Reaching the half‑century is a special milestone and Liverpool provides endless opportunities to celebrate in style. From high‑end dining rooms and indulgent spa days to quirky adventures and live music venues, the city’s eclectic character caters for every kind of party. Whether you want an elegant dinner with your closest fthis guide brings together the best venues, experiences, restaurants and activities. Drawing on trusted recommendations and local insights, we’ve curated an inspiring list to help you plan a celebration that feels completely bespoke.
Party Venues and Private Hire in Liverpool
Liverpool is spoilt for choice when it comes to venues that can host a fabulous 50th birthday bash. From classy private dining rooms near Hope Street to character-filled pubs in the Georgian Quarter and waterfront gems along the Albert Dock, this city knows how to mark a milestone. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a full-on bash with dancing and cocktails, you can find the perfect spot for your big 5‑0. Popular venue options include trendy bars, historic pubs, chic restaurants with function spaces, and even unique attractions that double as event venues. Many venues offer special packages for milestone birthdays, making planning easier.
Top Venue Options: Some of the most commonly recommended party venues in Liverpool are:
Trendy Bars & Nightclubs – e.g. private areas at bars like Roxy Ball Room (for a fun vibe with games) or Revolución de Cuba (Latin‑themed cocktail bar with live music). These venues often have reserved areas or booths and offer party packages with drinks or entertainment.
Historic Pubs & Dining Rooms – e.g. The Philharmonic Dining Rooms (famed Victorian pub) which has elegant private rooms, or character pubs in the Georgian Quarter for a warm, nostalgic atmosphere.
Hotels & Event Spaces – e.g. function suites at the Aloft Liverpool or the grand ballroom at the Adelphi Hotel for larger gatherings. Hotels often provide catering and décor packages, ideal for a formal 50th party with a big guest list.
Waterfront Venues – e.g. restaurants and bars on the Royal Albert Dock or Pier Head that offer stunning Mersey views. PanAm or Mersey Waterfront venues can add a special touch with their maritime scenery.
Unique Spaces – Liverpool has quirky venues like converted warehouses in the Baltic Triangle, rooftop bars, and even museum galleries or the Royal Liver Building event space, if you fancy an iconic setting. For a truly different party, you could even rent out a section of an activity bar (like a bowling, darts or karaoke bar) exclusively for your group.
Roxy Ball Room (Cavern Quarter), “Ramones” Area – Up to 35 guests – from £40/hour hire fee – Fun games bar (mini bowling, ping‑pong, beer pong) – ideal for a casual, playful party with drinks.
Revolución de Cuba, Havana Bar – Up to 70 guests – from £300 minimum spend (evening) – Lively Latin‑themed cocktail bar with a dancefloor, live music and tropical cocktails – great for a vibrant party night.
Philharmonic Dining Rooms, Private Room – Up to 90 guests – from £500 minimum spend – Elegant historic pub venue famed for its ornate decor – perfect for a sit‑down meal or refined gathering with character.
Adelphi Hotel, Pearce Suite Ballroom – 325 seated / 400 standing – from £750/day hire fee – Grand Edwardian ballroom for large celebrations – suits a formal dinner, dance floor, and entertainment for big family parties.
Tips: Book well in advance for popular venues, especially on weekends. Always confirm what’s included – many places offer birthday packages (e.g. welcome drinks, decorations, DJ, etc.) to simplify the planning. For instance, the escape room venue Escape Hunt Liverpool even has a birthday package that includes a 60‑minute game, use of a VIP lounge, a dedicated host, a free drink and cake for the group – showing that non‑traditional venues can also cater to milestone parties in style. Lastly, don’t forget you can think outside the box: some people choose to hire a luxury party house or cottage outside the city and bring the celebration there for a weekend. This can be a unique 50th birthday option if you prefer a private space – essentially a mini‑holiday with your favourite people. A country manor or spacious cottage in the nearby countryside can offer picturesque surroundings and total privacy – a great way to celebrate turning 50 in a relaxed, intimate way.
