The Bombed Out Church is a beloved local landmark acting as a reminder of the city’s history as well as a unique cultural venue. Officially called St. Luke’s Church, the building was hit by bombs during a 1941 air raid over Liverpool, leading to a devastating blaze that lasted 3 full days. Although there were no deaths during the late-night fire, it was decided that the church would remain standing in its semi-derelict state as a monument to the more than 4,000 who perished across Merseyside during the Second World War.
Today, the church is a Grade II-listed monument acting as a special venue for events across music, cinema and much more. On summer days, the adjacent gardens become flush with flora and draw in plenty of locals who come for picnics and sunbathing.
Bombed Out Church in Liverpool - one of the highlights of 10 Most Instagrammable Places in Liverpool (Read all about Liverpool here)
Highlights of the Bombed Out Church
Visiting St. Luke’s, or the Bombed Out Church as locals know it, it becomes apparent just what a beautiful structure the church once was and continues to be. Built by a father and son duo between 1811 and 1832, the church is a stunning example of the Perpendicular Gothic Revival style popular in the early to mid-19th century. Of particular note are the west tower, built in 3 stages with polygonal buttresses at the corners, and the striking 5-bay nave.
For many in the city, the Bombed Out Church is a poignant reminder of the suffering that Liverpool endured during the Second World War. As a major port, the city suffered more than most at the hands of Luftwaffe bombs, with thousands of civilians perishing and much of the landscape left devastated. Today, a small plaque at the church acts as a tribute to those lost during the war while the sculpture Truce by Andy Edwards looks to do the same by evoking a well-known moment of World War I history.
The Bombed Out Church hosts many events throughout the year. Whether you come to catch a performance by a world-class DJ – Jamie XX and Bonobo have both played here – or for the annual Liverpool Theatre Festival stage held in the nave, there's a rich cultural calendar on offer here.
Eating and drinking at the Bombed Out Church
The Bombed Out Church Garden Bar and Café provides yet another facet to this fascinating landmark. Offering draught beer, local real ale, premium spirits, cocktails and a wine list, the café is also known for its excellent coffee and hot chocolate.
The Bombed Out Church is located at the core of Liverpool’s most vibrant district, right on the corner of Berry Street and Leece Street. This means that the Bombed Out Church sits in prime position for access to some of Liverpool’s very best eateries.
Bold Street sits directly opposite, with its hip restaurants including Indian-influenced Mowgli, elegant Maray and vibrant Bakchich for Middle-Eastern small plates. Elsewhere, Berry Street is home to cutting-edge Spanish tapas joint Neon Jamon and Leece Street has Zorbas, a longstanding, family-run Greek spot known for great food and a crackling atmosphere.
Good to know about the Bombed Out Church
Exciting work is being done at this city centre landmark and it looks set to gain further momentum. Education will continue to be at the forefront of the organisation, with workshops, classes and other informative events set to take priority.
Bombed Out Church in Liverpool
Location: Leece St, Liverpool L1 2TR, UK
Open: Friday from 1 pm to 7 pm and Saturday–Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm (closed from Monday–Thursday)
Phone: +44 (0)151 374 0366