Bluecoat Display Centre: Liverpool's Premier Contemporary Craft Gallery
Discover Liverpool’s vibrant hub for contemporary crafts, showcasing exquisite handmade art from over 250 talented makers since 1959.
The Bluecoat Display Centre in Liverpool is a nationally and internationally acclaimed contemporary craft gallery and shop located at 50-51 College Lane. Established in 1959, it showcases and sells exceptional handmade works from over 250 contemporary craftspeople, including ceramics, jewellery, textiles, and more. Open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5:30pm, this vibrant cultural hub promotes excellence in applied arts through exhibitions, education, and retail, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and gift seekers alike.
A brief summary to Bluecoat Display Centre
- Bluecoat Display Centre, 50-51 College Ln, Liverpool, L1 3BZ, GB
- +441517094014
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and more time to explore the diverse crafts on display.
- Check the centre’s website for special exhibitions, workshops, and maker demonstrations held regularly.
- Use the College Lane entrance for the most direct access to the Display Centre.
- Combine your visit with a stop at the Bluecoat café or the secret garden for a relaxing break.
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 Central and Lime Street Stations are both within a 5 to 10-minute walk of the Bluecoat Display Centre. Trains connect Liverpool to major UK cities, with frequent services. Walking from the stations involves urban pavements and is accessible for most travelers.
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Bus
Multiple city centre bus routes serve stops within a short walk of the Bluecoat Display Centre. Buses run frequently throughout the day, providing convenient access from across Liverpool and surrounding areas. Use the Merseytravel Journey Planner for detailed route and fare information.
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Car
Nearest parking is available at Q-Park Hanover Street (approximately 2-minute walk) and Q-Park John Lewis (around 6-minute walk). Parking fees apply, typically ranging from £3 to £10 depending on duration. Note that city centre traffic and parking availability vary, so plan accordingly.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the Bluecoat Display Centre is pleasant and straightforward via paved city streets. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchair users and families with strollers.
Bluecoat Display Centre 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 Bluecoat Display Centre
A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Creativity
Since its founding in 1959, the Bluecoat Display Centre has stood as a beacon for contemporary craft and design, both within Liverpool and beyond. It is one of the longest-established craft galleries in the UK, dedicated to promoting excellence in design and workmanship. The centre supports over 250 selected makers annually, offering a diverse range of handcrafted items that celebrate traditional techniques and innovative artistry. This commitment has cemented its reputation as a vital platform for both emerging and established artists.A Curated Collection of Handmade Treasures
Visitors to the Bluecoat Display Centre can explore an eclectic array of contemporary crafts, including ceramics, jewellery, textiles, glass, woodwork, and metalwork. Each piece is carefully selected to reflect high standards of craftsmanship and originality. The gallery not only functions as a retail space but also as a showcase for the creative potential of applied arts, providing a unique shopping experience where every item tells a story of skill and passion.Engaging Exhibitions and Community Events
Beyond its retail function, the centre hosts rotating exhibitions that highlight different makers and craft disciplines, fostering public appreciation and understanding of contemporary craft. Regular events such as talks, workshops, and demonstrations connect visitors directly with artists, enriching the cultural fabric of Liverpool. These initiatives encourage learning and engagement, making the Bluecoat Display Centre a lively hub for creative exchange.The Historic and Vibrant Setting
Situated in the heart of Liverpool’s city centre on College Lane, the centre is part of the historic Bluecoat Chambers complex, itself a landmark of Georgian architecture. The location blends heritage with contemporary creativity, offering visitors a tranquil yet inspiring environment. Nearby, the Bluecoat’s secret garden and café provide restful spaces to complement the artistic experience.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The centre is fully accessible, featuring ramp and lift access to accommodate all visitors. While there are no public toilets on-site, nearby facilities are available within the Bluecoat Arts Centre. The café serves a range of meals and refreshments, making it an ideal spot to relax during your visit. The centre’s central location means it is easily reachable by train, bus, and car, with nearby parking options.Supporting Contemporary Craft in Liverpool
The Bluecoat Display Centre plays a crucial role in sustaining Liverpool’s craft community by providing artists with a platform to sell their work and engage with the public. Its mission to increase awareness and appreciation of contemporary applied arts helps nurture a vibrant creative ecosystem. Whether you are a dedicated craft enthusiast or a casual visitor, the centre offers a rich, immersive experience celebrating the beauty and diversity of handmade art.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.
