Liverpool is a city for both drivers and foot passengers. With the city growing increasingly pedestrianised, it can pose challenges for drivers who are finding themselves weaving in and out of busier streets, smaller gaps, and fewer parking space. So, with that in mind, here are our five best tips for when driving in Liverpool.
Explore The Scenic Routes
Liverpool boasts plenty of picturesque drives that can provide a delightful experience for drivers. The Wirral Peninsula, for instance, offers stunning views of the River Mersey, the Irish Sea, and the Dee Estuary.
Heading further, you can join the A540, which is a coastal road towards West Kirby, with plenty of serene views of the waterfront. The Sefton Coastal Drive is another must-visit route which stretches along the coastline, offering views of the Irish Sea on one side and lush green landscapes on the other.
Know Where To Park For Free
While Liverpool offers numerous parking spaces, finding free parking can save you both time and money. Areas such as Lark Lane near Sefton Park and some parts of the Baltic Triangle, close to the city centre, have non-restricted street parking. However, always double-check for parking signs to avoid unexpected fines. Remember that some residential areas might require permits, so always double check, but generally there can be free parking dotted around.
If you’re happy to pay for some extra convenience, Seel Street and Victoria Street have pay and display parking options.
Avoid The Rush Hour
Liverpool, like many other big cities in the UK, can get congested during rush hour – commuters may be coming in from the likes of Manchester, Bolton, and even Stoke-on-Trent. Peak times are typically between 7:30 am to 9:30 am and 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm on weekdays. When possible, it’s best to schedule your driving ahead of time to avoid these hours. Not only will you save time, but you’ll also enjoy a more relaxed driving experience without the usual hustle and bustle.
Familiarise Yourself With One-Way Systems
Liverpool’s city centre is notorious for its one-way systems. These can be confusing for first-time visitors. Invest in an updated GPS system or use smartphone apps like Google Maps or Waze, which provide real-time traffic updates and guide you through these one-way stretches. It’s always a good idea to plan your route beforehand and familiarise yourself with major landmarks, making your drive in Liverpool less stressful and more enjoyable. But, most important is to avoid using your 2008 TomTom.
Using Fog Lights Intelligently
Liverpool, being close to the coast, often experiences dense fog, particularly during the colder months. Fog can significantly reduce visibility and make driving challenging. If visibility drops below 100 metres, UK law mandates the use of fog lights.
Picture of fog lights from autodoc.co.uk
Remember, though, it’s crucial to switch them off once conditions improve, as fog lights can dazzle other road users and cause undue distractions – overuse of fog lights is just as common as underuse according to these safe driving tips.
Driving in Liverpool can be a joy given the right set of circumstances. Once you’re familiar with the city’s design and scenic routes, it’s not quite as bad as people make out!
