Construction began in 1874[1] and the dock opened in 1877, replacing the Great Low Water Basin of 1863,[2] which had opened directly onto the River Mersey to the east.

Situated between Alfred Dock to the north and Morpeth Dock to the south, access to the river was westwards through East Float.

The dock sheds were used for grain storage and then for imported livestock.

[1] In 1890, a pumping station was installed on the river wall adjoining to the dock.

[1] In 2001, Wallasey Dock was filled to provide space for a vehicle park at the new Twelve Quays roll on-roll off ferry terminal nearby.