The former home of George Holt, one of Liverpool’s wealthiest 19th-century merchants, features an impressive collection of paintings, costumes and household items. The lovingly restored mansion features Holt’s collection in its original context. Sudley House features an impressive collection of 18th- and 19th-century British art, including a number of pieces by Thomas Gainsborough and Joshua Reynolds. The gallery provides a unique insight into the lives of Liverpool’s elite through its original furnishings and decorations. A visit to Sudley House is a relaxing and educational experience unlike anything else in Liverpool, and will be enjoyed by those with a fascination for history and art.

See beautiful portraits by John Everett Millais and Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema, alongside important sculptures by Benjamin E. Spence. Spence was a local sculptor commissioned to depict members of the Naylor family in 1852. Move through the house to reach the dining room, complete with a luxurious 10-seat dining table. Imagine the Holt’s entertaining wealthy friends in the room, surrounded by George’s vast collection of art.

A costume room features outfits worn between 1700 and today. The large collection of clothing and textiles rotates regularly and temporary exhibitions are common in the room. The nearby Children’s Room shows how life was for the children of the 18th and 19th centuries. Look at the toys that entertained upper class children in Liverpool. Another room features a series of model houses, animals and dolls, a popular toy of the time. One of the highlights of the museum, the small world room features a large collection of these items, including model trains and ships.

Sudley House is located just outside the city center and can be reached by car, bus or train. Parking is limited at the house, however there is some street parking in the area. Sudley House is free to visit and is closed on Christmas, Boxing Day and New Years Day.