2018

Discover the energy CRG Visit Belfast Guide Advert A5.pdf 1 19/10/2017 11:49 This is Belfast 05 Hello Belfast 06 Exploring Belfast 08 Titanic City 14 HMS Caroline 16 Crumlin Road Gaol 18 Home of Thrones 20 Explore the City 22 Art & Culture 24 Cultural Heritage 26 Dine & Drink 28 Shopping 30 Sport & Activities 32 Family Fun 34 After Dark 38 LGBT+ 40 Events & Festivals

Belfast Plus 42 Lisburn and Castlereagh 43 Ards and North Down 44 Belfast: Gateway City

Useful Stuff 46 Welcome Centre 48 Places to Stay 55 Travel Tips 56 Maps & Access

VISITBELFAST.COM 3

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Belfast’s transformation over the past two decades has been remarkable, but don’t take our word for it… Lonely Planet’s expert travel panel says Belfast is the top place in the world to visit in 2018, along with the Causeway Visit Belfast 9 Donegall Square North Coast. Enjoy a city that is home to the Belfast BT1 5GB Northern Ireland +44 (0)28 9023 9026 ‘sensational’ Titanic Belfast and full of [email protected] hip neighbourhoods that are bursting Tourist Information +44 (0)28 9024 6609 www.visitbelfast.com with bars, restaurants and venues

Designed by McCadden in Belfast to suit all tastes. The Belfast Visitor +44 (0)28 9024 2228

Disclaimer Guide gives you the insider’s view of The information contained in this Guide is given in good faith on the how to make the most of your time in basis of the information submitted to Visit Belfast and McCadden by the promoters of the venues and this dynamic young city. services listed. Visit Belfast and McCadden cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this guide and accept no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation. A raucous party town with a dynamic young population All liability, disappointment, negligence or other damage caused that keeps the city on trend, Belfast will invariably confound by the reliance on the information expectations. Its transformation from political pariah town contained in this guide, or in any company, individual or firm to cosmopolitan metropolis continues apace, and as the mentioned, or in the event of any company, individual or firm ceasing Northern Irish capital continues to negotiate its relationship to trade, is hereby excluded. © Visit Belfast 2017. A selection of images with its past, its eyes are firmly on the future. supplied courtesy of Tourism NI and Tourism Ireland Limited. Fionn Davenport, Lonely Planet Travel Writer

5 Exploring Belfast

CITY Cathedral Linen CENTRE Quarter Quarter At the heart of the city This historic trading quarter The area behind Belfast City centre is Belfast City Hall. is a maze of cobblestoned Hall, where the White Linen Opened in 1906, it hosts a streets and warehouses Hall once stood, visitors visitor exhibition that tracks that are now home to trendy can enjoy the architecture the City’s history, offers bars, clubs and restaurants. of old linen mills which now guided tours of the Council Visitor attractions include the house a mix of offices, chic Chambers and is home to Metropolitan Arts Centre (the bars and award-winning the Titanic Memorial Garden. MAC), St Anne’s Cathedral, the restaurants - perfectly After exploring the shops and Oh Yeah Music Centre and the placed to enjoy pre-theatre stores on Donegall Place and Discover Ulster Scots Centre. dinner and drinks before Royal Avenue, or the Victorian Full of colourful street art, the heading to the Grand Opera St George’s Market, hunt out area of town is a buzz with House. the many cool cafes, cosy music, entertainment and fun pubs and tasty restaurants at night. hidden in the entries, streets and avenues.

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As well as sensational Make time for afternoon tea Be sure to visit one of shopping at Victoria Square, in the luxurious Merchant Belfast’s highest rooftop bars, don’t miss taking the lift up to Hotel to admire the opulent The Perch, where you can the huge dome to enjoy 360° surroundings, huge domed enjoy cocktails and sangria degree views right across the ceiling and Ireland’s largest in the height of summer and city. chandelier. hot cider, winter warmer’s and blanket’s in the winter.

6 VISITBELFAST.COM For locations, check out our handy map on page 58.

TITANIC QUEEN’S GAELTACHT Quarter Quarter Quarter Steeped in memories when Home to Queen’s University The focus of Irish language, Belfast was a world centre of Belfast, the area is abound music and culture is in the maritime trade, ship-building with tranquil parks and west of the city. Many visitors and commerce, the Titanic gardens. Come face to face come to see the area’s famous Quarter is one of World’s with dinosaurs, get up close political murals and peace largest urban waterfront with an Egyptian mummy, wall but there’s plenty more regeneration schemes. or marvel at some of the to discover. An Chultúrlann, Visit or take a tour of the best Irish art, there’s plenty the Quarter’s culture and arts many Titanic related visitor to enjoy and loads to love centre, contains an excellent attractions, be wowed by the at the Ulster Museum. Stroll restaurant, gift shop, theatre interactive visitor centre W5, through the Victorian Palm and gallery. Explore Clonard catch a show, concert or ice House in Botanic Gardens, Monastery or enjoy the three hockey match at the SSE take in an art-house movie at mile Divis Summit Trail, a Arena or enjoy afternoon tea QFT or enjoy great live music specifically designed loop in the opulent Titanic Hotel or stand-up comedy at the walk on Divis Mountain with Belfast. Empire Music Hall. spectacular views over Belfast.

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Walk in the footsteps of the The neighbouring Lisburn Drop in to Cumann Chluain Árd men who built Titanic with Road offers the ultimate where you can be assured of the award-winning Titanic designer shopping traditional entertainment at its Belfast Discovery Walking experience dotted with a very best with music, craic and Tour, including the beautifully selection of cafes, artisan ceilidh. barrel-vaulted Harland & delis, salons and wine bars. Wolff Drawing Offices where hundreds of ships were designed.

VISITBELFAST.COM 7 TITANIC CITY

8 VISITBELFAST.COM Belfast’s Titanic Quarter is steeped in the rich history and tradition of the city’s shipbuilding heritage – much of which now stands on reclaimed land built on top of the very shipyards where these ships were built and launched.

Alongside the Titanic and people who made her. the largest and most luxurious Olympic slipways and Titanic’s Located beside the Titanic ship in the world in Belfast impressive Edward Dock and Slipways, the Harland and before passing through the Pumphouse, sit high tech Wolff Drawing Offices (now original Harland & Wolff gates developments including the the Titanic Hotel Belfast) and to continue their journey to the Titanic Exhibition Centre, Public Hamilton Graving Dock – the Shipyard and the dark ride that Records Office of NI, and the very place where Titanic was uses special effects, animations internationally acclaimed designed, built and launched and full-scale reconstructions Titanic Studios, home to the in 1912. Since opening in 2012, to recreate the reality of Game of Thrones film set. Titanic Belfast has welcomed shipbuilding in the early 1900s. The jewel in the Quarter’s over 4 million visitors from over There’s not much time to crown, however, is Titanic 145 countries and was crowned catch your breath, as you’re Belfast. Not only is it an ‘World’s Leading Tourist greeted with a panoramic architectural triumph but it Attraction’ at the World Travel eagle’s eye view of the actual houses the world’s largest Awards in 2016. slipways on which both the Titanic visitor experience. The It’s not hard to see why: Titanic and the Olympic once six-floor building featuring, nine on entering, visitors can step rested as well as experience interpretive and interactive back in time learn about the the excitement of launch day galleries explore the sights, thriving industries and exciting in 1911. Visitors can view the life sounds, smells and stories of design innovations that led to size plan of Titanic’s Promenade Titanic, as well as the City and the creation of RMS Titanic - Deck, outlining where the liner’s

