Historic Pubs of Liverpool

A three-hour guided tour of Liverpool's oldest pubs, emphasizing traditional ales, Victorian interiors, and the establishments' historical stories. The tour includes a traditional pub meal, offering visitors a deeper experience than standard pub crawls. Weekend daytime tours are available, making this suitable for visitors preferring to explore beer heritage during daylight hours. Hosted by Heritage Pub Tours, this activity appeals to real ale enthusiasts and history-focused travellers. Best for History enthusiasts and real ale drinkers interested in authentic pub culture. This is a easy activity lasting 3 hours. Group size: max 15. You meet at The Grapes pub, Mathew Street. Key highlights: Visit Liverpool's oldest continuously operating pubs, Traditional pub meal included, Expert guide knowledge of pub history and architecture.

Price: £30

Duration: 3 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: max 15

Minimum age: 18+

Best for: History enthusiasts and real ale drinkers interested in authentic pub culture

Best time: Weekend afternoons (11:00am or 2:00pm) for daytime tours; weekday evening tours also available but less frequent

Meeting point: The Grapes pub, Mathew Street

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

Meeting time (usually 2:00pm or 11:00am weekend) Gather at The Grapes pub on Mathew Street - Group assembles; guide provides introduction to Liverpool's pub history and overview of venues on the route.

First 45 minutes First pub visit with historical commentary - Enter historic pub; guide explains building's age, original features, and notable patrons or events.

45 min - 1.5 hours Traditional pub meal served - Sit down meal served at first or second venue featuring typical British pub food (fish and chips, pies, etc.).

1.5 - 2.25 hours Second and third historic pubs - Visit additional oldest establishments; guide shares architectural details and ale recommendations specific to each pub.

Final 45 minutes Final historic venue and ale tasting - Last pub stop with opportunity to sample traditional ales; guide discusses brewery heritage and current ale selections.

The whole experience takes 3 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at The Grapes pub, Mathew Street.

• Visit Liverpool's oldest continuously operating pubs
• Traditional pub meal included
• Expert guide knowledge of pub history and architecture
• Victorian interior features and original fittings
• Traditional ales and brewery heritage commentary
• Small group size for personal attention
• Accessibility: This tour involves standing and walking approximately 0.75 miles between four venues with some uneven Victorian-era pavements. Not wheelchair accessible due to pub layouts and entry steps. Fitness level: easy to moderate.

What is included: Professional guide for entire tour, Entry to four historic pubs, Traditional pub meal (one course with beverage), Historical commentary on each pub's background, Expert ale recommendations.

Not included: Additional drinks beyond the meal beverage, Desserts or additional courses, Transportation to meeting point. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Valid ID (required for entry to licensed venues), Cash or card for additional drinks, Comfortable walking shoes, Weather-appropriate clothing (weekend tours run rain or shine). Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Weekend afternoons (11:00am or 2:00pm) for daytime tours; weekday evening tours also available but less frequent.

Tip: Includes traditional pub meal

Tip: Daytime weekend tours available

Accessibility: This tour involves standing and walking approximately 0.75 miles between four venues with some uneven Victorian-era pavements. Not wheelchair accessible due to pub layouts and entry steps. Fitness level: easy to moderate..

Operator: Heritage Pub Tours

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Cavern Club (3 min walk)
• Mathew Street Gallery (1 min walk)
• Albert Dock (12 min walk)

This activity is run by Heritage Pub Tours.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 48 hours before tour; after 48 hours 50% of tour price non-refundable.

Accessibility: This tour involves standing and walking approximately 0.75 miles between four venues with some uneven Victorian-era pavements. Not wheelchair accessible due to pub layouts and entry steps. Fitness level: easy to moderate..

Best time to go: Weekend afternoons (11:00am or 2:00pm) for daytime tours; weekday evening tours also available but less frequent.

What type of meal is included in the £30 price?

A traditional British pub meal is included, typically fish and chips, steak pie, or similar classic pub fare. Meals accommodate standard dietary requirements if mentioned at booking. The meal includes one soft or alcoholic beverage; additional drinks are paid separately.

How old are the pubs visited on this tour?

The tour features Liverpool's oldest continuously operating pubs, with several dating to the 18th century. The oldest venues on the route have been operating for 150+ years. Your guide shares specific founding dates and historical details at each stop.

Is this tour suitable for people who don't drink real ale?

Yes, the tour focuses on pub history and culture rather than ale consumption exclusively. Non-ale drinkers can order alternative beverages at each pub. The included meal and historical commentary are equally valuable regardless of drink choices.