Why Liverpool’s Philharmonic Hall is more fun than its fancy name
If you’re heading to Liverpool, there’s one place I’d insist you step inside at least once—the Philharmonic Hall on Hope Street. No, don’t let the name scare you into thinking it’s all stiff tuxedos and serious symphonies.
As a local, I can tell you it’s one of the city’s most vibrant spots, mixing world-class classical performances with jazz nights, film screenings, comedy gigs, and even family-friendly shows.
The building itself is a real stunner too. It is an Art Deco treasure that feels just as impressive when you’re grabbing a pre-show drink as it does when the lights dim and the music kicks in.
So, stick with me. You’ll want to know how to make the most of it.
Where is Philharmonic Hall?
Philharmonic Hall sits right in the middle of Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter, just a short stroll from the city centre. If you’re wandering around town, you’ll spot it tucked neatly between two cathedrals, the Anglican at one end and the Metropolitan at the other, so it’s pretty hard to miss.
What is the main road in Philharmonic Hall?
The Philharmonic Hall is located on Hope Street, one of Liverpool’s most celebrated roads. Stretching between the city’s two cathedrals, Hope Street is lined with theatres, restaurants, and historic pubs, making it a natural hub for culture and nightlife.
How to get to Philharmonic Hall?
By Foot: If you’re already in Liverpool city centre, it’s an easy 5-10 minute walk to the Philharmonic Hall. Just head towards the Georgian Quarter, and you’ll soon reach the area between the two cathedrals where the hall is found.
By Bicycle: Cycling is a convenient option, especially with Liverpool’s growing network of cycle lanes. From the city centre, it takes around 10 minutes to reach the hall, and there are bike racks nearby for secure parking during the show.
By Car: Driving from the city centre takes only about 5 minutes. While the hall doesn’t have its own car park, nearby options include Mount Pleasant Car Park and Liverpool Cathedral Car Park, both of which are within walking distance.
By Bus: Several routes run past the Georgian Quarter with stops close to the Philharmonic. Buses heading along Hardman Street and Upper Duke Street will leave you just a few minutes’ walk away.
By Train: Liverpool Lime Street Station is the closest major station, approximately a 5 to 15-minute walk away. If you’d rather not walk, you can grab a bus or taxi directly outside the station to reach the hall quickly.
What to Do and See in Philharmonic Hall?
Attend Philharmonic Orchestra concerts
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Website: https://www.liverpoolphil.com/
Address: Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street
Contact: +441517093789
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
One of the best reasons to step into Philharmonic Hall is to catch the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra in action. Their season runs from September through June, with several performances weekly, so there’s almost always something happening.
On any given night, you might hear classic heavyweight pieces like Beethoven and Mahler. Meanwhile, on another, you could be swept up in film favourites such as Harry Potter in Concert or The Lord of the Rings, scored live by the orchestra.
As for tickets, prices vary depending on the show. However, if you’re planning more than one visit, the Multibuy scheme can save you between 10% and 30% across seasons. And don’t miss their £1 ticket sale, where you can bag a seat for the price of a coffee.
Watch stand-up comedy at the Philharmonic Hall
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Website: https://www.liverpoolphil.com/
Address: Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street
Contact: +441517093789
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
While the Philharmonic is best known for its classical music heritage, it has also become one of Liverpool’s top destinations for stand-up comedy.
Big names in British comedy regularly take the stage here, from household favourites like Sarah Millican and John Bishop to international acts who can easily pack out the hall.
The contrast makes it special—you’re not just at another comedy club, you’re laughing beneath chandeliers in a Grade II-listed concert hall.
Tickets for comedy shows generally range from £25 to £40, depending on the act and seating choice. The Philharmonic’s bar adds to the experience, serving a solid mix of local beers, wines, and spirits—perfect for a pre-show drink.
Enjoy jazz nights at the Philharmonic Hall
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Website: https://www.liverpoolphil.com/
Address: Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street
Contact: +441517093789
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Beyond symphonies and stand-up, the Philharmonic also plays host to some truly memorable jazz nights.
It has welcomed world-class artists over the years, from legends like Wynton Marsalis and Courtney Pine to contemporary stars who bring fresh energy to Liverpool’s jazz scene. It’s not just the names that make these evenings special—the venue itself adds to the magic.
Tickets for jazz performances typically start at around £20-£30, although big-name acts may charge higher prices. For those who want to make a night of it, the hall’s bar offers a relaxed spot to sip a glass of wine before the music begins.