VISITBELFAST.COM 9 More to Explore The stunning new Titanic Hotel Belfast is located in the former headquarters of Harland & Wolff, known locally as the Drawing Offices. Drop in for a drink or afternoon tea in the bright and airy Harland Bar or take a heritage tour to discover the historic features throughout the lifeboats and funnels and maiden voyage, experience the hotel, such as the old Telephone benches on board would aftermath, the inquiries and Exchange, which received the have been. the sensational news reports first alert that the Titanic had Then it’s all aboard to of the time. The story is then struck an iceberg. experience an eclectic range brought up to the present day The Dock Café is an ‘honesty of exhibits, models, interactive with the discovery of the wreck box’ café, so you pay whatever databases and elaborate and into the future with live you think is a fair price. Here computer generated imagery links to contemporary undersea you’ll find an ever-expanding which illustrate the ship’s exploration. collection of quirky pieces of opulent fit-out including exact At the end of your visit history from the Belfast docks: replicas of the cabins, and you can browse the extensive Titanic memorabilia, models and journeys through the dining Titanic Store which offers an unique pictures of shipyard life, areas, the ship’s engine rooms, exclusive range of clothing, and artefacts from the lovely old working interiors and deck gifts and unique memorabilia. H&W Drawing Offices. promenade, where you can see Enjoy a light bite in the Galley Nestled underneath the and hear the oceans and feel Café, a meal in Bistro 401 or if Samson and Goliath cranes, the engines rumbling. you’re visiting on a Sunday then you’ll find ‘Cast and Crew’, Pay tribute to the loss of indulge yourself with a luxury serving up great food for dine this magnificent ship and the Afternoon Tea by the Grand in or takeaway, with a superb 1,500 men, women and children Staircase in the Titanic Suite. selection of casual breakfast who lost their lives on her tragic and lunch dishes on offer.

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TITANIC TIPS

SS Nomadic Wee Tram Tours TITANICa The Exhibition SS Nomadic is the last The Wee Tram is a fun way to The Ulster Folk and Transport remaining White Star Line see all the sights of Titanic’s Museum recreates a Northern vessel and is the biggest Titanic historic shipyard. Travelling in Ireland at the turn of the 19th artefact in the world. Built by carriages based on the funky and 20th centuries, just at Harland and Wolff in 1911, it red-and-cream tram cars the time when Titanic was served as the tender ship for that ran through the shipyard conceived, designed and built. Titanic on her maiden voyage, in Titanic’s day, passengers After exploring the folk park, carrying first and second class get a full guided tour around discover Titanic artefacts passengers from the port of the docks, and also get up and find our about life aboard Cherbourg to the ship. The close and personal to the through fascinating objects and vessel also served in World War modern shipyard. Highlights personal stories of 1912. I and II, as well as luxury liners inc. Titanic’s slipways, HMS Queen Mary and the Queen Caroline, Titanic Film Studios, Elizabeth. Now restored to Titanic’s Dock & Pump House, her former glory, SS Nomadic Samson & Goliath, the Harland is open to the public as a & Wolff Drawing Offices, and SS fascinating visitor attraction Nomadic, Titanic’s ‘little sister’. with an on-board museum, exhibition and education areas.

12 VISITBELFAST.COM Pay a visit to this magnificent place of worship at the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, known locally as St Anne’s Cathedral - a treasure trove of art, culture and music. Today, as well as being a sacred place of worship, St Anne’s provides a stunning backdrop for concerts, recitals, carol services and other cultural events. Discover more at www.belfastcathedral.org

VISITBELFAST.COM 13 HMS Caroline

HMS Caroline, a Step aboard one of Belfast’s hidden areas of HMS Caroline. World War I Light newest attractions to discover the Learn how the ship works with Battle Cruiser, is devastating reality of World War interactive exhibits and take control One at sea. Explore the cabins of HMS Caroline in the Virtual the last surviving that have been restored as if the Bridge. Here visitors will also learn ship from the crew left the ship yesterday, listen about Caroline’s impact in Belfast Battle of Jutland in on the everyday sounds in the – her home for over 90 years. The in 1916. Captain’s and Senior Officers’ historic spaces on HMS Caroline cabins and enjoy interactive have been recreated to look as exhibits throughout the ship. they did in 1916, the year that HMS Soak up the atmosphere as you Caroline was part of one of the learn about communication at sea largest naval battles in history – the in the Signal School and see if you Battle of Jutland. can crack a code using techniques Walk along the decks and see like semaphore and flags. A visit to the ship’s replica guns or head to the Torpedo School enables visitors the Navigating Bridge where you to explore naval weaponry and can visit the Captain’s Sea Cabin. dazzle, learn all about war at sea, Explore naval weaponry and learn create your own dazzle camouflage about war at sea while creating and evade an enemy attack. dazzle camouflage and evading The Virtual Access Suite enemy attack. provides access to remote and

14 VISITBELFAST.COM VISITBELFAST.COM 15 The Gaol dates back to 1845 and closed its doors as a working prison in 1996. Uncover 150 years of history with a guided tour of Crumlin Belfast’s most infamous prison. Road Gaol

Built between 1843 and 1845, the County Gaol for Antrim was designed by the renowned architect Charles Lanyon. The black basalt rock prison was modelled on London’s Pentonville Prison. Visitors can now take the tour of this nineteenth century Grade ‘A’ listed building and experience life behind bars. Top During its time in service 25,000 people were Tip imprisoned, 17 people were executed, numerous escapes were undertaken and many infamous inmates were After your tour detained in it. Learn about when women and children why not stay for were held within its walls through to the political a bite to eat at segregation of republican and loyalist prisoners. Cuffs Bar and Grill, A qualified guide takes visitors through the key Belfast’s newest areas of the prison including the Governor’s Office, and captivating dining experience, the holding cells, execution cell, the graveyard and the in Crumlin Road underground tunnel linking the Gaol with the Crumlin Gaol. Road Courthouse.

16 VISITBELFAST.COM DISCOVER ARDS AND NORTH DOWN Delve into Culture and Heritage Explore Parks and Gardens Enjoy Events and Family Fun ON BELFAST’S Discover the Coast and Fabulous Food DOORSTEP

028 9127 0069 | 028 9182 6846 visitardsandnorthdown.com

VISITBELFAST.COM 17 HOME OF THRONES HBO®’s Game of Thrones® is one of the most popular and successful fantasy TV series ever made and it is filmed at a number of locations just outside Belfast. The magical atmosphere captured on film is due to the stunning filming locations chosen for the show, so hop on a tour to get out and explore them.

18 VISITBELFAST.COM The mesmerising fantasy lands of Westeros has at White Walkers! For more information on tours been created using Northern Ireland’s rugged see: visitbelfast.com/gameofthrones coastlines, historic castles and breath-taking countryside and forests. The dramatic scenery Doors of Thrones of the Causeway Coast and Glens, and Counties When the real life Storm Gertrude battered Down, Fermanagh and Armagh form the backdrop Westeros’s ‘Kingsroad’ in 2016, two of the Dark of much of the show’s action and fans can easily Hedges’ most famous trees were felled. However, access many of the locations from Belfast or nothing is lost and the story continues: the wood follow in the footsteps of a favourite character. was carved into 10 intricately designed doors, Some of the filming locations not to be missed each one telling the story of an episode in Game of and to name but a few include Castle Ward and Thrones season 6. From Cairncastle to the Glens Tollymore Forest Park (Winterfell), Downhill Beach of Antrim, via the Dark Hedges and Cushendun (Dragstone) and Murlough Bay (Stormlands). Caves, each door is within reach of a different filming location in Northern Ireland – can you Experience It track them all down? Download the ‘passport’ and There are a number of guided GoT coach tours explore the Journey of Doors in Northern Ireland that depart from Belfast. Meet Winterfell’s Master- for yourself. You’ll get a unique stamp at each one at-Arms, dress up in character costumes, tour the that you visit: discovernorthernireland.com/ movie set, and enjoy the thrill of firing live arrows gameofthronesdoors

VISITBELFAST.COM 19 No matter what your interest is – Titanic heritage, political history, food, music or even Game of Explore Thrones’ locations – tie it all together with one of the various tours on offer, on foot, bike, boat, bus or car. Here are a few ideas of the many ways to the City discover the city sights.

