10 Ways to Spend One Day in Belfast

Hey there fellow travelers and welcome to my post where we will cover 10 ways to spend one day in Belfast. Now, we all know the joys that travel can bring, from visiting far off places, experiencing different cultures and of course, all the new foods. But there is also a downside, – that dreaded day to ‘waste’ in a city whilst waiting for a midnight flight.

So if you are like me (as I live in Australia, all outgoing flights seems to leave late at night), there has been many a day where you need to find something to do that is enjoyable, but doesn’t take too much time – or cost too much money. So if you have a long layover or a day to kill in Belfast, here are 10 things you can do to pass the time in an enjoyable way.

Ways To Spend One Day In Belfast

Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, offers a dynamic fusion of history, culture and modern regeneration. Within a single day, visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s renowned maritime heritage at Titanic Belfast, delve into the local arts and produce at St. George’s Market, and reflect on the area’s complex past by viewing the Peace Walls. There there are the famous Black Cab tours as well.

Additionally, its compact city center allows for easy exploration, making it possible to experience a rich tapestry of attractions that reveal both the storied history and contemporary pulse of the city. And as someone who has spent a single day in Belfast in my time, I have to say there is so much to see that even the list below might be outside of the realms of a day as well.

All in all, this city is awesome so with all that in mind, let’s check out 10 things you can look into should you find yourself in Belfast for a day…

1. Historical Landmarks

Belfast is rich with sites of significant historical value with key landmarks including the Titanic Belfast, Belfast City Hall, and Crumlin Road Gaol. Each offers visitors the opportunity to step back in time and experience the city’s past through immersive exhibits and architecture. Here is a breakdown:

Titanic Belfast

Titanic Belfast is a must-visit destination located in the heart of the Titanic Quarter. This iconic six-story building features nine interactive galleries that narrate the story of the world’s most famous ship, from its conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through its construction and launch, to its tragic end.

• Exhibition Highlights:
  • The Shipyard Ride: Experience the shipbuilding process
  • The Sinking Gallery: Discover the events of that fateful night

Check out these: Where Did They Shoot Titanic?

Belfast City Hall

Belfast City Hall, an architectural masterpiece, stands in the city center as a testament to Belfast’s local government and history. Free guided tours provide insights into the Hall’s history and an opportunity to view its impressive features, such as the stained glass windows and the Titanic Memorial Garden.

• Features to Look Out For:
  • Exhibition Area: Learn about the city’s development
  • The Great Hall: Admire the venue’s opulent interior

Crumlin Road Gaol

Crumlin Road Gaol offers a glimpse into the life of prisoners over 150 years. Having housed over 25,000 inmates, guided tours here expose the Gaol’s grim history, including the underground tunnel to the courthouse and execution cells.

• Interesting Facts:
  • Tunnel Link: Discover the underground passage to the courthouse
  • History of Executions: Hear about the 17 men executed here

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2. Black Cab Tour

This was a highlight of our time in Belfast and I feel a must visit for anyone visiting the city. Anyway, Black cab tours in Belfast offer a unique and personal way to explore the city’s complex history, particularly focusing on the period known as the Troubles.

These tours are usually conducted in traditional London-style black taxis, but their purpose extends far beyond simple transportation. They provide an intimate and detailed narrative of Belfast’s recent past, guided by drivers who have lived through the events they describe. Here’s a deeper look into what makes these tours a must-experience activity in Belfast:

One of the most compelling aspects of the black cab tours is the personal anecdotes shared by the drivers. Many of these drivers have firsthand experiences of the Troubles, offering insights that you won’t find in history books. Their stories add a deeply human element to the historical sites, making the tours both educational and profoundly moving.

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3. The Peace Walls

And in a continuation on from above, The Peace Walls are a series of separation barriers that were erected to minimize inter-communal violence between nationalist (mainly Roman Catholic) and unionist (mainly Protestant) neighborhoods. These walls are among the most tangible symbols of the region’s troubled past, specifically the period known as the Troubles, which spanned from the late 1960s until the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. D

Despite the official end of the conflict, many of these walls remain, serving both as historical reminders and as ongoing measures of community separation in some areas however they have also influenced the urban landscape, affecting everything from housing and urban development to the daily routines of local residents.

