revolutionary 1864 office building that pioneered the metal-framed glass curtain wall and modern skyscraper design.
'The Great Escape' statue
0.5 km
A powerful bronze horse symbolising freedom and human liberation at Liverpool's historic waterfront.
Old Wall Arch Albert Dock UK
0.5 km
Historic Georgian gateway at Liverpool’s Albert Dock, blending maritime heritage with vibrant cultural life and scenic waterfront charm.
Liverpool Town Hall
0.5 km
Explore Liverpool Town Hall, a stunning Georgian masterpiece and historic civic venue at the heart of Liverpool’s cultural heritage.
Hargreaves Buildings
0.5 km
Victorian banking landmark preserving Liverpool's golden age of maritime commerce and financial power
Western Approaches
0.5 km
Explore Liverpool's rich wartime history at Western Approaches, an engaging museum that brings the past to life through artifacts and interactive exhibits.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tate Liverpool
0.1 km
Discover cutting-edge modern art and family-friendly creativity at Tate Liverpool’s vibrant waterfront home at RIBA North.
RENNIE BRIDGE
0.1 km
Historic iron swing footbridge linking Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock, showcasing John Rennie’s engineering legacy and maritime heritage.
Waterfront Pier Head Promenade Liverpool
0.1 km
Explore Liverpool’s iconic waterfront promenade featuring historic landmarks, vibrant culture, and stunning views of the River Mersey.
The Mann Island - Waterfront Photos
0.1 km
Discover Mann Island’s vibrant waterfront where Liverpool’s rich maritime history meets striking modern architecture and lively urban culture.
Museum of Liverpool
0.1 km
Explore 10,000 years of Liverpool’s story on the UNESCO waterfront – free entry, powerful stories, and a city’s soul on display.
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.
Pump House
0.2 km
Waterside Victorian pumphouse turned lively pub-restaurant on Albert Dock, serving classic British dishes and seasonal ales with dock views.
Maritime Museum
0.2 km
Explore Liverpool’s maritime past at the free Merseyside Maritime Museum, nestled in the historic and vibrant Royal Albert Dock.
The Dock Traffic Office, Liverpool
0.2 km
Historic Grade I listed Dock Traffic Office in Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock, a symbol of maritime heritage and Victorian industrial design.
Port of Liverpool
0.2 km
An Edwardian Baroque masterpiece and one of Liverpool’s iconic Three Graces, symbolizing the city’s rich maritime heritage.
Mersey Tunnel Tours
0.2 km
Explore Liverpool’s iconic Queensway Tunnel on a fascinating guided tour revealing engineering, history, and underground adventure.
Liverpool Canal Link - Waterfront Albert Dock
0.2 km
Discover Liverpool’s historic waterfront brought to life by the scenic and engineering marvel of the Liverpool Canal Link at Albert Dock.
Salthouse Quay
0.3 km
Historic Liverpool dock with scenic waterside moorings, rich maritime heritage, and vibrant connections to the Royal Albert Dock waterfront.
The Beatles Statue
0.3 km
A life-sized tribute on Liverpool’s Pier Head celebrating the Fab Four’s timeless legacy against the iconic Mersey 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.
Essential places to dine
Gusto Italian
0.2 km
Stylish Italian dining in Liverpool’s Edward Pavilion, blending classic Milanese flavors with a sleek, inviting atmosphere.
Revolución de Cuba Liverpool
0.3 km
Discover authentic Cuban cuisine at Revolución de Cuba Liverpool—where vibrant culture meets exquisite flavors in a lively lounge setting.
Etsu
0.3 km
Authentic Japanese flavors and warm hospitality await at Etsu, Liverpool’s premier destination for refined dining on The Strand.
Meet Argentinian Restaurant
0.3 km
Premium Argentine beef grilled over open flames in Liverpool's most authentic steakhouse since 2006.
The Botanist Albert Dock
0.4 km
A lush botanical bar and restaurant at Liverpool’s Albert Dock, blending garden-inspired charm with creative cocktails and vibrant dining.
Miller & Carter Albert Dock
0.4 km
Savor expertly crafted British and Irish steaks with panoramic Albert Dock views in Liverpool’s vibrant waterfront steakhouse.
OH ME OH MY
0.4 km
Historic waterfront tea house with rooftop views, afternoon tea, and elegant events space.
