The Grapes
With nine real ales, including Liverpool-brewed beers, 13 speciality gins and 30 kinds of rum, this funky pub is a favourite with locals, musicians and artists.

Address: 60 Roscoe Street | Telephone: 0151 708 6870 |

The Fly In The Loaf
An attractive, neighbourly pub, The Fly was voted Britain's best by BBC radio listeners. Choose from 60 world brews, alongside six ever-changing cask ales.

Address: 13 Hardman Street | Telephone: 0151 708 0817 |

The Cavern Club
On the site of the original Cavern, where the Beatles learned their trade, the rebuilt venue hosts regular live music acts, from tribute to contemporary.

Address: 10 Mathew Street | Telephone: 0151 236 1965 |

O'Neill's
There's live music seven nights a week at the city's premier Irish pub - cover bands, one-man bands, Cajun, indie and, of course, the foot-stomping Irish variety. Enjoy it with the best Guinness in town.

Address: 68 Hanover Street | Telephone: 0151 709 7360 |

Newz Bar
It's a toss up which is more eye-catching: the vast hall accommodating one of Britain's longest bars, or the celebrities attracted to this former shipping warehouse.

Address: 18 Water Street | Telephone: 0151 236 2025 |

Circo
Located by the river, this circus-themed bar and restaurant (waitresses dress as ringmasters) is liveliest at weekends with DJs, special guests and Freakshow - “a dark vaudevillian extravaganza”.

Address: Britannia Pavilion, Albert Dock | Telephone: 0151 709 0470 |