We all know Liverpool boasts a fascinating history, stunning buildings and incredible landmarks.
Over the years, many popular landmarks have become synonymous with the city, from the Liver Building to our cathedrals and more. But if you grew up in Merseyside, you'll know there are many more 'unofficial' landmarks that are recognisable to residents across the region.
For those of us who live and work in Liverpool, they are lesser known by visitors and tourists, but we drive past them and reference them most days. Some are familiar sites or are in some form no longer with us, whereas others stand out as a symbol of returning home.
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We've since compiled a list of a number of 'unofficial' landmarks known across the city region. Not all of them make tourist guides, but we've definitely come to know and love them
This list isn't intended to be comprehensive, we asked for your suggestions on our Liverpool memories and history Facebook group. But if you feel there are others we should include, let us know in the comments section below.
1. The Rotunda
The Rotunda Theatre stood on the land from 1869 until it was destroyed by the Blitz bombing in 1940. The Liverpool ECHO previously reported how originally a public house, the venue could seat 1,790 people in its heyday.
Older generations may still have memories of the popular theatre that welcomed thousands of families through its doors. Located off the junction of Scotland Road and Stanley Road, although the site has been gone for decades, many still refer to it as a meeting point or landmark to drive to or be dropped off.
2. The Grafton
Opened in 1924, The Grafton on West Derby Road first opened in 1924 and was once a thriving dance hall next to what is now known as the Liverpool Olympia. By the 1970s, it became extremely popular.
Many will remember it was the setting for the famous “grab a granny” Thursday nights. In later years, it was a comedy club before closing down permanently.
3. 'The Pies' bridge
It may seem random to people outside of Merseyside, but for more than 30 years, the faded white lettering on a bridge above the M57 was among the region's most-loved graffiti. An unofficial landmark to many, 'The Pies' became a key sight for drivers travelling home from outside the area.
Relating to the Liverpool band The Pies, the group have maintained a cult status across Merseyside as their name has been daubed in feet-high white paint at unusual locations, also the M6, the M62 and on the Mersey Tunnel ventilation shaft. But in the pandemic, there was outrage as the site was defaced.
4. Dickie Lewis
From 1856 to 2010, the Lewis’s empire welcomed generations of Merseysiders. Located on the corner of Renshaw Street and Ranelagh Street, one of its most famous features is a statue of a nude man by Sir Jacob Epstein, which was unveiled for Lewis’s centenary celebrations in 1956.
It was built as a symbol of the city’s – and the store’s – ability to endure adversity and generations will more likely know it as 'Dickie Lewis'. A meeting point for many, it's still in the city centre today.
5. Littlewoods building
The Littlewoods building on Edge Lane opened in 1938 and was once home to the Littlewoods pools operation run by one of the largest family run businesses in Britain. A common site for locals and commuters driving past, the art deco structure became symbolic of Littlewood’s roaring success.
The building has lain dormant for the best part of the last two decades. But there have been rays of hope for the building over the course of the last decade.
6. Sgt Pepper Bistro
Empty since 2003, this former tram stop which was name checked in The Beatles famous song Penny Lane. For years, the art deco period piece was a famous restaurant.
The building was originally a tram stop and inspectors’ office, with public toilets added to the back. It later reopened as a café and restaurant, decorated with Beatles photographs, posters and Fab Four memorabilia - and remains a popular stop for Beatles fans visiting the city.
7. The 'third' Liver Bird
As we know, Liverpool’s Liver Birds have always been one of the city's most famous landmarks. But a few hundred years away, a 'third' Liver Bird can also be found.
The bird has been perched on top of the Grade-II listed Mersey Chambers - built for the Harrison Shipping Line by George Enoch Grayson - beside St Nicholas Parish Church of Liverpool since 1870.
Do these awaken any memories for you? Let us know in the comments section below.
8. Greatie Market
If you’re from Liverpool, you know Greatie Market. Long a staple in Liverpool's history, it definitely is a landmark in its own right.
For more than 180 years, Greatie Market has remained at the heart of the city, even after several changes. It runs every Saturday with hundreds of stallholders offering a wide variety of products, from fruit and veg, meats and cakes to flowers, crafts and clothing.
9. 'Ford Mushroom'
Not far from the Jaguar site in Halewood, formerly the Ford factory, you will find another unofficial landmark which has become known to many as the 'Ford Mushroom.' To many, it reminds them of something out of a sci-fi film, like a flying saucer.
Dominating the skyline of the area, it is actually a water tower.
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10. The Rocket
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/rethink-over-plan-transform-liverpools-23254530
The aim was to address poor air quality around the Rocket Junction, which is the busiest in Liverpool city region with over 100,000 vehicles travelling through it every day.
The vital junction connects the M62 with the A5080 and the A5058 Queens Drive.
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/nostalgia/liverpool-pub-iconic-meeting-place-26362145
A historic Liverpool pub known for being an "iconic meeting place" for football coaches and tourists has been serving customers for generations.
It's easy to whizz past The Rocket at the end of the motorway on the way into the city centre. But for decades, the pub has been a Liverpool landmark and become a place where "everyone knows everyone."
Join our Liverpool memories and history Facebook group here.
11. The old ECHO office
In 2017, it was announced that The Liverpool ECHO was moving to a new home in Liverpool city centre – just across the road. Based in Old Hall Street since 1973 after moving from Victoria Street, the newsroom is now located a stones throw away in St Paul’s Square.
But many workers and commuters still reference it as a place to meet. Many will still walk past the building with its branded logo outside as it has been for years.
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