Political History Tours

City Tours changed from its industrial into the Northern Ireland If you’re short on time or want shipbuilding roots to a major ‘Troubles’, and how it has shaped to get a general overview of tourist attraction. Embracing their communities. Recently everything the city has to offer, the RMS Titanic story, old listed as one of Europe’s most book a private guided taxi tour and new, the boat tour allows alternative city tours. or open top bus tour. It’s the visitors to view the Titanic ideal way to find out all about Quarter from the water and Wee Toast Tour the city’s history including the appreciate the vastness of Enjoy a unique ‘beer bike’ guided famous political wall murals, this important industrial era. cycle tour through the streets the Peace Wall, Stormont The Tour also heads round of Belfast. This 15 seater vehicle Parliament Buildings and other to Musgrave Channel where lets you take in the sights highlights throughout the there’s a chance of seeing and sounds of the city whilst Gaeltacht, Queen’s, Cathedral Belfast’s large breeding seal enjoying a drink and pedalling and Titanic Quarters. colony. from the comfort of your bar stool! Titanic Boat Tour Political History Tours Take the World’s only guided Experience a bus or walking Food & Drink Tours Titanic Boat tour to see the tour with trained tour guides There are a number of delicious ever changing story of Belfast’s from the Republican and food and drink tours on offer in rich maritime heritage and how Loyalist ex-prisoner community and around the city and further the port has developed and who give a truly unique insight afield. Take a walking tour

20 VISITBELFAST.COM Traditional Music Tours

Food & Drink Tours Game of Thrones Tours

Wee Tram Tours City Tours

around the city’s gastronomic to telling the story of the great docking stations located across hot spots or a coach tour that achievers of local music. the city centre. It’s a great low brings you to visit some of cost and a convenient way to our top artisan food and drink Traditional Music Trail travel about and get to know producers, whose products are Take a walking tour around the city. There’s a great cycling served on the tables of Michelin Belfast’s historic Cathedral network across the city, inc. starred restaurants across the Quarter led by two professional bike friendly trails along the country. musicians. Visit some of Connswater Greenway, Lagan Belfast’s historic pubs Towpath and Comber Greenway. Music Tour where you will be treated to Take a bus journey through the performances of traditional Art Tours heart of this rock and roll city. tunes, songs and stories, with a Belfast has become a place Sit back, relax, and enjoy tunes tipple or two along the way. where Street Art has flourished, and tales from Them to Van where artists from around Morrison, by way of awesome Bike Tours the world have come to paint. guitar players, traditional and Take a bike tour around Devised and led by the local folk, to punk rock and Hollywood Belfast and discover a range artists who have driven the soundtracks. Finish up at the of attractions and interesting scene, Belfast’s Street Art Tour is Belfast Music exhibition at the points along the way, or create a 90 minute, gently paced guide Oh Yeah Music Centre in the your own itinerary and hire a to the ever-changing face of the Cathedral Quarter, dedicated Belfast Bike from one of 40 Cathedral Quarter.

VISITBELFAST.COM 21 Arts & Culture

Belfast may be small Ulster Museum The Metropolitan Art Centre in size, but it’s huge in Set in the beautiful Botanic The MAC is Belfast’s newest cultural imagination! Explore Gardens, the Ulster Museum is a arts hub. Located in the Cathedral treasure house of the past and Quarter, it offers an eclectic some of the cool art present with a rich collection of programme of visual art, theatre, spaces and creative art, history and natural sciences. dance, family workshops and lots places waiting to be The impressive galleries are free more. discovered. to visit throughout the year. Galleries Linen Hall Library Belfast has an impressive array of The Linen Hall Library is the gallery space, displaying everything oldest library in Belfast and the from the most contemporary visual last subscribing library in Ireland, art in the Golden Thread Gallery to renowned for its unparalleled Irish traditional printmaking techniques and Local Studies Collection, showcased in the Belfast Print ranging from comprehensive Workshop. The Naughton Gallery holdings of Early Belfast and at Queen’s features a rolling Ulster printed books to the programme of works from the 250,000 items in the Northern University’s own collection, touring Ireland Political Collection. exhibitions and shows by local and international artists.

22 VISITBELFAST.COM Late Night Art On the first Thursday of each month, the city’s galleries stay open late and you can explore on foot or on a guided bus tour to experience the ever- changing highlights of Belfast’s vibrant visual arts scene.

The Murals Described as “the world’s greatest open-air gallery”, the murals of Belfast are a must-see experience for visitors. Artworks range from Republican and Loyalist political statements to colourful celebrations of the city’s famous sons and daughters. The Peace Wall that divides two communities in West Belfast is home to a vibrant mix of political murals, graffiti and commissioned public art.

Public Art Belfast has over 150 pieces of distinctive public art placed across Seamus Heaney the city – look out for: ‘the Big Fish’ on Donegall Quay, ‘the Beacon Home Place of Hope’ towering over the River Lagan, and Belfast’s largest Northern Ireland’s Nobel Prize- sculpture ‘Rise’ on the M1 motorway. winning poet, Seamus Heaney, is celebrated with an exhibition C.S. Lewis Trail space and world-class Revisit The Chronicles of Narnia with a walk through CS Lewis programme of literary events Square, a public space commemorating the Belfast-born writer, at HomePlace in Bellaghy. CS Lewis. This stunning display at the intersection of Comber and Connswater Greenways includes sculptures of Aslan, The White Witch, Tumnus, The Beavers, The Robin and The Stone Table.

VISITBELFAST.COM 23 Cultural Heritage Belfast has a rich cultural tradition, that celebrates in particular two distinct cultural communities, both of which have made their own contributions to the city’s identity.

Even though Ulster and Scotland are just 13 In the Gaeltacht Quarter, Cultúrlann McAdam miles apart, the story of the close connections Ó Fiaich is an arts and cultural centre with a can be hard to find. At the Discover Ulster-Scots strong focus on Irish language and culture. In Centre in the Cathedral Quarter you can discover the interactive space on the first floor, visitors thousands of years of history, from the formation can get an insight into the development of of the Giant’s Causeway (which links County Irish language and culture in Belfast and how Antrim with the Western Isles of Scotland) right Irish has influenced the English language. At up to the present day. If you’re interested in your Cultúrlann you can experience live traditional ancestry, you can discover more about your and contemporary music sessions, poetry Ulster-Scots roots through the free genealogy readings, céilís, concerts, workshops and a research point. Find out which heritage trails children’s arts programme. Enjoy a meal in will lead you down the path to your ancestors ‘Bia’, the café and restaurant, browse the book and how the Ulster-Scots emigrated around the and gift shop and enjoy the exhibitions at the world to become some of the important world Gerard Dillon art gallery. The arts centre is open leaders and entrepreneurs in history. The centre Monday to Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 1-4pm is open Monday to Friday from 10am-4pm, with with free admission (Bia opens until 9pm on free admission. Friday and Saturday). There are a wide range of events celebrating Events celebrating Irish culture include Ulster-Scots and Orange heritage throughout Féile an Phobail, one of the biggest community the year, including the annual Battle of the Boyne festivals in Europe, taking place in August, commemorative parade on the 12th of July, Fleadh Feirste in November, Féile an Earraigh in Belfast Burns Week in January and the Belfast March and Feile an Droichead also in August. Tattoo in September. culturlann.ie discoverulsterscots.com visitwestbelfast.com orangeheritage.co.uk

24 VISITBELFAST.COM Afternoon Tea at Ten Square Hotel

A Retreat in the Heart of Belfast Unwind at Belfast’s most sought after address, overlooking Belfast City Hall

Compliment with overnight accommodations, leaving you refreshed to explore more…

10 Donegall Square South | www.tensquare.co.uk | Tel: 028 9024 1001 From £19.95 per person or from £120 per couple with accommodation

A beautiful story, told wonderfully well. A world class exhibition!

A stunning exhibition telling the story of the life and literature of Nobel Laureate, Seamus Heaney, one of Ireland’s greatest writers.

Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy, Co Derry, N. Ireland. www.seamusheaneyhome.com

VISITBELFAST.COM 25 Dine & Drink

26 VISITBELFAST.COM There’s nothing like a new city, new restaurants and new culinary experiences to make mouth-watering memories. Belfast offers everything from Michelin star dining to the classic ‘Ulster Fry’ and the best fish and chips round. Restaurant reviewers have plated up praise for Belfast’s food scene.

Dining Out Belfast has all the right ingredients for coffee, lunch and dinner and is home to some of the most talented chefs in Ginaissance the World. The much coveted Michelin Starred ‘Eipic’ and ‘Ox’ have put Belfast on the culinary map, and the finest in Belfast is experiencing local cuisine can also be found at renowned establishments something of a ‘Ginaissance’ including James Street South, The Muddlers Club, Shu and with many bars and The Great Room Restaurant to name but a few. Great chefs, restaurants across the city superb local produce and great value means Belfast has offering an entire menu dedicated to this increasingly one of the tastiest food scenes in the UK or Ireland. In the varied spirit. While you’re here, Cathedral Quarter, you’ll find a selection of tasty restaurants make sure to try the best in in Saint Anne’s Square, and you’ll be spoilt for choice in our local craft distilled gin. the city centre with the likes of Mourne Seafood Bar, Home ‘Jawbox’ is perfect served Restaurant, Deanes and Howard Street. The city’s diverse with ginger ale, mint leaves cultures are showcased with the very best of Chinese, and a wedge of lime, or Indian, Mexican, Spanish, Italian and Japanese food, so ‘Shortcross’ served with frozen there’s plenty to choose from. orange ice cubes, fresh mint and elderflower tonic water. Markets and More You can also take a day trip Belfast is a foodies delight. At the weekend, St George’s out of the city to tour these Market oozes Victorian charm with some of the finest fresh distilleries. produce, street food as well as local arts and crafts. Stop for brunch or soak up the atmosphere with great live music. Explore amazing delis such as Sawers and Avoca, with their extensive range of high quality local artisan products, and those with a sweet tooth shouldn’t miss Co Couture where you can buy locally made award-winning chocolates.

Coffee Stop Belfast has a vibrant café culture. From local artisan roasters, to incredible independent coffee shops and top class baristas...you’ll never be far away from a great handcrafted coffee or a boutique loose leaf blended tea. There are an abundance of coffee shops in Belfast but worth Top Tipple a stop are local chain Clements, Patisserie Valerie beside City Hall and the Gallery on Dublin Road. Pick up a copy You’ll find whiskey galore in of the ‘Belfast Coffee Map’ to discover a trail of the best this off-licence cum whiskey speciality coffee providers across the city. museum - the ‘Friend at Hand’ on Hill Street lovingly charts the history of distilling in Belfast.

VISITBELFAST.COM 27 With a huge variety if independent retailers, high street names, boutiques, speciality shops and traditional markets, you’ll find it here in Belfast.

Top Shopping Tip

Compact in size, but uncompromising in choice, Belfast Ulster University has offers shoppers the ultimate retail experience. Find just opened a new everything you could possibly need under one roof at student-led art and either Victoria Square or Castle Court; find all the high design shop. Based in street names you can think of along Royal Avenue or its Belfast campus on Donegall Place or hunt out the city’s craft shops, vintage York Street the shop stores, independent record shops and second hand will showcase bespoke books retailers – for designer boutiques and private art pieces of hand-crafted art by a wide range of galleries, interspersed with delis, wine bars and cafes students and alumni. head to the Lisburn Road.

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Sport & Activities

Watching and playing Spectate sports is an important No matter what time of year you come to Belfast, there part of culture in should be some top sporting action to enjoy. Ulster Rugby plays regularly at the Kingspan Stadium competing in both Belfast. The city has the PRO14 and European Champions Cup from September several notable sports to April. Soccer fans can catch a local game played at teams playing a diverse football grounds and stadiums across the city or keep an variety of sports eye out for the Northern Ireland international team matches. including football, The Belfast Giants ice hockey team promises a night of fast rugby, traditional Irish and furious action, playing home games regularly at the Gaelic games, and SSE Arena between August and April. If you fancy a day at the races, take a short trip to Down Royal with a variety of North American sports horse racing festivals and meetings taking place throughout such as ice hockey and the year or Drumbo Park provides weekly greyhound racing basketball. The Belfast nights in an electric atmosphere. Gaelic Football, Hurling Marathon is run annually and Camogie are fast paced action sports with games on May Day. taking place in counties throughout the island of Ireland between February and October.

30 VISITBELFAST.COM Take Part Prefer to take part in the action canal side towpaths, there’s Made for Golf instead? Belfast offers many something to suit everyone. Up Northern Ireland has found different opportunities to add a for a challenge? Sign up to the a new, superstar status in thrilling twist to your city break, annual Belfast City Marathon the world of golf during the from zip wiring to canoeing, in May or the Half Marathon past couple of years, aided archery to orienteering and in September and take to the by Rory McIlroy, Graeme water sports to mountain streets with thousands of McDowell and Darren Clarke. biking. Check out one of the participants from all around Not only does Northern many outdoor activity centres the world. Ireland produce golf to create your urban adventure. If you prefer life on two champions, it also boasts Stretch your legs and see wheels rather than two feet, an enviable collection of the city from up high with a Belfast is very bike friendly, with some of the world’s very best hike up Black Mountain or the plenty of riverside cycle trails to golf courses. Belfast itself iconic Cave Hill, and enjoy the explore at your leisure or take a boasts fourteen courses and fresh air, history, nature and guided bike tour to learn about golf centres within the city’s fantastic city views, or you the city while you peddle. The boundary, while the world can choose from a variety of Belfast Bikes scheme offers renowned links courses of short or long walking trails easy cycle hire at over 40 Royal County Down and Royal Portrush are just over in public parks and gardens docking stations around the an hour’s drive away. blooming in colour or peaceful city centre.

VISITBELFAST.COM 31 Family Fun Belfast is a great holiday destination with plenty of attractions for the young, and not so you, in the city and beyond.

Go wild at Belfast Zoo with spectacular ice hockey matches. Nearby you can wildlife, fun feeding times and trails learn about the city’s maritime heritage to follow, as well as panoramic views at SS Nomadic, HMS Caroline and across Belfast. Get up close and cuddle Titanic Belfast, which are all the little animals at Streamvale or the family-friendly. Ark Open Farms, visit Ireland’s largest Experience life under the sea collection of native and exotic water- at Exploris Aquarium, choose from birds at Castle Espie or view birds trampolining, high ropes courses or and wildlife from all over the world at indoor skiing at We Are Vertigo or they Belfast’s Window on Wildlife. can get their skates on at Dundonald Ice If prehistoric beasts are of more Bowl. Visit the Ulster Folk and Transport interest, head over to the Ulster Museum, which has one of the best Museum, with its interactive learning rail galleries in Europe and also allows zones full of great activities to keep visitors to experience what life would the kids happy. The Odyssey Pavilion have been like 100 years ago in its provides some wet weather respite with outdoor folk park. Or venture out of the a whole host of entertainment under city to enjoy a wealth of National Trust one roof –find W5 discovery centre, properties with glorious grounds and bowling alleys, cinemas and, if the gardens to explore and plenty of family Giants are playing at home, end-to-end events on offer throughout the year.

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After Dark Belfast city does not disappoint when it comes to a great night out on the town, with a fantastic theatre scene, superb live music venues, an abundance of smart and stylish bars, comedy nights, big screen sports, nightclubs and gay venues, there’s something for everyone!

