Places to Visit in Belfast

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland and one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the United Kingdom. It is a city of history, culture and a buzzing atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a city break, a night out or a day of sightseeing, Belfast has something to offer everyone.

History of Belfast

Belfast has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and was granted city status by Queen Victoria in 1888. The city was heavily impacted by the industrial revolution and quickly became one of the most important ports in the British Isles. During the 20th century, Belfast was at the centre of a number of political and economic changes, including the troubles of the late 20th century. Today, Belfast has undergone a remarkable transformation and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK.

What to See in Belfast

There are plenty of things to do in Belfast and plenty of places to visit. From its beautiful Victorian architecture to its vibrant nightlife, here are some of the best places to visit during your trip to Belfast:

Titanic Belfast

Titanic Belfast is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Located in the historic Titanic Quarter, it is a state-of-the-art museum and visitor experience that explores the story of the famous ship and its crew. Visitors can explore nine interactive galleries that tell the story of Titanic’s construction, voyage, and legacy. The museum also features a 4D cinema experience and a virtual reality tour of the ship. Titanic Belfast is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

Ulster Museum

The Ulster Museum is located in the Botanic Gardens in south Belfast. It is one of Northern Ireland’s leading museums and galleries, with a wide range of collections including art, archaeology, ethnography, natural history and local history. The museum also houses an impressive collection of historical artefacts from around the world. The museum is open seven days a week and admission is free.

St. George’s Market

St. George’s Market is located in Belfast City Centre. It is one of the oldest markets in Belfast and has been operating for over 140 years. The market is full of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and souvenirs. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, you can find an array of street food stalls offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. St. George’s Market is a great place to explore and sample some delicious local food.

The Crumlin Road Gaol

The Crumlin Road Gaol is a former prison located in north Belfast. It was operational from 1845 until 1996 and is now open to visitors as a museum and tourist attraction. Visitors can take guided tours of the gaol, which includes a look at cells, courtrooms and execution chambers. The gaol also hosts a range of special events throughout the year including jailbreak attempts, ghost tours, theatre performances and art exhibitions. The Crumlin Road Gaol is an interesting and unique experience for visitors to Belfast.

Cave Hill Country Park

Cave Hill Country Park is located in north Belfast and offers stunning views across the city. The park covers an area of 640 acres and includes woodland trails, walking routes, picnic areas and play parks. There are also caves located within the park which were used by smugglers in the 18th century. Cave Hill Country Park is a great place to escape for some fresh air and take in the views of Belfast from above.

The Ulster Folk & Transport Museum

The Ulster Folk & Transport Museum is located in Cultra on the outskirts of Belfast. It offers a unique insight into life in Northern Ireland during the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore a range of interactive exhibits including an old-style train ride, vintage cars, traditional Irish cottages and shops. The museum also hosts regular events throughout the year including folk music performances and craft workshops.

Popular Tours

Visiting Belfast offers visitors plenty of opportunities to explore the city with guided tours that take you behind-the-scenes to experience some of its most fascinating sights. Here are two popular tours in Belfast:

Belfast City Sightseeing Bus Tour

This Hop-On Hop-Off tour allows you to explore Belfast at your own pace aboard an open-top bus. You can hop on or off at any of the 20 stops around the city to visit popular attractions like Titanic Belfast and St George’s Market. The tour also includes audio commentary with interesting facts about each stop along the way. Book this tour here.

Game Of Thrones Filming Locations Tour

This tour takes you on a journey through some of the iconic filming locations from HBO’s hit show Game Of Thrones, including Winterfell Castle, Tollymore Forest Park and Downhill Strand beach. You will be guided by experienced guides who will provide interesting facts about each location as well as insight into how each scene was filmed for the show. Book this tour here.

Conclusion

Belfast is an exciting city that offers something for everyone. From its fascinating history to its vibrant culture and nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for sightseeing opportunities or something more adventurous, there’s plenty to see and do in Belfast!