The Martins Bank Building is a stunning and historic Grade II listed building sporting incredible architecture in the Classical style. It originally opened in 1932 and has 9 floors above ground, a mezzanine, and 3 floors below ground – an impressive feat in its time.
The bank itself has a complicated and long history that dates back over 400 years, beginning in London before eventually resting firmly in Liverpool. While it’s no longer an operating bank and visitors may not be able to access the interior, it’s well worth a visit to admire from the exterior.
Martins Bank Building - one of the highlights of 10 Things to Do Off the Beaten Track in Liverpool (Read all about Liverpool here)
photo by Reading Tom (CC BY 2.0) modified
Highlights of Martins Bank Building
You may be surprised to hear that Martins Bank Building has frequently appeared as a backdrop in famous TV and film programming, such as 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them'. The Emmy-winning film 'The Bullion Boys' was also filmed at the bank and told the true story of the bank’s World War II efforts to protect a great deal of Britain’s gold reserves.
Before you visit, do some research online to gain access to detailed images of the interior, such as the Boardroom’s colourful and detailed ceiling and the ornate liver birds scattered throughout.
photo by london road (CC BY 2.0) modified
Good to know about Martins Bank Building
The Martins Bank Building is located near the Liverpool city centre. While you can't go inside, you can get an up-close view and photographs of the impressive exterior. From here, you won’t be far from the Liverpool Waterfront, which features a range of activities. Check out the Mersey Ferry and enjoy a ferry tour to take in the views and learn more about the history of the Waterfront area.
You'll find plenty of museums nearby, too. Music fans can explore The Beatles Story for a curated collection of exhibits of the Fab Four or head to the British Music Experience, which covers a wider range of artists.
Martins Bank Building
Location: 4 Water St, Liverpool L2 3SP, UK
Open: 24/7
Start planning your trip
Where to stay in Liverpool
Titanic Hotel Liverpool
The Municipal Hotel Liverpool - MGallery
Hotel Indigo Liverpool City Centre, an IHG Hotel
Maldron Hotel Liverpool City
30 James Street
Britannia Adelphi Hotel
The Shankly Hotel
Hard Days Night Hotel
The Halyard Liverpool, Vignette Collection, an IHG Hotel