34 VISITBELFAST.COM Theatre & Performing Arts Ulster Hall (1862) in the Linen to find something musical Belfast’s entertainment scene Quarter is home to the Ulster to enjoy on your visit here, attracts a combination of big- Orchestra as well as offering a whether it’s toe-tapping name stars while continuing programme full of all genres of traditional Irish music in one of to develop top home-grown music and a regular comedy our historic pubs, a standing talent. There are many theatres, club. The Belfast Waterfront room only gig in one of our cinemas and art centres has stunning city and river top live music venues or an scattered throughout the city, views and provides a fantastic evening of soothing jazz or which stage regular theatrical, programme offering everything classical music. Belfast has musical and literary events, as from pop and rock concerts to been the birthplace, spiritual well as premieres, film festivals, comedy, theatre, ballet, dance home, inspiration and venue talks and debates. and much more. In Titanic extraordinaire for musicians Check out fantastic touring Quarter, the SSE Arena is not past and present in every genre, west end productions at the only home to the Belfast Giants including 1950’s songstress historic Grand Opera House Ice Hockey team, but hosts Ruby Murray, the legendary Van (1895), enjoy the tranquil river a top line-up of international Morrison, rock guitarist Gary views as well as superb local performers, concerts and Moore and pop super group productions at the stunning sporting events throughout Snow Patrol. Belfast’s musical Lyric Theatre in the Queen’s the year. legacy is still alive and kicking Quarter or enjoy a mixed today, with a stellar line up of programme of theatre, music, Music City international acts and up and dance and visual art at the Belfast resonates to an ever- coming local talent playing at a Metropolitan Arts Centre (MAC) changing soundtrack of live wide range of venues across the in the Cathedral Quarter. The music and you’re guaranteed city on a nightly basis.

VISITBELFAST.COM 35 Pubs & Clubs The Cathedral Quarter is full of landmarks in the city, or enjoy local DJ talent as well as guests character and one of the most a pint in Belfast’s oldest pub, from the Marbella and Ibiza enjoyable places to explore Kelly’s Cellars. scene.at Alibi in the Queen’s on a night out, with a mixture Love a laugh? Then head Quarter. Enjoy Asian inspired of bars, restaurants, theatre to The Empire in the Queen’s luxury at Chinawhite or check and live music, hidden along Quarter for its weekly comedy out Ollie’s Club in the basement cobblestone and fairy light night. Want to catch a night of the stunning Merchant Hotel, lined alleys. Check out the Duke of big screen sports? Make which is one of Belfast’s most of York boasting the largest a stop at the Kitchen Bar in exclusive nightclubs and plays whiskey collection in Ireland, the city centre, Lavery’s in host to many celebrities, VIPs the Dirty Onion in Belfast’s Queens’ Quarter, or Rockies and socialites. oldest building and the John Sports Bar in the Odyssey Hewitt for its extensive craft Pavilion at Titanic Quarter, or Whatever nightlife you seek, beer selection and diverse for something a little different, Belfast is happy to oblige! range of live music. book a table at Cabaret, For more inspiration, see Find the best traditional where you can enjoy a 1920’s visitbelfast.com pubs in which to enjoy the Hollywood style supper club perfect pint of Guinness or with a variety of entertaining local craft beer, with original dinner shows. features, a warm atmosphere For those that want to party and friendly welcome there is on into the small hours, there’s no better place to relax and a vibrant club scene on offer. enjoy the local ‘craic’. Relax in a Sixty6 features a 4th floor club, cosy snug in the Crown Liquor a 50s themed drinking lounge, a Saloon, an ornate Victorian chic rooftop bar and an intimate gin palace dating back to 1826 cocktail bar, all under one roof, and one of the best known or you’ll find the very best in

36 VISITBELFAST.COM VISITBELFAST.COM 37 Belfast Pride LGBT+ The annual festival is a 10-day celebration and the largest Belfast has a thriving LGBT+ scene across the city, with of its kind on the island of a dedicated nightlife focus around the Smithfield and Ireland. Attracting thousands Union areas. of revellers each summer at Gay venues to take note of include The Kremlin, a the end of July, visitors can Soviet-style venue with extravagant décor. The Tsar enjoy debates, film, music Cocktail lounge, the Long Bar and Red Square continues & drama with a spectacular the communist-chic vibe. It offers a huge variety of finale city parade and party. theme nights, which gives it the reputation of the best gay venue in Ireland. Outburst Queer Union Street is situated in a 19th century shoe factory, Arts Festival is a great place for some fine gastro pub grub with a Taking place every November, cool yet comfy vibe. Upstairs, the Green Room Cocktail the Outburst Queer Arts Lounge is particularly worth a visit, and the adjoining Festival is a celebration of Shoe Factory provides wacky entertainment from Bingo queer art and performance and Karaoke to quizzes and cabaret. in Belfast, showcasing great Maverick Bar & Boom Box is a popular and well-loved local and international queer for its eclectic live music nights and comedy shows. The work and supporting the ‘Open Mic’ sessions here are unmissable, taking place development of queer arts at every Wednesday from 9pm! home and internationally.

38 VISITBELFAST.COM VISITBELFAST.COM 39 January Out to Lunch Festival cqaf.com Belfast Burns Week ulsterscotsagency.com/events EVENTS & Festival of Hurling FESTIVALS visitwestbelfast.com February Four Corners Festival 4cornersfestival.com No matter what time of the year you visit the Chinese New Year city, your trip is bound to coincide with one cwa-ni.org of Belfast’s many festivals and events giving NI Science Festival you the chance to experience everything from nisciencefestival.com world music, European theatre productions, Belfast City Dance gastronomic food festivals, traditional sessions crescentarts.org and contemporary dance. Celebrate Chinese BMS International Festival of New Year, Mela, St. Patrick’s Day and the 12th Chamber Music of July in Belfast and see how diverse, vibrant belfastmusicsociety.com and lively the city really is. Fairtrade Fortnight 2018 Festival acsoni.org

40 VISITBELFAST.COM March Belfast Book Festival September Belfast Nashville belfastbookfestival.com Belfast Tattoo Songwriters Festival belfasttattoo.com UK Pipe Band Championships belfastnashville.com rspba.org Culture Night Brilliant Corners Belfast culturenightbelfast.com Fred Festival of Cycling Jazz Festival thefred.cc European Heritage Open Days movingonmusic.com discovernorthernireland.com/ehod Belfast Maritime Festival Imagine! Belfast Festival belfastcity.gov.uk/events Belfast City Half Marathon of Ideas and Politics belfastcitymarathon.com imaginebelfast.com Belfast International ‘Titango’ Festival St Patrick’s Day belfasttango.com October belfastcity.gov.uk/events Belfast Comedy Festival Belfast City Blues Festival bellylaughsbelfast.com Feile an Earriagh belfastcityblues.com feilebelfast.com Belfast International Belfast Hills Heritage Festival Arts Festival An Droichead Spring Festival belfasthills.org/events belfastinternationalartsfestival.com androichead.com Cinemagic Festival Ulster Festival of Arts July cinemagic.org.uk and Design Belfast Guitar Festival ulsterfestival.com belfastguitarfest.com Belfast Fashion Week belfastfashionweek.com McCracken Summer Festival April mhicreachtain.com Halloween Metro Monster Mash Belfast Film Festival belfastcity.gov.uk/events belfastfilmfestival.org Belfast Pride belfastpride.com Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival November cqaf.com Orangefest Twilight Market belfastorangefest.co.uk stgeorgesmarket.com May Outburst Queer Arts Festival Festival of Fools August outburstarts.com foolsfestival.com Open House Festival openhousefestival.com Belfast Design Week Belfast City Marathon belfastdesignweek.com belfastcitymarathon.com Sunflowerfest sunflowerfest.co.uk Sound of Belfast Writers on Writers Festival soundofbelfast.com linenhall.com Feile an Phobail feilebelfast.com C.S Lewis Festival Belfast Craft Beer Festival eastsidearts.net belfastcraftbeer.com Eastside Arts Festival eastsidearts.net The Ladyboys of Bangkok Sonorities of ladyboysofbangkok.co.uk Contemporary Music Caribbean Festival qub.ac.uk/sonorities acsoni.org Fleadh Feirste visitwestbelfast.com Woodstock Rhythm & June Blues Festival Christmas Lights Switch-On Belsonic woodstockbelfast.co.uk visitbelfast.com belsonic.com Feile an Droichead Belfast International androichead.com December Photo Festival Belfast Christmas Market belfastphotofestival.com Belfast Vital Festival visitbelfast.com/Christmas ticketmaster.ie AVA Music Conference and Festival Hilden Beer and Music Festival avafestival.com taproomhilden.com Belfast Mela artsekta.org.uk

