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LIVERPOOL is set to host a series of celebratory events to honour Cunard's 185th Anniversary; marking a historic milestone in the City's long standing relationship with the world renowned cruise line.

The festivities will take place after the Queen Mary 2 (QM2) sails into Liverpool on:- Wednesday, 17 September for a 2 night stay alongside Liverpool Cruise Port. Not only will the visit acknowledge Liverpool as the birthplace of the Cunard line, it will also reflect Liverpool's groundbreaking role in naming:- Queen Anne in 2024. the 1st time a City, rather than a single godparent, was given the honour.

It will also mark a decade since Cunard were granted the Freedom of the City, during the unforgettable 3 Queens event in 2015. The gathering of the Cunard fleet attracted over 1 million spectators to the River Mersey, in tribute to the Britannia's historic departure from Liverpool in 1840, which marked the first-ever transatlantic crossing by a Cunard ship.

Highlights of the celebrations, which will take place on:- Thursday, 18 September and Friday, 19 September 2025, include:- Civic Reception at Liverpool Town Hall; A formal welcome for Captain Tomás Connery and Senior Officers, recognising Cunard's enduring connection to the City and Freedom of the City status, which was granted in recognition of their historic role in maritime heritage.

Guided tours of the Cunard Building; Exclusive behind-the-scenes access for both QM2 passengers and the public across both days. This ticketed activity will give visitors the chance to explore the hidden history of the Grade II listed building, including:- the luggage room, 1st class safe, and original wood-panelled rooms. To book on 1 of the tours, visit:- Liverpool.Gov.UK. (Please note, space is limited.)

Pop-up Liverpool Market; Over 40 stalls showcasing local food, drink, crafts and art inside the Cunard Building's Grand Arrivals Hall for the 1st time, along with a small selection outside (weather permitting). Open:- 10am to 5pm on:- 18 September to 19 September. Free entry.

Sail away moment; In partnership with Liverpool Cruise Port, at:- 9pm there will be a brief pyrotechnic moment to mark the occasion to coincide with the ship departure time at around:- 8.30pm.

Liverpool City Council's Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said:- "Liverpool and Cunard share a bond that spans nearly 2 centuries; a relationship built on heritage, pride and unforgettable moments. From the spectacular 3 Queens event in 2015, to the historic naming of Queen Anne in 2024, our City has consistently played a central role in Cunard's story. This year, as we celebrate Cunard's 185th Anniversary, we're proud to open the doors of the iconic Cunard Building to the public like never before. These guided tours offer a rare glimpse into the building's hidden history allowing visitors to step into the legacy of transatlantic travel and Liverpool's maritime past. This celebration is not only a tribute to our shared history, but a reaffirmation of our commitment to future collaborations with Cunard."

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said:- "Liverpool will always be the spiritual home of Cunard and it is wonderful to be back with Queen Mary 2 to mark our 185th Anniversary. So many of our proudest moments are tied to this City, from Britannia's 1st sailing to the naming of Queen Anne, and it feels very special to be celebrating together once again."

Culture Liverpool's Head of Operations, Angie Redhead, said:- "Cunard visits are more than just celebrations; they're vital opportunities to showcase Liverpool's identity, strengthen key relationships, and create unforgettable memories for residents and visitors alike. Our special partnership with Cunard has delivered some of the most iconic moments in the City's recent history, and this Anniversary allows us to build on that legacy. By opening up the Cunard Building for guided tours and markets, we're inviting people to step inside a space that has shaped Liverpool's maritime story, whilst our pop up market will showcase local makers, bakers, artists and artisans. These kinds of events help us foster civic pride, drive tourism, and lay the groundwork for future collaborations that benefit the City both culturally and economically."

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