Viewing window to the Old Dock
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Step through a glass window into the world’s first commercial wet dock, the birthplace of Liverpool’s global maritime legacy.
Liverpool Beatles Museum
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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.
'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
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Historic Georgian gateway at Liverpool’s Albert Dock, blending maritime heritage with vibrant cultural life and scenic waterfront charm.
Liverpool Town Hall
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Explore Liverpool Town Hall, a stunning Georgian masterpiece and historic civic venue at the heart of Liverpool’s cultural heritage.
Quirky Quarter
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Explore Quirky Quarter, Liverpool's vibrant hub of creativity, art, and culture, perfect for a unique tourist experience.
Tate Liverpool
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Explore Tate Liverpool, where contemporary art meets the historic charm of the waterfront, creating an unforgettable cultural experience.
St Luke’s Bombed Out Church
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A roofless Gothic memorial where wartime tragedy transformed into cultural renaissance and timeless celebration.
Queen Victoria - Equestrian Statue
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Discover the grandeur of the Queen Victoria Equestrian Statue in Liverpool, a stunning tribute to a historic monarch amidst a vibrant city backdrop.
Quaker Alley Murals
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Explore Quaker Alley Murals in Liverpool, a vibrant outdoor art gallery showcasing stunning street art that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Albert Dock Pride Sculpture
0.6 km
A vibrant public artwork at Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock celebrating LGBTQ+ pride, diversity, and the city’s rich maritime heritage.
The Christmace Truce Memorial Statue - St Luke's Church
0.6 km
A powerful tribute to the 1914 Christmas Truce, set within Liverpool’s evocative Bombed Out Church, symbolizing peace and unity amid war.
William Brown St
0.7 km
Explore Liverpool's rich maritime history, vibrant culture, and iconic music scene in this UNESCO World Heritage city.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Bluecoat
0.0 km
Liverpool's creative heart: where 300 years of history meets contemporary art and community.
Liverpool ONE
0.2 km
Liverpool ONE: The UK’s largest open-air shopping and leisure hub in the vibrant heart of Liverpool city centre.
Wolstenholme Square
0.2 km
Explore Wolstenholme Square in Liverpool, a vibrant cultural hub filled with art, food, and community spirit, perfect for every tourist's itinerary.
Alcotraz Liverpool: Cell Block Three-Six
0.2 km
An immersive prison‑themed cocktail experience where theatre and mixology collide in Cell Block Three‑Six.
Moonshine Saloon Liverpool
0.2 km
Discover the Wild West at Moonshine Saloon Liverpool, a unique cocktail bar and dinner theatre offering immersive experiences and dynamic performances.
Shiverpool
0.2 km
Experience Liverpool’s haunted history with Shiverpool’s award-winning ghost tours blending thrills, laughs, and captivating storytelling.
Concert Square Bars And Clubs Liverpool
0.3 km
A compact, purpose-built nightlife square in Ropewalks — bars, clubs and heated terraces that keep Liverpool’s evenings buzzing until the small hours.
Clayton Square Shopping Centre
0.3 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.
Ropewalks
0.3 km
Discover Liverpool’s Ropewalks: a vibrant blend of maritime heritage, creative arts, eclectic dining, and lively nightlife in the city’s independent quarter.
Metquarter Liverpool
0.3 km
Discover Liverpool’s stylish Metquarter, where luxury boutiques, curated shops, and vibrant dining create a sophisticated city centre shopping experience.
Liverpool Playhouse Theatre
0.3 km
Historic Liverpool Playhouse Theatre offers intimate performances in a classic proscenium arch setting at the heart of Williamson Square.
