Liverpool Cathedral

The largest cathedral in Britain and fifth-largest in the world, completed in 1978 after 74 years of construction. The Gothic Revival building houses the world's highest and heaviest ringing bells, with a tower offering views across Merseyside and North Wales. It sits in Liverpool's City Centre, close to the other main sights. It ranks among Liverpool's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Entry is free and 1-2 hours gives you a thorough visit.

Priority: High - do not skip Time needed: 1-2 hours Best for: britain's most impressive 20th Skip if: You have mobility issues and can't climb the 330 steps to the tower viewing level Cost: Free

You enter through massive bronze doors into a space so vast your footsteps echo off stone walls 175 feet high. The tower climb involves narrow spiral staircases and viewing platforms with panoramic views over the Mersey and Welsh hills on clear days.

Accessibility: Cathedral floor fully accessible, tower viewing requires climbing 330 steps with no elevator access

Britain's most impressive 20th-century cathedral with unmatched city views from the tower. That puts it near the top of any Liverpool visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Cavern Club and World Museum - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Liverpool. Afternoon tends to work best here. Free entry makes the decision easy - walk in, see if it holds your attention, and leave when you have had enough.

Skip if: You have mobility issues and can't climb the 330 steps to the tower viewing level

• Tower tours run hourly but book ahead in summer.
• Free organ recitals most Sundays at 15:00.
• Café in the crypt serves lunch until 15:30.
• Wear layers as the interior stays cool year-round.

Insider tip: The central space is longer than a football pitch and taller than Nelson's Column

Interior photography allowed without flash, tower provides 360-degree city views, best light in late afternoon