Experience Days and Unique Packages
Rather than a traditional party, you might opt for an experience day – treating the birthday honoree (and perhaps a few close friends or family) to a memorable activity or day out. Liverpool and its surrounding areas provide plenty of experience days and packages to suit different interests. Many providers (like Virgin Experience Days, Red Letter Days, and local event companies) have special 50th birthday gift experiences you can book. Here are some popular ideas:
Cooking or Mixology Classes: If the celebrant is a foodie, consider a cookery class or private chef experience. For example, you could hire a private chef to cook a gourmet meal at home for your group – a luxurious yet personal treat. Companies even advertise five‑star chef experiences in Liverpool from around £59 per person. Alternatively, join a group cooking class or a sushi‑making class. For drink enthusiasts, a cocktail making masterclass is a hit – Liverpool’s cocktail bars often offer mixology classes where you learn to shake your favourite cocktails. You’ll get hands‑on behind the bar and, of course, drink your creations!
Cultural & Sightseeing Experiences: A 50th birthday can be a chance to indulge in Liverpool’s rich culture. For a music lover, a Beatles‑themed experience is ideal – think of visiting The Beatles Story Museum or taking the Magical Mystery Tour bus to see Beatles landmarks, which makes for a nostalgic trip down memory lane. History buffs might enjoy a guided city tour or a Mersey Ferry cruise. Mersey Ferries operate special evening cruises on the Mersey with live music and a bar – offering a fun twist on sightseeing where you can dance to local bands as you sail. Sports fans would relish a stadium tour of Anfield (Liverpool FC) or Goodison Park (Everton FC), or even better, match‑day hospitality tickets – imagine cheering on LFC at Anfield as a 50th birthday treat!
Creative Workshops: Tap into something creative or new. Ever tried a dance class? Companies offer themed dance workshops (from salsa to ’80s or even a Dirty Dancing theme) which are surprisingly fun for groups. For a more artsy experience, you could book an art workshop or a “paint and sip” class, where you paint over a glass of wine. There’s even a quirky option of nude life drawing classes (with a male or female model) for a cheeky but creative afternoon – a professional tutor guides you, and it often turns into a fun competition of who can draw best!
Theatre, Music & Shows: Gift an experience like tickets to a West End musical on tour at the Liverpool Empire, or a show at the Royal Court Theatre. If the celebrant loves nostalgia, check out tribute shows – e.g. Magic on the Mersey, a live magic show by magician Steve Price, is noted as an enchanting experience that will captivate and mesmerise, making you question what’s real. Similarly, a comedy night is a fantastic experience day idea: Liverpool has top‑notch comedy clubs like Laughterhouse Comedy, where new acts perform regularly and guarantee a night of laughter in a warm, intimate venue. You could make a full night of it with dinner and a comedy show for a light‑hearted 50th celebration.
Many of these experiences come in packages. For example, some packages bundle an activity + meal + accommodation for group weekends. Stag and hen party organizers allow you to build a custom package – which works just as well for birthdays. You might choose an adrenaline activity by day and a restaurant or club entry by night, all in one booking. The key is to choose something the birthday person will love – be it a calm cultural day or an exciting new adventure. And of course, taking lots of photos during the experience will ensure the memories last well beyond the 50th!
Restaurants and Dining Experiences for a 50th Birthday
For food lovers, a special birthday meal in one of Liverpool’s excellent restaurants might be the highlight of turning 50. The city’s dining scene ranges from upscale fine dining to lively themed eateries, so you can find a spot that matches the tone you want – elegant, fun, or relaxed. Many restaurants can accommodate groups and even arrange a cake or prosecco on arrival if you mention it’s a 50th birthday.
Top Restaurant Picks: Panoramic 34 – A sky‑high fine dining restaurant on the 34th floor of West Tower. It offers 360° views over Liverpool and the Mersey, giving your dinner a breathtaking backdrop. Gaucho – A glamorous Argentinian steakhouse that is a cut above the rest. Gaucho’s interior features marble columns and mood lighting, exuding sophistication. The Art School – A renowned fine dining restaurant by chef Paul Askew, located in a converted art school. The Florist – A beautiful bar & restaurant known for its stunning floral decor. Mason’s – A vibrant spot that combines dining with entertainment. Gusto Italian (Albert Dock) – An Italian restaurant that’s a staple for group celebrations. London Carriage Works – Contemporary British cuisine in a chic setting. Matou – A pan‑Asian restaurant & bar on the Pier Head with a rooftop terrace overlooking the river and the Liver Building.
