One of Liverpool’s most iconic and historically significant buildings — the 1899-built clock tower formerly owned by the Liverpool Furnishing Company — is set for a stunning transformation into a boutique hotel, after years of dereliction. The new owners acquired the lease from Liverpool City Council for £330,000, with plans to rejuvenate the Grade II-listed property into a unique hospitality destination that blends heritage preservation with modern luxury.
A New Chapter for a Liverpool Landmark
Located in the heart of Liverpool, this Victorian-era clock tower, constructed by W. Hesketh & Co., stands as a symbol of the city’s industrious past. Although the structure has remained unoccupied since 2016 and has visibly deteriorated, many original architectural features — including the ornate clock face — remain intact. The building was officially listed as being in urgent need of repair in council cabinet documents from February 2023, which described it as “dilapidated.”
The clock tower was offered for sale in early 2024 as part of Liverpool City Council’s wider efforts to repurpose unused heritage properties. Following a competitive bidding process, the leasehold was secured by a local family-run development group who plan to convert the structure into a high-end, 20–30-room boutique hotel.
Respecting Liverpool’s Architectural Heritage
Under the terms of the 125-year lease agreement, any proposed development must safeguard the historical significance of the property. The new owners are working closely with local conservation authorities to ensure the restoration adheres to listed building regulations and retains the clock tower’s original character.
Before construction can commence, the developers must secure full planning permission and listed building consent — processes that require detailed architectural plans, environmental impact assessments, and stakeholder consultations. Nevertheless, city officials remain optimistic, citing the proposal as an example of responsible adaptive reuse.
“This project represents an important step in preserving Liverpool’s historic fabric,” said a spokesperson for Liverpool City Council. “It will not only safeguard the architectural value of this iconic site but also inject new energy into the surrounding area.”
Revitalising Liverpool’s Hotel Landscape
Liverpool has experienced significant tourism growth in recent years, bolstered by its UNESCO-listed Maritime Mercantile City status, rich musical heritage, and robust events calendar. The city attracted over 38 million visitors in 2023, according to the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, contributing more than £5 billion to the regional economy.
Amid this boom, the demand for distinctive accommodation is rising. While global brands dominate the hotel market, there is a growing appetite for boutique experiences that combine history, local culture, and modern hospitality. The converted clock tower is set to meet this demand head-on, offering guests a one-of-a-kind stay within a preserved architectural gem.
Industry analysts say the boutique hotel sector in the UK is thriving, with high occupancy rates and premium pricing potential — especially in cultural hubs like Liverpool. The hotel is expected to feature locally sourced interiors, a rooftop bar with skyline views, and possibly an integrated café open to the public.
Heritage Restoration Fuels City-Wide Regeneration
The clock tower conversion aligns with wider urban regeneration efforts across Liverpool. The city has recently launched heritage-led regeneration projects such as the Ten Streets Creative District and North Docks redevelopment, aiming to create a more vibrant, mixed-use urban environment that respects its industrial past.
According to Historic England, heritage-driven regeneration not only enhances tourism but also supports job creation and community pride. By breathing new life into underused buildings, projects like the clock tower hotel ensure that history remains a living part of the urban landscape.
Local historians have praised the initiative, noting that it represents a rare opportunity to protect a structure of civic pride while reimagining it for contemporary use.
What’s Next for the Clock Tower Hotel?
While an official timeline for the opening has yet to be announced, preliminary work on architectural plans and conservation surveys is already underway. If approvals proceed smoothly, construction could begin in early 2026 with a projected opening in 2027.
Once operational, the boutique hotel is expected to become a sought-after destination for architecture lovers, cultural travelers, and domestic visitors seeking an authentic Liverpool experience. Its central location also positions it well for business travelers and those attending events at nearby venues like the M&S Bank Arena and Liverpool ONE.
Conclusion: Blending Heritage With Hospitality
The transformation of Liverpool’s iconic clock tower into a boutique hotel is more than a building project — it’s a statement about the city’s values and vision. By preserving the past while embracing tourism-driven growth, Liverpool continues to redefine itself as a destination that honours its heritage while looking firmly toward the future.
This ambitious yet sensitive redevelopment is poised to become a landmark in its own right, attracting new visitors and reinvigorating the area for years to come.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
