A Guide to Sefton Park in Liverpool

Sefton-Park-Palm-House

Sefton Park Liverpool is one of the city’s most beautiful attractions.

The Grade I listed park is loved by local people and attracts visitors from across the UK to enjoy a wide selection of events throughout the year.

Sefton Park Liverpool

History of Sefton Park

The history of Sefton Park Liverpool can be traced back to the 1500s. At the time, the site sat within the boundaries of Royal Deer Park of Toxteth, which the Earl of Sefton was given control over in 1591.

The land was purchased for Sefton Park in 1867, when the Council purchased 375 acres for its development and went on to hold a competition for the park’s design – the winners were local architect Lewis Hornblower and French architect Edouard Andre.

The winning architects designed Sefton Park in a French style, including a lake for boating and fishing and space for a cricket ground.

sefton park liverpool

The park was officially opened in 1872, however developments continued – later additions to the park included the Iron Bridge, constructed in 1873 and the opening of the restored Victorian Palm House in 1890.

One of the best-loved sights in the park is the Peter Pan statue, which was donated to the park in 1928 by George Audley.

Explore Liverpool Sefton Park


When not playing host to a number of amazing events, many visitors will make their way to Sefton Park to explore the beautiful features and monuments on display. View a variety of stunning statues located across the park, including the Eros Fountain, Peter Pan statue and the Shaftsbury Memorial.

Just when you think this park couldn’t be more beautiful, you’ll stroll across the caves and waters that both you and the kids will love to explore, such as Fairy Glen and Old Nick’s caves.

Read our guide to 48 hours in Liverpool this Spring/Summer!

One of the inspirations behind The Beatles’ hit song Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band is also thought to be located in Sefton Park: the bandstand.

For a fun-filled family day out, Sefton Park is most definitely the place to be. The kids will love the large playground, which features slides, swings, roundabouts, climbing frames and a multi-play area.

The Palm House Sefton Park Liverpool


One of Sefton Park’s biggest attractions has to be the Palm House.

The Grade II* listed Victorian Palm House is home to flourishing plant life, which visitors can explore at their leisure.

You can look forward to exploring an expansive botanical collection, different varieties of Palms, over 30 orchids, Jasmine, Hibiscus, food plants and admiring the Glasshouse, gifted to the park in 1896 by Henry Yates Thompson, the grand nephew of the founder of Princes Park.

This unique space also invites visitors to enjoy a range of events throughout the year, from festive Christmas film screenings to pop-up fairs, markets and live music.

Lark Lane

Just moments across the road from Sefton Park, you’ll find Liverpool’s best kept secret, Lark Lane.

Home to bohemian bars, homely pubs and a wide range of independent restaurants, cafes and shops, a wander along Lark Lane is a must after a visit to Sefton Park Liverpool.

This is also one of the best places to eat and drink if you’re looking to experience Liverpool like a local.

Events

Sefton Park is famed for playing host to a wide range of spectacular events, attracting visitors from near and far.

Some of the most popular events to have been held at the park include Africa Oye – the UK’s largest free celebration of African music and culture, and Fusion Festival – which in 2019 saw Kings of Leon take to the stage.

The park also plays host to Liverpool International Music Festival and Liverpool Food & Drink Festival, bringing people together to celebrate music, culture and food in one beautiful space.

Sefton Park is a real asset to the city. We love that Liverpool is home to such wonderful green spaces that will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.

Sefton Park Liverpool at a Glance

• Free entry
• Onsite The Aviary Cafe
• Palm House
• Statues and monuments
• Children’s Playground
• Bandstand
• Caves and waterfalls

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