St Johns Beacon: Liverpool’s Iconic Radio and Observation Tower
Liverpool’s tallest tower offering panoramic city views, rich history, and a vibrant broadcasting hub in the heart of the city.
St Johns Beacon, also known as Radio City Tower, is a Grade II listed 138-meter tall communications and observation tower in Liverpool. Built in 1969 and opened by Queen Elizabeth II, it features panoramic city views from its viewing gallery and serves as a hub for local radio broadcasting. Once home to a revolving restaurant, the tower now houses radio studios and offices, illuminated with dynamic lighting that marks special events.
A brief summary to St Johns Beacon
- St Johns Beacon, 1 Houghton St, Liverpool, L1 1RL, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 11 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 11 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during daylight for the best panoramic views across Liverpool and beyond.
- Check the tower’s lighting schedule to see special color illuminations marking events.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique outward-leaning windows and cityscape.
- Be prepared for a short wait for the lift, especially at peak visiting hours.
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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Public Transport
Take Liverpool’s Merseyrail train to Liverpool Central station, then walk approximately 10 minutes through the city centre to St Johns Beacon. Trains run frequently every 10-15 minutes, and a single ticket costs around £3-£5 GBP.
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Bus
Several city buses stop near Houghton Street, including routes 10, 17, and 26. Buses run every 10-20 minutes depending on the route, with fares typically £2-£4 GBP. The stop is about a 5-minute walk from the tower.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Liverpool Lime Street station to St Johns Beacon takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10 GBP. This option offers direct and convenient access.
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Walking
If you are staying in Liverpool city centre, the tower is accessible by foot within 10-20 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets. Suitable for most visitors, including those with moderate mobility.
St Johns Beacon location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about St Johns Beacon
Architectural Marvel and Historical Significance
St Johns Beacon stands prominently in Liverpool’s city centre as a striking symbol of mid-20th-century architectural innovation. Designed by James A. Roberts Associates and completed in 1969, the tower reaches 138 meters (453 feet) tall, with an additional 10-meter antenna crowning it as the tallest structure in Liverpool when antennas are included. Opened by Queen Elizabeth II, the tower embodies the spirit of the space age, a fact recognized by Historic England when it awarded the building Grade II listed status in 2020. Its tapering concrete shaft and distinctive crow’s nest structure reflect a blend of technological bravura and futuristic design that has become integral to Liverpool’s skyline.Evolution from Revolving Restaurant to Radio Hub
Originally, the tower housed a luxurious revolving restaurant at its summit, where the entire floor and facade rotated as a single unit, offering diners sweeping 360-degree views of the city. The roof served as an observation platform, accessible by two high-speed lifts or a staircase of 558 steps. However, the restaurant closed after 18 months due to health and safety regulations, later reopening briefly in 1983 as a Buck Rogers space-themed eatery before closing again. Following years of neglect, the tower underwent a major £5 million refurbishment between 1999 and 2000, transforming it into the home of Radio City 96.7 and Magic 1548. The former restaurant space was converted into radio studios and offices, preserving the original revolving mechanism but fixing it in place.Panoramic Views and Visitor Experience
Today, visitors can ascend the tower to the viewing gallery, where large outward-leaning windows provide unparalleled panoramic vistas across Liverpool, the Wirral Peninsula, North Wales, and on clear days, even as far as Lancashire and Snowdonia. The viewing experience offers a unique perspective on the city’s architectural landmarks, waterfront, and sprawling urban landscape. The tower’s illumination changes color to mark special events, adding a vibrant visual presence to Liverpool’s night skyline. The visitor experience is enhanced by affordable ticket prices and no time limits, encouraging leisurely exploration and photography.Cultural and Community Role
Beyond its architectural and broadcasting functions, St Johns Beacon serves as a cultural beacon for Liverpool. It hosts events, exhibitions, and community celebrations, reflecting the city’s dynamic spirit and resilience. The tower’s lighting often commemorates local and national occasions, reinforcing its role as a symbol of unity and pride. Recent proposals, such as a zip wire project linking the tower to Liverpool Central Library, highlight ongoing efforts to integrate the beacon into the city’s cultural fabric, though these have sparked public debate about preserving the landmark’s character.Structural Details and Accessibility
The tower’s foundation is substantial, measuring 18 meters in diameter and 5.2 meters deep, anchored into sandstone 12 meters below street level. Its slip-formed concrete shaft supports the crow’s nest and antenna, ensuring structural stability. Two lifts provide rapid access to the top in approximately 30 seconds, making the tower accessible to a wide range of visitors. The building is structurally independent of the adjacent shopping centre, emphasizing its distinct presence.Legacy and Recognition
St Johns Beacon remains a defining feature of Liverpool’s skyline and cultural landscape. Its Grade II listing underscores its architectural and historical importance, celebrating a design that captures the optimism and technological ambition of the late 1960s. As both a radio broadcasting centre and an observation point, it connects Liverpool’s past with its present, inviting locals and tourists alike to appreciate the city from new heights.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Coopers Building
0.2 km
Discover Coopers Building, a striking early 20th-century landmark that enriches Liverpool’s historic Church Street with timeless architectural charm.
