Fun & Fascinating Liverpool Facts Every Student Should Know

Here’s something you might not know about Liverpool: it's the only city in the world with a Superlambanana! Yes, you read that right. A massive and quirky sculpture of a hybrid between a lamb and a banana. The Superlambanana symbolises Liverpool’s unique blend of humour and creativity. And it’s just one of the many reasons why this city stands out as an exciting place for students to explore. 

Curious about what Liverpool is known for? More than just a city, Liverpool is a cultural powerhouse bursting with energy, creativity, and character. The city is famous for its iconic music scene, passionate football culture, and stunning waterfront. And it’s no surprise that students from around the world are drawn to this lively UK destination. If you’re considering studying here or looking for student accommodation in Liverpool, you’re in for a truly memorable experience.

From Liverpool history that dates back centuries to some of its most interesting facts, this vibrant city is much more than what meets the eye. Ready to dive into interesting facts about Liverpool? Let’s take a closer look at the quirky, historical, and downright fascinating elements that make Liverpool an unforgettable destination for students!

Lesser-Known and Quirky Liverpool Facts

Historical Facts About Liverpool

Liverpool has a fascinating past that stretches back centuries. From royalty to revolutions, the city has played a vital role in shaping Britain’s story. Whether you’re interested in the industrial revolution, maritime history, or the city’s cultural evolution, these Liverpool facts highlight how this city became a global powerhouse. Check out these quirky facts for an enhanced experience as you explore the top things to do in Liverpool.

1. Liverpool was Founded in 1207 by King John

Liverpool was originally established as a borough in 1207 when King John granted it a charter. It remained a relatively small settlement for centuries before growing into the UK’s major port city. Wondering when Liverpool was founded? Liverpool officially gained city status in 1880, marking its recognition as a city rather than just a town or a borough.

2. Liverpool was known as the West Derby Hundred before gaining a separate identity

One of the most interesting facts about Liverpool is that the region was known in the Domesday Book as “The West Derby Hundred,” a large administrative area covering modern Merseyside.

3. Liverpool's Influence in the Industrial Revolution and the Slave Trade

Liverpool played a crucial role in the Transatlantic Slave Trade and the movement of goods during the Industrial Revolution. The city’s waterfront, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflects its maritime importance and historic significance, adding to Liverpool's history.

4. Liverpool-born Prime Minister Served the UK Office Four Times

William Gladstone, born in Liverpool, served as Prime Minister of the UK four times, making him one of the most influential political figures in British history.

5. Liverpool Played a Crucial Role in the English Civil War

Liverpool was strategically important owing to its port and trade connections during the English Civil War, especially the Siege of Liverpool in June 1644. Liverpool facts also mention that the Royalist and Parliamentarian forces clashed fiercely over the strategic port.

6. Introduction of the Liverpool Pound During a Rough Economic Period

The city issued its own currency between 1793 and 1796, the Liverpool Pound, highlighting its independence during a turbulent economic period. This theme still resonates today as residents and students navigate the modern cost of living in Liverpool.

7. The Captain of the Titanic Lived in Liverpool

One of the lesser-known facts about Liverpool is that Edward Smith, captain of the Titanic, lived in Waterloo, Liverpool, before taking command of the ill-fated voyage.

8. NSPCC was Founded in Liverpool

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC), one of the UK’s leading children’s charities, was founded in Liverpool in 1883.

9. Liverpool had Seven Main Streets, Many of Which Still Exist Today

Another interesting fact about Liverpool is that in medieval times, Liverpool had seven main streets, many of which still exist today with the same names, connecting past and present.

10.  First American Civil War Gunshot Originated in Liverpool

The first gun used in the American Civil War was made in Liverpool by Fawcett and Preston. This little-known transatlantic link is another shocking fact about Liverpool, wouldn’t you agree?

11.  Hitler’s Family Lived in Liverpool

Strangely enough, Adolf Hitler’s brother, Alois and his family lived in Liverpool in the 1920s, adding a bizarre footnote to the city’s history.