Many sections of the Peace Walls have become canvases for political and cultural expression where mrals and graffiti reflect a range of themes, from memorializing events and individuals associated with the Troubles to conveying messages of peace, hope and reconciliation.

Personal note: We found on our walks around this area that as long as you are respectful of the local and their past, they are very welcoming and often more than happy to discuss the wall and its murals with you.

Book your trip to Belfast here!

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4. Ulster Museum

The Ulster Museum, located in the Botanic Gardens in Belfast, is a treasure trove of art, history and natural sciences. It is the largest museum in Northern Ireland and offers a diverse collection that spans across various periods and subjects, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the rich heritage and natural history of the region.

Here’s a more detailed look at what the Ulster Museum has to offer:

1. History: The museum houses an extensive collection of items that tell the story of Northern Ireland’s past, from its earliest inhabitants through to the modern era. This includes archaeological finds, historical artifacts and exhibits on the political turmoil of the 20th century, notably the Troubles. One of the most famous historical artifacts on display is the Takabuti mummy, an ancient Egyptian mummy that has fascinated visitors for decades.
2. Art: The art collection at the Ulster Museum is vast, featuring works from the Renaissance period to contemporary art. It includes paintings, sculptures and works on paper by local and international artists. The museum regularly hosts exhibitions of both its permanent collection and visiting collections from around the world.
3. Natural Sciences: The museum’s natural sciences section is dedicated to the flora, fauna and geological features of Northern Ireland and beyond. It includes exhibits on dinosaurs, local and exotic animal life and an interactive discovery zone that appeals to younger visitors. The museum also addresses contemporary issues such as biodiversity and climate change.

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5. St. George’s Market

St. George’s Market, located in the heart of Belfast, is one of the city’s oldest and most beloved attractions and a vibrant hub of culture, cuisine and craftsmanship, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the local lifestyle and an opportunity to engage with the community.

The market has a rich history, dating back to the 1890s, and has evolved over the years to become a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. Here’s a closer look at what makes St. George’s Market so special:

• Friday Market: This is the traditional market day with a focus on fresh produce including fruit, vegetables, meat and fish. It’s a great day to visit for those looking to experience the market’s origins and to purchase high-quality, local ingredients.
• Saturday City Food and Craft Market: Saturdays at St. George’s are vibrant and bustling, featuring a wide range of local and international foods, crafts and live music. It’s an excellent opportunity to sample gourmet foods, buy unique handmade goods and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
• Sunday Market: The Sunday market is a mix of the Friday and Saturday markets, with an added emphasis on art and crafts. It’s a more relaxed day, perfect for browsing and enjoying the diverse offerings at a leisurely pace.

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6. Cathedral Quarter

The Cathedral Quarter in Belfast is one of the city’s oldest and most historically rich areas, now renowned as the cultural heart of Belfast. Named after St. Anne’s Cathedral, the area spans a network of cobbled streets and alleyways, bustling with life and activity.

Over the years, the Cathedral Quarter has transformed from a commercial and industrial hub into a vibrant center for the arts, entertainment and gastronomy, making it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. The area boasts some of Belfast’s best restaurants, pubs and cafes, offering everything from fine dining to casual eats. Traditional pubs, many of which host live music sessions, sit alongside modern bars and clubs, making the area a popular destination for night-time entertainment as well.

Once the sun rises, the architecture in the Cathedral Quarter is a mix of historic and contemporary, with many buildings reflecting the area’s commercial past. St. Anne’s Cathedral, from which the area gets its name, is a stunning example of late 19th-century architecture and a key landmark. The area’s public spaces, including Custom House Square and Writer’s Square, are popular gathering spots and host a range of events throughout the year.