VISITBELFAST.COM 41 Belfast

Make the most of your visit

You can easily access both countryside and sea shore within a short drive of Belfast to enjoy a variety of exciting attractions, historic places of interest, informative tours, outdoor activities and amazing scenery. belfastplus.com

Lisburn AND Castlereagh

Lisburn & Castlereagh has a and lake at Hillsborough Forest. Hillsborough International rich cultural heritage, from Hillsborough is also home to Oyster Festival and Down Royal the historic quarter in Lisburn the historic Courthouse and Festival of Racing to vibrant City Centre to the Memories of stunning Hillsborough Castle music festivals Moira Calling Castlereagh Heritage Trail. and Gardens, the official and Hilden Beer and Music residence of the Royal Family in Festival. Families can enjoy an Discover the History Northern Ireland. array of shows and workshops Explore the beautifully restored at the ISLAND Arts Centre and Castle Gardens or learn about Shop and Dine seasonal events in Lisburn’s our industrial heritage with a Discover the true taste of Ulster Market Square. visit to the award winning Irish in our vibrant restaurants, cafés Linen Centre. You can discover and farmers markets, featuring Family Fun the magic of traditional brewing produce from some of the The Lagan Valley Leisureplex by visiting Ireland’s oldest area’s award winning growers provides fun for kids of all independent brewery in the and producers. Memorable ages with its fantastic lazy courtyard of Hilden House. shopping opportunities river and water rides. Get await you at Bow Street Mall, active at Dundonald Ice Villages, Castles & Gardens Sprucefield and Forestside Bowl or relax in the rural The villages of Hillsborough Shopping Centres and Lisburn surrounding of Streamvale and Moira offer a mix of Square. Farm. Sports enthusiasts won’t boutique shops, gastro pubs be disappointed with a night and cafes offering superb local Events and Festivals at Drumbo Park Greyhound produce. Take time to explore There is a packed calendar of Stadium, or improve your golf the beautiful parkland of Moira events on offer all year round handicap at one of the many Demesne and the woodlands from the Balmoral Show, terrific courses.

For full events info see Lisburn Visitor Hillsborough Visitor visitlisburncastlereagh.com Information Centre Information Centre 15 Lisburn Square The Old Courthouse Lisburn BT28 1AN Hillsborough BT26 6AG 028 9244 7622 028 9244 7640

42 VISITBELFAST.COM Ards and North Down

Escape the city - come and Foodie Heaven Scrabo hill for panoramic views relax in this beautiful corner of The fertile fields and rich over Strangford Lough and Northern Ireland, on Belfast’s grasslands produce quality County Down. The peaceful doorstep. Boasting miles of vegetables and pedigree surroundings of Bangor coastline, wonderful parks and herds. Luxury beef, cheese, ice Castle Walled Garden or the gardens, and a rich heritage cream, yoghurt and seafood spectacular lakeside garden with fabulous attractions are all top of the menu with and woodland trails at Mount and activities scattered Comber Earlies, Portavogie Stewart provide the perfect throughout. prawns and Strangford Oysters retreat. There are also lots of internationally recognised - activities to get your heart Family Time the area has it all! Enjoy this racing, from karting to off Making memories is easy with local food in award winning road driving, trial flights from so much to see and do – spend restaurants or buy some to Ards Airfield or water based time at the beach exploring take home at artisan stores, all adventures on the Loughs. rock pools, paddling in the sea; offering their own specialities. rounding off trip with an ice- Stay a While cream. Head to Pickie Funpark Great Outdoors Be sure to check into and for activities galore, get up Explore our expansive relax in some of the wonderful close and personal with sharks, shorelines and countryside. accommodation dotted sting wrays and starfish at Stride out along one of the along the way, from hotels Exploris Aquarium or step back many beaches, take in the to farmhouses and even a in time at the Ulster Folk and stunning North Down Coastal converted boathouse or mill Transport Museum. Path, or climb to the top of there is something perfect for all tastes and budgets.

For more inspiration see Ards Visitor Bangor Visitor visitardsandnorthdown.com Information Centre Information Centre 31 Regent Street 34 Quay Street Newtownards BT23 3AD Bangor BT20 5ED 028 9182 6846 028 9127 0069

VISITBELFAST.COM 43 Belfast: Gateway to Northern Ireland Bridge Rope Carrick-a-Rede

Belfast makes a Within an hour’s drive of Causeway, Northern Ireland’s great base for Belfast, visitors can discover only World Heritage Site. At exploring the rest of pristine seafronts, country the Causeway, hire an audio parks, rugged hill tops or enjoy tour from the state-of-the- Northern Ireland. a variety of country house art visitor centre, explore the experiences. interactive exhibition spaces, Uncover the myths and watch Finn McCool on the big legends that have made screen and unlock the secrets Belfast the Causeway Coast of this inspirational landscape. the world’s best region to visit Nearby, take a tour of the in 2018 - the world-renowned oldest licensed distillery in the Causeway Coastal Route runs world; Bushmills and challenge from Belfast, past Carrickfergus yourself to cross the 100 ft. high and it’s Norman Castle, Larn Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. and the spectacular Gobbins Jump on a train or bus and footpath through the Nine head to the historic walled city Glens of Antrim to the Giant’s of Derry~Londonderry, with its

44 VISITBELFAST.COM Mourne Mountains

Fermanagh Lakelands

Giant’s Causeway

lively cultural scene, impressive architecture, carnivals, festivals and visitor attractions. Shrouded in magic and majesty, the Mourne Mountains is an area of outstanding natural beauty, filled with dizzying peaks, rolling valleys, tranquil forests and golden coastline. Don’t miss the unspoilt Lakeland beauty of Fermanagh, or to pay a visit to a number of stunning National Trust properties including Florence Court, Castle Ward Derry~Londonderry and Mount Stewart.

VISITBELFAST.COM 45 Visit Belfast Welcome Centre Visit Belfast 9 Donegall Square North Belfast BT1 5GB +44 (0)28 9024 6609 Welcome Centre [email protected] Call in and discover what our city has to offer... October - May you’ll be surprised! Mon - Sat: 9am - 5.30pm Sun: 11am - 4pm June - September Make the state-of-the-art Welcome Centre your first Mon - Sat: 9am - 7pm stop when you arrive in the city or contact the team Sun: 11am - 4pm for information in advance of your stay. Located on Donegall Square North (opposite Belfast City Hall), Belfast International Airport our friendly Visitor Advisors are here to help you plan Tourist Information Desk your perfect trip to Belfast and Northern Ireland +44 (0)28 9448 4677 Mon - Fri: 7.30am-7pm Services include: Sat: 7.30am - 5.30pm - Tourist information & advice Sun: 9am - 5pm - Tickets for tours & events, - Accommodation bookings George Best Belfast City Airport - Gift shop, Tourist Information Desk - Free Wi-Fi, +44 (0)28 9093 5372 - Bureau de Change, Mon - Fri: 7.30am-7pm - Left luggage Sat: 7.30am - 4.30pm, Sun: 10.30am - 5.30pm

46 VISITBELFAST.COM Opening Spring 2018 Visit us online for further details www.thegobbinscliffpath.com, email [email protected] or phone 028 9337 2318

Visit us at Carrickfergus Castle Visitor Information Centre

E: [email protected] T: 028 9335 8244

www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk

MEA Castle Gobbins Belfast Visitor A5.indd 1 14/10/2017 09:16 Places to stay

Tourism NI operates the Quality Grading Scheme. The scheme accesses quality and the visitor experience. Premises have the ability to achieve between one and five stars. To view the most up to date grading’s visit discovernorthernireland.com/ accommodation

1 star - acceptable 2 star - good 3 star - very good 4 star - excellent 5 star - outstanding

Colour Coding All premises are listed alphabetically by grade and in coloured sections denoting the type of accommodation.

