On 9 October, to mark what would have been John Lennon’s 85th birthday, The Salvation Army’s legendary Liverpool attraction Strawberry Field, will host an exclusive, one-day-only tour, inviting Beatles fans to explore the places that shaped one of music’s greatest icons.
Limited to just 15 guests, this unique experience will journey beyond Strawberry Field itself to the pivotal places of Lennon’s childhood, from the Salvation Army site that inspired his iconic song to the very streets, schools and classrooms where his story began, offering fans a rare chance to walk in his footsteps and come face-to-face with key figures from his early life and musical beginnings.
Fans will enjoy a carefully curated programme, featuring:
- A guided bus tour departing from Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock at 10am, stopping at key Lennon landmarks including Penny Lane, St Peter’s Church in Woolton, and more.
- A visit inside Mendips, John Lennon’s childhood home, preserved by the National Trust to reflect the house and garden just as it was when he lived there with his Aunt Mimi.
- Exclusive first access to the “Calderstones John Lennon Tour” – a new initiative not opening to the public until January 2026 at John’s former Quarry Bank High School (now Calderstones School). Fans will see Lennon’s original school desk, the classroom where The Quarrymen first formed, and other artefacts from his school years.
- A private lunch with original members of The Quarrymen, Lennon’s first band, followed by a special live performance at Strawberry Field.
- A visit to the Strawberry Field exhibition centre, where ticketholders will be the first to witness the live press unveiling of a new artefact joining treasures such as John’s iconic Imagine piano.
Throughout the day, Charlotte Martin, a qualified Beatles Green Badge tour guide from Livertours Liverpool, will bring Lennon’s childhood stories to life.
Sue Harvey, Commercial Manager at Strawberry Field, said:
“”This tour will be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to celebrate John – his roots, his music, and his enduring legacy. From the streets and schools that shaped his childhood to the home and spaces that inspired his creativity, every moment has been carefully curated to give fans an intimate and unforgettable experience. We can’t wait to welcome Beatles fans from around the world to share in this very special day and to step into the world that helped make John Lennon the icon he remains today.”
Strawberry Field members will receive priority access to tickets before sales open to the general public on Friday 26 September at 10a.m. Tickets are priced at £120 and will be on a first-come, first-served basis here.
All proceeds from the event will support Strawberry Field’s Steps to Work programme, which empowers young adults with learning difficulties, those who are neurodivergent, or who face barriers to employment into paid work.
For more information about Strawberry Field, visit the website.
