Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool: Eating, Drinking and the Waterfront

Opened by Prince Albert in 1846, the Royal Albert Dock was designed by Jesse Hartley and Philip Hardwick and was the first structure in Britain built from cast iron, brick and stone with no structural wood, to reduce the risk of fire. Its warehouses are Grade I listed and now form the largest group of Grade I listed buildings in the country.

After the dock closed to shipping in 1972 it fell into disrepair, before being restored in the 1980s. Today it is one of the most visited attractions in the North West, with museums, galleries, restaurants and bars around the water.

What to see

• Merseyside Maritime Museum and the International Slavery Museum, both part of National Museums Liverpool.
• The Beatles Story, which opened in 1990. Old Town Liverpool has a guide to The Beatles Story.

Eating and drinking

The dock’s colonnades are lined with restaurants and bars, many with outdoor seating overlooking the water — popular on summer evenings. Choice ranges from casual chains to independent restaurants, and the dock is also a starting point for the city’s bus tours. For a current list of venues, Old Town Liverpool keeps a guide to restaurants, pubs and cafés near the Royal Albert Dock. The dock’s own website, albertdock.com, lists opening times and events.

Making a day of it

The Pier Head and the Three Graces are a short walk north along the waterfront, and the Mersey Ferries leave from the Pier Head. Castle Street and the commercial district are around ten minutes inland — see our Castle Street guide.

Frequently asked questions

When did the Royal Albert Dock open?

The Royal Albert Dock was opened by Prince Albert in 1846.

Who designed the Royal Albert Dock?

It was designed by the dock engineer Jesse Hartley with the architect Philip Hardwick.

Is the Royal Albert Dock listed?

Yes. Its warehouses are Grade I listed and form the largest group of Grade I listed buildings in the country.

More from Liverpool: Beacon Worth Liverpool — eat and drink, shows and nightlife, neighbourhoods, and business across the city.

Disclosure: Old Town Liverpool, referenced in this article, is a partner publication of Beacon Worth. Venue details change, so check opening times and bookings directly with each venue.