Let Me Take You Down… to The Beatles Story Liverpool

What is The Beatles Story Liverpool?

The Beatles Story is more of an immersive experience than the other Beatles museum in Matthew’s Street. In this cavernous location on the Albert Dock we take a step back and walk through the Beatles story from their garden fete debut as the Quarrymen, through their time at the Star Club in Hamburg via the Ed Sullivan Show and Pepperland to their final rooftop show and the end of the Beatles.

Along the way we see, hear and read about the stories the influences and the indelible mark left by the Fab Four.

I have thought much about my first visit to the Beatles story, back in 2017 and I was excited to return in March 2024 to see the new layout. Whilst the story remains the same, there are more exhibits to see and enjoy in the expanded location.

From The Quarrymen to Hamburg – Early Days at The Beatles Story

The museum’s exhibits begin with the Mersey Beats and the introduction of John and George. The memorabilia includes George’s first guitar and flyers from the village fete that was to be the first ‘gig’. From there, visitors can step into a replica of the Star Club in Hamburg, where the band honed their experience and early legend. The exhibit also includes a replica of the Liverpool record shop where the boys first purchased their instruments on monthly payments.

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Inside The Beatles Story – Cavern Club and Beyond

One of the most iconic locations associated with the Beatles is the Cavern Club, where the band played many of their early shows. The museum features a full replica of the club, complete with the stage and seating. Up close, you’ll realise just how small the stage really was!

Moving through the museum, visitors can see the Liverpool shop where the band purchased their instruments, as well as a replica of the Grapes pub in Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter.

The exhibit takes visitors to America, and outside the CBS Television studio, which was a pivotal moment in the band’s history and catapulted them into the American consciousness. Their appearance on the Ed Sullivan show was seen by 73 million people! Think about that… seventy-three million people!

Walking into Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band

One of the most iconic albums in the history of popular music is Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, and the Beatles Story Museum does an excellent job of celebrating the album’s legacy. Visitors can see the exact replicas of the suits worn by the band on the album cover. These suits were commissioned by the Beatles Story with the exact same material working to the original patterns. On display is the original album cover with a guide to the famous faces, as well as an alternate version that was not used.

Magical Mystery Tour at The Beatles Story

The iconic bus from the Magical Mystery Tour is now in the story. Some stills from the movie are on show but not much else.

All Aboard The Yellow Submarine and Abbey Road Exhibits 

Another iconic album in the Beatles’ catalog is Yellow Submarine, which is celebrated in a replica of the inside of a yellow submarine.

A small Abbey Road section replicates the famous road crossing from the cover of their classic album.

The Beatles in India – A New Exhibition at The Beatles Story 

A new separate exhibit shows some pictures from the Beatles famous trip to India. The exhibition explains more about the trip, the guru Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and some of the other guests including Ravi Shankar and George’s girlfriend at the time, Patti Boyd.

And In The End… The Final Chapter at The Beatles Story

As you walk through the museum, you’ll likely experience some personal moments of reflection and connection with the band’s music and legacy. For me it was the very last exhibit.

After seeing the early solo work from Ringo, and George Harrison’s appearance on Rutland Weekend Television, plus Paul’s stellar solo career, we are taken into one final space.

Just a simple white room with a white piano, guitar, and just one song playing on the speakers: “Imagine.” Tears were shed, again.

My Review of The Beatles Story Liverpool 

I loved visiting the Beatles Story in Liverpool. Of the two Beatles museums, this was in my opinion a far better experience. It was immersive it was engaging with loads of stories and original artefacts from this legendary band. The building is large enough to stretch out and get some space so you have time to reflect on the Beatles and their story. On our last visit there were groups of school children walking round with special questionnaires . It was wonderful to hear them talk of Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison and Ringo Starr in their young Liverpool accents!

Visiting The Beatles Story Liverpool – Everything You Need to Know

Is the Beatles Story Worth Visiting?

Yes it is! I have been twice and hope to visit again. The immersive exhibition makes you feel part of the Beatles story, from the early days in Hamburg through to their first visit to America, their trip to India and so much more. With Beatles hits playing in each area you really feel, for an hour or two, that you are in the footsteps of John, Paul, George and Ringo. This is a very immersive Beatles experiences with no shortage of photograph and Instagram opportuninties for your socials.

Where is The Beatles Story Liverpool Located? 

The Beatles Story Address is Britannia Vaults, Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD The museum is easily accessible by public transport, with Liverpool Lime Street and James Street stations both within walking distance.

The Beatles Story is open daily from 9am to 4pm on most days (but do check!).

Do You Need to Book in Advance? 

You can buy tickets on the day but an advance ticket may save you time if there are long queues. Admission fees vary depending on the season and the age of the visitor, but start at around £19 for adults and £10.50 for children. You can spend a good few hours in here and the price is totally worth it.

There is a large cafe, toilets and lockers plus a great gift shop before you leave!

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