This review of Radisson RED Liverpool is a sponsored post, however all views are our own.
Walking into the lobby at Radisson RED Liverpool, we were greeted by the sparkling lights of a giant Christmas tree. Behind it was a sweeping staircase, decorated with red and golden baubles, leading upwards towards a large atrium.
It was magical, ambient and luxurious – and definitely not what we had expected from a hotel attached to the city’s chaotic train station.
Boasting grand Victorian architecture, with high ceilings and cosy lighting, the lobby of the Raddison RED Liverpool felt like a warm, opulent bubble of festivity. Escaping everyday life (and small children) for just 24 hours, we couldn’t wait to settle into the hotel and explore the sights and sounds of one of our favourite UK cities.
Below is our honest review of Radisson RED Liverpool.
How Many Stars is Radisson RED Liverpool?
First things first, what level of luxury can you expect from this hotel?
The Radisson RED Liverpool is a four star hotel and I would say that we definitely agree with this rating. Reopened in 2022, Radisson RED Liverpool was transformed from former student digs into a modern and welcoming space for visitors.
What is the Difference between Radisson RED and Radisson BLU?
One of the first questions we asked during our stay was: what exactly is the difference between the Radisson RED and BLU brand? Having stayed in both, it wasn’t glaringly obvious what the differences were and we were intrigued to find out.
According to the Radisson team, RED hotels are designed to fit into the city that they’re located. More fun, laid back and quirky, these hotels look to reflect the culture that surrounds them and are aimed at a more millennial audience.
Think self-check-in screens, quirky wall art and the like.
Radisson BLU hotels, however, is the parent brand – designed to provide the same, consistent experience and level of luxury wherever they’re located in the world.
We definitely found that the Radisson RED Liverpool had taken inspiration from the city, with local artwork hanging on the walls, as well as similar artwork available to buy in the hotel shop. Of course, there were also (as expected) plenty of nods to the Beatles – with even a giant submarine in the lobby.
Where is Radisson RED Liverpool Located?
On our train up to Liverpool, I opened Google maps to see where the Radisson RED Liverpool was in the city.
Confused at the result, I showed Laura the map and asked if I’d got something wrong. It appeared that the hotel was located within Liverpool Lime Street Station itself, which although convenient, did concern me a little.
Would it be noisy? Cramped? I wasn’t looking for a cheap and cheerful hotel aimed at convenience over experience.
Thankfully, we soon discovered that despite its location, Radisson RED Liverpool was none of the above. Located a stone’s throw from the train station, Radisson RED Liverpool is actually situated in a Grade II-listed building, and was designed by Alfred Waterhouse in 1871 as the original connecting railway hotel.
Very much in its own beautiful Victorian building, Radisson RED Liverpool feels luxurious and spacious, whilst also enjoying close proximity to the train station.
In fact, there’s even a door in the reception that takes you straight into the station – a game changer.
The hotel’s location makes it ideal for those looking for an easy stay in Liverpool when arriving by train. It’s also surrounded by art galleries and theatres, with beautiful views of St George’s Hall, making it a great and central place to base yourself.
Is There a Restaurant in Radisson RED Liverpool?
Inside Radisson RED Liverpool, you’ll find Stoke Brasserie & Grill. We were fortunate enough to enjoy dinner here during our stay and would highly recommend the restaurant, whether you’re a guest or simply looking for somewhere great to eat in the city.
The name Stoke Brasserie & Grill is a nod to the hotel’s railway past, and the menu focuses on British cuisines, with a few flourishes of European inspiration. A large grill takes centre stage in the kitchen, producing delicious dishes.
We enjoyed a collection of plates from the grill, including a sharing platter of freshly grilled meats and spicy rice, washed down with some delicious cocktails from the bar.
The restaurant has a laid back, cosy atmosphere and we also enjoyed some hot chocolates in the bar before catching our train home. Breakfast is also served here and we couldn’t fault it – it was fantastic.
Review of Radisson RED Liverpool: Rooms
There is a dazzling array of room types on offer at Radisson RED Liverpool Hotel (201 to be exact), catering for all types of budgets.
