If you're a football fan heading to Liverpool, there’s one place that has to be on your list: Anfield Stadium. Home to Liverpool FC, it's not just a football ground; it’s a living, breathing part of the city’s soul. From the roar of The Kop to the legendary “This is Anfield” sign, every corner of the stadium tells a story.
Even if you’re not a die-hard Red, touring Anfield is an experience packed with history, pride, and a passion for the beautiful game.
Let’s take a look at what makes this place so unforgettable.
Historical Background:
Anfield was originally opened in 1884, but not for Liverpool FC. Its first tenant was Everton Football Club, which played there until 1892. The stadium was built by John Orrell, a local brewer and friend of John Houlding, who later became the club president of Everton.
Due to a rent dispute between Houlding and Everton’s board, the club decided to leave Anfield and move to Goodison Park. In response, Houlding formed a new football club, Liverpool FC, to occupy the now-empty stadium. This bold move not only birthed one of the greatest football teams in history but also began the fierce rivalry between Liverpool and Everton.
A Stadium That Grew with the Club: Over the years, Anfield has grown alongside the club’s success. From its humble beginnings with wooden stands to a modern stadium that seats over 61,000 fans, Anfield has evolved while preserving its soul. It has seen league title wins, European glories, managerial revolutions, and some of the most passionate fans the game has ever known.
One name forever linked to Anfield is Bill Shankly—the legendary manager who arrived in 1959 and transformed Liverpool FC into a powerhouse. Shankly’s era laid the foundation for future triumphs, and his presence is still felt in the stadium today, immortalised in a statue outside the ground and honoured through the famous “This is Anfield” sign that players touch before entering the pitch.
Architecture and Design:
- Classic and Modern Coexist: Anfield’s design is a mix of historical architecture and modern upgrades. The original Main Stand was designed by Archibald Leitch, one of Britain’s most respected stadium architects of the early 20th century. His work included the distinctive red and white gable, a classic feature of old football grounds.
Today, the Main Stand has been significantly redeveloped. The 2016 expansion transformed it into one of the largest all-seater stands in Europe, adding over 8,000 seats and a three-tiered structure. Despite the changes, the stand still pays homage to its history with architectural nods to the past.
- The Spion Kop: Perhaps the most famous part of Anfield is The Kop. Named after a hill in South Africa where a tragic battle took place during the Boer War, The Kop became a single-tier terrace known for housing Liverpool’s most vocal supporters. Though seating replaced standing areas in the 1990s, the spirit of The Kop remains unmatched in its passion and volume on match day.
- Continuous Redevelopment: Anfield has never stood still. Ongoing developments include the Anfield Road Stand expansion, aiming to further boost capacity and enhance facilities. Yet, despite all these changes, the stadium retains a unique character, rooted in working-class traditions, community spirit, and football excellence.
Main Attractions and Highlights of the Tour
The Anfield Stadium Tour isn’t just about seeing the pitch—it’s a full-on journey through the history, spirit, and glory of Liverpool FC.
- Walk the Players’ Tunnel: Feel the goosebumps as you walk down the same tunnel that generations of players have taken, passing the legendary “This is Anfield” sign. It’s a rite of passage and a perfect photo opportunity.
- Step Onto the Pitch: Though visitors are not allowed to run onto the turf, you can stand pitch-side and take in the view from the dugouts. It’s a unique chance to imagine the roar of the crowd and the thrill of a match day.
- Visit the Press Room: Sit in the same seats where Klopp, Gerrard, and other Liverpool greats have addressed the media. Snap a photo at the press table and feel what it’s like to be under the spotlight.
- Explore The LFC Story Museum
Included with many tours, the LFC Story Museum brings Liverpool’s achievements to life. You’ll see:
- Trophies from Premier League and Champions League triumphs
- Historic kits and match balls
- A special tribute to Jürgen Klopp
- Interactive exhibits that allow you to relive iconic moments
- Statues of Legends: Don’t miss the bronze statues of Bill Shankly and Bob Paisley, located just outside the stadium. They serve as powerful reminders of Liverpool’s storied past and its culture of loyalty, vision, and success.
Visitor Experience:
A Day at Anfield: From the moment you arrive at the stadium, you'll sense the buzz of football history. Even on non-match days, the energy is palpable. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, helping make the visit enjoyable, whether you’re a fan or a first-timer.
Expect to spend around 2 to 3 hours on a full stadium tour, including time in the museum, gift shop, and exploring outside areas.
Opening Hours
- Tours usually run daily, including weekends.
- The best time to visit is during the morning on non-match days for a quieter experience.