12.  RSPCA was Founded in Liverpool

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), one of the UK’s largest animal welfare charities, was founded on Bold Street in Liverpool.

13.  Liverpool is Home to the Oldest Chinese Community in Europe

Owing to its longstanding maritime trade routes with Asia, Liverpool houses Europe’s oldest Chinese community, dating back to 1834. The Chinese Arch is one of the most striking features of Liverpool’s Chinatown, which is one of the largest multispan arches of its kind outside China. It was gifted by Shanghai, Liverpool’s twin city, and was assembled in 2000 as a part of a redevelopment project. It stands as one of the most interesting facts about Liverpool and its global cultural connections.

14.  Titanic Offices were Located on James Street in Liverpool

The White Star Line offices, which managed the Titanic, were located on James Street in Liverpool. This ranks among the top astonishing facts about Liverpool.

Industrial, Engineering, and Scientific Firsts of Liverpool

Liverpool was an engine of innovation during the Industrial Revolution and is packed with impressive “firsts” that changed the world. These interesting facts about Liverpool highlight how the city helped shape modern industry and transport.

15.  Liverpool has the World’s First Electric Elevated Railway

The Liverpool Overhead Railway, opened in 1893, was the first of its kind and nicknamed “The Dockers’ Umbrella.”

16.  Liverpool is Home to the UK’s First Council Houses

Yet another fascinating Liverpool fact is that St Martin’s Cottages, built on Silvester Street in Liverpool in 1869, were the UK’s first purpose-built council houses. 

17.  Liverpool’s Electric Overhead Railway was the First to Use Automatic Signalling and Colour Light Signals

Liverpool’s Overhead Railway wasn’t just the first elevated electric railway, it was also the first to use automatic signalling and colour light signals. This tops the list of interesting facts about Liverpool, highlighting its profound engineering heritage.

18.  Liverpool had the World’s First Passenger Railway Line

Liverpool was home to the world’s first passenger railway, connecting Liverpool and Manchester in 1830, revolutionising travel forever. 

19.  The Iconic Liver Birds of Liverpool were Designed by a German Artist

We bet you didn’t know this Liverpool trivia! The city’s most famous mascots, the Liver Birds, were designed by Carl Bartels, a German-born sculptor who moved to Britain.

20.  Liverpool Paved the Way for Emergency Services with Its First Ambulance

In 1886, Liverpool launched the first purpose-built ambulance in the UK, paving the way for modern emergency services. This is not only a remarkable milestone in the medical field but also stands out as one of the most fascinating facts about Liverpool.

21.  Liverpool has the Oldest Active Railway Station

Broadgreen Station, opened in 1830, is the oldest working railway station in the world.

22.  The First Lifeboat Station is Near Liverpool

Another astonishing fact about Liverpool is that the world’s first official lifeboat station was created at Formby Point, near Liverpool.

Natural, Quirky, and Fun Liverpool Facts

Liverpool isn’t just historic, it’s full of charm, surprises, and offbeat trivia that make exploring the city endlessly fun. If you’re after the city’s fun and offbeat side, these quirky Liverpool facts will make you smile and raise your eyebrows.

23.  Charles Dickens Worked as a Policeman in Liverpool

A little-known fact is that Charles Dickens once worked briefly as a policeman in Liverpool, long before becoming a literary giant.

24.  Liverpool’s Two Cathedrals Sit at the Opposite Ends of Hope Street

The two cathedrals of Liverpool, Anglican and Metropolitan, sit at opposite ends of Hope Street, symbolising the city’s religious diversity.

25.  Liverpool was the First City to Import a Banana in the UK

Liverpool was the first city in the UK to import a banana. Yes, even fruit has a historical moment here!

26.  Liverpool has a Network of Tunnels Spread Under the City

Among the intriguing facts about Liverpool is the story of Joseph Williamson, a wealthy philanthropist, who built a network of mysterious tunnels under Liverpool in the 19th century, and some of them are still open for public tours today.

