The 9 best hotels in Liverpool

Did you know that Liverpool's got a link to the infamous Titanic? Yeah, turns out that although the ill-fated liner never docked here, the company who owned it, White Star Lines, was headquartered on the same street as this very hotel: James Street. There's a (less tragic) nautical theme pervading at this 64-room luxury hotel as a result – and much like the blockbuster of the same name, it’s a tad cheesy but loads of fun. Down in the basement, you’ll find a spa, while the roof (call it a deck if you like) plays host to Carpathia Champagne bar. On land, attractions nearby include the Museum of Liverpool, Tate Liverpool and The Beatles Story. You'll find you're right by Albert Dock and a small walk from plenty of Liverpool's other landmarks. 

Mood? Historic charm. 
Location perks? Walking distance from the Albert Dock – and all its history. 
Budget range? Super affordable. 

Aloft is nothing like that attic you've got where the spiders live. This is a modern and chic design-focussed hotel on North John Street, making it a great pick for those in the city for some shopping and nightlife (although light sleepers might want to ask for a room at the rear of the building, as the front is right among the party part of the city). Aloft’s 116 rooms are really nice for the price, bright and stylish with cosy features like big orange beanbags in lieu of sofas. Downstairs you'll find a cocktail bar, gym and a large (often pretty busy) restaurant.  Along with the nights out, you can take a small walk to attractions such as the Titanic Memorial and Tate Liverpool. If you are coming back late though, make use of the 24-hour snack bar (make use of it even if you don't come back late). 

Mood? Old-world energy. 
Location perks? A few steps from the Moorfields Railway Station and a mile from the Princes Dock and Parade.
Budget range? Very well priced.

This four-star hotel right by the centre of Liverpool is stylish and a little twist on the conventional. You'll find quirky pieces of art and furniture synonymous with British culture dotted around the hotel. The vibes are dark and sexy but still super comfortable. Each room has a desk, flat-screen TV, private bathroom and your very own coffee machine to help you get up in the mornings. The romantic atmosphere lends itself to couples' breaks, and the fashionable aura makes it ideal for a trip to Liverpool for the nightlife. There's a restaurant onsite that serves classic British dishes, as well as steakhouse meals. Yum.

Mood? Eclectic vibe. 
Location perks? Super central. 
Budget range? Really cost-effective. 

Before it became one of the city’s best boutique hotels, 62 Castle Street was a rather flashy bank (or rather, several of them over the years). Its modern makeover has retained many of the original features – inc. a pretty pretty staircase – and some other quirks which nod to Liverpool’s dockland past. The suites are all contemporary luxe with a penchant for deep blues, berry shades and nice bit of velvet. Lovely.

Mood? Boutique-y luxe embedded in the city’s history.

Location perks? Just up the road from James Street station, this hotel locates you bang in the middle of town.

Budget range? From very affordable to splash-out, depending on what and when you’re booking.

The Z hotel chain is a godsend for wallet-friendly, easy-going rooms that can be copped at absolute bargain prices, even if you’re booking last minute. There are 92 small rooms in their Liverpool establishment. Each has an en-suite with walk-in showers and Sky TV on the telly by the bed. Downstairs there's free wine and cheese every evening (yup! Reason enough to stay we think!). The Albert Dock is a short trip away and happens to be a hub for all things you want to visit: the Maritime Museum, Tate Liverpool and the Echo Arena are right there. It's simply savvy spending, low frills hotel, loads of convenience, and extra money for enjoying the city. You'll sleep well knowing the hotel has all you need. Including a great continental breakfast and bacon rolls. This is how people will holiday in 3023, we'll tell you that for free. 

Mood? Uber modern. 
Location perks? Within walking distance from Liverpool ONE Shopping Centre and the rest of the city centre.
Budget range? An absolute steal. 

Loads of people go to Liverpool for Beatles heritage. If you're a fan of the Fab Four then you should definitely check out the world’s one and only museum dedicated to John, Paul and Co. Its 110 rooms have group portraits, pop art and swingin’, ‘Austin Powers’-esque decor throughout (as well as subtle but kind of wicked touches like a Lennon Room featuring a white baby grand piano just like the one in the ‘Imagine’ video). You’re well-positioned for the nearby tours of the Cavern (Beatles) Quarter, though if you want to stay put, the live lounge invites local musicians to play. Yes, they play Beatles covers. The hotel also has a cocktail bar, and restaurant so you're fixed for food.  Seriously, if you've been working like a dog, this might well be the perfect place to call a temporary home. All your troubles will seem so far away here.

Mood? Grand glamour. 
Location perks? Easy walking distance from Albert Dock and Liverpool Central Station. 
Budget range? Very cost-effective. 

Liverpool’s first boutique hotel, offically speaking, is tasteful and discreet. Doing away with ostentatious bougie bling in favour of fresh white linen, exposed brickwork and warm wood – making for a right cosy gaff. The serene vibe has ensured it’s a hit with visiting celebs looking for refined comfort over all that fuss. There's 89 rooms in total, so you might find some celebs making use of the 24-hour gym and buzzy restaurant, London Carriage Works, while you're there.

Outside the hotel, you'll notice Liverpool Philharmonic – it’s on the same street. Go see a concert, get the suit out and everything. The Tate Liverpool and Beatles Story are a small walk away too, so tourist mode can be activated without any issues at all here. If you happen to prefer the idea of couping up at the hotel, take advantage of the 150 wines and champagnes on the menu. There'll be something you like, we're sure! 

Mood? Beautiful design. 
Location perks? An easy 15-minute walk from museums, art galleries and The Beatles Story. 
Budget range? On the pricier side. 

The boutique Malmaison chain’s first purpose-built property is an 11-storey block in the old docks of Liverpool. Like all Malmaison hotels, the place evokes a kind of flash, sexy cocktail bar-meets-boudoir thang in shades of black and purple. Elsewhere, this could hover in the tacky territory, but they've managed to make the vibe fun. There are 130 rooms and suites, with top-floor pads having great views. Breakfast in the Brasserie is as catchy a phrase as it is delicious, and for the rest of the day, you're a short walk from great bars, loads of landmarks, designer shopping and railways. 

Mood? Sultry elegance. 
Location perks? Nestled in the Prince's Dock. 
Budget range? Very well priced. 

Another bolthole with a Titanic connection, this time in name and all sorts. The hotel is an impressive converted warehouse is located in Stanley Dock. It's a ten minute drive into the city center, but what you don't have in on-the-door-step perks, you do make up for in relaxed, chic, beauty. The 153 rooms here, true to the hotel’s name, are large, loft-style spaces with heaps of exposed brick and plenty of natural light courtesy of splendid windows. There’s also a basement-level spa and pool complex (at an extra charge of course), alongside a popular bar and grill so you can sink your teeth into some great food and sleep here in what would be the best way to unwind right on Liverpool's doorstep. Worth a swift cab into the city for some daytime exploring, don't you think? 

Mood? Industrial chic.
Location perks? Literally on the Stanley Dock.
Budget range? Pricier than most.