St Johns Beacon
0.3 km
Liverpool’s tallest tower offering panoramic city views, rich history, and a vibrant broadcasting hub in the heart of the city.
Williamson Square
0.3 km
Discover Liverpool’s lively Williamson Square, where historic theatre meets vibrant city life in a welcoming urban oasis.
Chavasse Park
0.3 km
A serene urban park at Liverpool ONE, renowned for festive cheer, community events, and a welcoming green escape in the city centre.
The Jacaranda
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and live music at The Jacaranda, a historic pub in Liverpool, known for its musical legacy and lively social scene.
Essential places to dine
Turtle Bay Liverpool Hanover St
0.1 km
Vibrant Caribbean jerk and cocktails in central Liverpool's most colourful, energetic dining destination.
Ropewalks Bar And Kitchen
0.1 km
Stylish and welcoming, Ropewalks Bar And Kitchen serves hearty British and international dishes in Liverpool’s vibrant city center.
Cosy Club
0.1 km
Stylish British dining with vintage charm and all-day menus in the heart of Liverpool’s vibrant city center.
Hanover Street Social
0.1 km
Lively modern brasserie in Liverpool serving seasonal British classics and renowned Sunday roasts in a warm, social atmosphere.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Liverpool
0.2 km
Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature dishes in a stylish, lively brasserie setting at Liverpool ONE’s Bread Street Kitchen & Bar.
Albert's Schenke
0.2 km
Experience authentic Bavarian hospitality with hearty Alpine dishes and a vibrant beer hall atmosphere in Liverpool’s city center.
Villa Romana - Italian Restaurant Liverpool
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Liverpool at Villa Romana.
Salt House Tapas
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in a lively, historic Liverpool setting with generous portions and vibrant atmosphere.
Smoke & Dough
0.2 km
Interactive BBQ dining in Liverpool One where you grill premium meats at your table, paired with vibrant cocktails and a lively city terrace.
Las Iguanas - Liverpool
0.2 km
Vibrant Latin American dining and cocktails in Liverpool's premier shopping destination.
Churrasco Steak House - City - Liverpool
0.2 km
A vibrant Liverpool steakhouse blending South American flair with British quality steaks and interactive dining in the city centre.
Amalia - Italian Restaurant Liverpool
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Amalia, Liverpool’s beloved family-inspired Italian restaurant in Campbell Square.
Down the Hatch
0.2 km
A vibrant vegan basement bar and restaurant in Liverpool offering generous plant-based dishes and creative cocktails in a lively, dog-friendly setting.
Wreck Bistro
0.3 km
A warm, inventive British bistro in Liverpool’s Ropewalks, blending seasonal ingredients with creative flair in a relaxed, inviting setting.
The Exchange Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant British dining with seasonal menus and scenic park views at Hilton Liverpool City Centre’s premier restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Utility
0.1 km
Independent Liverpool gift shop specialising in quirky, design-led presents, cards and small homewares with a friendly, well-curated atmosphere.
Urban Outfitters
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired fashion and eclectic homewares at Urban Outfitters Liverpool, a vibrant hub for style and culture in the city centre.
Oliver Bonas
0.2 km
Colourful, design-led fashion and homeware in Liverpool ONE — a boutique atmosphere for stylish gifts and everyday statement pieces.
Bleu Prints
0.2 km
Stylish clothing boutique in Liverpool's vibrant L1, curating unique apparel and accessories for fashion-forward urban explorers.
KENJI Liverpool ONE
0.2 km
Discover cute plushies, quirky gifts, and local makers in Liverpool ONE's playful arcade-gift haven—perfect for unique souvenirs and fun finds.
Liverpool Souvenirs and Gifts
0.3 km
Discover unique Liverpool keepsakes and exceptional service at this friendly souvenir shop in the heart of the city.
