Audio Guided Tour in Woolton Historical Highlights
Active
1h - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Trace the ancient Iron Age origins of Woolton, fondly considered a picture-perfect English village by locals, and discover the role it played in the birth of the legendary band, The Beatles. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll find out about the real Eleanor Rigby and whether or not she inspired The Beatles’ hit song of the same name. You’ll also have the opportunity to admire St Peter’s Church, and hear how Marie Curie Hospice is connected to one of Woolton’s two famous elephants!
Along the way, I’ll show you how the Irish potato famine shaped the village. And, with the help of my parents, life-long residents Eileen and Jacky, we’ll reveal the complicated socio-political undercurrents that lie beneath the quiet, picturesque streets. They’ll share their early memories of the village and tell you how Catholics, Anglicans, Methodists and other religions coexist here, despite their differences.
Available options
Audio Guided Tour in Woolton Historical Highlights
What's included
Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
App for Android and iOS
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Marvel at this historic church where John Lennon first met Paul McCartney on July 6, 1957, during a garden fete performance. Discover how this chance encounter at a church event sparked one of the most famous musical partnerships in history.
2
Walk through the churchyard to find the grave of Eleanor Rigby, a real woman who died in 1939. Learn whether this tombstone truly inspired The Beatles' haunting 1966 song or if the connection is simply a remarkable coincidence.
3
Admire Liverpool's oldest cinema, a beautifully preserved Victorian picture house that has entertained the village for over a century. Experience the building where generations of Woolton residents, including young Beatles members, watched films on the silver screen.
4
Pass this iconic village pub, one of Woolton's most recognisable landmarks, famous for its elephant connection. Hear the story of what happened when a charity stunt inspired by the pub's name went hilariously wrong.
5
Explore this historic venue where The Quarrymen, featuring John Lennon and Paul McCartney, used to perform in their early days. Discover how this unassuming village hall played a crucial role in the development of the world's most famous rock band.
6
Visit the Catholic church where thousands of fans mobbed the village when Cilla Black married "her Bobby" in 1968. Learn how this star-studded wedding brought unprecedented excitement to quiet Woolton streets.
7
Stroll through this beautiful Victorian park featuring gardens, woodlands, and recreational spaces enjoyed by locals for generations. Experience the green heart of Woolton where families have gathered for over a century.
8
Begin your journey at this historic village crossroads marking the heart of Woolton since medieval times. Discover how this picturesque spot epitomises the English village charm that locals have carefully preserved for centuries.
9
Marvel at the site of this grand estate that has undergone many transformations throughout Woolton's history. Learn about the various iterations of the hall and its role in shaping the village's development.
10
Pass this compassionate care facility with surprising connections to Woolton's famous elephant story. Hear how the hospice became part of the village's unique character and community spirit.
11
Explore the ancient Iron Age settlement site that led to Woolton's establishment centuries ago. Discover how this historic hilltop location reveals the village's origins dating back thousands of years.
12
Walk along this street named after the Victorian quarries that once dominated the area. Learn about the working-class slums that were deliberately hidden from tourists to maintain Woolton's image as a picture-perfect English village.
What's not included
Smartphone and headphones
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
This tour starts at The Woolton Cross. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
Create an account
Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Liverpool
Liverpool is a vibrant maritime city known for its rich musical heritage, football culture, and significant role in maritime history. The city is home to iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and a thriving arts scene, making it a dynamic destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Albert Dock
Albert Dock is a historic waterfront complex that houses museums, restaurants, and shops. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for its architectural beauty and cultural significance.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
Free to explore, individual attractions have entry fees
Liverpool Cathedral
Liverpool Cathedral is one of the largest cathedrals in the UK and offers stunning views of the city from its tower. It's a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a place of worship and cultural events.
Religious/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free entry, £8 for the Tower Experience
Anfield Stadium
Anfield Stadium is the home of Liverpool Football Club and a pilgrimage site for football fans. The stadium tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the club's history and facilities.
Sports
2-3 hours
£25 for the stadium tour and museum
Must-Try Local Dishes
Scouse
A traditional Liverpool dish made with lamb, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked in a stew. It's a hearty and comforting meal, often served with pickled red cabbage.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made with beef or lamb
Liverpool Tart
A sweet pastry filled with jam, coconut, and marshmallows. It's a popular dessert in the city and a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Sefton Park
Cycling along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal
Spas and wellness centers
Picnics in Croxteth Hall and Country Park
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending theater performances and concerts
Sailing and water sports on the River Mersey
Ice skating at the Winter Wonderland event
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the best time to visit Liverpool for warm weather and outdoor activities. The city hosts various festivals and events during this period.
15°C to 22°C
59°F to 72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Liverpool is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates compared to other UK cities. However, as with any destination, it's essential to stay vigilant and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Liverpool John Lennon Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from city center
By train
Liverpool Lime Street
By bus
Liverpool One Bus Station, Sandon Halfway
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are a convenient way to get around Liverpool. They cover most areas of the city and surrounding regions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
The Ropewalks
Cavern Quarter
Woolton
Day trips
Chester
30 km (19 miles) • Full day
Chester is a charming medieval city with a rich history and well-preserved Roman walls. It's known for its unique architecture, including the famous Chester Rows, and offers a variety of cultural attractions and shopping opportunities.
Port Sunlight
10 km (6 miles) • Half day
Port Sunlight is a picturesque village known for its beautiful architecture, gardens, and the Port Sunlight Museum. It's a peaceful retreat from the bustling city and offers a glimpse into the history of the Lever Brothers soap company.
Formby Beach
20 km (12 miles) • Half day to Full day
Formby Beach is a beautiful coastal area with sandy beaches, dunes, and woodland. It's part of the Sefton Coast and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including walking, birdwatching, and beachcombing.
Festivals
Liverpool International Music Festival • July
Liverpool Pride • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Beatles Story museum for an immersive experience of the Fab Four's history
- Explore the Cavern Quarter and its various Beatles-themed attractions
- Take a ferry across the Mersey for stunning views of the city's skyline
- Visit the Liverpool Cathedral for panoramic views of the city from its tower
- Attend a football match at Anfield Stadium for an unforgettable experience
$8
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