- Check the official website in advance for schedule changes during match weeks or club events.
Ticket Information
- Prices vary depending on the type of tour (standard, legends tour, or premium experience).
- Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Discounts may be available for families, children, and students.
Facilities: Anfield is fully equipped with:
- Cafés and snack bars
- Gift shops with official Liverpool FC merchandise
- Toilets and baby-changing facilities
- Wheelchair-accessible routes and elevators
Events and Activities
- Regular Events: Anfield is, of course, best known for Liverpool FC home matches. On match days, the stadium comes alive with chants, flags, and waves of red shirts. While match tickets are hard to get, tours are available on most non-match days.
- Special Exhibitions: The stadium and museum often host themed exhibitions, especially during anniversaries or significant football events like European finals or the World Cup.
- Family Fun: On select days, the club runs family-friendly workshops, quiz trails for kids, and interactive exhibits inside the museum. These are perfect for young fans wanting to engage more deeply with the club’s legacy.
Nearby Attractions:
Your visit to Anfield doesn’t have to stop at football. Liverpool is packed with culture, music, and history.
Just a Short Ride or Walk Away:
- Royal Albert Dock – Explore maritime history, great food, and art galleries like Tate Liverpool.
- The Beatles Story – A must for music lovers.
- Liverpool Cathedral – Britain’s largest cathedral, offering stunning views and quiet contemplation.
- George’s Hall & Walker Art Gallery – A taste of the city’s rich architectural and artistic heritage.
Local Cafés and Eateries: Around Anfield, you’ll find several local cafés and takeaways, including football-themed pubs where you can chat with locals about all things Liverpool FC.
How to Get There
From Liverpool City Centre: Anfield is located about 2 miles (3 km) from Liverpool Lime Street Station. You can get there by:
- Bus: Routes 17, 26, 27, and 917 run regularly on match days.
- Taxi: Takes around 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Walking: Takes approximately 30–40 minutes and offers a great way to see the city.
Parking Tips
- Parking near the stadium is limited, especially on match days.
- Visitors are encouraged to use park-and-ride options or public transport.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive early to avoid queues, especially on weekends.
- Dress comfortably, especially if planning to walk or explore nearby areas.
- Bring a camera or phone—there are plenty of photo opportunities!
- Respect the atmosphere. This is a place of great meaning to many—whether it's the Shankly statue, the Kop, or the "This is Anfield" sign, these are cherished parts of football heritage.
- Don’t miss the gift shop. It’s the perfect place to grab souvenirs, shirts, or gifts for fellow fans.
Where to Stay If You're There to Watch a Match or Take the Tour:
If you're in Liverpool to catch a match or take the Anfield Stadium tour, staying nearby makes everything easier. One great option is Anfield Stay, a cosy and well-equipped 3-bedroom Airbnb just a short walk from the stadium. Located in a quiet residential area, it’s perfect for couples, families, or groups of up to six people. With modern interiors, two bathrooms, a fully stocked kitchen, a private garden, and free driveway parking, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, being close to Anfield means you won’t miss a moment of the action—and you can soak up the pre- and post-match atmosphere like a true local.
FAQs:
Q1. When was Anfield opened?
Ans: Anfield opened in 1884. It was originally used by Everton FC before becoming home to Liverpool FC in 1892.
Q2. Can you visit Anfield on non-match days?
Ans: Yes, Anfield offers guided and self-guided stadium tours every day, except on match days or during special events.
Q3. How long does the stadium tour take?
Ans: Most tours take between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the type of experience you choose.
Q4. Can I walk on the pitch?
Ans: While visitors can’t step onto the actual grass, you can go pitch-side and sit in the dugout during the tour.
Q5. Is the tour suitable for children?
Ans: Absolutely! The tour is family-friendly, with interactive exhibits and fun features inside The LFC Story Museum.
Q6. Are there food and drinks available at Anfield?
Ans: Yes, there are cafes and snack bars inside the stadium, as well as nearby pubs and eateries around the ground.
Q7. What’s the best time to visit?
Ans: Early mornings or weekday afternoons on non-match days offer a quieter and more relaxed tour experience.
Final Thoughts
Anfield is not just where football is played, it’s where football lives. It's a place that echoes with the voices of past legends, the cheers of fans, and the heartbeat of a city that lives and breathes football.
Touring Anfield is like stepping into the pages of a history book, each corner holds a story, every echo tells of a triumph, and every seat has seen moments of magic. Whether you’re a lifelong Liverpool supporter or simply curious about the sport, Anfield delivers an unforgettable experience.
So get ready, bring your passion, and come see why Anfield is truly one of football’s most legendary homes.
