Liverpool Empire Theatre: A Grand Historic Venue on Lime Street
Experience Liverpool’s grandest two-tier theatre blending historic elegance with world-class live performances on Lime Street.
The Liverpool Empire Theatre, located on Lime Street, is the UK's largest two-tier theatre with a seating capacity of 2,381. Opened in 1925 on the site of earlier theatres dating back to 1866, it is a Grade II listed building renowned for its classical architecture, rich history, and vibrant programme of touring musicals, comedy, drama, and dance. The theatre blends historic elegance with modern facilities, offering an immersive cultural experience in Liverpool’s city centre.
A brief summary to Liverpool Empire
- Lime St, Liverpool, L1 1JE, GB
- +441517027320
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance to secure the best seats, especially for popular musicals and shows.
- Explore the Lime St Bistro for a pre-show meal to enjoy local dining within the theatre.
- Use the accessible entrance and facilities if you require wheelchair access or mobility assistance.
- Consider the Ambassador Lounge for a premium experience with drinks served at your seat.
- Arrive early to soak in the theatre’s stunning classical architecture and interior details.
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 500 meters from the theatre, a 7-10 minute walk along well-signposted urban streets. Frequent train services connect Liverpool to major UK cities. No parking at the station; taxis and buses available nearby.
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Bus
Multiple city bus routes stop within 200 meters of the theatre on Lime Street and adjacent roads. Buses run every 10-20 minutes during the day. Tickets cost around £2-£4 GBP. Some routes may be less frequent in evenings and weekends.
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Taxi / Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop off and pick up directly outside the theatre on Lime Street. Journey times vary with traffic but typically take 10-20 minutes from Liverpool city centre. Expect fares from £5 GBP upwards depending on distance.
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Walking
The theatre is centrally located in Liverpool city centre, easily accessible on foot from nearby hotels and attractions. Walking routes are flat and fully paved, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Expect 5-15 minutes walking time from most central locations.
Liverpool Empire 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 Liverpool Empire
Legacy of Liverpool’s Theatrical Heritage
The Liverpool Empire Theatre stands on a site steeped in theatrical history, beginning with the New Prince of Wales Theatre and Opera House, which opened in 1866. This original venue was renamed the Royal Alexandra Theatre and Opera House in 1867, honoring the Princess of Wales. After several reconstructions, the theatre was transformed and reopened as the Empire Theatre in 1896 with a pantomime production of 'Cinderella.' The current building, designed by W. and T. R. Milburn in a classical style, opened in 1925, replacing the earlier structure and establishing itself as a landmark for live entertainment in Liverpool.Architectural Grandeur and Design Features
The Empire Theatre is noted for its impressive steel-framed construction clad in Portland stone, featuring intricate Louis XVI style interior decorations and unique carved elephant caryatids. It boasts the largest two-tier auditorium in the UK, seating 2,381 patrons across stalls and circle levels. The auditorium’s wide layout and raked seating ensure excellent sightlines, with the stage designed to foster audience participation. Over the years, the theatre has undergone significant refurbishments, including a major upgrade in 1999 that expanded the stage and enhanced backstage facilities.A Hub for Iconic Performances and Cultural Impact
Throughout its history, the Liverpool Empire has hosted legendary performers such as Laurel and Hardy, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Julie Andrews, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones. It has been a venue for a diverse range of productions, from Shakespearean dramas to contemporary musicals and comedy shows. The theatre also played a role in Liverpool’s cultural recognition, hosting the Royal Variety Performance in 2007 when the city was European Capital of Culture.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with accessible entrances and facilities, including wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets. The theatre offers amenities like the Lime St Bistro for pre-show dining, a fully stocked bar, and an Ambassador Lounge with exclusive services. The venue provides at-seat drink and snack delivery to enhance the audience experience. Seating options include the stalls and circle, with the front centre stalls offering close-up views and the rear circle providing excellent panoramic perspectives at discounted prices.Modern Enhancements and Community Engagement
The Liverpool Empire continues to evolve with modern technology integrated into its historic fabric. It supports creative learning programs offering workshops and events for young people interested in theatre careers. The theatre is part of the ATG network, providing priority booking and membership benefits. Its ongoing preservation as a Grade II listed building ensures that this cultural gem remains a vibrant part of Liverpool’s arts scene.Location and Cultural Significance
Situated prominently on Lime Street in Liverpool city centre, the Empire Theatre is a focal point for live entertainment and cultural heritage. Its classical design and historical importance contribute to the William Brown Street Conservation Area. The theatre’s blend of tradition and innovation makes it a must-visit destination for theatre lovers and cultural tourists alike.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
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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.
