sevendayweekender – From Thursday, 20 March, Royal Albert Dock in Liverpool will host Borealis. A breathtaking light installation by Swiss artist Dan Acher. For 10 nights only, the skies above the dock will shimmer with the colours of the Northern Lights. Transforming the waterfront into an immersive experience of art and nature.
Running each evening from 7:00pm to 10:00pm, the installation will stretch along Hartley Quay past The Pump House, with the Martin Luther King Jr. Building marking the official starting point. Visitors will be invited to walk the length of the quay to experience the full spectacle overhead.
Acher’s Borealis uses a combination of light, sound, and the natural environment to recreate the aurora borealis in urban settings. Because the display relies on real-time weather conditions—such as wind, humidity, and temperature—no two nights will look the same. Each evening, the sky’s canvas will shift in colour and texture, offering a new perspective with every visit.
This marks the first time the globally acclaimed artwork has come to Liverpool. Borealis has previously captivated audiences in cities around the world, bringing an element of natural wonder to urban landscapes.
Visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, take their time along the viewing route, and soak in the interplay of light and atmosphere. Whether seen solo or as part of a group outing, the display promises to leave a lasting impression.
In addition to the installation, Royal Albert Dock’s bars and restaurants will offer limited-edition food and drink specials throughout the event, making it an ideal evening out for locals and tourists alike. With its mix of art, science, and community. Borealis brings magic to the waterfront and celebrates the power of shared public experiences.
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Royal Albert Dock Serves Up Exclusive Bites and Drinks
As Borealis lights up the skies above Royal Albert Dock. Visitors can enhance the experience with a wide selection of food and drink offerings available throughout the venue. From sit-down dinners to grab-and-go treats, the dock’s eateries have curated special menus and seasonal items to celebrate the arrival of the light installation.
For those seeking a warm meal before or after their walk beneath the lights. Gusto offers hearty Italian classics such as hand-stretched pizzas and fresh pasta. Nearby, Delhi House presents comforting curries full of bold spices, perfect for chilly evenings. Guests looking to raise a glass can visit Revolución de Cuba. Where a vibrant Berry Caipirinha cocktail adds a splash of colour and flavour to the night.
For a more casual experience, visitors can grab a bite from two pop-up cabins located beside the Martin Luther King Jr. Building. Open from 5:00pm to 10:00pm each evening, The One O’Clock Gun will serve up steaming pots of Scouse. Liverpool’s beloved stew, perfect for enjoying on the move. Francie’s Focaccia & Coffee will offer a sweet twist on the event. Featuring Borealis Special Hot Chocolates topped with green and pink chocolate shavings. Sweet-toothed visitors can also treat themselves to colourful cannolis, available in limited batches each night.
These food and drink options are designed to complement the Borealis experience and cater to every appetite. Whether visitors want a full meal, a quick snack, or a festive drink to sip under the lights. Royal Albert Dock offers the perfect culinary pairing. The immersive experience doesn’t stop at the art installation—Borealis becomes a full-sensory journey with every bite and sip enjoyed along the waterfront.
Expands Borealis Experience with Street Food and Family-friendly Attractions
Visitors heading to Royal Albert Dock for the Borealis light installation can enjoy even more variety with the addition of relocated street food trucks near the main entrance. Three of the dock’s most popular vendors will serve up fresh and flavorful dishes throughout the evening. Guests can savour warm Souvlaki wraps from So Greek Full or indulge in authentic Turkish street food from Bu & Co. All conveniently positioned to fuel exploration before or after taking in the lights.
Families looking to extend their evening can take advantage of a range of entertainment options available throughout the dock. For thrill-seekers, Escape Hunt offers immersive escape room experiences that test teamwork and creativity. Music lovers can step into history at The Beatles Story, a museum dedicated to the legacy of Liverpool’s most iconic band. Meanwhile, shoppers can explore a variety of boutique stores, such as The Nest, where visitors can pick up vibrant spring prints or unique souvenirs to commemorate the evening.
This combination of dynamic street food, cultural experiences, and hands-on entertainment ensures that Borealis at Royal Albert Dock becomes more than just a light show—it transforms into a memorable night out for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to relive the magic, the dock provides a welcoming atmosphere filled with flavour, fun, and unforgettable sights.
