Guide To Liverpool's Music Scene
Liverpool’s vibrant music scene is one of the most legendary in all of the UK. With a rich history of iconic, era-defining artists such as The Beatles and Frankie Goes To Hollywood to modern grassroots heroes like Jamie Webster and The Wombats, Liverpool is a hotbed for musical talent across all genres.
Whether you’re a Liverpool native or a newcomer, there are a plethora of must-visit venues that frequently host some of the biggest names in music. Read on for our list of unmissable venues in Liverpool’s iconic music scene.
The Cavern
There is no other way to start a list exploring Liverpool’s music scene than with “the most famous club in the world” – The Cavern. This legendary music venue has stood as one of the best venues in the UK since it first opened its doors in the late 50s. Playing host to the first performance from The Beatles in 1961, and over 300 subsequent visits by the Liverpudlian greats, The Cavern has been a proving ground for up-and-coming artists for over 60 years.
The club’s iconic brick arches still fill out to this day with music enthusiasts looking to enjoy a range of grassroots artists, tribute bands and famous faces. Open every day from 11:30 am until late, the £5 general admission paid at the door makes this timeless venue one you simply must tick off your music bucket list.
The Jacaranda
A true landmark in Liverpool’s musical history, The Jacaranda is a club designed for those with a passion for vintage aesthetics, live music and discovering new artists. With a stacked lineup of acts on any given week, experiencing the live music on display at The Jacaranda may leave you feeling compelled to join in on the Sunday open mic nights or create your own music in the recording booths.
Home to The Jacaranda Record Store on the second floor, this is the perfect venue for a coffee or cocktail whilst experiencing a vast array of original vinyl records. Open from 3 pm every day, you are bound to discover a newfound love for music whilst enjoying this timeless venue.
Invisible Wind Factory
So far, we’ve covered classic venues that are at the heart of Liverpool’s musical history. However, there are some new kids on the block offering up something completely different. Invisible Wind Factory opened in 2016 in a former wind turbine factory and has been offering up a diverse range of events spanning multiple genres ever since.
From garden parties to throwback discos to big-name artists, there’s an event for all music tastes at the Invisible Wind Factory. This unique music venue is the perfect spot for midweek vibes and weekend parties, with tickets for each event available through their website via Skiddle.
M&S Bank Arena
Formally the Echo Arena, this Liverpool landmark is a staple of UK stadium tours, with the biggest names in music regularly performing in front of a full-capacity crowd of music lovers. Since its opening in 2008, the M&S Bank Arena has hosted some legendary names such as Oasis, Paul McCartney, The Who and many, many more.
If you’re looking to see the biggest artists in the world in an electrifying atmosphere, there aren’t many venues better than Liverpool’s M&S Bank Area. With a calendar full of incredible artists year-round, it won’t take long to find a gig you can’t miss. You can see the full list of announced artists on their website along with everything you need to know before visiting.
The Zanzibar
We all know the local Liverpool nightclubs and bars offer incredible fresher experiences. However, if that isn’t quite your scene and you prefer something a little more alternative, look no further than The Zanzibar. A platform for new artists, some of the biggest names in rock and alternative have passed through this fan favourite venue such as Noel Gallagher, The 1975 and The Kooks.
Indie, rock, garage, alternative – The Zanzibar has it all. A student-friendly venue offering free entry events, drinks for under £5 and all-night parties, The Zanzibar is open till 6 am on Saturdays for those looking to dance till the sun comes up.
Looking for more student activities in Liverpool? Explore our other blogs and guides to make the most of this extraordinary city!