Liverpool also has plenty of cosy eateries for a more low‑key celebration. For example, Cosy Club in Liverpool One is noted as a warm and inviting spot – it serves everything from brunch to dinner in a vintage‑styled setting with velvet armchairs and antique decor. True to its name, it’s “a cosy place to celebrate” and even has a private dining room for up to 16 people for an intimate gathering.
If you’re a fan of daytime celebrations, consider a bottomless brunch event. Many venues host these on weekends – an all‑inclusive brunch with unlimited drinks for a set time. One standout is Mamasan on Bold Street, which runs a Southeast Asian “Dim Sum Disco” bottomless brunch on Saturdays: 90 minutes of free‑flow drinks, live music, and delicious dim sum plates.
Tips: Always reserve ahead for group dining, and mention the occasion – you might get a complimentary dessert or decorated table. Some restaurants have set menus for groups which can simplify splitting the bill. And if you’d like something extra special, ask if the chef can do a personalised cake or if you can bring your own. Ultimately, whether it’s a chic multi‑course dinner, a hearty Sunday roast, or a casual brunch, Liverpool’s restaurants can make a 50th birthday meal a memorable feast.
Spa Days and Pampering
Reaching 50 is the perfect excuse to treat oneself to some pampering. A luxurious spa day or spa weekend in Liverpool can be a wonderful, relaxed way to celebrate this milestone – especially for those who prefer tranquillity over a big party. The city boasts several excellent spas and wellness centres, often in top hotels, where you can unwind and indulge in rejuvenating treatments.
Popular spa choices in Liverpool include Maya Blue Wellness at Titanic Hotel (with a unique thermal suite), Hope Street Hotel Spa, The Municipal Hotel & Spa (MGallery) and packages available via SpaSeekers or Virgin Experience Days. Spa packages range from about £50 up to £300 per person depending on treatments and extras. Aside from full spa days, don’t forget simple pampering treats: a luxury manicure/pedicure, a professional makeover followed by a photoshoot, or even a stylish new haircut can make someone feel refreshed at 50.
And speaking of Afternoon Tea – that’s an experience in itself which pairs perfectly with a spa trip or as a standalone birthday treat. Many venues in Liverpool offer afternoon tea (some with champagne) in elegant settings. It’s a sublime daytime celebration: nibble on finger sandwiches, cakes and scones to your heart’s content. Places like The Georgian Townhouse, Panorama 34, or Sir Roger’s Tea Rooms provide lovely settings for a 50th birthday tea party.
Live Entertainment and Nightlife
If the birthday honoree loves music, theatre or dancing, Liverpool’s famed nightlife and entertainment scene will not disappoint. A night on the town with live entertainment can make a 50th birthday feel energetic and special. There are options to suit all styles – from a classy night at the theatre to a nostalgic boogie at an ’80s night.
Live Music & Dancing: Consider iconic live music venues like The Cavern Club where The Beatles played, or other venues for tribute concerts and themed club nights.
Theatre & Comedy: A night at the theatre can be memorable – see what’s on at the Liverpool Empire or the Royal Court. Comedy clubs like Hot Water Comedy Club or Laughterhouse Comedy Club offer plenty of laughs.
Cabaret & Drag Shows: Liverpool has a vibrant drag and cabaret scene. Funny Boyz is known for outrageous fun. Similarly, there are themed nights at various bars and clubs.
Pubs & Bars: Liverpool’s pub scene ranges from traditional pubs to swanky bars and warehouse‑style clubs. Start the night with a laid‑back pint then move to cocktail bars or clubs, pacing the night to the birthday person’s preference.
Karaoke and Beyond: Private karaoke rooms, party buses and VIP packages can add extra fun and style to a birthday night out.
Quirky and Unusual Birthday Ideas
Sometimes the best way to celebrate a milestone is to do something completely different and off‑beat. Liverpool has a wealth of quirky experiences that can make a 50th birthday one‑of‑a‑kind.
Immersive Adventure Bars: Golf Fang (graffiti‑covered indoor crazy golf with a bar), Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience, Moonshine Saloon – these venues combine storytelling with drinking.