We stayed in a simple standard room, which was more than enough for our needs. As two tired Mums, we were just after a soft mattress, cups of tea in bed and a quiet hotel room. The rain shower in the bathroom was a lovely, unexpected touch, and we both indulged in long, hot showers (without the normal bellows of our kids, as they hammer down the door).
Each room comes equipped with free WIFI, smart TVs, Nespresso Machines and individual climate control.
For those looking for a little more space, the hotel offers superior, premium and interconnecting family rooms (ideal for travel with kids), as well as suites for those really looking to blow the budget.
Prices range from £85 per night (excluding breakfast), which I think is really well priced, given the quality and location of the hotel.
Other Amenities at Radisson RED Liverpool
As well as the restaurant and welcoming reception area, the hotel also offers a 24/7 gym. Glowing under a red neon light, this was not a gym aimed at two women looking for a restful night away, but we were impressed with what it had to offer.
Radisson RED Liverpool and Liverpool Christmas Markets
If (like us), you’re looking to visit Liverpool Christmas Markets and need a hotel to stay in, the Radisson RED Liverpool couldn’t be more ideal. The markets are situated around St George’s Hall, directly opposite the hotel.
This meant that after a delicious dinner at Stoke Brasserie & Grill, we were able to simply walk over the road to enjoy the markets by night.
5 Things to do near the Radisson RED Liverpool
One of the best selling points of the Radisson RED Liverpool is its handy location to so many sights and experiences in the city. Below is a quick round-up of just a few things that are within walking distance from the hotel.
1. Art Galleries
The hotel is surrounded by prominent art galleries in Liverpool, including the Walker Art Gallery. This gallery is a must for any art lover, boasting one of the most important collections of art in the UK.
We really enjoyed wandering around this space, which is just a few minutes walk from the hotel.
2. Music Halls and Theatres
As mentioned above, the hotel is directly opposite the iconic St George’s Hall. This mid-century concert hall is open to the public to explore, as well as attend concerts and plays that are staged there.
If you’re looking to make a night of it, with a proper trip to the theatre for a musical, play or even some stand-up comedy, the Liverpool Empire is also within walking distance of the hotel.
3. Wyld Sauna
For those looking for a unique experience in Liverpool, head to the newly opened Wyld Sauna. The first floating sauna in Britain, Wyld Sauna is based on those found in Finland and Sweden and offers a glass fronted sauna, as well as four ice baths, cold waterfall showers, and the chance to swim in the Mersey.
We were unsure about giving the Wyld Sauna a go (well, unsure about the swimming in the Mersey part) but quickly got addicted to the feeling of moving between the two extremes. We enjoyed 1.5 hours at Wyld Sauna and would definitely visit again.
We left feeling elated – it was such a brilliant experience.
4. Ferry across the Mersey
A not so new experience to enjoy while in Liverpool, yet an iconic one, is to take a ferry across the Mersey.
Despite visiting Liverpool a number of times, we had never taken the trip before, until our stay at Radisson RED Liverpool. A 15-minute walk down to the dock from the hotel, we enjoyed our early morning voyage – a perfect way to wake up while taking in the views of Liverpool’s skyline.
5. Pinot & Picasso with friends
If you’re visiting Radisson RED Liverpool with a group of friends, consider booking on to a Pinot & Picasso night. We throughly enjoyed this experience, and were let loose with a paintbrush, all while sipping some great gin-based cocktails.
During our session, our wonderful teacher talked us through painting a Northern Lights scene, that we then had to replicate. We were both impressed with our creative talents, reminding us what we could achieve when not scuppered by the messy hands of 3-year olds.
Final Thoughts
In our review of Radisson RED Liverpool, I can confidently confirm that this hotel is a brilliant option for those looking for a short stay in the city. Ideally located to so many sights and entertainment, it couldn’t be easier to make the most of Liverpool during a stay here.
I believe Radisson RED Liverpool has truly hit the mark when it comes to providing a comfortable and enjoyable stay, all whilst offering brilliant value for money.
