Radio City Tower

The Radio City Tower, officially known as St. John’s Beacon, is one of Liverpool’s most recognisable landmarks and a symbol of the city’s modern skyline. Standing 138 metres tall, it towers above the heart of Liverpool, offering unparalleled panoramic views that stretch for miles in every direction. Originally completed in 1969, the tower was first designed as a ventilation shaft for the nearby St. John’s Shopping Centre, topped with a revolving restaurant known as the “Tower Restaurant.” Though the restaurant eventually closed in the 1970s, the structure was repurposed and given new life in the 1990s when it became home to Liverpool’s popular radio station, Radio City.

Today, the tower continues to function as the broadcast base for Radio City and its sister stations, but it’s also open to the public as a viewing platform, offering visitors a unique way to experience the city from above. From the top, you can enjoy 360-degree views over Liverpool’s historic skyline, the River Mersey, the Wirral Peninsula, and on a clear day, even as far as the Welsh hills and the Pennines. It’s a photographer’s dream and an ideal spot for first-time visitors wanting to get their bearings or locals looking to see their city from a new perspective.

The observation deck is fully enclosed and accessible via a high-speed lift, making it an all-weather attraction. Inside, informative displays point out major landmarks, from the Liver Building and Anfield Stadium to the cathedrals and Albert Dock. Despite its height and dramatic position, the atmosphere at the top is peaceful and reflective—a striking contrast to the bustle of the streets below.

Though no longer revolving, the tower retains a futuristic feel, a reminder of the city’s post-war ambition and evolving identity. It’s more than just a viewing point; it’s a cultural icon that ties together Liverpool’s past, present, and future. Whether you’re visiting for the views, the history, or a love of radio, a trip to the top of the Radio City Tower offers a literal and figurative high point in any Liverpool experience.