Escape Room Challenge: Liverpool boasts a variety of escape rooms for puzzle lovers. Try Breakout Liverpool or Escape Hunt Liverpool.
Old‑School Fun & Games: Bingo with a twist (Bongo’s Bingo), R&B Bingo nights, retro arcade bars like NQ64, axe throwing at Hatchet Harry’s – fun for the inner child.
Ghosts and Ghouls: Shiverpool ghost tours offer theatrical walking tours through Liverpool’s haunted spots.
Record a Song Experience: CoverStar Experiences lets your group record a song cover in a real studio – a quirky, memorable activity.
Luxury Celebrations in Style
A 50th birthday is a golden opportunity to splurge a little and celebrate in grand style. Liverpool has plenty to offer in the high‑end department.
Hire a Private Luxury Venue: Private dining rooms, stately homes like Knowsley Hall, or the Liverpool Yacht Club offer excecor. True to its name, it’s “a cosy place to celebrate” and even has a private dining room for up to 16 people for an intimate gathering.
If you’re a fan of daytime celebrations, consider a bottomless brunch event. Many venues host these on weekends – an all‑inclusive brunch with unlimited drinks for a set time. One standout is Mamasan on Bold Street, which runs a Southeast Asian “Dim Sum Disco” bottomless brunch on Saturdays: 90 minutes of free‑flow drinks, live music, and delicious dim sum plates.
Tips: Always reserve ahead for group dining, and mention the occasion – you might get a complimentary dessert or decorated table. Some restaurants have set menus for groups which can simplify splitting the bill. And if you’d like something extra special, ask if the chef can do a personalised cake or if you can bring your own. Ultimately, whether it’s a chic multi‑course dinner, a hearty Sunday roast, or a casual brunch, Liverpool’s restaurants can make a 50th birthday meal a memorable feast.
Spa Days and Pampering
Reaching 50 is the perfect excuse to treat oneself to some pampering. A luxurious spa day or spa weekend in Liverpool can be a wonderful, relaxed way to celebrate this milestone – especially for those who prefer tranquillity over a big party. The city boasts several excellent spas and wellness centres, often in top hotels, where you can unwind and indulge in rejuvenating treatments.
Popular spa choices in Liverpool include Maya Blue Wellness at Titanic Hotel (with a unique thermal suite), Hope Street Hotel Spa, The Municipal Hotel & Spa (MGallery) and packages available via SpaSeekers or Virgin Experience Days. Spa packages range from about £50 up to £300 per person depending on treatments and extras. Aside from full spa days, don’t forget simple pampering treats: a luxury manicure/pedicure, a professional makeover followed by a photoshoot, or even a stylish new haircut can make someone feel refreshed at 50.
And speaking of Afternoon Tea – that’s an experience in itself which pairs perfectly with a spa trip or as a standalone birthday treat. Many venues in Liverpool offer afternoon tea (some with champagne) in elegant settings. It’s a sublime daytime celebration: nibble on finger sandwiches, cakes and scones to your heart’s content. Places like The Georgian Townhouse, Panorama 34, or Sir Roger’s Tea Rooms provide lovely settings for a 50th birthday tea party.
Live Entertainment and Nightlife
If the birthday honoree loves music, theatre or dancing, Liverpool’s famed nightlife and entertainment scene will not disappoint. A night on the town with live entertainment can make a 50th birthday feel energetic and special. There are options to suit all styles – from a classy night at the theatre to a nostalgic boogie at an ’80s night.
Live Music & Dancing: Consider iconic live music venues like The Cavern Club where The Beatles played, or other venues for tribute concerts and themed club nights.
Theatre & Comedy: A night at the theatre can be memorable – see what’s on at the Liverpool Empire or the Royal Court. Comedy clubs like Hot Water Comedy Club or Laughterhouse Comedy Club offer plenty of laughs.
Cabaret & Drag Shows: Liverpool has a vibrant drag and cabaret scene. Funny Boyz is known for outrageous fun. Similarly, there are themed nights at various bars and clubs.
Pubs & Bars: Liverpool’s pub scene ranges from traditional pubs to swanky bars and warehouse‑style clubs. Start the night with a laid‑back pint then move to cocktail bars or clubs, pacing the night to the birthday person’s preference.
