Belfast Things To Do Family: A City Guide for Tourists Visiting for the First Time

Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a place filled with culture, history, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s situated on the east coast of the island of Ireland, and is known for its rich history and strong sense of community. The city center is bustling with activity, and the streets are alive with music, art, and theater. Belfast is a great destination for families looking for an exciting and unique experience.

A Brief History of Belfast

Belfast’s history dates back to the Iron Age, when it was inhabited by the Celts. The city was first established as a town in 1177, when King John of England granted it a charter. The city grew steadily throughout the 17th century and became a major industrial center in the 19th century, with large-scale shipbuilding taking off in the area.

Belfast’s turbulent history has been shaped by a number of significant events, such as the Belfast Blitz during World War II and the Troubles in the twentieth century. The Troubles were a decades-long conflict between nationalists and unionists in Northern Ireland, which began in the late 1960s and lasted until 1998. Although this period was marked by tragedy and violence, it also gave rise to a strong sense of pride and community among Belfast’s citizens.

Things To Do in Belfast

Belfast is full of things to do for the whole family. From museums and galleries to outdoor activities and amusement parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are just some of the top attractions for family fun in Belfast:

Titanic Belfast

Titanic Belfast is the world’s largest tribute to the RMS Titanic, the ill-fated ocean liner that sank in 1912. Located in the city’s historic docks district, the museum tells the story of the doomed ship through interactive exhibits, displays, and audio-visual experiences. Visitors can explore nine interactive galleries that tell the story of Titanic’s construction, voyage, and legacy. The museum also includes a state-of-the-art 3D cinema and an outdoor exhibit with life-size replicas of some of the ship’s features.

Crumlin Road Gaol

The Crumlin Road Gaol is a former prison that opened in 1845 and closed in 1996. The prison was home to some of Belfast’s most notorious criminals, including Irish republican hunger-strikers Bobby Sands and Francis Hughes. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction where visitors can take guided tours to learn about its history and explore its cells and exercise yards. The Gaol also hosts events such as ghost tours, music concerts, and comedy nights throughout the year.

Ulster Museum

The Ulster Museum is a must-see for families visiting Belfast. Located in Belfast’s Botanic Gardens, the museum houses over 8,000 objects from around the world, including Viking artifacts, dinosaur bones, and ancient Egyptian mummies. The museum also features interactive exhibits on natural history and art, as well as a hands-on science center and an outdoor playground.

Book an Intimate Belfast City Tour

Experience Belfast up close with an intimate city tour. This tour takes visitors through some of Belfast’s most iconic sights, such as City Hall and Queen’s University. The tour also includes stops at political murals that tell the story of Belfast’s tumultuous past, as well as visits to landmarks such as St Anne’s Cathedral and Belfast Castle. This tour is a great way to get an in-depth look at Belfast’s culture and history. Book an Intimate Belfast City Tour now to get a unique experience of Ireland’s capital city.

Explore Belfast’s Underground Tunnels

Take a journey beneath the city with an underground tunnel tour. This tour takes visitors through the tunnels that were built during World War II to protect citizens from bombing raids. Along the way, you’ll learn about how these tunnels were used during wartime and hear stories about life during this time period. At the end of the tour, you’ll explore an underground bunker that was used by the British military during the Troubles. Explore Belfast’s Underground Tunnels now for an unforgettable experience.

Rent a Bike in Belfast

Rent a bike in Belfast to explore the city at your own pace. Bike rentals are available from local bike shops or from rental companies located throughout the city. There are plenty of bike paths along the waterfront that provide stunning views of Belfast’s harbor and beyond. Cycling is a great way to see the city and get some exercise at the same time! Rent a Bike in Belfast now for an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Belfast has something for every family to enjoy. From historical sites to outdoor activities and amusement parks, there’s something here for everyone to explore. From Titanic Belfast to Crumlin Road Gaol, there are plenty of experiences that will excite both kids and adults alike. So plan your trip to Belfast now and create memories that will last a lifetime!