St. George's Hall, Liverpool (must see)

Saint George's Hall is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and stands proudly in the heart of Liverpool. Widely regarded as one of the finest examples of neo-Grecian design worldwide, this Grade I listed building showcases a majestic Greek-columned façade that commands attention. The hall serves as a hub for cultural and social events, including live music performances, and remains open for visitors free of charge.

The main entrance, located at the center of the east façade, is accessible via an elegant flight of steps. A portico featuring 16 Corinthian columns dominates the front, flanked by a series of square pillars adorned with reliefs, which were added between 1882 and 1901. Inside, the roof’s tunnel vault is supported by polished red granite columns and decorated with intricate plasterwork depicting allegorical figures representing Virtues, Science, and Arts. Statues placed in wall niches further accentuate the grandeur of the interior.

One of the hall's most striking features is its exquisite floor, composed of 30,000 Minton tiles. These tiles, often covered to preserve their beauty, occasionally make public appearances, much to the delight of visitors. Other notable elements include bronze doors with openwork panels featuring the letters "SPQL" (a nod to ancient Rome's "Senate and People"), an impressive organ positioned at the north end, and a round arch at the south end that leads directly into the Crown Court.

Saint George's Hall also holds a fascinating claim to innovation: it houses the world’s first Victorian-era air-conditioning system. Combining artistic excellence with engineering ingenuity, the hall remains a testament to Liverpool’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. Whether marveling at its neoclassical details or enjoying a musical performance, visitors will find their time at Saint George's Hall truly memorable.

Why You Should Visit:
Wonderful architecture from a time when bureaucracy knew that, if they were going to keep you waiting half an hour to fill in a form, then it may as well be somewhere nice!

Tip:
Try and find out when the original tile flooring is on show, as that is a perfect time to go (doesn't happen very often).
Don't miss the coffee shop on the ground floor – superb value and quite reasonably priced and atmospheric.