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7. Botanic Gardens

Established in 1828 by the Belfast Botanic and Horticultural Society, the botanic gardens were initially intended for private use before being opened to the public in 1895. Today, they serve as a popular recreational and educational space for both locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle and bustle.

Covering 28 acres, the Botanic Gardens are not only a place of beauty but also of scientific interest, particularly in the fields of horticulture, botany, and environmental science. Key attractions here include:

• The Palm House: One of the earliest examples of a curvilinear and cast iron glasshouse, the Palm House was designed by Charles Lanyon and completed in 1840. It houses a range of tropical plants, rare species and seasonal displays. The structure is divided into two wings: the cool wing for temperate plants and the tropical wing where visitors can marvel at the luxuriant growth from warmer climates.
• The Tropical Ravine: Another highlight is the Tropical Ravine, built in 1889 by Charles McKimm before undergoing a significant restoration and reopened in 2018. This unique structure houses a sunken glen filled with exotic plants including some rare and old specimens.

Book your trip to Belfast here!

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8. Cave Hill Country Park

Cave Hill Country Park is a prominent natural landmark and public park located in Belfast. Dominated by its namesake, Cave Hill, which rises to a height of 368 meters (1,207 feet) above sea level, the park offers panoramic views of Belfast and Belfast Lough, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Its distinctive profile, sometimes referred to as Napoleon’s Nose due to its resemblance to the profile of the famous emperor, is visible from many parts of the city and has become an iconic symbol of Belfast. The area is also home to several ancient sites including a series of caves, the remains of a stone fort and Belfast Castle, a 19th-century castle built in the Scottish baronial style that now serves as a popular venue for events and dining.

The hill itself has been a strategic lookout point throughout history, offering expansive views that have been crucial for the defense of the city.

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9. CS Lewis Square

CS Lewis Square is a public space in Belfast dedicated to the celebrated author Clive Staples Lewis, who was born in the city in 1898 and best known for his work in literature including the highly acclaimed “The Chronicles of Narnia” series.

The square is located at the intersection of the Connswater and Comber Greenways, making it an accessible and vibrant area for visitors and locals alike. It was officially opened in November 2016, offering a fitting tribute to one of Belfast’s most famous sons.

The square features seven bronze sculptures from “The Chronicles of Narnia,” created by the Irish sculptor Maurice Harron. These sculptures include some of the most beloved characters and scenes from the series such as Aslan, the White Witch, Mr. Tumnus, the Beavers, the Robin and the Stone Table. These artworks not only celebrate Lewis’s literary legacy but also serve as an interactive element for visitors, inviting them to engage with the stories and characters.

CS Lewis Square is designed to be a communal and recreational space, with pathways and green areas that encourage walking, cycling and leisure activities. It also hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year including literary events, community festival, and educational programs aimed at celebrating the life and works of CS Lewis, as well as to promote literacy and creativity within the community.

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10. Dining and Cuisine

Belfast offers a variety of dining experiences, from immersive local food tours to dining at award-winning restaurants that showcase the best of Northern Irish gastronomy including:

Local Food Tours

For those keen to experience the authentic taste of Belfast, a local food tour is an excellent starting point. One can explore the culinary delights of St George’s Market, sampling traditional Irish breads, locally produced cheeses and fresh seafood. It’s a vibrant spot filled with the aroma of home-cooked foods and the buzz of local artisans selling their produce.

Award-Winning Restaurants

Belfast boasts a selection of award-winning restaurants where diners can indulge in exquisite dishes. These establishments often feature locally-sourced ingredients and innovative menus shaped by Northern Ireland’s rich agricultural heritage.

Notable restaurants include upscale eateries with menus designed by internationally recognized chefs, offering an unforgettable dining experience.

Conclusion

There you have it; how to spend a day in Belfast with a day to kill. As usual, let me know of your experiences here or if there is anything else you think I should add.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul

Are you traveling further? Check out these other locations:

• 10 ways to spend one day in Glasgow
• 10 ways to spend one day in Edinburgh
• 10 Ways to spend one day in Cardiff