Liverpool Beatles Museum
0.3 km
Explore the largest authentic Beatles collection in Liverpool’s historic Mathew Street, celebrating the band’s legendary journey and legacy.
Cilla Black
0.4 km
Celebrate Liverpool’s beloved entertainer with the life-size bronze statue of Cilla Black on iconic Mathew Street, near the legendary Cavern Club.
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.
Queen Victoria Monument
0.6 km
Discover the magnificent Queen Victoria Monument, a symbol of history and elegance in the heart of Liverpool's Derby Square.
Quaker Alley Murals
0.6 km
Explore Quaker Alley Murals in Liverpool, a vibrant outdoor art gallery showcasing stunning street art that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Derby Square
0.6 km
Explore Derby Square in Liverpool, a historical architectural gem offering tranquility and a glimpse into the city's vibrant past.
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.
Tithebarn Building
0.7 km
A modern office landmark on Liverpool’s historic Tithebarn Street, bridging medieval heritage and today’s Knowledge Quarter.
1 Exchange Flags
0.7 km
Historic Liverpool landmark featuring WWII command bunker, elegant architecture, and a courtyard rich with maritime and mercantile heritage.
Nelson Monument
0.7 km
Discover the Nelson Monument in Liverpool, a tribute to Admiral Horatio Nelson and a gateway to the city's maritime history.
St Luke’s Bombed Out Church
0.7 km
A roofless Gothic memorial where wartime tragedy transformed into cultural renaissance and timeless celebration.
The Christmace Truce Memorial Statue - St Luke's Church
0.7 km
A powerful tribute to the 1914 Christmas Truce, set within Liverpool’s evocative Bombed Out Church, symbolizing peace and unity amid war.
Exchange Flags
0.7 km
Explore the historic Exchange Flags in Liverpool, a vibrant square at the heart of the city, blending architectural beauty with rich commercial heritage.
Mount Pleasant
0.7 km
Explore the heart of Liverpool, a city rich in maritime history, vibrant culture, and the legendary birthplace of The Beatles.
Unmissable attractions to see
Liverpool Playhouse Theatre
0.0 km
Historic Liverpool Playhouse Theatre offers intimate performances in a classic proscenium arch setting at the heart of Williamson Square.
Williamson Square
0.1 km
Discover Liverpool’s lively Williamson Square, where historic theatre meets vibrant city life in a welcoming urban oasis.
St Johns Shopping Centre
0.1 km
Liverpool’s largest covered shopping centre, offering over 100 stores, diverse dining, and a vibrant city-centre retail experience since 1969.
Clayton Square Shopping Centre
0.2 km
A compact, light-filled shopping arcade in central Liverpool — ideal for essentials, coffee and a quick stop near Lime Street and Liverpool Central stations.
Metquarter Liverpool
0.2 km
Discover Liverpool’s stylish Metquarter, where luxury boutiques, curated shops, and vibrant dining create a sophisticated city centre shopping experience.
St George's Hall
0.3 km
Liverpool’s iconic neoclassical masterpiece blending grand architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural events under one majestic roof.
St John's Gardens
0.3 km
A tranquil historic sculpture garden in Liverpool’s city centre, blending Victorian memorials with peaceful green spaces beside St George’s Hall.
The Bluecoat
0.3 km
Liverpool's creative heart: where 300 years of history meets contemporary art and community.
Eleanor Rigby Statue
0.3 km
A moving tribute to loneliness and legacy, the Eleanor Rigby Statue invites reflection beside Liverpool’s iconic Beatles landmark.
Tourist Attraction - Redisson Red Hotel
0.3 km
Stylish and contemporary accommodation in Liverpool’s vibrant city centre, steps from top attractions and cultural landmarks.
Everyman Liverpool
0.3 km
Boutique cinema in Liverpool offering gourmet dining, cocktails, and vibrant events in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Hillsborough Memorial
0.3 km
A powerful tribute in Liverpool honoring the 96 victims of the Hillsborough disaster, symbolizing community resilience and the quest for justice.
Bluecoat Display Centre
0.3 km
Discover Liverpool’s vibrant hub for contemporary craft, showcasing unique handmade art from over 250 talented makers since 1959.
Queen Victoria - Equestrian Statue
0.3 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.
William Brown St
0.3 km
Discover Liverpool’s cultural heart through William Brown Street’s iconic neoclassical landmarks and rich civic heritage.
Essential places to dine
Shiraz Palace
0.2 km
Lively Mediterranean bistro in Liverpool famed for generous grilled meats, vibrant breakfasts, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Villa Romana - Italian Restaurant Liverpool
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Liverpool at Villa Romana.
Turtle Bay Liverpool Hanover St
0.3 km
Vibrant Caribbean jerk and cocktails in central Liverpool's most colourful, energetic dining destination.
