Liverpool Weather in January

January weather in Liverpool

January is not one of Liverpool's best months, mainly because of the cold. It feels damp and often grey, with a high of 7°C, a low of 3°C and rain on 18 days. Daylight is short and there's little sunshine, so afternoons can feel gloomy. Keep outdoor plans flexible. If you're hoping to escape to a sunnier city, you won't find one nearby: Birmingham, Bath and London are all rated poor this month too.

You can still enjoy the waterfront, the Beatles Story and the museums around William Brown Street, which offer welcome shelter when the rain sets in. A long walk along the Pier Head can work well between showers, but the exposed riverfront paths feel chilly in a wind. Save a full day of outdoor sightseeing for clearer weather, ideally in June, July or September, when the city is at its best.

What's on in January

New Year's Day is a public holiday, so some shops and attractions may have reduced hours. Liverpool ONE's January sales give you a reason to browse, though the weather may make indoor shopping more appealing than lingering outside.

Football fans can look for a Liverpool FC or Everton home match, but fixtures vary from year to year. Match days bring more people to the stadiums and busy pubs. Families may find the city calmer outside those dates, and many indoor sights suit a wet afternoon.

Crowds, costs and local tips

January is quieter than the summer months, when June and July draw the biggest crowds. You'll generally find fewer visitors, and accommodation can cost less than in peak season. New Year and football fixtures can still make particular days busier.

For a rainy spell, take the Merseyrail to Liverpool Central and explore the indoor shops at Liverpool ONE. Then head to Bold Street for a bowl of scouse, a local meat-and-vegetable stew. Budget travellers may like the quieter streets, but don't expect sunny sightseeing days. January is among the least comfortable months for being outdoors, so plan your days around the weather rather than against it.