Strawberry Field

Strawberry Field Liverpool: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to Strawberry Field and its Significance

Strawberry Field in Liverpool is a world-renowned landmark, celebrated for both its cultural and historical importance. Originally established as a Salvation Army children’s home in 1936, the site is forever linked to John Lennon and The Beatles. The iconic red gates and gardens inspired Lennon’s 1967 song “Strawberry Fields Forever,” a track that continues to embody nostalgia and creative imagination for generations of fans. Today, Strawberry Field is an immersive visitor centre and community hub, offering interactive exhibitions, tranquil gardens, and social programs supporting young people with learning difficulties. This guide provides comprehensive details on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, and tips for exploring the site and nearby Liverpool attractions (Strawberry Field Liverpool, Strawberry Field Official, Children’s Homes: Strawberry Field).

Historical Background
Visiting Strawberry Field: Essential Information
Visual Highlights & Artifacts
Notable Visitors & Philanthropy
FAQs
Summary of Key Dates
Exploring More Liverpool Sites
Planning Your Visit

Historical Background

Origins and Early Ownership

Strawberry Field began as a private Victorian mansion, owned by ship-owner George Warren in the late 19th century. After passing to Alexander C. Mitchell and then, following his death, to his widow, the estate was sold to the Salvation Army in 1934 through a legacy from Miss Mary Fowler, a Liverpool resident. This marked the start of Strawberry Field’s transformation from a private residence into a site of social care (Strawberry Field History).

Salvation Army Children’s Home

Officially opened on July 7, 1936, Strawberry Field began as a home for up to forty girls. In the 1950s, the home expanded to admit boys, reflecting changing social care practices. Annual garden fetes became a beloved tradition, attended by local families and a young John Lennon, who grew up nearby (Children’s Homes: Strawberry Field).

Architectural Transformation

By the early 1970s, the original mansion was demolished due to structural issues, replaced with a purpose-built facility. The new building included family units and staff accommodation, with “Lennon Court” named in 1979 to honour the site’s Beatles connection. The original gates and pillars were retired from daily use, later becoming a global symbol for Beatles fans (Children’s Homes: Strawberry Field).

The Beatles and Global Recognition

The release of “Strawberry Fields Forever” in 1967 brought international attention to the site. Lennon’s lyrics, rooted in his childhood experiences at Strawberry Field, resonated deeply and transformed the location into a pilgrimage for Beatles fans. The gates became an iconic photo spot, and their preservation ensures continued public engagement (Far Out Magazine, Children’s Homes: Strawberry Field).

Closure and Redevelopment

The children’s home closed in 2005, reflecting shifts in child care provision. In 2019, Strawberry Field reopened as a modern visitor attraction, featuring exhibitions about its history and John Lennon’s life, alongside a vocational training hub for young people with special needs. The redeveloped gardens, original driveway, and display of the original gates honour both the site’s legacy and contemporary mission (Strawberry Field Liverpool).

Visiting Strawberry Field: Essential Information

Visiting Hours

Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission 4:00 PM)
Closed: Mondays and major public holidays
Check the official website for seasonal changes and event closures.

Ticket Information

Adults: £10
Children (5–15 years): £5
Family (2 adults + 2 children): £25
Concessions (students, seniors): £8
Children under 5: Free
Carers: Free
Book online in advance to guarantee entry (Strawberry Field tickets).

Accessibility

Strawberry Field is fully accessible, featuring step-free access, accessible restrooms (including Changing Places facilities), and support for visitors with sensory or mobility needs. Assistance dogs are welcome. Contact the site in advance for tailored support (Strawberry Field accessibility).

Getting There

Address: 16 Beaconsfield Road, Liverpool, L25 6EJ
Public Transport: Bus routes 76, 75, 86C, and 78; nearest train stations: Liverpool South Parkway, West Allerton, Mossley Hill (Moovit guide)
Parking: On-site including accessible spaces; EV charging nearby (Zap-Map)
Taxi/Ride-Share: 20–30 minutes from city centre

Facilities

Exhibition: Explore Lennon’s childhood, the history of the children’s home, and Beatles memorabilia, including the Imagine piano and virtual Mellotron (Strawberry Field tickets).
Gardens: Peaceful grounds, red gates, bandstand, and areas for reflection.
Café: The award-winning Imagine More Café serves local, accessible refreshments (Growth Platform).
Shop: Exclusive merchandise supports Salvation Army programs.

Visual Highlights & Preservation of Artifacts

Red Gates: The original red gates, immortalised by The Beatles, are displayed within the grounds, while replicas stand at the entrance (Wikipedia).
Exhibition: Multimedia displays, archival footage, and personal stories bring the site’s past to life.
Gardens: Landscaped spaces for relaxation and reflection, including the Ukrainian Peace Monument.

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Notable Visitors & Philanthropy

Notable figures such as Yoko Ono and Sean Lennon have visited Strawberry Field, with Ono providing funding for a children’s play area in 1984, strengthening the Lennon family’s connection to the site (Strawberry Field History, Liverpool Echo).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (last admission 4:00 PM), closed Mondays (Strawberry Field tickets).

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Adults £10, children £5, family £25, concessions £8. Carers and children under 5 enter free.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with step-free access and accessible restrooms throughout.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, photography is permitted except in some special exhibition areas.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Several bus routes and nearby train stations connect to the site (Moovit guide).

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Only assistance dogs are permitted.

Summary of Key Dates

1870–1927: Private ownership (George Warren, Alexander C. Mitchell)
1934: Sold to Salvation Army
1936: Opened as a children’s home
1950s: Expanded to admit boys
1973: Mansion demolished; new family units built
1979: Lennon Court opened
2005: Children’s home closed
2019: Reopened as visitor centre and training hub

Exploring More Liverpool Historical Attractions

Combine your visit to Strawberry Field with other nearby attractions:

Plan Your Strawberry Field Visit

Book Tickets: Strawberry Field official site
Check Opening Times: Plan Your Visit
Accessibility Info: Accessibility page
Events Calendar: Upcoming Events
Download the Audiala App: For audio guides and exclusive content

For more travel inspiration and Beatles-themed itineraries, follow Strawberry Field and Audiala on social media.

Summary

Strawberry Field stands as a testament to Liverpool’s musical legacy and commitment to social inclusion. From its beginnings as a Salvation Army children’s home to its place in Beatles lore, Strawberry Field continues to inspire visitors through its immersive exhibition, beautiful gardens, and inclusive community programs. Plan your visit to this must-see Liverpool historical site for an unforgettable experience.