Casa Italia
0.3 km
A Liverpool institution since 1977, serving hearty pasta, wood-fired pizzas and classic Italian desserts in a lively, retro setting on Stanley Street.
Dale Street Kitchen & bar by Shino
0.4 km
Award-winning breakfast and brunch spot in Liverpool’s city centre, celebrated for its full English and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Cosy Club
0.4 km
Stylish British dining with vintage charm and all-day menus in the heart of Liverpool’s vibrant city center.
Turtle Bay Liverpool Victoria St
0.4 km
Lively Caribbean dining and cocktails in Liverpool’s historic Produce Exchange, blending authentic flavors with vibrant island vibes.
Las Iguanas - Liverpool
0.4 km
Vibrant Latin American dining and cocktails in Liverpool's premier shopping destination.
Ropewalks Bar And Kitchen
0.4 km
Stylish and welcoming, Ropewalks Bar And Kitchen serves hearty British and international dishes in Liverpool’s vibrant city center.
Blakes Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience British classics with a Beatles twist in Liverpool’s iconic Hard Days Night Hotel restaurant.
Hanover Street Social
0.4 km
Lively modern brasserie in Liverpool serving seasonal British classics and renowned Sunday roasts in a warm, social atmosphere.
Shiraz BBQ
0.4 km
Charcoal-grilled Mediterranean excellence with generous portions and unbeatable value in central Liverpool.
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.
Greek Taverna Bold Street
0.5 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant Mediterranean hospitality in the heart of Liverpool’s Bold Street.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Liverpool
0.5 km
Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature dishes in a stylish, lively brasserie setting at Liverpool ONE’s Bread Street Kitchen & Bar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rebellious Fashion
0.1 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
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover authentic Liverpool souvenirs and memorabilia in the heart of Williamson Square, open daily for all fans and visitors.
F&G Discounts
0.1 km
Explore unique gifts and souvenirs at F&G Discounts, the ultimate gift shop in St. John's Precinct, Liverpool.
Beats of Liverpool
0.2 km
Discover authentic Liverpool memorabilia and Beatles-inspired souvenirs in the heart of the city’s historic Whitechapel district.
Bleu Prints
0.2 km
Stylish clothing boutique in Liverpool's vibrant L1, curating unique apparel and accessories for fashion-forward urban explorers.
Liverpool Souvenirs and Gifts
0.2 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)
0.3 km
Discover cheeky Liverpool gifts and local charm at Scouse Bird Shop, nestled inside the stylish Boutique 56 hotel on Stanley Street.
COW Liverpool
0.3 km
A compact Bold Street vintage haven where curated retro clothes, approachable staff and frequent one-off finds reward close, unhurried browsing.
Resurrection
0.4 km
Liverpool's legendary streetwear haven: vintage roots, branded edge, tattoos, barber, records, and café vibes on bohemian Bold Street.
Cavern Walks - Shopping Centre
0.4 km
Boutique shopping arcade in Liverpool's Beatles epicentre, linking stylish retail to Cavern Club legacy on vibrant Mathew Street.
As Above So Below Emporium Ltd
0.4 km
A darkly elegant witchy emporium in Liverpool’s historic Cavern Walks, blending mysticism, tarot, and alternative culture.
Utility
0.4 km
Independent Liverpool gift shop specialising in quirky, design-led presents, cards and small homewares with a friendly, well-curated atmosphere.
Urban Outfitters
0.4 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
0.4 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brass Monkey
0.2 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
0.2 km
Intimate Liverpool cocktail bar blending expert drinks, music culture, and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Motel Bar
0.3 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
0.4 km
Liverpool's neon-charged party hub in Concert Square: cocktails by day, club beats by night, perfect for epic nights out.
Rubber Soul
0.4 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife and Beatles heritage at Rubber Soul, a lively bar with three unique atmospheres and nightly live music.
Be At One - Liverpool
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Liverpool's cocktail epicenter: 100+ mixes, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclass shakes in a chic Seel Street hotspot.
Kazimier Garden
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Liverpool's original garden bar: quirky outdoor oasis with craft brews, live gigs, and fairy-lit magic in the heart of Ropewalks.
The Lime Kiln - JD Wetherspoon
0.4 km
Affordable ales and hearty meals in a historic warehouse pub at the pulse of Liverpool's nightlife district—daytime calm meets evening energy.
Ex-Directory
0.4 km
Discover Liverpool’s hidden speakeasy with quirky charm, expertly crafted cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere on Vernon Street.
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.
MOLOKO
0.5 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
0.6 km
Experience the ultimate Bavarian beer hall vibe in Liverpool with giant steins, live Oompah bands, and a lively party atmosphere.
Bar Bodega
0.6 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.
The Slaughter House
0.6 km
Historic Liverpool pub blending hearty gastropub fare with lively live music and comedy in a warm, rustic setting.
The Alchemist Liverpool
0.6 km
Experience Liverpool’s premier cocktail bar where molecular mixology meets bold flavors and vibrant city vibes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Futuristic Looks
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