27.  Liverpool had a Revolving Restaurant at St John’s Beacon

The Radio City Tower, also known as St John’s Beacon, was once a revolving restaurant offering diners and a spinning view of the skyline.

28.  Metropolitan Cathedral in Liverpool is fondly called Paddy’s Wigwam

An amusing fact about Liverpool is that locals fondly call the Metropolitan Cathedral “Paddy’s Wigwam” owing to its unique shape and strong Irish Catholic connections. 

29.  The Bourdon Bell of the Anglican Cathedral in Liverpool is Larger than Big Ben

Great George, the bourdon bell of Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, is larger than Big Ben’s bell and is also one of the heaviest bells in the UK. It weighs 15 tonnes and has a diameter of 2.9 metres (9 feet 6 inches). Unlike traditional bells, Great George is struck with a hammer rather than swung.

30.  The Liver Bird of Liverpool is a Cormorant 

Among the interesting facts about Liverpool is the origin of its famous symbol, the Liver Bird, which is actually based on a cormorant, a seabird with legendary local status.

31.  After London, Liverpool is the Most Filmed City

Thanks to its striking architecture and cultural backdrop, Liverpool is the most filmed city in the UK outside of London. Movies like Fantastic Beasts and The Batman have used it as a backdrop, adding to the list of fascinating facts about Liverpool.

32.  Liverpool’s St. John’s Gardens has a Graveyard Beneath

St. John’s Gardens, behind St George’s Hall, might look peaceful, but underneath lies an old graveyard, offering a spooky glimpse into Liverpool’s hidden past.

33.  Liverpool Means “Muddy Pool”

The name “Liverpool” comes from Old English and means “Muddy Pool.” This fails to reflect how vibrant and colourful the city is today.

34.  The Crossword Puzzle Was Born in Liverpool

A Liverpool journalist, Arthur Wynne, is credited with inventing the crossword puzzle, one of the many fun facts about Liverpool that highlight its surprising contributions to global culture.

35.  Liverpool has the Oldest Santa’s Grotto

Liverpool has been delighting families for over 123 years and counting with the oldest Santa’s Grotto in the world.

36.  Liverpool has a Spring in a Cemetery

One of the most uncommon Liverpool facts is that the Anglican Cathedral cemetery houses a freshwater spring inside, a rare natural feature tucked in a sacred place.

37.  The Name Scouse Actually Comes from a Stew

The city’s nickname and signature dish come from “lobscouse,” a stew once eaten by sailors and adopted by locals. Explore the local cuisine at these top student-friendly restaurants in Liverpool.

38.  The Liver Birds in Liverpool are Called Bella and Bertie, but were Actually Meant to Be Eagles

The iconic Liver Birds on the Royal Liver Building are named Bella and Bertie. King John initially asked for the eagle to be the symbol of Liverpool in 1207. The only problem was that nobody in Liverpool knew what an eagle looked like. Legend has it that if they ever face each other, Liverpool will cease to exist! That’s why Bella faces the ocean to protect the sailors, and Bertie faces the city to protect the families.

Music and Pop Culture Facts About Liverpool

It’s impossible to talk about what Liverpool is known for without mentioning its world-famous music scene. It’s the birthplace of chart-topping legends and pop culture movements. The city’s influence on global pop culture, especially music, is unparalleled, and its legacy continues to shape the industry today. These interesting facts about Liverpool’s music scene show why the city is a global cultural icon.

39.  The Beatles’ Legacy Started in Liverpool

Liverpool is synonymous with The Beatles, one of the most famous bands in the world. Their fame started here and the city is filled with landmarks related to the band, including The Cavern Club, where they performed early in their career. This makes it a must-visit for music fans!

40.  Liverpool has Produced the Most Number 1 Hits in the World

Among the fascinating facts about Liverpool is its record for producing more No.1 singles than any city in the world. This dominance is led by The Beatles, of course, but also features several other local legends like Cilla Black, Gerry & The Pacemakers, and more.

