Liverpool Liverpool is a city and metropolitan borough of Merseyside , England , United Kingdom along the eastern side of the Mersey Estuary . It was founded as a borough in 1207 and was granted city status in 1880 . It is the fourth most populous British city , and third most populous in England , with a 2011 population of 466 , 400 and is at the centre of a wider urban area , the Liverpool City Region , which has a population of around 2 million people . Historically a part of Lancashire , the urbanisation and expansion of Liverpool were both largely brought about by the city ' s status as a major port . By the 18th century , trade from the West Indies , Ireland and mainland Europe coupled with close links with the Slave Trade furthered the economic expansion of Liverpool . By the early 19th century , 40 % of the world ' s trade passed through Liverpool ' s docks , contributing to Liverpool ' s rise as a major city . Liverpool is also well known for its inventions and innovations , particularly in terms of infrastructure , transportation and general construction . Railways , ferries and the skyscraper were all pioneered in the city . Inhabitants of Liverpool are referred to as Liverpudlians but are also colloquially known as " Scousers " , in reference to the local dish known as " scouse " , a form of stew . The word " Scouse " has also become synonymous with the Liverpool accent and dialect . Liverpool ' s status as a port city has contributed to its diverse population , which , historically , were drawn from a wide range of peoples , cultures , and religions , particularly those from Ireland . The city is also home to the oldest Black African community in the country and the oldest Chinese community in Europe . Labelled the " World Capital City of Pop " by Guinness World Records , Liverpool has produced a wealth of musical talent since the mid - 20th century . The popularity of The Beatles , Billy Fury , Gerry and the Pacemakers and the other groups from the Merseybeat era , and later bands such as Echo & the Bunnymen and Frankie Goes to Hollywood , contributes to Liverpool ' s status as a tourist destination ; tourism forms a significant part of the city ' s modern economy . The city celebrated its 800th anniversary in 2007 , and it held the European Capital of Culture title together with Stavanger , Norway , in 2008 . Liverpool is noted for its rich architectural heritage and is home to many buildings regarded as amongst the greatest examples of their respective styles in the world . Several areas of the city centre were granted World Heritage Site status by UNESCO in 2004 . Referred to as the Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City , the site comprises six separate locations in the city including the Pier Head , Albert Dock and William Brown Street and includes many of the city ' s most famous landmarks . Liverpool is also well known for its strong sporting identity . The city is home of two Premier League football clubs , Liverpool F . C . and Everton F . C . Matches between the two clubs are known as the Merseyside derby . The world - famous Grand National also takes places annually at Aintree Racecourse on the outskirts of the city . In " Coronation Street " . Martin Platt moved to Liverpool in November 2005 with his girlfriend Robyn for a new life away from Weatherfield . His son David would occasionally visit Martin , although these instances became fewer and further between as David was resentful towards his father for having another baby with Robyn . However Martin still kept in contact with the family and David ' s last known trip was in the summer of 2015 .