The Exchange Restaurant
0.4 km
Elegant British dining with seasonal menus and scenic park views at Hilton Liverpool City Centre’s premier restaurant.
Maray Albert Dock
0.4 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
0.4 km
Authentic Neapolitan pizzas served in a lively waterfront setting at Liverpool’s historic Albert Dock.
PANAM Restaurant & Bar
0.4 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.
Lunyalita
0.4 km
Authentic Catalan tapas and deli delights with stunning Albert Dock views in Liverpool’s historic Britannia Pavilion.
What's Cooking
0.4 km
Hearty American-Mexican grills with Mersey views in Liverpool's historic Albert Dock—a dockside dining staple since 1978.
Hawksmoor Liverpool
0.4 km
Experience premium British steaks and seafood in a stylish, lively Liverpool setting with exceptional service and classic flavors.
Madre
0.4 km
Vibrant Mexican taqueria at Albert Dock: authentic tacos, killer margaritas, and waterfront terrace vibes in Liverpool's heart.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
Lost Soles
0.3 km
Unique graphic tees and menswear in Liverpool's historic Albert Dock – independent style with waterfront flair.
With Love From Liverpool
0.3 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
0.3 km
Unique gifts and local crafts in Liverpool's historic Royal Albert Dock—a perfect waterfront stop for authentic Scouse souvenirs.
Nature's Treasure
0.3 km
Intimate jewellery boutique in The Colonnades, offering handcrafted pieces, bespoke commissions and restoration inside Liverpool’s historic Albert Dock.
Annabel's Accessories
0.4 km
Fashion accessories in Liverpool's historic Royal Albert Dock, blending style with UNESCO heritage at The Colonnades.
The Fab4 Store
0.4 km
Liverpool's ultimate Beatles emporium: official merch, rare finds, and Fab Four magic at Albert Dock's heart.
KENJI Liverpool ONE
0.5 km
Discover cute plushies, quirky gifts, and local makers in Liverpool ONE's playful arcade-gift haven—perfect for unique souvenirs and fun finds.
Oliver Bonas
0.5 km
Colourful, design-led fashion and homeware in Liverpool ONE — a boutique atmosphere for stylish gifts and everyday statement pieces.
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.
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
0.5 km
Explore the heart of Beatles heritage with exclusive memorabilia and authentic merchandise at Liverpool’s iconic Hard Days Night Shop.
The Gallery
0.5 km
Discover Liverpool’s musical heritage and unique local crafts at The Gallery, your destination for Beatles memorabilia and authentic souvenirs.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Revolution Liverpool - Albert Dock
0.3 km
Vibrant cocktails, riverside vibes, and non-stop nightlife in Liverpool's legendary Albert Dock—where dockside history meets modern revelry.
The Slaughter House
0.4 km
Historic Liverpool pub blending hearty gastropub fare with lively live music and comedy in a warm, rustic setting.
The One O'Clock Gun
0.4 km
Raise a glass to Liverpool's maritime heartbeat at this dockside pub, where historic time signals meet modern merriment and Mersey views.
The Bierkeller Liverpool
0.4 km
Experience the ultimate Bavarian beer hall vibe in Liverpool with giant steins, live Oompah bands, and a lively party atmosphere.
The Alchemist Liverpool
0.4 km
Experience Liverpool’s premier cocktail bar where molecular mixology meets bold flavors and vibrant city vibes.
The Long Shot Bar
0.4 km
Liverpool's premier dockside sports bar: epic screens, killer cocktails, and stacked sandwiches amid Albert Dock's historic charm.
Slug & Lettuce - Liverpool
0.5 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.
Baltic Fleet
0.7 km
Historic flat-iron pub in Liverpool's docks, pouring craft ales and cask brews amid maritime heritage and Baltic Triangle buzz.
Brass Monkey
0.8 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
0.8 km
Intimate Liverpool cocktail bar blending expert drinks, music culture, and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Ex-Directory
0.8 km
Discover Liverpool’s hidden speakeasy with quirky charm, expertly crafted cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere on Vernon Street.
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.
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.
Alcotraz Liverpool: Cell Block Three-Six
0.8 km
Experience immersive cocktails and themed nights at Alcotraz Liverpool: Cell Block Three-Six, a unique cocktail bar that offers an unforgettable night out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Reflective
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