Karaoke and Beyond: Private karaoke rooms, party buses and VIP packages can add extra fun and style to a birthday night out.
Quirky and Unusual Birthday Ideas
Sometimes the best way to celebrate a milestone is to do something completely different and off‑beat. Liverpool has a wealth of quirky experiences that can make a 50th birthday one‑of‑a‑kind.
Immersive Adventure Bars: Golf Fang (graffiti‑covered indoor crazy golf with a bar), Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience, Moonshine Saloon – these venues combine storytelling with drinking.
Escape Room Challenge: Liverpool boasts a variety of escape rooms for puzzle lovers. Try Breakout Liverpool or Escape Hunt Liverpool.
Old‑School Fun & Games: Bingo with a twist (Bongo’s Bingo), R&B Bingo nights, retro arcade bars like NQ64, axe throwing at Hatchet Harry’s – fun for the inner child.
Ghosts and Ghouls: Shiverpool ghost tours offer theatrical walking tours through Liverpool’s haunted spots.
Record a Song Experience: CoverStar Experiences lets your group record a song cover in a real studio – a quirky, memorable activity.
Luxury Celebrations in Style
A 50th birthday is a golden opportunity to splurge a little and celebrate in grand style. Liverpool has plenty to offer in the high‑end department.
Hire a Private Luxury Venue: Private dining rooms, stately homes like Knowsley Hall, or the Liverpool Yacht Club offer exclusivity and wow‑factor.
Chauffeured Wine Tasting Tour: Arrange a luxury wine tasting with limousine transport for a sophisticated evening.
Luxury Hotel Getaway: Stay at top hotels such as the Titanic Hotel, Hope Street Hotel, or The Municipal Hotel for a 5‑star experience.
Fine Dining or Tasting Menu Extravaganza: Book a tasting menu at a top restaurant with wine pairings and a chef’s table experience.
Luxury Yacht or River Cruise Hire: Charter a private boat on the Mersey for sunset views and champagne toasts.
Weekend Retreat in a Country Estate: Rent a luxury country cottage or mansion for a private, extended celebration.
Relaxed Settings and Low‑Key Gatherings
Not everyone wants a big extravaganza. Liverpool offers plenty of options for a relaxed 50th birthday that’s still special.
Scenic Strolls and Parks: Enjoy a picnic in Sefton Park, Calderstones Park or the Festival Gardens, or wander along the Royal Albert Dock.
Afternoon Gatherings at Home or a Café: Host a coffee and cake get‑together at a favourite café or at home, perhaps with a memory corner of photos.
Pub Lunch or Sunday Roast: Book a table at a traditional pub for a hearty Sunday roast and relaxed atmosphere.
Cinema or Movie Night: Watch a film at the boutique Everyman Cinema or host a movie night at home with a projector.
Relaxing Activities: Try yoga, a ferry ride across the Mersey, a beach day at Formby or Crosby, or a home dinner party with candlelight and games.
Active Adventures and Outdoor Fun
For those who love excitement, incorporate an active adventure into the birthday plans.
Go Karting Grand Prix: Race at an indoor go‑karting venue like TeamSport Karting.
Paintball or Laser Combat: Engage in paintball, laser tag or battlezone archery for friendly competition.
Footgolf or Bubble Football: Play fun sport mash‑ups that blend football with golf or zorb suits.
Adventure Sports: Try quad biking, 4×4 off‑roading, high ropes courses or zip‑lining. Nearby forests like Delamere offer treetop challenges.
Watersports: Go kayaking, paddleboarding or coasteering around Liverpool’s docks and coast.
Mix active fun with a relaxed evening for the best of both worlds, and always consider participants’ fitness levels.
Conclusion
Turning 50 in Liverpool isn’t just an event; it’s a chance to craft a day that reflects who you are. With its mix of elegant venues, world‑class food, indulgent spa escapes and exhilarating experiences, the city invites you to build a programme that’s as relaxed or lively as you please. Draw on this guide to curate your own combination of celebrations and sprinkle in personal touches that make the day truly yours. Here’s to stepping into your next decade with laughter, good friends and unforgettable moments on Merseyside.
