From left: Beatles members Ringo Starr, George Harrison, Paul McCartney and John Lennon Photo: VCG

Beatles fans can now take a trip through the childhood sanctuary of John Lennon that inspired the seminal song "Strawberry Fields Forever," with the former children's home opening its doors to the public.

Lennon used to climb over the fence from his aunt's house, where he grew up, and played with other children at the Strawberry Field orphanage. Its importance in shaping Lennon's personality was laid bare in the classic 1967 psychedelic hit. 

Around 60,000 fans flock each year to the site to have their photographs taken outside the famous red gates, but until now have never been allowed beyond.

The site, in the city's Woolton neighborhood, was a Salvation Army children's home up until 2005, when it became derelict.

But it has now been turned into a center to help 18-25 year olds with learning disabilities find employment, partly funded by opening its doors to the public.

AFP