About
Birkenhead is a historic port town on the Wirral Peninsula in northwest England, set directly across the River Mersey from Liverpool. Its position makes it a natural stop for anyone exploring the wider Merseyside area, and it has a character of its own, shaped by its long connection with the river and the port.
What to see
- Williamson Art Gallery - an art gallery in the town that gives visitors a chance to look at a collection in a more relaxed setting than the city across the water.
- Birkenhead Priory - the ruins of a priory dating back to the 12th century, a reminder of the town's older history.
Getting across the river
Birkenhead's easiest link to Liverpool is the historic Mersey Ferry, which carries passengers across the river to the city's waterfront. Making the crossing by boat is part of the pleasure of a visit, with views back toward Liverpool's skyline and the working river. Many visitors combine a morning in Birkenhead with an afternoon on the Liverpool side, or the other way round.
Birkenhead suits a visit that is unhurried and close to the water. Plan around the ferry times, leave room for the gallery and the priory, and let the crossing set the pace of the day.