Stunning Liverpool 'hidden gem' to be uncovered for first time in three years

One of Liverpool’s most stunning ‘hidden gems’ will be uncovered this summer.

Visitors to St George’s Hall will have the chance to see the remarkable Minton tile floor, which is usually hidden under wood, for the first time in three years.

One of the finest examples of Victorian design in the world, the beautiful mosaic has been protected under wooden flooring since the 19th century and is regarded as one of the city’s most beautifully preserved pieces of art.

Comprising 30,000 hand crafted tiles, the artwork has captivated hundreds of thousands of people over the decades, with its rich colours, classical motifs and remarkable level of preservation. The original cost was £3,000 (the equivalent of around £250,000 today), although the true cost of recreating it today would be in the millions.

The theme floor’s design is unity, with England represented by roses, Scotland by thistles and Ireland by shamrocks. The floor also includes Liverpool’s iconic Liver Bird, and maritime images of Neptune, dolphins, tritons, Nereids, triton centaurs and tridents, reflecting the importance of the sea to Liverpool’s 19th century prosperity.

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Last revealed in 2023, with over 20,000 visitors from across the UK, St George’s Hall has expanded its 2026 event programme to include immersive tours, creative workshops, and local musicians - including Brad Kella, winner of Channel 4’s The Piano - along with a new archival exhibition.

Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said: “The Minton floor is one of Liverpool’s treasured hidden gems and the programme reflects everything St George’s Hall represents - heritage, creativity, and community.”

St George’s Hall will unveil its magnificent Minton tile floor for an extended public reveal from July 17 to September 2, 2026.

Alongside the floor reveal, the Stable Gallery will host a special exhibition created in partnership with Liverpool Central Library, exploring the archives of St George’s Hall and shining a light on the legacy of the Hall’s first official organist, W. T. Best.

All ticket sales will directly support the upkeep of St George’s Hall, with donations also going directly to the St George’s Hall Charitable Trust, which works to preserve the Hall for future generations, as well as the restoration of the Willis Organ.