Liverpool City Centre: The Beating Heart of Football Culture

From iconic sports bars and historic pubs to luxury apartments where football legends have resided, the city centre plays a crucial role in Liverpool FC and Everton FC’s storied past and present.

The Football Connection: More Than Just Matchdays

Liverpool’s City Centre is the heartbeat of the city’s football scene. On matchdays, thousands of fans flood the area, filling the bars and restaurants before heading towards Anfield or Goodison Park. The streets echo with chants, and every pub television is tuned into pre-match analysis.

The district also serves as a hub for football business. Many of the city’s major sponsors, agencies, and media outlets are based here, working closely with both clubs. The presence of major football-themed attractions, such as the Liverpool FC Store and The Everton Two Store in Liverpool ONE, further solidifies the area’s deep connection to the game.

Famous Footballer Hangouts and Former Homes

Over the years, Liverpool’s City Centre has been home to many football stars. Luxury apartment complexes along the waterfront, such as West Tower and One Park West, have been preferred residences for past and present players of both clubs.

Notable players who have lived or frequently visited the area include:

• Steven Gerrard – While he eventually settled in Formby, Gerrard spent time in the City Centre during his early years as a professional footballer.
• Luis Suárez – The former Liverpool striker was often spotted in the City Centre’s high-end restaurants.
• Wayne Rooney – Before moving to Cheshire, Rooney, a boyhood Evertonian, was frequently seen enjoying the nightlife in Liverpool.
• Duncan Ferguson – Known for his tough persona, the Everton legend has long been connected to the City Centre.

Pubs and Bars: The Ultimate Matchday Experience

Whether you’re in town for a game or just want to soak in the football atmosphere, Liverpool City Centre has some of the best football pubs in the country:

• The Ship & Mitre – A classic pub known for its football-friendly atmosphere and extensive beer selection.
• Shenanigans – An Irish pub that welcomes both Reds and Blues, making it a great neutral spot on matchdays.
• The Head of Steam – Located near Lime Street Station, this bar is a favorite pre-match meeting spot.
• The Flanagan’s Apple – An iconic Irish bar on Mathew Street, often packed with football fans on weekends.

Football-Themed Attractions in the City Centre

Beyond the pubs, Liverpool City Centre is filled with attractions that make it a must-visit for any football fan:

• The Liverpool FC Story Museum – Located at the club’s official store, this museum offers a deep dive into Liverpool’s history.
• Everton Two – The flagship store of Everton FC, humorously named because of its location in Liverpool ONE.
• The Shankly Hotel – A tribute to legendary Liverpool manager Bill Shankly, this hotel features memorabilia and themed suites.
• The Beatles Story Museum – While not directly football-related, it ties into the city’s overall cultural impact, which includes the global popularity of its football clubs.

The Business of Football: Headquarters and Media Influence

Many major football-related businesses operate out of Liverpool City Centre. Sports agencies, media houses, and sponsors maintain offices here, working closely with both clubs. Media giants like the Liverpool Echo and major betting firms use the City Centre as a base to report on footballing matters.

Nightlife and Post-Match Celebrations

Liverpool is famous for its nightlife, and football plays a major role in that. After a big match, fans from both sides spill into the City Centre to celebrate—or drown their sorrows. Areas like Concert Square and Mathew Street are packed with supporters reliving every kick and goal of the match.

For a more upscale experience, Victoria Street and Castle Street offer high-end bars where footballers themselves have been known to celebrate victories.

Why Liverpool City Centre is a Must-Visit for Football Fans

If you love football, Liverpool City Centre is a destination you can’t afford to miss. Whether you’re looking for legendary football pubs, luxury hotels with historic ties to the game, or simply want to walk the same streets as some of the biggest stars in football history, this district has it all.

Want to explore more of Liverpool’s football scene? Check out The Ultimate Liverpool Soccer Travel Guide for the best stadiums, pubs, and football experiences across the city.