U-boat Story is a small maritime museum in Birkenhead, across the River Mersey from central Liverpool, that is dedicated to a German wartime submarine. The museum features U-534, which is one of only four Second World War German U-boats on display anywhere in the world.
German submarine U-534 was built in 1942 for service in the Second World War and in 1945 was struck by a Royal Air Force bomber off the coast of Denmark. The U-boat was salvaged in 1993 and has been on display to the public in Birkenhead since 2009.
What to see at U-boat Story
U-boat Story is centred around U-534, one of only four German U-boats on display anywhere in the world.
The U-boat has been divided into four sections and it includes glass panels that you can look through to see into the interior. Some visitors feel that the vessel being cut into sections is destroying a major historical artefact, however, this has been handled well and it does allow you to see the vessel from a unique perspective.
The attraction also has exhibits that tell the story of the submarine and it includes related Second World War artefacts including a rare Enigma machine. There are some interactive exhibits although not all of these are in working order.
There is also a viewing terrace that also provides views of the Liverpool skyline across the Mersey.
Visiting U-boat Story
U-boat Story is located at the Woodside ferry terminal in Birkenhead and it is a popular excursion for people taking a ferry across the Mersey.
The exhibition is fully wheelchair-accessible with ramp access to the outdoor areas.
The U-boat Story complex includes a large waterfront cafe that is a nice place for a bite to eat when you’re waiting for the ferry back to central Liverpool.
You probably won’t spend much longer than an hour here but you should allow extra time for the return ferry trip.
If you enjoyed this attraction, you may also want to consider visiting HMS Belfast in London and the maritime-themed attractions in Portsmouth, particularly the Royal Navy Submarine Museum.
2 reviews
Anthony oldfield
U534
I am a friend of Neville Baker who was the navigator/ bomb aimer on the liberator that sank the submarine U534 back in 1945. He and his family live now in Cleaveland OHIO and i live in Sussex. We are in north wales in October and disapointed the display is closed. Perhaps someone could contact me on the e mail above. Regards Anthony Oldfield
25 August 2022
Shawn
U 534 History
This isn’t a review but a response to Anthony Oldfield. U-534 sank the Wellington Bomber that my Great Uncle navigated. Roderick Borden Gray was posthumously awarded the George Cross. The airport terminal in Sault Ste Marie Ontario, Canada is named after him. My oldest son also carry’s his name. Have you seen the interview with the US Airmen & German Sailors? They all got together after the submarine was raised.
11 November 2023