Experience Christmas and seasonal specials
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Website: https://www.liverpoolphil.com/
Address: Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street
Contact: +441517093789
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
If there’s one time of year when the Philharmonic Hall truly sparkles, it’s during the festive season. The December programme is packed with holiday favourites, from traditional carol concerts with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir to family-friendly shows brimming with Christmas classics.
There are also fun seasonal twists where the orchestra reimagines familiar tunes, all set against the backdrop of twinkling lights and the hall’s grand, festive décor. It’s no wonder many Liverpool families make it an annual tradition.
As the calendar flips, the Philharmonic ushers in the New Year with spectacular concerts, including the much-loved Viennese Gala. So, you can expect waltzes, polkas, and a night that feels straight out of a ballroom in Vienna.
Join talks & spoken word events
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Website: https://www.liverpoolphil.com/
Address: Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street
Contact: +441517093789
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Philharmonic Hall isn’t just music and melodies—this palace also hosts some incredibly engaging talks & spoken word events. For instance, the hall has recently welcomed award-winning poet and performer Robin Ince alongside Clare Ferguson-Walker, blending wit, verse, and storytelling on stage.
Events like these are often tied to Liverpool’s vibrant festival scene, like the Literary Festival spillover, where authors like Sarah Perry (of the Essex Serpent fame) have featured in related city events.
Ticket prices typically range from £15 to £25, which is a steal for such intimate evenings in a stunning setting. Whether you’re a bookworm or simply enjoy a captivating chat, these events add a refreshing twist to what the Hall offers beyond concerts.
Where to Eat and Drink in Philharmonic Hall?
The Grand Foyer Bar and Restaurant
@rebeccaphythian Last night was all about #Eurovision Classics: Douze Points at the #Liverpool Philharmonic, and it was so special! 😍🎶🎉 What a way to gear up for #Eurovision2025 ✨️ Bring it on! ✈️🇨🇭🫶🏻 #esc #esc2025 #eurovisionsongcontest #liverpoolphilharmonic #music #concert #orchestra #singers
♬ Fairytale – Alexander Rybak
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Website: https://www.liverpoolphil.com/about-us/hire-our-spaces/grand-foyer/
Address: Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street
Contact: +441517093789
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Pricing: £££
The Grand Foyer Bar and Restaurant is the go-to for pre-show dining, offering a set menu of two or three courses priced around £25-£35 per person. Think British dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients, all served just steps away from your seats.
But beyond the restaurant, you’ll also find bars on each level of the hall, perfect if you’re only after a quick glass of wine (from about £6), a locally brewed beer (£5-£6), or a refreshing cocktail (£8-£10) before the performance starts.
It’s a popular choice for concert and comedy nights, offering both elegance and convenience. You can also pre-order your interval drinks at the bar before the show begins, meaning you’ll skip the long queues and stroll straight to your glass at intermission.
The 1840 Lounge
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Website: https://www.liverpoolphil.com/plan-your-visit/1840-lounge/
Address: Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street
Contact: +441517093789
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Pricing: ££
If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed than the formal Grand Foyer dining, the 1840 Lounge is a stylish space inside Philharmonic Hall that’s perfect for a pre-show drink or a catch-up during the interval.
With plush seating and a more modern feel compared to the hall’s historic grandeur, it’s a favourite spot for concertgoers who want a quieter, lounge-style atmosphere.
The drinks menu here leans a bit more premium, with cocktails starting at around £9-£12, a well-chosen wine list (from £6 per glass), and local craft beers priced at around £5-£6. Light bar snacks are usually available too, making it a handy option if you don’t want a full sit-down meal.
It’s also worth noting that the lounge often has shorter queues than the main foyer bars, so it’s a smart move if you prefer a calmer experience before heading into the show.
Philharmonic Dining Rooms
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Website: https://www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/
Address: 36 Hope St
Contact: +441517072837
Pricing: ££
Just across from the Hall, the Philharmonic Dining Rooms—lovingly known as The Phil—is a Grade I-listed pub. Inside, you’ll discover ornate interiors, richly detailed décor, and historical touches that make it a destination in its own right.
As for the menu, it’s all about hearty, traditional British comfort food. They offer duck croquettes (£7.50) or garlic mushrooms on sourdough (£6.95) to start, followed by speciality pies like Chicken & Truffled Oyster Mushroom Pie (£16.50) or a British Steak & Nicholson’s Pale Ale Pie.
Save room for pudding too! One of their legendary desserts is their Bramley Apple Blackberry Crumble (£7.25).
And let’s not skimp on the drinks. This place is known for its cask ales (from £5.20 a pint), especially Nicholson’s Pale Ale, plus an impressive gin collection (from £6.50) and extensive whisky range (from £7 a dram).
