Published on
October 28, 2025
Merseyside is set for a thrilling weekend filled with sports, culture, and entertainment. With multiple high-profile events taking place across Liverpool and its surrounding areas, the region is expected to see a surge in visitors, both from sports enthusiasts and festival-goers. As the weekend promises sell-out crowds at major venues, travelers are advised to plan their journeys in advance to avoid delays and make the most of the exciting atmosphere.
On Saturday, fans will flock to the Hill Dickinson Stadium for the Rugby League Ashes match between England and Australia, while Liverpool’s iconic Anfield will host a Premier League clash between Liverpool and Aston Villa. For football lovers, there’s also the FA Cup tie between Tranmere Rovers and Stockport County at Prenton Park. In addition, the city’s waterfront will come alive with the annual River of Light art festival, drawing thousands of visitors to the vibrant riverside area. With so many events happening simultaneously, planning your travel ahead of time is crucial for a smooth experience.
Event Schedule: What’s Happening in Merseyside
Here’s a look at the major events taking place across Merseyside on Saturday:
14:30 – England vs Australia Rugby League Ashes at Hill Dickinson Stadium15:00 – Tranmere Rovers vs Stockport County at Prenton Park, Wirral17:00 – River of Light Art Festival at Liverpool Waterfront20:00 – Liverpool vs Aston Villa at Anfield
With such a packed schedule, event-goers are advised to allow ample time for travel and anticipate high demand for transportation and parking.
Travel Advice for Sports Fans: Getting to the Venues
If you’re attending the England vs Australia rugby match at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority has outlined several transport options. The stadium is well-connected to the city with shuttle bus services and easy access by train.
Shuttle Bus Services:
Three shuttle bus routes will operate from key points in the city, including:
Liverpool One Bus StationCommutation Row, near St George’s HallBootle Strand Bus Station
Merseyrail Services:
Merseyrail will run a regular 15-minute service on the Southport, Ormskirk, Hunts Cross, and Headbolt Lane lines before and after the event, making it easy for passengers to reach the stadium.
Walking and Cycling:
For those who prefer to walk or cycle, there are safe routes leading to the stadium from Liverpool city centre, and there’s cycle parking available at the venue. If you are staying close to Sandhills, Bank Hall, or Moorfields stations, these are all within walking distance to Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Note:
The shuttle service from Kirkby bus station will not be operating for this particular fixture. Fans should plan accordingly.
Travel Tips for Football Fans: Liverpool vs Aston Villa at Anfield
Liverpool fans attending the Liverpool vs Aston Villa Premier League match at Anfield are encouraged to use public transport to avoid the traffic congestion surrounding the stadium on match day. Anfield is easily accessible via Merseyrail, with stations like Moorfields and Sandhills being close by.
For those traveling by car, parking near Anfield is limited, so it’s recommended to use the available park-and-ride services or rely on public transportation. Consider arriving early to avoid delays due to the high volume of spectators.
River of Light Festival: Travel to Liverpool Waterfront
For art lovers attending the River of Light festival at Liverpool Waterfront, there are a few transport options to consider. Mersey Ferries will operate the River Explorer service as usual, offering a scenic route along the River Mersey. However, it is important to note that the last ferry to Seacombe will depart from Liverpool’s Pier Head at 16:00 GMT, so early arrival is advised for those hoping to use the ferry service.
If you’re traveling by bus, several routes will connect the waterfront area with key parts of the city. Expect heavy foot traffic, especially around the festival’s opening hours, so make sure to plan your route ahead of time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating Merseyside’s Busy Weekend
To ensure you can attend your events with ease, follow these steps for smooth travel around Merseyside:
Plan Your Journey Early:
Check the schedules for buses, trains, and ferries to avoid last-minute confusion. Many services will operate at high frequency, but traveling during peak times could cause delays.Use Public Transport:
Consider using shuttle buses, Merseyrail, or ferries, as parking around the stadiums and festival areas will be limited. Public transport is fast, reliable, and less stressful.Arrive Early:
With a packed schedule, arriving early will give you more time to navigate the crowds and get settled before your event. This is especially important for popular events like the rugby match and Liverpool vs Aston Villa.Cycling and Walking Routes:
If you’re in good health and want to avoid traffic, cycling or walking are great alternatives. Safe routes and parking for bikes are provided at all major event venues.Be Prepared for Crowds:
Major events like these attract large crowds, so expect some delays and tight spaces. Keep your belongings close and stay aware of your surroundings.Keep Up with Real-Time Updates:
Be sure to stay updated on any last-minute changes or disruptions to transportation services. Use the Merseytravel website or app for live updates.Impact on Local Businesses and Tourism
Merseyside’s influx of visitors for these events is expected to bring a boost to the local economy, particularly in sectors like hospitality, transport, and retail. The River of Light festival will likely draw both locals and tourists to the waterfront, benefitting shops, restaurants, and cafes in the area.
For businesses, it’s essential to prepare for the busy foot traffic and ensure that staff are ready to accommodate the high volume of customers. Event-goers will also have opportunities to explore other parts of the city, providing extra exposure to Liverpool’s vibrant tourism scene.
Conclusion: A Weekend Full of Action in Merseyside
With multiple major events happening across Merseyside this weekend, fans, visitors, and residents alike will experience an exciting blend of sports, culture, and entertainment. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, travelers should plan their journeys in advance, take advantage of public transport, and prepare for the crowds. Whether you’re attending the England vs Australia rugby match or exploring the River of Light festival, Merseyside has something for everyone.
Image: The image is AI Generated
Source: bbc.com