Hotels Guest Accommodation Guesthouse Bed & Breakfast Academic/Campus Self Catering Hostels Camping, Caravans & Motorhomes

48 VISITBELFAST.COM Hotels

Culloden The Fitzwilliam Hotel The Merchant Titanic Hotel Estate and Spa Belfast Hotel Belfast Bangor Road, Cultra 1-3 Great Victoria Street 16 Skipper Street Queen’s Road, Titanic Quarter Belfast BT18 0EX Belfast BT2 7BQ Belfast BT1 2DZ Belfast BT3 9DT +44 (0)28 9042 1066 +44 (0)28 9044 2080 +44 (0)28 9023 4888 +44 (0)28 9508 2000 hastingshotels.com fitzwilliamhotelbelfast.com themerchanthotel.com titanichotelbelfast.com

11.6km 0.4km 0.65km 2.7km

Grand Central AC by Benedicts Bullitt Hotel Marriott Hotel 9-15 Bedford St, Belfast BT2 7FT City Quays 7-21 Bradbury Place 40a Church Lane +44 (0)28 9047 1066 Belfast BT1 3BG Belfast BT7 1RQ Belfast BT1 4QN hastingshotels.com/grand-central achotels.marriott.com +44 (0)28 9059 1999 +44 (0)28 9590 0600 *Opening June 2018 *Opening Spring 2018 benedictshotel.co.uk bullitthotel.com

0.28km 1.5km 1.4km 0.5km

Clandeboye Clayton Hotel Crowne Plaza Dukes Lodge Hotel Belfast Belfast at Queens 10 Estate Road, Clandeboye 22 Ormeau Avenue Shaws Bridge 65-67 University Street Bangor BT19 1UR Belfast BT2 8HS Belfast BT8 7XP Belfast BT7 1HL +44 (0)28 9185 2500 +44 (0)28 9032 8511 +44 (0)28 9092 3500 +44 (0)28 9023 6666 clandeboyelodge.com claytonhotelbelfast.com plazahotelbelfast.com dukesatqueens.com

16km 0.5km 7km 2km

Europa Galgorm Resort Hilton Hilton Templepatrick Belfast & Spa Belfast Hotel & Country Club Great Victoria Street 136 Fenaghy Road 4 Lanyon Place Castle Upton Estate Belfast BT2 7AP Ballymena BT42 1EA Belfast BT1 3LP Templepatrick BT39 0DD +44 (0)28 9027 1066 +44 (0)28 2588 1001 +44 (0)28 9027 7000 +44 (0)28 9443 5500 hastingshotels.com galgorm.com hilton.co.uk/belfast hilton.co.uk/templepatrick

0.5km 48km 0.9km 20km

VISITBELFAST.COM 49 Hotels

Holiday Inn La Mon Hotel Malmaison Malone Lodge Belfast City Centre & Country Club Belfast Hotel 40 Hope Street 41 Gransha Road, Castlereagh 34-38 Victoria Street 60 Eglantine Avenue Belfast BT12 5EE Belfast BT23 5RF Belfast BT1 3GH Belfast BT9 6DY +44 (0)28 9024 2494 +44 (0)28 9044 8631 +44 (0)28 9600 1405 +44 (0)28 9038 8000 hibelfastcitycentre.co.uk lamon.co.uk malmaison.com malonelodgehotelbelfast.com

0.9km 10km 0.65km 2.7km

The Old Inn Park Avenue Radisson Stormont Hotel Blu Hotel 15-25 Main Street 158 Holywood Road The Gasworks, 3 Cromac Place 587 Upper Newtownards Road Crawfordsburn BT19 1JH Belfast BT4 1PB Belfast BT7 2JB Belfast BT4 3LP +44 (0)28 9185 3255 +44 (0)28 9065 6520 +44 (0)28 9043 4065 +44 (0)28 9065 1066 theoldinn.com parkavenuehotel.co.uk radissonblu.co.uk/hotel-belfast hastingshotels.com

16.8km 4.3km 1.3km 7.6km

Ten Square Balmoral Belfast Loughshore Corr’s Corner Boutique Hotel Hotel Hotel Hotel 10 Donegall Square South Blacks Road 75 Belfast Road 315 Ballyclare Road Belfast BT1 5JD Belfast BT10 0NF Carrickfergus BT38 8PH Newtownabbey BT36 4TQ +44 (0)28 9024 1001 +44 (0)28 9030 1234 +44 (0)28 9336 4556 +44 (0)28 9084 9221 tensquare.co.uk balmoralhotelbelfast.com loughshorehotel.com corrscorner.com

0.24km 7.4km 16km 13.6km

The Dark Hedges Holiday Inn Express Holiday Inn Express Jurys Estate Antrim Belfast Belfast 141 Ballinlea Road Junction 1 Leisure Park 106 University Street Fisherwick Place Ballymoney BT53 8PX Ballymena Rd, Antrim BT41 4LL Belfast BT7 1HP Great Victoria St, Belfast BT1 6DY +44 (0)28 2075 1209 +44 (0)28 9442 5500 +44 (0)28 9031 1909 +44 (0)28 9053 3500 darkhedgesestate.com hiexantrim.co.uk hiexpressbelfast.com jurysinns.com/hotels/belfast

80km 27.5km 1.7km 0.4km

50 VISITBELFAST.COM Guest Accommodation Guesthouse

Maldron Hotel Park Inn by Ramada Strangford Belfast Radisson Belfast Encore Arms Hotel Belfast International Airport 4 Clarence Street West St Anne’s Square 92 Church Street Crumlin BT29 4ZY Belfast BT2 7GP 20 Talbot Street, Belfast BT1 2LD Newtownards BT23 4AL +44 (0)28 9445 7000 +44 (0)28 9067 7700 +44 (0)28 9026 1800 +44 (0)28 9181 4141 maldronhotelbelfast.com parkinn.co.uk/hotel-belfast encorebelfast.co.uk strangfordhotel.com

30km 0.45km 1km 17km

Wellington Park Belfast City Chimney Corner ETAP Hotel Hotel Travelodge Hotel Belfast 21 Malone Road 15 Brunswick Street 630 Antrim Road 35-39 Dublin Road Belfast BT9 6RU Belfast BT2 7GE Newtownards BT36 4RH Belfast BT2 7HE +44 (0)28 9038 1111 +44 (0)87 0191 1687 +44 (0)28 9084 4925 +44 (0)28 9032 8126 wellingtonparkhotel.com travelodge.ie chimneycorner.co.uk ibis.com

2.3km 0.4km 13km 0.65km

Ibis Belfast Ibis Belfast The Salty Dog The Gregory City Centre Queen’s Quarter Hotel & Bistro Guest House 100 Castle Street 75 University Street 10-12 Seacliff Road 30 Eglantine Avenue Belfast BT1 1HF Belfast BT7 1HL Bangor BT20 5EY Belfast BT9 6DX +44 (0)28 9023 8888 +44 (0)28 9033 3366 +44 (0)28 9127 0696 +44 (0)28 9066 3454 ibisbelfastcity.com ibisbelfastqueens.com saltydogbangor.com thegregoryguesthouse.com

0.5km 2km 22km 2.5km

Tara Farset Maranatha Rayanne Country Lodge International House 36 Cromwell Road 466 Springfield Road 254 Ravenhill Road, 60 Demesne Road Belfast BT7 1JW Belfast BT12 7DW Belfast BT6 8GJ Holywood BT18 9EX +44 (0)28 9059 0900 +44 (0)28 9089 9833 +44 (0)28 9046 0200 +44 (0)28 9042 5859 taralodge.com farsetinternational.co.uk maranathahouse.com rayannehouse.com

