Visitors heading to Liverpool’s River of Light this autumn will have the chance to step inside one of the city’s most famous landmarks, with exclusive guided tours of the Cunard Building returning throughout the festival.

Running from Friday 23 October to Sunday 1 November, the behind-the-scenes tours will open up areas of the Grade II* listed building that are normally closed to the public.

Visitors will be able to explore spaces including the building’s historic basement, former Arrivals Lounge and elegant Board Rooms while discovering more about the landmark’s fascinating past.

The tours coincide with River of Light, giving visitors the opportunity to combine an exploration of Liverpool’s maritime heritage with the illuminated artworks appearing across the waterfront and city centre.

Inside the Cunard Building

Led by Liverpool heritage experts, each tour will delve into the history of the Cunard Building, its architecture and the important role it has played in the city’s maritime story.

The building forms part of Liverpool’s famous Three Graces alongside the Royal Liver Building and Port of Liverpool Building and has stood on the Pier Head for more than a century.

Tour groups will be kept relatively small, allowing visitors to get a closer look at parts of the building that are rarely accessible to the public.

The latest programme follows the success of previous heritage tours, which have given visitors the opportunity to discover more of the story behind one of Liverpool’s most recognisable buildings.

Tours throughout River of Light

Tours will take place every day during River of Light, with a mixture of daytime and evening slots available.

Additional evening tours have been scheduled so visitors can easily combine their trip inside the Cunard Building with a walk around the River of Light trail.

An expanded timetable will operate across the weekends of Friday 23 to Sunday 25 October and Saturday 31 October to Sunday 1 November.

Weekday tours will also run at regular intervals throughout the day and into the evening.

Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said:

“The Cunard Building is one of the jewels of Liverpool’s world-famous waterfront and a powerful symbol of our city’s rich maritime heritage.

“These special tours will give visitors the chance to step inside one of Liverpool’s most iconic landmarks and discover the fascinating stories behind the building, while also enjoying River of Light, one of the city’s most popular cultural events.

“By pairing the tours with the festival, we’re creating an even richer visitor experience that combines Liverpool’s history, culture, and creativity. 

“As River of Light transforms the city centre and waterfront with spectacular illuminated artworks, these behind-the-scenes tours will add another dimension to the programme, encouraging people to explore the heritage that has helped shape Liverpool’s internationally recognised waterfront.”

Tickets for the River of Light Cunard Building tours are on sale now through Ticket Quarter.