Tithebarn Building
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A modern office landmark on Liverpool’s historic Tithebarn Street, bridging medieval heritage and today’s Knowledge Quarter.
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.
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.
St Luke’s Bombed Out Church
0.8 km
A roofless Gothic memorial where wartime tragedy transformed into cultural renaissance and timeless celebration.
Liverpool Masonic Hall
0.9 km
Experience the grandeur of Liverpool Masonic Hall, a historic gem showcasing the city’s rich Masonic heritage and stunning architectural design.
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.
Queen Victoria Monument
0.9 km
Discover the magnificent Queen Victoria Monument, a symbol of history and elegance in the heart of Liverpool's Derby Square.
Liverpool Town Hall
0.9 km
Georgian grandeur meets civic ceremony in Liverpool's most magnificent 18th-century building.
1 Exchange Flags
0.9 km
Historic Liverpool landmark featuring WWII command bunker, elegant architecture, and a courtyard rich with maritime and mercantile heritage.
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.
Exchange Flags
0.9 km
Explore the historic Exchange Flags in Liverpool, a vibrant square at the heart of the city, blending architectural beauty with rich commercial heritage.
Derby Square
1.0 km
Explore Derby Square in Liverpool, a historical architectural gem offering tranquility and a glimpse into the city's vibrant past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ma Egerton's Stage Door
0.0 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.
Queen Victoria - Equestrian Statue
0.1 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.
Tourist Attraction - Redisson Red Hotel
0.1 km
Stylish and contemporary accommodation in Liverpool’s vibrant city centre, steps from top attractions and cultural landmarks.
St George's Hall
0.1 km
Liverpool’s iconic neoclassical masterpiece blending grand architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural events under one majestic roof.
William Brown St
0.2 km
Discover Liverpool’s cultural heart through William Brown Street’s iconic neoclassical landmarks and rich civic heritage.
Walker Art Gallery
0.2 km
Explore centuries of European and British art masterpieces in Liverpool’s iconic Walker Art Gallery, where history and creativity converge.
Central Library
0.2 km
A stunning blend of Victorian grandeur and modern innovation, Liverpool Central Library is a cultural landmark and vibrant hub of knowledge.
St John's Gardens
0.2 km
A tranquil historic sculpture garden in Liverpool’s city centre, blending Victorian memorials with peaceful green spaces beside St George’s Hall.
World Museum
0.2 km
Explore five floors of free, family-friendly discovery with ancient treasures, live creatures, and cosmic wonders in Liverpool’s World Museum.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Clayton Square Shopping Centre
0.4 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.
Essential places to dine
Shiraz Palace
0.4 km
Lively Mediterranean bistro in Liverpool famed for generous grilled meats, vibrant breakfasts, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dale Street Kitchen & bar by Shino
0.5 km
Award-winning breakfast and brunch spot in Liverpool’s city centre, celebrated for its full English and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Villa Romana - Italian Restaurant Liverpool
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Liverpool at Villa Romana.
Casa Italia
0.6 km
A Liverpool institution since 1977, serving hearty pasta, wood-fired pizzas and classic Italian desserts in a lively, retro setting on Stanley Street.
Turtle Bay Liverpool Hanover St
0.6 km
Vibrant Caribbean jerk and cocktails in central Liverpool's most colourful, energetic dining destination.
Greek Taverna Bold Street
0.7 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant Mediterranean hospitality in the heart of Liverpool’s Bold Street.
Mowgli Street Food Bold Street
0.7 km
Experience authentic Indian street food bursting with bold flavors in a lively Liverpool setting on Bold Street.
Turtle Bay Liverpool Victoria St
0.7 km
Lively Caribbean dining and cocktails in Liverpool’s historic Produce Exchange, blending authentic flavors with vibrant island vibes.
The Italian Club
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Liverpool’s Bold Street at The Italian Club.
Maray Bold Street
0.7 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern small plates with bold flavours and plant-based options in the heart of Liverpool’s Bold Street.
Shiraz BBQ
0.7 km
Charcoal-grilled Mediterranean excellence with generous portions and unbeatable value in central Liverpool.
Blakes Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience British classics with a Beatles twist in Liverpool’s iconic Hard Days Night Hotel restaurant.
