Family Days Out in Belfast

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland and the largest city in the country. It is a vibrant and welcoming city that offers a wealth of attractions and activities for a family day out. With its lively culture, stunning scenery, and rich history, Belfast is the perfect place to explore with your family.

History of Belfast

Belfast was founded in 1177 by the Anglo-Norman knight John de Courcy and is believed to have been named after the River Farset, which runs through the city. The city grew rapidly in the 19th century as an industrial centre and by the mid-19th century was one of the largest ports in the world. In 1921, Belfast was made the capital of Northern Ireland, when the country was divided from the Republic of Ireland.

Today, Belfast is a vibrant city that embraces its past while looking to the future. It is home to a diverse population and has a strong sense of community. It is a popular destination for tourists who come to enjoy its beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious food.

Things to Do in Belfast

Belfast is full of attractions and activities for families to enjoy. From its iconic landmarks to its lively nightlife and traditional pubs, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Belfast:

Visit Titanic Belfast

Titanic Belfast is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Located on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard, where the famous Titanic was built, this interactive museum offers an insight into the history of the ship and its passengers. Visitors can explore nine interactive galleries, take a ride on a virtual reality version of the ship, and watch a film about the voyage.

Explore St George’s Market

St George’s Market is one of Belfast’s oldest attractions and has been operating since 1604. Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the market comes alive with local produce, crafts, and music. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat or browse for souvenirs.

Take a Walking Tour

A walking tour is a great way to explore the city. There are several tours available that take in the city’s sights while providing an insight into its history. The politically-themed walking tour is particularly popular and takes visitors around some of Belfast’s most significant landmarks and attractions.

Visit Ulster Museum

The Ulster Museum is located in Botanic Gardens and is one of Belfast’s most popular attractions. The museum houses a unique collection of art, history, archaeology, and natural science. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon exploring with the family.

Go Shopping

Belfast is known for its excellent shopping. From high-end fashion stores to independent boutiques, there are plenty of places to find something special. The city is home to a wide variety of shopping centres and arcades, including Victoria Square and CastleCourt Shopping Centre.

Enjoy Live Music

Belfast has an active music scene with plenty of live music venues to explore. From jazz clubs to traditional Irish pubs, there is something to suit all tastes. There are also several outdoor music festivals held throughout the year.

Popular Tours in Belfast

Belfast has many popular tours that offer an insight into its history and culture. Here are two of the most popular:

Game of Thrones Tour

Experience the world of Westeros on a Game of Thrones Tour in Belfast. This tour will take you to various filming locations around the city and give you an insight into how the show came to life. You’ll also visit some of Belfast’s key sights as well as iconic landmarks from the show such as Castle Black and Kings Landing. Book a Game of Thrones Tour here.

Titanic Boat Tour

Explore Belfast’s maritime past on a Titanic Boat Tour. This tour takes visitors on a journey along the River Lagan as they learn about Belfast’s maritime history and get an up close look at some of its famous landmarks such as Harland & Wolff shipyard and SS Nomadic. Book a Titanic Boat Tour here.

Conclusion

Belfast is an exciting city full of history, culture, and entertainment that makes it an ideal destination for families looking for something fun and different to do. From world-famous attractions such as Titanic Belfast to more traditional activities like visiting a local market or taking in some live music, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. With its stunning scenery and friendly locals, Belfast is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for your family day out!