Liverpool’s Best Craft Drinks & Pub Food With A Local: Private & Personalized

Exploring Liverpool’s craft beer and pub food scene has become a popular way to get to know the city’s local flavor. This private tour, offered by City Unscripted, promises a personalized experience that takes you through some of Liverpool’s most historic pubs and hidden gems, with plenty of tastings along the way. Whether you’re a foodie, a craft beer enthusiast, or just someone looking for a relaxed way to explore, this experience offers a nice mix of culture, history, and good eats.

What really stands out about this tour is its private, customizable approach—meaning you get personal attention from your guide, tailored to your interests. Two things we love are the inclusion of food and drink tastings, which are thoughtfully curated to give you a taste of local favorites, and the chance to explore some of Liverpool’s oldest pubs in the Georgian Quarter, away from the crowds. On the flip side, since it’s primarily a walking tour, it’s worth considering if mobility might be an issue, or if you’re not a fan of long strolls. This experience seems best suited for curious travelers who want to learn about the city’s pub scene while enjoying delicious local bites, all at a pace that’s relaxed and friendly.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: A private, tailored tour means your guide adapts to your interests, making it more engaging.
• Includes Tastings: You get 6-8 samples of local drinks and bites, giving you a true taste of Liverpool’s craft scene.
• Historic Atmosphere: The tour explores some of the city’s oldest pubs in the Georgian Quarter, full of character.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Meet-up options include your hotel or a central location—perfect for making it easy.
• Informative Guides: Reviews highlight guides like Paul and Joe for their deep knowledge and friendly approach.
• Duration & Price: At 3 hours and around $185 per person, it offers a good value considering the private nature and tastings included.

Why This Tour Works

We loved how this tour combines the best of local pub culture with craft drinks and delicious snacks. The fact that it’s private means you’re not packed into a large group, giving you plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get personalized recommendations. Plus, the inclusion of tastings ensures you won’t leave hungry or thirsty, and you get to sample a range of local favorites that you might not find on your own.

The route through Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter adds a scenic, historic vibe. You’ll discover charming terraces, quirky pubs, and cozy beer gardens, all steeped in history. It’s the kind of area that feels authentic and lived-in, rather than overly touristy. Many travelers mention how guides like Paul or Joe not only share stories but genuinely enhance the experience with their knowledge and friendliness.

One thing to keep in mind is that since the tour involves walking, comfortable shoes are a must. Also, the price might seem a bit steep for just three hours, but considering the private setup and included tastings, it’s a fair tradeoff if you’re into food and drink experiences.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point at Liverpool Town Hall

Your journey begins at Liverpool Town Hall, a central spot easy to reach by public transportation or walking if you’re staying nearby. From here, your guide will tailor the experience based on your preferences, so expect a warm, relaxed start.

The Georgian Quarter

The heart of the tour is exploring the historic Georgian Quarter. This neighborhood is packed with stunning Georgian terraces, secret courtyards, and lively pubs. It’s a perfect place to soak up Liverpool’s old-world charm. As you wander, your guide might point out some of the city’s oldest pubs—each with its own story and ambiance.

Pubs and Tastings

Next, you’ll hop between 2-3 pubs, each offering tastings of local craft beers, cocktails, or soft drinks. Many reviews praise guides like Paul or Pete for their ability to recommend the right spots based on your taste, making this part of the tour both fun and personalized. Alongside your drinks, you’ll enjoy traditional pub snacks or local dishes like Scouse—a hearty stew that’s a Liverpool classic. Some pubs, like the Cali, have modern twists, with vegan menus that appeal even if you’re not used to plant-based eating.

Waterfront Exploration

The tour wraps up with a stroll along Liverpool’s waterfront, where you can see the city’s modern lights and beautiful views. It’s a quieter, more relaxed way to end the experience, with plenty of opportunities for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

The Value of This Experience

At around $185 per person, this tour offers a lot—especially considering it’s private and includes multiple tastings. You’re paying for expert guides who bring local history, pub culture, and insider tips to life. Many guests rave about guides like Paul, who’s praised for his deep knowledge of Liverpool’s music scene, history, and pub culture, making the experience memorable and authentic.

The length (about 3 hours) is just enough to give you a solid taste of Liverpool’s pub and craft scene without feeling rushed. The flexibility to meet at your hotel or a central location adds to the ease, especially if you’re arriving from a cruise or a busy sightseeing schedule.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who love trying local food and drinks, are interested in history and culture, and prefer a private, customized approach. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at Liverpool’s pub scene. If you’re a craft beer lover or a foodie eager to explore beyond typical tourist spots, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. However, if you’re not keen on walking or have mobility concerns, it’s worth considering how much time you’ll be on your feet.

FAQs

Is this tour family-friendly?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, it focuses on pub culture and alcoholic tastings, so it’s probably not the best choice for children or teenagers.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, after booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire so your guide can tailor the experience based on your interests and preferences.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers 6-8 tastings across 2-3 eateries, a private walking tour lasting about three hours, and hotel pick-up options if your accommodation is central.

Are transportation costs included?
No, this is primarily a walking tour. Public transport may be used in some cases, but transportation costs are not included.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 105 days ahead, so it’s wise to plan early, especially if you’re visiting during peak season.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance aren’t refundable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re someone who appreciates a relaxed, intimate look at a city’s local food and drink scene, this Liverpool craft drinks and pub food tour hits the mark. It combines history, authentic pub experiences, and tastings, all delivered by guides who are passionate and knowledgeable. It’s especially a good choice if you want to avoid large group tours and prefer your experiences tailored to your interests.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour—focusing instead on pubs and local bites—it offers a genuine glimpse into Liverpool’s social heart. You’ll leave with a better understanding of the city’s pub culture, some new favorite drinks, and plenty of stories to tell back home. For foodies, craft beer lovers, or anyone eager to see Liverpool’s historic side through a friendly, personal lens, this tour offers a memorable way to spend a few hours.