Liverpool is a port city on the west coast of England. It lies on the banks of the River Mersey. The city has a population of about a half a million or, including nearby towns (called the Metropolitan Area) about 1.3 million.

Liverpool's growth took place during the Industrial Revolution, when it handled a third of all trade going between Britain and the Empire.

Liverpool lost a lot of trade in the 20th century, as the way of handling goods changed to using containers. Many dock workers then lost their jobs.

Liverpool has rebuilt its waterfront area to take advantage of its unique historical dockside buildings, including the three dockside buildings known as the Three Graces. It has also taken advantage of its connection with the Beatles and other groups, and the number of people visiting Liverpool for business and tourism has begun to rise again.

The dockside area, and part of the city centre is a world heritage site.