Liverpool has once again secured a spot in the top 10 friendliest cities in the United Kingdom, according to the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. The city was ranked eighth in a national poll where travellers shared their experiences of the most welcoming destinations for a staycation.
The magazine highlighted Liverpool's renowned social scene, specifically mentioning its "notoriously good nights out" and the welcoming nature of its residents. This consistent recognition reinforces the city's reputation as a top choice for visitors seeking a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
Key Takeaways
- Liverpool placed eighth in the Condé Nast Traveller 2025 list of the UK's friendliest cities.
- The ranking was determined by a vote from the magazine's readers based on their travel experiences.
- The publication praised the city for its outgoing residents and vibrant nightlife.
- Glasgow was named the friendliest city for the second consecutive year, with Manchester placing second.
Recognition for Scouse Hospitality
In its announcement, Condé Nast Traveller celebrated the distinct character of Liverpudlians, often known as Scousers. The magazine pointed to their friendly and outgoing nature as a key factor in the city's high ranking.
The publication provided a glowing review of the local population, encouraging visitors to engage with the community.
"So it’s no secret that Scousers are some of the most endearing people around. They’re wildly outgoing, thoughtfully inclusive, and always on the lookout for more to join their notoriously good nights out, so take a trip to a packed Liverpool bar and plunge into cheery conversation within seconds."
The magazine also suggested several topics for visitors to discuss with locals, showcasing the city's rich cultural fabric. These icebreakers included its deep maritime history, the passionate football rivalry between its major clubs, and the enduring legacy of Beatlemania.
The National Rankings Explained
The annual poll covers the entire United Kingdom, inviting readers to rate cities based on how welcome they felt during their stay. Liverpool's eighth-place position was shared with the southern coastal city of Brighton, indicating a tie in their satisfaction scores.
UK's Top 10 Friendliest Cities 2025
- Glasgow
- Manchester
- Edinburgh
- Bath
- Cambridge
- Belfast
- London
- Liverpool & Brighton (Tied)
- (No 9th place due to the tie)
- Aberdeen
The list reveals a strong showing for cities across the UK. Scottish cities bookended the list, with Aberdeen taking the tenth spot. London, the nation's capital, was ranked seventh, just ahead of Liverpool.
How Other Cities Performed
Glasgow claimed the top position for the second year in a row, achieving an impressive score of 97 out of 100. According to Condé Nast Traveller, the city is celebrated for its outstanding hospitality, generous people, and "irresistible Glaswegian charm." Glasgow's status as a UNESCO City of Music, with its legendary venues and lively bars, was also highlighted as a major draw.
Manchester, Liverpool's North West neighbour, secured the runner-up spot. The magazine specifically mentioned Rusholme’s famous Curry Mile as a prime example of the city's vibrant and welcoming culinary scene.
Other cities that outperformed Liverpool in the friendliness stakes included Edinburgh, Bath, Cambridge, and Belfast, which filled out the third to sixth positions respectively.
A Consistent Mark of Quality
This is not the first time Liverpool has been featured in the annual top 10 list, demonstrating the city's consistent ability to leave a positive and lasting impression on visitors. The friendly nature of its residents is frequently cited as a primary reason for its popularity as a tourist destination.
Beyond Friendliness: Liverpool's Hotel Scene
In addition to its welcoming atmosphere, Liverpool's hospitality sector has also received praise from Condé Nast Traveller. The magazine recently compiled a list of its top 10 hotels in the city, further cementing its status as a premier travel destination. Notable hotels mentioned include:
- Hope Street Hotel
- The Municipal
- The Halyard
- Titanic Hotel
- Malmaison
- Radisson RED
- Hard Day’s Night Hotel
The combination of a welcoming local population and high-quality accommodation options makes Liverpool a compelling choice for a UK staycation. The city's rich history, from its maritime past to its musical heritage, provides a unique backdrop for visitors to explore.
The recurring presence of Liverpool in such rankings is a testament to the city's efforts to create an inclusive and enjoyable environment for everyone. Whether it's the lively conversation in a pub, the shared passion for football, or the celebration of its musical icons, the city offers a distinctly warm welcome that continues to resonate with travellers from across the country and the world.