41.  A Liverpool-born singer became the First British Woman to Reach No.1 on the UK Singles Chart

In 1953, Liverpool’s Lita Roza made history by becoming the first woman to top the UK Singles Chart with her rendition of “(How Much Is That) Doggie in the Window?” What’s more interesting is that she reportedly disliked the song and never performed it live despite its success.

42.  The Eleanor Rigby Statue in Liverpool was Paid for in Pennies

The sculptor who created the Eleanor Rigby statue was paid just three pence for the piece, a tiny price for such an iconic landmark.

Sports Facts about Liverpool

Want a list of sports facts about Liverpool to brag to your pals?

Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or just in it for the vibes, football is in Liverpool’s DNA. These Liverpool sport facts will surprise even the most seasoned fans. From football to horse racing, there are numerous weird and interesting facts about Liverpool for sports lovers.

43.  The Tower on Everton's Badge is based on the Everton Lock-up

The tower depicted on Everton FC’s badge is based on Prince Rupert’s Tower, also known as Everton Lock-up. Constructed in 1787, the lock-up became an iconic symbol for Everton FC over time, appearing on their crest since 1938. Everton even contributed £15,000 toward its renovation in 1997, and in 2014, the tower was permanently illuminated blue to honour its connection to the club. This surely tops among the unexpected sports facts about Liverpool.

44.  Liverpool FC’s  First Kit was Blue and White until 1964

Liverpool FC, founded in 1892, originally wore blue and white, resembling the colours of Everton, the club they split from. It wasn’t until 1964 that legendary manager Bill Shankly introduced the all-red kit, believing it would have a psychological impact, red for power and danger.

45.  Liverpool’s Grand National Captivates a Global Audience

Held at Aintree, Liverpool’s Grand National is the most famous National Hunt horse race in the world, watched by a whopping 600 million people globally. 

46.  Dixie Dean Holds the Record for Most Goals

Everton FC’s legend Dixie Dean still holds the record for most goals scored in a single European season, 60 goals in 1927 - 1928.

47.  Liverpool FC featured in the First Episode of Match of the Day

In 1964, Liverpool FC kicked off a football broadcast tradition by featuring in the first-ever episode of the BBC’s Match of the Day.

48.  The Football Goal Net was Invented in Liverpool

John Alexander Brodie, a Liverpool city engineer, designed the first football goal net, changing the game forever.

Culture, Literature, and Educational Facts about Liverpool

From libraries to literary icons, Liverpool has always been a city that values learning and creativity. These fun facts about Liverpool show how culture, literature, and education shape what the city is known for. With deep roots in Liverpool history, its vibrant arts scene, and academic legacy continue to make it one of the UK’s most inspiring student cities.

49.  Dickens Debuted the Public Reading of  “A Christmas Carol” in Liverpool

Charles Dickens gave the first-ever public reading of A Christmas Carol in Liverpool, adding to the city’s cultural legacy.

50.  Liverpool Had England’s First Subscription Library

In 1758, Liverpool launched England’s first subscription library, one of the many fascinating facts about Liverpool that showcase how the city prioritised access to knowledge and learning early on. 

51.  Liverpool had the First School for the Blind

Liverpool was the first UK city to open a school for the blind, marking another pioneering step in inclusive education.

52.  Liverpool Set Up the First Tropical Medicine School

Liverpool founded the first school of tropical medicine in the world, a remarkable undertaking that showcases the city's lasting impact on global medical advancements.

Liverpool Facts about Landmarks and Architecture

Liverpool’s buildings tell stories of faith, power, and innovation. The city’s skyline blends historic charm with modern design. From the Royal Liver Building to striking cathedrals, these facts about Liverpool highlight the city’s architectural icons. These landmarks reflect centuries of Liverpool's history, a key part of what the city is known for. 

53.  Liverpool has More Museums than Any City Outside London

After London, Liverpool has more museums than any other UK City, perfect for curious students.

54.  Liverpool Became a Shipping Powerhouse with the First Commercial Wet Dock

In 1715, Liverpool became a shipping powerhouse with the creation of the world’s first commercial wet dock, forever transforming maritime trade.