Wreck Bistro
0.7 km
A warm, inventive British bistro in Liverpool’s Ropewalks, blending seasonal ingredients with creative flair in a relaxed, inviting setting.
NYL Restaurant and Bar
0.7 km
Stylish American dining and cocktails in Liverpool's commercial heart, where upmarket meets approachable.
Cosy Club
0.8 km
Stylish British dining with vintage charm and all-day menus in the heart of Liverpool’s vibrant city center.
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.
Bleu Prints
0.5 km
Stylish clothing boutique in Liverpool's vibrant L1, curating unique apparel and accessories for fashion-forward urban explorers.
Beats of Liverpool
0.5 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.
COW Liverpool
0.5 km
A compact Bold Street vintage haven where curated retro clothes, approachable staff and frequent one-off finds reward close, unhurried browsing.
Scouse Bird Shop (inside Boutique 56 & online)
0.6 km
Discover cheeky Liverpool gifts and local charm at Scouse Bird Shop, nestled inside the stylish Boutique 56 hotel on Stanley Street.
Resurrection
0.6 km
Liverpool's legendary streetwear haven: vintage roots, branded edge, tattoos, barber, records, and café vibes on bohemian Bold Street.
69A
0.7 km
Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures in Liverpool’s vibrant Renshaw Street at 69A, where history meets style.
Beat That
0.7 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.
Utility Gift Store
0.7 km
Quirky gifts and unique designs on Liverpool's Bold Street – your indie haven for Moomin magic, scented candles, and cards that say it best. Dog-friendly delight.
Shared Earth
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Discover unique, sustainable gifts at Shared Earth, Liverpool’s hub for fair trade treasures and ethical craftsmanship.
As Above So Below Emporium Ltd
0.7 km
A darkly elegant witchy emporium in Liverpool’s historic Cavern Walks, blending mysticism, tarot, and alternative culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
Ex-Directory
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Soho Bar Liverpool
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Liverpool's neon-charged party hub in Concert Square: cocktails by day, club beats by night, perfect for epic nights out.
Rubber Soul
0.7 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife and Beatles heritage at Rubber Soul, a lively bar with three unique atmospheres and nightly live music.
The Lime Kiln - JD Wetherspoon
0.7 km
Affordable ales and hearty meals in a historic warehouse pub at the pulse of Liverpool's nightlife district—daytime calm meets evening energy.
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
0.7 km
Liverpool's original garden bar: quirky outdoor oasis with craft brews, live gigs, and fairy-lit magic in the heart of Ropewalks.
MOLOKO
0.7 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
0.8 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
0.8 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.
Salt Dog Slim's
0.9 km
Liverpool's dive bar legend: world beers, fiery cocktails, chili dogs, and secret speakeasy vibes on Seel Street.
The Oracle
0.9 km
Liverpool's secret speakeasy where cocktails meet close-up magic—buzz in for illusions, tarot, and vintage vibes that defy reality.
Liverpool Arts Bar
0.9 km
A vibrant creative hub in a historic Masonic Hall, blending local art, live performances, and crafted drinks on Liverpool’s iconic Hope Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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
0.6 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
0.6 km
Liverpool's Concert Square legend: multi-room nightclub with cocktails, sports screens, heated terrace, and epic party spaces for every vibe.
Aura
0.6 km
Dive into Liverpool's pulsating beats at Aura Nightclub, where Afrobeats and R&B fuel intimate, high-energy nights in Ropewalks' vibrant core.
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.
XOXO Nightclub Liverpool
0.7 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
0.7 km
Liverpool’s vibrant nightclub with the UK’s largest LED ceiling, laser shows, and a dynamic party atmosphere in the city centre.
Baa Bar Liverpool
0.7 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.
Flares - Liverpool
0.7 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
0.7 km
Liverpool's premier R&B and house nightclub, where stylish cocktails, thumping beats, and luxury vibes fuel unforgettable nights on Wood Street.
Mambo Club Liverpool
0.7 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Mambo Club, where electrifying music and lively crowds create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Elysium Nightclub
0.8 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic DJ events and an energetic atmosphere at Elysium Nightclub, open late on weekends.
GBar Liverpool
0.8 km
Liverpool's legendary late-night gay club: pop upstairs, bass downstairs, dancing till dawn on Eberle Street's vibrant strip.
Pure Nightlounge
0.8 km
Liverpool’s boutique R&B nightspot with VIP booths, tight dancefloor energy and a late-night, fashion-forward vibe.
BrooklynMixer
0.8 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
- Historic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
- 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
