Liverpool’s development as a leading international port was matched in the 19th and early 20th centuries by a correspondingly rapid growth in commerce. From a cluster of narrow streets lined by dwellings and warehouses arose a city of banks and trading exchanges, towering office buildings and insurance houses, each seeking to outdo its neighbour in opulence and display. Along the walk Peter will draw attention to some of the key city centre commercial buildings, their original uses, architects and significance, including the familiar ‘three graces’ at the Pier Head: Royal Liver Building (1908-12), Cunard Building (1914-16) and the Port of Liverpool Building (1903-7).
The walk will last c. 2 hours. Walking distance c. 1 mile: comfortable shoes advised. Booking essential: numbers limited.
Peter de Figueiredo is an architect, architectural historian and long-term Victorian Society member. His career has included Head of Conservation and Design at Chester City Council, Historic Buildings Inspector for English Heritage, and self-employed Heritage Consultant. Author/joint author of Cheshire Country Houses; Religion and Place: Liverpool’s historic places of worship; Mersey: the river that changed the world; Victorian Manchester and Salford; The Rows of Chest