Why You Should Visit Belfast

Belfast is the second largest city in Ireland, Dublin being the largest, and with a population of over 200,000 it is filled with the charm of an old town shipping port alongside a thriving metropolis.

Belfast originated centuries ago as a shipping passage through the Irish Sea, protected on one side by Ireland and the other by England. Today it is quickly gaining the reputation as being the place to go for “a break”, even more than Glasgow or London! Once you get here, either by boat or plane, you have a choice either to stay inside your bed and breakfast, or get out and see what Belfast has to offer.

Nestled in a valley and bordered to the east by the Irish Sea, the capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast, is a vibrant and lively Celtic city that lives up to its nickname of “The Hibernian Rio.”

Situated on the River Lagan, the pedestrian-friendly city enjoys a focal point in Donegal Square where the architecturally stunning City Hall dominates the skyline, and elsewhere Victorian and Edwardian architecture can be enjoyed by visitors on foot.

Belfast’s glorious seafaring history and place at the forefront of the industrial revolution is evident in the greatest shipyard in Great Britain, where the Titanic was built. The city’s name is derived from the Irish “beal feirste” which means “at the mouth of the sandpit”.

Things to do in Belfast:

A visit to the world class Belfast Zoo with its plenty of must see attractions, including the monkey park, reptile house and children’s playground.

Interesting walking tours of Belfast with the old town, Titanic trail and the city centre walk.

A visit to the oldest covered market in Ireland, St George’s Market that offers a range of fish and speciality foods that are unrivalled in Europe.

The world’s largest dry dock, Haarland and Wolfe, is where the Titanic was built and its famous cranes, Samson and Goliath, can be seen from all over the city.

Visit the The Ulster Folk and Transport Museum and get a fascinating insight into the history and the daily lives of Ulster people can be found.

Visit the Home Front Heritage Centre which features collections that portray the Belfast experience of the Second World War, and is also home to the museum of the Royal Ulster Rifles.

Have fun and learn at W5, a world renowned innovative and interactive centre of science and technology exploration, with activities, exhibits and demonstrations to expand and intrigue minds of all ages.

And there is more to do while in Belfast:

– Shine – nightclub plays extreme techno for dancing and disco.
– Crown Liquor Saloon – Is decorated in ornate, Victorian-era pub and is full of friendly faces.
– Ulster Museum – displays many artifacts of early Ireland and treasures from the Spanish Armada
– W5 – children’s Museum
– Ormeau Baths Gallery – well-known contemporary art gallery. Specialty shop inside.
– Linen Hall Library – Library founded in 1788, beautiful architecture.
– Customs House – Historic site.
– Belfast Castle – tour a majestic castle dating back to 1870’s.
– St. Anne’s Cathedral – outstanding architecture; religious site.
– Grand Opera House – opera
– Cathedral Quarter – in upscale neighborhood, buildings of glass and chrome, cafes and wine bars. Scenic/historic walking area.
– Botanical Gardens and Palm House – walkthrough gardens.
– Belfast City Centre and Laganside Walk – historic walking tour around downtown area.
– Harland and Wolff Shipyard – shipyard down at the docks – where Titanic was built
– Mountains surround city and make a beautiful place to spend a day hiking, picnicking, horseback riding.
– Have a fresh seafood dinner out on the Pier.

Belfast is the kind of get-a-way everybody needs every so often. Its quaint restaurants and pubs, old town background, and the dated architecture can’t help but lend a friendly atmosphere to all who enter. Whether you take a weekend, a week or three weeks, there is plenty for you and your family to do. If you need a rest, you can always slip down to the beach for a relaxing afternoon walking the shoreline and soaking up the sun. But once you come to Belfast, you’ll see why it is becoming the get-a-way city of Ireland.

Belfast enjoys an enviable position at the forefront of Hibernian culture, scenery and history. With an ideal and unique combination of Celtic culture and British industrial influence, Belfast is an ideal seaside destination for family friendly events, educational and historical attractions and a nightlife that is second to none throughout Europe.

More information about Belfast