Belfast’s modern history began in 1611 when Baron Arthur Chichester built a new castle there. The city’s name is derived from the Gaelic Béal Feirste (Mouth of the Sandbank or Crossing of the River). A castle, probably built there about 1177 by John de Courci, the Norman conqueror of Ulster, seems to have survived until the beginning of the 17th century. Though the site of Belfast has been occupied since the Stone Age, its modern history began in 1611 when Baron Arthur Chichester built a new castle there. Harland and Wolff, the chief shipbuilding firm in the city, built the luxury liner.
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Inside, you’ll discover the story of the most famous ship in the world, the people who built her, and its ill-fated journey across the Atlantic Ocean. Belfast now boasts three Michelin starred restaurants. Today, it’s full of Belfast’s young and those in the know out for a night of craic and fine food. Sunday includes the lot and even throws in music from local bands. If you’re looking for pointers, check out the multi-award winning Taste & Tour NI.
Political murals
From the city’s airport at Aldergrove, 13 miles (21 km) northwest, services are maintained with some principal international cities. Educational institutions in Belfast include Queen’s University at Belfast (founded in 1845 as the Queen’s College), the University of Ulster at Belfast (1849), and Union Theological College (1853). The city is the shopping, retail, educational, commercial, entertainment, and service centre for Northern Ireland and the seat of many of its largest businesses and hospitals. By the 17th century, the town was a busy port with small shipbuilding interests, which became firmly established after William Ritchie founded a shipyard (1791) and a graving (dry) dock (1796). By the late 1730s the castle had been destroyed, but Belfast was beginning to acquire economic importance, superseding both Lisburn as the chief bridge town and Carrickfergus as a port. He did much to encourage the growth of the town, which received a charter of incorporation in 1613.
You can book up to an 8-seater taxi to and from the city, making it the perfect choice of transport if you’re travelling as a larger group. 24 Bruce Avenue, Comber, Newtownards, Northern Ireland, BT23 5BW 9.09 mi 15a, Woodford Rd, Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland, BT36 6TS 5.33 mi
Get out in the fresh air and enjoy a relaxing walk with the family in Belfast, and beyond this… Whether you’re looking for quirky bars, traditional shops or delicious food, Belfast has an… Find something for all the family to enjoy with our picks for family fun attractions in both Ards… Belfast effortlessly combines vibrant city life with outdoor excitement, catering to every type of… Discover how you can enjoy your visit to Belfast and the surrounding area in an eco-friendly way…
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Visit the Green Tourism or sustainability accredited restaurants throughout the city and eat green! Other sportspeople celebrated in the city include double world snooker champion Alex "Hurricane" Higgins and world champion boxers Wayne McCullough, Rinty Monaghan and Carl Frampton. On the day he was buried in the city, 100,000 people lined the route from his home on the Cregagh Road to Roselawn cemetery. Belfast was the home town of former Manchester United player George Best, the 1968 European Footballer of the Year, who died in November 2005. The 9,500 capacity SSE Arena accommodates the Belfast Giants, one of the biggest ice hockey clubs in the UK. The Belfast Marathon is run annually on May Day, The 41st Marathon in 2023, with related events (Wheelchair Race, Team Relay and 8 Mile Walk) attracted 15,000 participants.
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Celebrate local life with a lively year-round calendar of events cabs belfast Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter is the city’s buzzing, creative soul, where Belfast’s vibrant cultural life bubbles visibly to the surface. West Belfast is a canvas of history and community arts, characterised by vibrant murals that tell the stories of its cultural heritage.
Family-Friendly Activities in Belfast
Whether it’s a quick city ride or a long-distance journey, our focus on punctuality and passenger comfort remains unmatched. We cover all major airports, hotels, and intercity routes — offering dependable service for business trips, airport transfers, and leisure travel. Our courteous chauffeurs are trained to provide top-tier service, and every vehicle is equipped with modern amenities to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Do not include any personal or financial information, for example National Insurance, credit card, or phone numbers. They can also provide services under contract for the education and health authorities.
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- On long summer evenings, retreat to the beer gardens at The Thirsty Goat or The Dirty Onion (patio heaters and awnings included).
- Buses are really best used if you plan to head out to the suburbs and neighborhoods outside of the downtown area, or when you plan to take the bus from Belfast to another part of Northern Ireland.
- You can use the trip planner on the Translink website to map your route and check the timetables for expected arrivals and departures.
- The tour covers historical, cultural, and political topics, including the period known as The Troubles.
- Belfast is a compact city with an amazing array of activities and attractions for you to enjoy.
Chronicling the complex history of The TroublesPeace Walls that still divide communities todayMemorials and cultural artwork reflecting hope, resilience, and reconciliation This Black Cab Mural Tour of Belfast takes you through the iconic neighborhoods of West Belfast, including the Falls Road and the Shankill Road. Belfast Airport Taxis is located to the right of the exit doors at Belfast International Airport. You can pick up some real bargains here, and the market itself provides a fascinating glimpse into Belfast life both past and present. The museum is only a few years old but it’s still popular enough that it sells out. To make the most of your time in the city your first point of contact should be the centrally located Belfast Welcome center (Tourist Office) at 9 Donegall Sq North, opposite of City Hall.
While some local feeder and return marches have a history of sectarian disturbance, in recent years, events have generally passed off without serious incident. The greater part of Belfast’s music scene is accommodated in the city’s pubs and clubs. It has grown from its original August Féile on the Falls Road, to a year-round programme with a broad range of arts events, talks and discussions. The city has a number of community arts, and arts education, centres, among them the Crescent Arts Centre in south Belfast, the Irish-language Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich in west Belfast, The Duncairn in north Belfast and, in the east of the city, EastSide Arts.