Merseyside’s growth has been largely driven by the bustling port of the city of Liverpool. Though the Liverpool City Centre is the central business district of Merseyside, the county is one of the more urban ones, with 5 metropolitan district and at least one major town centre and outlying suburbs in each. Liverpool and the rest of Merseyside is reputed to have friendly residents (not to mention enthusiastic football fans), and generally has good schools and good transport links by rail, bus, road, and even ferry. For nightlife and entertainment, head to one of the cities, but don’t miss the smaller towns to the north of Liverpool or on the coast for a family-friendly spot that doesn’t sacrifice having good connections.
Birkenhead sits on the Wirral Peninsula, just across the River Mersey from Liverpool. It is historically known as a major shipbuilding centre and still boasts an industrial heritage, renowned for its proximity to the famous Cammell Laird shipyards. The area blends Victorian and Edwardian architecture with more modern developments, and features distinctive open spaces such as Birkenhead Park, which influenced the design of New York’s Central Park.
Bootle is a coastal town situated in Merseyside, closely connected to the city of Liverpool and lying just north of its city centre. Historically, Bootle developed as a major dockland area, forming an integral part of the Port of Liverpool, which played a crucial role in the region’s growth throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, Bootle retains much of its industrial heritage while embracing new development, particularly in its town centre and waterfront areas.
Liverpool is a world-renowned city in Merseyside, North West England, celebrated for its rich maritime history, dynamic cultural scene, and iconic waterfront along the River Mersey. Known globally as the birthplace of The Beatles and home to two Premier League football clubs, Liverpool F.C. and Everton F.C., the city offers a distinctively friendly atmosphere that has attracted a diverse population, including students, young professionals, families, and retirees.
Newton le Willows is a historic market town nestled in the north-eastern part of Merseyside, close to the border with Cheshire and Greater Manchester. This area is renowned for its significant heritage as one of the original stations on the pioneering Liverpool and Manchester Railway, offering residents a unique blend of industrial history and contemporary suburban life. The town is defined by its long high street, characterful 19th-century buildings, and a mix of leafy residential zones.
Prenton is a residential suburb located on the Wirral Peninsula in Merseyside, England. Bordered by Birkenhead to the north and Oxton and Bebington nearby, Prenton is known for its leafy streets, Victorian and Edwardian homes, and friendly, established community. With a blend of period architecture and modern developments, Prenton appeals to a diverse range of residents, including families, professionals, and retirees, who seek easy access to both urban amenities and green spaces.
Prescot, positioned in the county of Merseyside, is known for its rich tapestry of history and its modern conveniences. Situated around 8 miles east of Liverpool city centre, Prescot has developed from a medieval market town—famous for its watchmaking industry—into a thriving residential area that balances traditional charm with contemporary living. The town’s heritage is evident in its well-preserved architecture, with highlights such as the Prescot Parish Church and remnants of the old market place.
Southport is a classic seaside town situated on the northwest coast of England, within Merseyside, and has long been known for its elegant Victorian heritage, expansive sandy beaches, and well-preserved gardens. Famed for its historic pier—the oldest iron pier in the country—Southport exudes a sense of nostalgia while catering for modern lifestyles. Its broad boulevards, traditional promenades, and the attractive Lord Street shopping boulevard contribute to a refined and distinctive local character.
St Helens, situated in the heart of Merseyside in North West England, is an urban town with a proud industrial heritage and a reputation shaped by glassmaking and coal mining. Over time, St Helens has evolved from a 19th-century industrial centre to a modern residential area with a strong sense of local identity. Surrounded by green belt land and within easy reach of both Liverpool and Manchester, St Helens appeals to a broad demographic, including families, commuters, and retirees.
Wallasey is a distinctive town located on the north-eastern tip of the Wirral Peninsula in Merseyside, bordered by the Irish Sea and the River Mersey. Known for its sweeping coastal views, sandy beaches, and iconic New Brighton resort area, Wallasey offers a unique blend of seaside charm and urban connectivity. The area has evolved from a Victorian holiday destination into a vibrant residential hub with a rich maritime history, visible in its period architecture and historic promenade.
Wirral is a distinctive peninsula situated between the River Mersey and the River Dee, flanked by the Irish Sea to the north and lying just across from the city of Liverpool. With a rich blend of coastal scenery, countryside vistas, and suburban neighbourhoods, living in Wirral offers a balance between urban convenience and natural beauty. The area includes historic towns such as Birkenhead and picturesque villages like Port Sunlight, with a cultural heritage shaped by maritime and industrial history.