St Johns Beacon Viewing Gallery, Liverpool
Liverpool’s iconic 138m radio tower offering stunning 360° panoramic views and a unique cultural landmark in the city centre.
St Johns Beacon, also known as the Radio City Tower, is an iconic 138-meter tall radio and observation tower in Liverpool. It offers panoramic 360° views of Merseyside, the Wirral, North Wales, and beyond, including landmarks visible on clear days such as Snowdonia and Blackpool. The tower houses radio studios and features a fully accessible viewing gallery, making it a unique cultural and architectural landmark in the city centre.
A brief summary to St Johns Beacon Viewing Gallery
- St Johns Beacon, 1 Houghton St, Liverpool, L1 1RL, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 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 on clear days for the best views, potentially spotting landmarks as far as Snowdonia and Blackpool.
- The viewing gallery is wheelchair accessible with no stairs, making it easy for all visitors to enjoy.
- Check current opening status before visiting, as the gallery has been temporarily closed since late 2024.
- Take time to explore the radio studios housed inside for a glimpse into Liverpool’s broadcasting history.
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
Liverpool Lime Street Station is the nearest major train station, about a 15-minute walk from St Johns Beacon. Frequent services connect Liverpool to major UK cities. No parking at the station; taxis and buses available nearby.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve stops near St Johns Shopping Centre, adjacent to the beacon. Typical journey times from Liverpool city outskirts range 10–25 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evenings and weekends.
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Car
Parking is available in nearby city centre car parks, including those at St Johns Shopping Centre. Expect parking fees around £2–£5 per hour. City centre traffic can be busy during peak hours.
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Walking
If staying in central Liverpool, the beacon is accessible on foot via flat, paved streets. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on starting point. Fully wheelchair accessible routes available.
St Johns Beacon Viewing Gallery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Johns Beacon Viewing Gallery
A Tower with a Unique History and Purpose
St Johns Beacon was completed in 1969, originally designed as a ventilation shaft for the shopping complex beneath it. Standing 138 meters (452 feet) tall, it was Liverpool’s tallest building for decades and remains the city’s tallest structure including its antenna. Over time, the tower evolved from its industrial origins into a prominent radio broadcasting hub and a celebrated city landmark. It houses the studios of Radio City, City Talk, and Greatest Hits Radio, blending its functional role with cultural significance.Panoramic Views from the Heart of Liverpool
The beacon’s viewing gallery, opened to the public in 2010, offers breathtaking 360-degree vistas over Liverpool and the surrounding region. Visitors can see across Merseyside, the Wirral peninsula, North Wales, Lancashire, and on clear days, distant landmarks such as Snowdonia’s peaks and the Blackpool Tower. This panoramic platform provides an unparalleled perspective on Liverpool’s evolving skyline and natural landscape, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.Architectural and Cultural Significance
As a Grade II listed structure, St Johns Beacon is a key part of Liverpool’s architectural heritage. Its distinctive cylindrical form and height dominate the city skyline, symbolizing Liverpool’s resilience and modern identity. Beyond its physical presence, the tower serves as a cultural beacon, hosting radio broadcasts and community events that connect the city’s diverse population. The viewing gallery also includes informative displays and guides who share insights about the city’s landmarks and history.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The viewing gallery is fully wheelchair accessible, with high-speed lifts transporting visitors to the top without stairs. There is no time limit on visits, allowing guests to enjoy the views at their own pace. The site welcomes families, individuals, and even well-behaved dogs, emphasizing inclusivity. Though temporarily closed as of late 2024, the beacon remains a vital part of Liverpool’s tourism and cultural scene, with plans to reopen and continue offering its unique experience.Location and Surroundings
Situated in the city centre adjacent to St John's Shopping Centre, the beacon is surrounded by Liverpool’s vibrant urban fabric. Nearby attractions include historic docks, museums, and entertainment venues, making it an ideal stop during a city exploration. The tower’s central location also makes it a convenient landmark for navigation and a focal point in Liverpool’s dynamic cityscape.Legacy and Ongoing Importance
St Johns Beacon stands as a testament to Liverpool’s industrial past and its cultural evolution. It continues to be a symbol of the city’s spirit and ambition, bridging history, media, and tourism. Whether admired from afar or experienced from its viewing gallery, the beacon offers a unique lens through which to appreciate Liverpool’s character and its place in the wider region.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Coopers Building
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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
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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
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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
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A modern office landmark on Liverpool’s historic Tithebarn Street, bridging medieval heritage and today’s Knowledge Quarter.
1 Exchange Flags
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Nelson Monument
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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
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A roofless Gothic memorial where wartime tragedy transformed into cultural renaissance and timeless celebration.
The Christmace Truce Memorial Statue - St Luke's Church
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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
0.4 km
Liverpool's cocktail epicenter: 100+ mixes, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclass shakes in a chic Seel Street hotspot.
Kazimier Garden
0.4 km
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Liverpool
0.3 km
Liverpool's ultimate cheesy pop haven: 90s bangers, cheap drinks, and dance-'til-dawn vibes in the heart of Ropewalks.
ELECTRIK WAREHOUSE
0.3 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
0.4 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
0.4 km
Liverpool’s expansive multi-floor nightclub offering diverse music, VIP areas, and a buzzing party atmosphere in the heart of Ropewalks.
Flares - Liverpool
0.4 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Flares on Mathew Street, where great cocktails and unbeatable party vibes meet iconic music heritage.
XOXO Nightclub Liverpool
0.4 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
0.4 km
Liverpool’s vibrant nightclub with the UK’s largest LED ceiling, laser shows, and a dynamic party atmosphere in the city centre.
Aura
0.4 km
Dive into Liverpool's pulsating beats at Aura Nightclub, where Afrobeats and R&B fuel intimate, high-energy nights in Ropewalks' vibrant core.
Mambo Club Liverpool
0.4 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Mambo Club, where electrifying music and lively crowds create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Baa Bar Liverpool
0.4 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
0.5 km
Liverpool's premier R&B and house nightclub, where stylish cocktails, thumping beats, and luxury vibes fuel unforgettable nights on Wood Street.
GBar Liverpool
0.5 km
Liverpool's legendary late-night gay club: pop upstairs, bass downstairs, dancing till dawn on Eberle Street's vibrant strip.
Elysium Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic DJ events and an energetic atmosphere at Elysium Nightclub, open late on weekends.
BrooklynMixer
0.6 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.
Pure Nightlounge
0.6 km
Liverpool’s boutique R&B nightspot with VIP booths, tight dancefloor energy and a late-night, fashion-forward vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- 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
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
