What to see and do in Belfast
Oh Yeah
Belfast’s music mecca is a business hub, rehearsal room and museum all rolled into one. Co-founded by Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody, Oh Yeah (BT1 2LG) pays tribute to Northern Ireland’s musical heritage while encouraging the stars of tomorrow to hone their sound.
Stop by for the NI Music Exhibition, which pays tribute to Van Morrison, The Undertones, Stiff Little Fingers and other world-famous acts which hail from here.
Crumlin Road Gaol
The foreboding fortress on Crumlin Road (BT14 6ST) opened its prison doors in 1845. Its long tenure saw many changes to its management style and attitude towards its wrongdoing residents until closing in 1996.
Visit the courthouse across the road, which is linked to the gaol by an underground tunnel, before making your way through the halls on one of several themed guided tours, from Victorian history to paranormal activity.
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
A short drive down the M1, get the rural royal treatment at the Queen’s official Northern Ireland residence(BT26 6AG). Enter through a magnificent walled garden, restored to its original 18th-century prestige, and enjoy a stroll through the grounds.
Take a guided tour of the Georgian home and discover stories about its most famous residents and events, including its role in the peace process.
Belfast’s best hotels
The Merchant
Inside one of Belfast’s most vivacious Victorian buildings, you’ll find the luxurious comforts of the Merchant (BT1 2DZ). The hotel hosts Art Deco finishes, premium rooms and facilities, and a hot tub on the roof – perfect for a soak.
Ten Square
Choose from a selection of themed decors and fill up on hearty meals with a homecooked feel at Belfast’s trendy Ten Square (BT1 5JD). Stay here in style at one of the Suites or Penthouses, which cater for larger groups.
Europa
Built on the former Great Northern Railway station (BT2 7AP), this splendid traditional hotel is one of the world’s most famous. Guests have the chance to stay in the Clinton Suite – named after the US President who famously bunked here in the 1990s.
Belfast’s best places to eat
Zen
Traditional Japanese decor and an otherworldly ultraviolet glow prove the perfect accompaniment to Zen’s (BT2 8FE) sumptuous selection of Asian fusion dishes. You’ll find this little treat on Adelaide Street.
James St
Two of James Street’s finest fooderies combine under one roof, as James St (BT2 7GA) serves up the old Bar and Grill Menu with some added class taken from James Street South Restaurant. Their seafood plates are simply irresistible.
Muddlers Club
Stowed away in the Cathedral Quarter, you’ll find the Muddlers Club (BT1 2DX) lays on an appealing low-key, speakeasy atmosphere that adds character to the open kitchen exploits. See your delicious meal take shape from the comfort of your table.
Best day trips from Belfast
Giant’s Causeway
Just one hour north on the M2 from Belfast connects you to one of the natural world’s most awe-inspiring destinations. The ancient volcanic landscape which makes up Giant’s Causeway is an absolute must-see.
Derry
About 90 minutes’ drive northwest on the A2 will bring you to Derry. This historic city has retained many of the Georgian and Victorian buildings which lend Derry its fascinating surroundings.
Winterfell Castle
One of Belfast’s biggest claims to fame is Winterfell Castle – used as a location in filming Game of Thrones. Feast your eyes on the same stunning scenery which provided the backdrop to many memorable TV moments.