The London Carriage Works
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Website: https://www.hopestreethotel.co.uk/dining/thelondoncarriageworks
Address: 40 Hope St
Contact: +441517052222
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Pricing: £££
The London Carriage Works is an award-winning restaurant located on Hope Street, boasting two AA Rosettes for culinary excellence and an AA Notable Wine List for its eclectic wine cellar.
Just five minutes away from Philharmonic Hall, this local favourite is ideal for when you want to step things up. Known for its modern British dining with a creative twist, the restaurant uses seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
The vibe inside is also stylish without being stuffy—exposed brick, soft lighting, and big windows make it feel both chic and relaxed. For their menu, the offerings change with the seasons, but you’ll often find dishes like roasted monkfish, Welsh lamb, or a silky wild mushroom risotto.
Set menus, on the other hand, are priced around £35 for two courses or £45 for three, with cocktails priced at about £10-£12. The wine list is extensive too, making it a great spot for a special pre-show treat.
Papillon
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Website: http://www.papillonhopestreet.com/
Address: 31 Hope St
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Pricing: ££
Papillon is that effortlessly charming gastro-pub tucked into the Georgian Quarter, making it a go-to spot whether you’re after a casual bite or a laid-back drink before heading out.
It’s got that neighbourhood-favourite vibe, welcoming locals, students, and theatre-goers. To top it off, Papillon is super dog-friendly and often has live music on weekends.
The décor is also picture-perfect without trying too hard. It’s got soft pink walls, trailing greenery, and airy windows that flood the space with light. It’s the kind of place where you might pop in for coffee and end up staying for cocktails.
On the menu, you’ll find a relaxed but thoughtful mix: stone-baked pizzas, pulled-chicken panang, pan-fried seabass, and hearty Sunday roasts (a steal at around £15). Drinks are just as strong a draw, with rotating guest ales and a curated wine list that keeps things interesting.
Where to Shop near Philharmonic Hall?
Utility Gift Store
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Website: https://www.utilitygift.co.uk/
Address: 6 Bold Street
Contact: +441517079919
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Just a short walk from Philharmonic Hall, you’ll find Utility Gift Store on Bold Street, Liverpool’s go-to destination for design-led and quirky homeware that doubles as stylish souvenirs.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill gift shop. Instead, you’ll spot witty Liverpool mugs, screen-printed tea towels, and colourful notebooks sitting alongside contemporary kitchenware, handmade candles, leather satchels, and statement lamps.
Prices start small. The cards are around £2.50, while mugs and accessories cost £10-£15. Larger items, such as designer bags or lighting fixtures, can cost £50-£100.
The shop’s modern, airy layout makes it a joy to browse, with eye-catching displays that feel more like an art gallery than a gift store. It’s the kind of place you can pop into for a shopping bag of beautifully designed finds.
Liverpool Gift Company
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Website: https://www.liverpoolgiftcompany.co.uk/
Address: 122 Allerton Road
Contact: +44 151 733 1149
Step inside the Liverpool Gift Company on Allerton and the first thing that’ll catch your eye is the wall of Beatles memorabilia, from Abbey Road mugs to Sgt. Pepper t-shirts and even limited-edition vinyl.
It’s a tourist favourite because you can walk out with a piece of Liverpool’s music history without spending a fortune. Smaller souvenirs, such as postcards, magnets, and keyrings, start from just £2-£3, while Beatles shirts and hoodies average £15-£30.
Beyond the music, there are shelves packed with Liverpool FC scarves, caps, and mugs, making it a double hit for football fans. You’ll also find cheeky Scouse-themed gifts, such as tote bags or Liver Bird ornaments, which make for playful and authentic souvenirs.
Bluecoat Display Centre
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Website: http://www.bluecoatdisplaycentre.com/
Address: Bluecoat Display Centre, 50-51 College Lane
Contact: +441517094014
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Just a 10-minute stroll from Philharmonic Hall, you’ll find the Bluecoat Display Centre, tucked beside the historic Bluecoat building. The space immediately feels like a curated gallery, with bright, airy rooms and well-organised displays that make browsing a joy.
Inside, the centre is packed with handcrafted treasures. These include hand-thrown ceramics, delicate glassware, statement jewellery, textiles, and limited-edition prints by local and international makers.
Smaller items, such as cards or tiny trinkets, start at around £5-£10, while jewellery pieces generally cost £40-£100. Larger ceramics, framed prints, or one-of-a-kind artworks can stretch into the hundreds, making it a great spot for a truly special gift.