Beat That
0.3 km
Unearth retro gems at Beat That, Liverpool's quirky vintage haven on Concert Street, blending punk edge with timeless thrift treasures in the Ropewalks buzz.
The Liverpool Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic Liverpool souvenirs and memorabilia in the heart of Williamson Square, open daily for all fans and visitors.
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.
Menkind
0.3 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.
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.
Beats of Liverpool
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Discover authentic Liverpool memorabilia and Beatles-inspired souvenirs in the heart of the city’s historic Whitechapel district.
Resurrection
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Liverpool's legendary streetwear haven: vintage roots, branded edge, tattoos, barber, records, and café vibes on bohemian Bold Street.
Cavern Walks - Shopping Centre
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Boutique shopping arcade in Liverpool's Beatles epicentre, linking stylish retail to Cavern Club legacy on vibrant Mathew Street.
House Of Gifts
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A fun-filled Liverpool novelty shop packed with souvenirs, local memorabilia, and quirky gifts for visitors and locals alike.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brass Monkey
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Liverpool's quirky cocktail haven on School Lane, blending inventive drinks, British bites, and lively vibes from midday to late-night revelry.
Present Company
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Intimate Liverpool cocktail bar blending expert drinks, music culture, and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Motel Bar
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A moody, music-first Fleet Street dive bar famous for band-backed karaoke and late-night crowds in Liverpool city centre.
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.
Soho Bar Liverpool
0.3 km
Liverpool's neon-charged party hub in Concert Square: cocktails by day, club beats by night, perfect for epic nights out.
The Lime Kiln - JD Wetherspoon
0.3 km
Affordable ales and hearty meals in a historic warehouse pub at the pulse of Liverpool's nightlife district—daytime calm meets evening energy.
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.
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.
MOLOKO
0.4 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.
Slug & Lettuce - Liverpool
0.4 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.
Bar Bodega
0.5 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
0.5 km
Historic Liverpool pub blending hearty gastropub fare with lively live music and comedy in a warm, rustic setting.
The Alchemist Liverpool
0.5 km
Experience Liverpool’s premier cocktail bar where molecular mixology meets bold flavors and vibrant city vibes.
Salt Dog Slim's
0.6 km
Liverpool's dive bar legend: world beers, fiery cocktails, chili dogs, and secret speakeasy vibes on Seel Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Liverpool
0.1 km
Liverpool's ultimate cheesy pop haven: 90s bangers, cheap drinks, and dance-'til-dawn vibes in the heart of Ropewalks.
ELECTRIK WAREHOUSE
0.2 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.
LEVEL Nightclub Liverpool
0.2 km
Liverpool’s expansive multi-floor nightclub offering diverse music, VIP areas, and a buzzing party atmosphere in the heart of Ropewalks.
Modo, Liverpool
0.2 km
Liverpool's Concert Square legend: multi-room nightclub with cocktails, sports screens, heated terrace, and epic party spaces for every vibe.
Baa Bar Liverpool
0.3 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.
Aura
0.3 km
Dive into Liverpool's pulsating beats at Aura Nightclub, where Afrobeats and R&B fuel intimate, high-energy nights in Ropewalks' vibrant core.
Playground Liverpool
0.4 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
0.4 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Flares on Mathew Street, where great cocktails and unbeatable party vibes meet iconic music heritage.
Ink Bar Liverpool
0.4 km
Liverpool's premier R&B and house nightclub, where stylish cocktails, thumping beats, and luxury vibes fuel unforgettable nights on Wood Street.
BrooklynMixer
0.4 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.
Mambo Club Liverpool
0.4 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Mambo Club, where electrifying music and lively crowds create unforgettable Saturday nights.
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.
EBGBS
0.4 km
Liverpool's gritty basement nightclub where live indie gigs, craft cocktails, and underground vibes fuel epic nights until 4am in the heart of Seel Street.
Heebie Jeebies
0.5 km
Liverpool's eclectic nightlife heart: multi-level bar, live music basement, courtyard hangs, and anthemic nights until dawn on Seel Street.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- 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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
