Life can be rather overwhelming and a change in scenery and bit of fresh air is a great way to switch off. Liverpool is blessed with a number of spots, from botanical gardens that you can literally get lost in, to glistening water spots that were literally made for us to sit by and reflect on the world. With this in mind, here’s our list of some of the most peaceful places in the city for you to visit when you’re in need of some escapism.
1. St James’ Gardens
Right next door to the Anglican Cathedral is St James Mount and Gardens, which provide beautiful scenic views without the schlep up all the cathedral stairs. The quaint gardens are pretty tranquil whatever time of day it may be. With benches and green spaces dotted around the gardens, plus just a 10 minute walk from the city centre, it’s easy to pitch up here with your lunch or a book in order to get some pleasant peace and quiet.
2. Fairy Glen, Sefton Park
This secluded spot proves that it’s a no-brainer that Sefton Park is considered relaxing and quaint. As the second largest park in the city, Sefton Park boasts plenty of places to roam both solo or with friends and family, whether it be on foot or on a bicycle. Possibly one of most peaceful places in this park is the Fairy Glen, a little nook within the Liverpool park featuring a cute waterfall that’ll make you forget you’re in the city. You can also watch the wildlife by the lake or relax at the bandstand surrounded by gorgeous flowers, either way this park is rather dreamy.
3. St Luke’s Bombed-Out Church
Up until 2007, this church at the end of Bold Street lay derelict, overgrown and inaccessible, before being cleared, and transformed by a series of cultural events and reopening the space to the public. St Luke’s Bombed Out Church is now a stunning venue for performances, and in normal times even hosts tai chi classes, as well as being a breathtaking outdoor space that you are free to roam. Plus, the gardens even has a café for you to enjoy a refreshment in peace.
4. Reynolds Park
Reynolds Park is a beautiful, unspoilt and quiet park that can be found nestled in the Liverpool suburb of Woolton. The park is not only a popular spot for those taking their dog for a stroll but it’s also great to relax in and take in its beauty. The park spans 14 acres and features a walled garden as well as plenty of benches where you can sit and watch the world go by.
5. Crosby Beach
Hearing the waves roll in and out of the shore at Crosby Beach is a comforting and soothing sound as you look out to the water. Whether it’s wading through the sand and following the coastline or sitting up on the bank and soaking up the sea view, this spot north of Liverpool is a great and quick getaway for a breather. You can also admire the beautiful sculpture project ‘Another Place’, which consists of 100 cast iron figures that can be found spread out across the shore.
6. Everton Park
Everton Park boasts great views of the city’s landmarks making it the perfect spot for a quiet breather as you can switch off and soak up the landscape instead. From the hill, Everton Brow, people can see as far out as the docks, the River Mersey and even the Welsh mountains on a clear day. The park also features a nature garden and two small lakes, if you’re in search of multiple peaceful places.
7. Falkner Square Gardens
There’s no denying that Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter is just gorgeous. Escape to a totally different era without even having to leave the city by strolling past the beautiful houses around Falkner Square before settling in the gardens. This green space in the Georgian Quarter is gated giving it a secluded feel and its dotted with quaint lampposts and benches. Head here during the autumn and experience the picturesque scenery of watching the auburn and yellow-hued leaves fall onto the floor of the gardens.
8. The Picton Reading Rooms, Central Library
Libraries can be rather boring, and rather traumatic (flashbacks of last-minute essay writing may occur). However, within this popular library open seven days a week there is one place that demands peace, quiet and contemplation. The Picton Reading Rooms featuring walls brimming with books is the place to go if you’re looking for comfortable silence, whether that’s with a book in hand or not.
9. Birkenhead Park
Take a trip over the Mersey to Birkenhead Park, which is said to have been a major influence on the design of New York’s Central Park. Here you’ll be astounded by the tranquility of this Victorian Park thanks to its charming features such as the Roman Boathouse and the Swiss Bridge across the lake. There’s also Birkenhead Park’s rockery, croc pond and woodland area, which are all peaceful places to take a walk round. And if you’re after a little pick-me-up, treat yourself to an ice cream.