55.  Liverpool was the First City in Europe to Build a Purpose-built Prison

In 1786, Liverpool constructed Europe’s first purpose-built prison on Great Howard Street, one of the lesser-known facts of Liverpool that highlights the city’s early role in urban planning and justice reform.

56.  Liverpool is Home to Monuments that are Older than Stonehenge

The Calder Stones, a set of Neolithic monuments located in south Liverpool, are older than Stonehenge.

57.  Oriel Chambers, the World’s First Metal-framed Building in Liverpool, Inspired Skyscraper Architecture

Built in 1864, Oriel Chambers on Water Street was the first metal-framed building in the world, one of the groundbreaking facts about Liverpool that influenced the future of skyscraper architecture.

58.  Royal Liver Building in Liverpool has the Largest Clock Face in the UK

The Royal Liver Building in Liverpool not only defines the city’s skyline, but also has the largest clock face in the UK, even larger than Big Ben.

59.  St George's Hall in Liverpool became the First Air-conditioned Building

St George’s Hall was way ahead of its time, becoming the first air-conditioned building in the world thanks to an ingenious Victorian ventilation system. This certainly qualifies as one of the more impressive Liverpool facts from the 19th century.

60.  Albert Dock’s One of A Kind Warehouse Structure

The Albert Dock of Liverpool was the first warehouse structure in the world built entirely without wood. It only used iron, brick, and stone to reduce fire risk.

61.  Liverpool has the Most Listed Buildings Outside London

Liverpool boasts more listed buildings than any UK city outside of London, one of the many fun facts about Liverpool that showcase its architectural legacy.

62.  The Liver Building in Liverpool was built on a Filled-in Dock

The iconic Royal Liver Building was constructed atop a filled-in dock, a bold move that redefined urban architecture and stands out among the most interesting facts about Liverpool.

63.  Liverpool’s Tobacco Warehouse is One of the Largest Brick Buildings in the World

Built in 1901, Liverpool’s Tobacco Warehouse is one of the largest brick buildings in the world, constructed from 27 million bricks!

Student Life in Liverpool

For UK and international students, Liverpool is a top study destination. The city is home to renowned universities like the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University, attracting students from all over the world. These top universities in Liverpool are pillars of learning and innovation. With its culture, affordability, and sense of community, it’s easy to see why Liverpool student accommodation is in such high demand. Check out these tips before choosing your student accommodation in Liverpool.

From music festivals to food fairs, Liverpool always has something going on. It’s a city where students can study, explore, and thrive. For those considering where to live, explore our blog on the best areas to live in Liverpool to find the perfect student neighbourhood that suits your lifestyle and academic needs.

One City, Endless Stories: Why Liverpool is Perfect for Students

I'm sure your question, 'What is Liverpool known for?' has been answered! Liverpool is a city rich in landmarks and vibrant communities, a place where unforgettable memories are made. It's one of those cities that surprises you at every turn. Whether it's the largest Chinese arch in Europe, the pioneering railway history, or the fact that Liverpool has produced the most No.1 pop songs globally.

The city is packed with fun facts that make it a truly unique place to live and study. With such interesting fun facts about Liverpool scattered throughout the city, you’ll always have something new to discover. As a student in Liverpool, you’ll never have a dull moment. Between exploring Liverpool's history, soaking in the culture, and enjoying the lively student life, Liverpool is the perfect place to call home. If you’re just getting started, our Liverpool City Guide for students offers insights into everything the city has to offer.

Ready to explore all that this dynamic city has to offer and call it your home? Visit Best Student Halls to find your perfect spot to live while you study. Our top listings for student accommodation in Liverpool ensure you’ll have everything you need, whether it's a vibrant neighbourhood, proximity to campus, or a great social scene. Browse these popular student accommodation in Liverpool to find your new home. 

Don’t just study in Liverpool, experience it like a local. Your adventure in this incredible city is just getting started!