1.5km 3.5km 2.5km 9km

VISITBELFAST.COM 51 Guesthouse Bed and Breakfast Self Catering

An Old Keef Parador Inn Windermere Rectory Halla Guest House 148 Malone Road 20 Tully Road 471-473 Ormeau Road 60 Wellington Park Belfast BT9 5LH Crumlin BT29 4SW Belfast BT7 3GR Belfast BT9 6DP +44 (0)28 9066 7882 +44 (0)28 9082 5491 +44 (0)28 9049 1883 +44 (0)28 9066 2693 anoldrectory.co.uk keefhalla.com theparador.com

4.4km 19km 3km 2.2km

Peartree Maryville 207 Upper Abbey Hill House Malone Road Self Catering 60 Peartree Hill 2 Maryville Park 207 Upper Malone Road 451 Shore Road Dundonald, Belfast BT16 1XE Belfast BT9 6LN Belfast BT17 9JX Newtownabbey BT37 9SE +44 (0)7510 794311 +44 (0)28 9068 1510 +44 (0)28 9061 2432 +44 (0)28 9085 4777 peartreehill.co.uk maryvillehouse.co.uk abbeyselfcatering.co.uk

11km 4.3km 9km 9.6km

Drumlin Finn Strangford Arms Hallmount Cottage Lane Lough Serviced Self Catering 53 Ballylesson Road 1 & 2 Drumlin Lane 33 Letter Road 92 Church Street Shaws Bridge, Belfast BT8 8JS Hillsborough BT26 6PJ Enniskillen BT93 2BB Newtownards BT23 4AL +44 (0)28 9069 3507 +44 (0)7748 458249 +44 (0)28 6838 0360 +44 (0)28 9181 4141 +44 (0)7843 765212 drumlinlane.com finnlough.com strangfordhotel.com hallmountcottage.com

24km 155km 17km 7.6km

Castlewood City Resorts Cordia Serviced Dream Apartments Ltd Apartments Apartments Paradise Walk, Castle Upton Various locations in Belfast 355-367 Lisburn Road Obel Block, 62 Donegall Quay Templepatrick BT39 0DD +44 (0)28 9087 2457 Belfast BT9 7EP Belfast BT1 3AT +44 (0)28 9443 2473 cityresorts.com +44 (0)28 9038 0900 +44 (0)28 9521 6054 castlewoodapartments.co.uk cordiaapartments.com dreamapartments.co.uk

20km 1.8km 2.6km 1.2km

52 VISITBELFAST.COM Academic/Campus Hostels Camping, Caravans & Motorhomes

George Best Giant Serviced Malone Lodge Rockport House Apartments Apartments Lodge 16 Burren Way, Cregagh 118 Eglantine Avenue 60 Eglantine Avenue 6 Rockport Road, Craigavad Belfast BT6 0DW Belfast BT9 6EU Belfast BT9 6DY Holywood BT18 0DE +44 (0)28 9045 1900 +44 (0)28 9066 7873 +44 (0)28 9038 8000 +44 (0)28 9042 7166 georgebesthouse.com servicedapartmentsbelfast.com malonelodgehotelbelfast.com airbnb.co.uk/rooms/13463854

4km 2.3km 2.5km 14km

Queen’s Elms Stranmillis University Ulster Belfast International Village College University Hostel 78 Malone Road Stranmillis Road Dalriada Student Village, Shore 22-32 Donegall Road Belfast BT9 5BW Belfast BT9 5DY Rd, Newtownabbey BT37 0QA Belfast BT12 5JN +44 (0)28 9097 4525 +44 (0)28 9038 4251 +44 (0)28 9036 6239 +44 (0)28 9031 5435 stayatqueens.com stran.ac.uk ulster.ac.uk/accommodation hini.org.uk

2.8km 3.4km 11.7km 1km

Bunk Causeway Dundonald Touring Campers Campers Caravan Park Cyril Johnston Complex 141 Atlantic Road 111 Old Dundonald Road Ballynahinch Road, Carryduff Portrush BT56 8PB Belfast BT16 1XT BT8 8DJ +44 (0)7790 775471 +44 (0)28 9080 9100 +44 (0)28 9081 3057 causewaycampers.com theicebowl.com bunkcampers.com 8km

visitbelfast.com Get ready for Belfast. Visit us online and check out what’s on, what to go and see and where to stay along with all the latest offers and events.

VISITBELFAST.COM 53

#lovinbelfast Travel #translinklifesbetter Tips

Communications people or more. If this charge is The international code for added to your bill, tipping is not Northern Ireland is 00 44 28. necessary. If a service charge is The number for emergency not included, a discretionary tip services is 999. This will of 10-15% is customary. Belfast connect you to the fire brigade, police, ambulance, lifeboat Shopping Visitor Pass and mountain rescue services. Many shops in the city centre Unlimited travel plus 39 follow these opening hours: If you need to speak to police special offers including about a matter that does not Monday - Wednesday: discounted tours, need an immediate urgent 9am-6pm attractions and so much response, you should call 101. Thursday: 9am-9pm more. The Belfast Visitor Internet and Wi-Fi access Friday & Saturday: 9am-6pm Pass is just the ticket to is widely available throughout Sunday 1pm-6pm save you time and money, the city. Belfast is one of 10 UK Shopping centres may have just like a VIP. cities set to become a Super- extended opening hours connected City. Plans include midweek. city wide access to high speed ultrafast broadband as well as Stay Safe widespread WiFi. Belfast is one of the safest Most post offices are open cities in Europe with an Monday to Friday 9am to extremely low crime rate. 5.30pm and some are also However, it is always wise to open on Saturday mornings. be sensible and to follow good The main post office is located advice when exploring a new on Bridge Street in the city destination. There are a number centre. of Emergency Contact Points in the city which are monitored by Banking the police. Most banks are open Monday – Friday 9am to 5pm. All Smoking major credit cards are widely Belfast has been a smoke free accepted in the city and some city since 2006. It is against shops will accept euro. There the law to smoke in bars, are foreign exchange facilities restaurants, cafés, hotels, in the Visit Belfast Welcome offices, factories and other Centre and various retail places of work. The majority Purchase online at translink.co.uk outlets across the city. of hotels in Belfast no longer or from the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre or main Belfast bus and offer smoking rooms - please train stations. Tipping check this when booking your Most restaurants add a accommodation. Many bars, discretionary service charge clubs and restaurants offer to the bill for parties of six outdoor smoking areas.

VISITBELFAST.COM 55 Getting Here

BY SEA BY AIR Belfast is easily accessed George Best by sea with crossings Belfast City Airport from both Scotland and The airport is situated Aberdeen England. Travel by state just three miles from Scotland of the art superfast ferries Belfast City Centre. The with journey times from Airport Express 600 just 2 hours 15 minutes. bus service runs from the airport terminal to Glasgow Edinburgh BY RAIL the city centre every 20 The Enterprise service runs minutes (06.00 - 22.05) Londonderry 8 times daily (5 times on Monday to Friday. (Please Newcastle Sundays) from Dublin to check the timetable for Belfast. The journey time is services on Saturdays Belfast Isle of Man approximately 2 hours. and Sundays). T: 028 9066 6630 Blackpool Ireland Leeds/Bradford Enterprise tickets and seat Belfast Manchester Dublin Liverpool reservations International T: 028 9089 9409 Airport Shannon translink.co.uk Belfast International Airport is 30 minutes’ Wales BY BUS drive via the M2 Cork England Dublin Airport Express Motorway. The Airbus Cardiff Coach service operates service 300 operates Bristol London from Dublin Airport 24 hrs between the airport a day, with a journey time and Belfast City Centre Exeter Southampton of approximately 2 hours. every 15 minutes during 028 9066 6630 peak times Monday to translink.co.uk Friday, every 20 minutes on Saturday and at 30 Dublin Coach runs a direct or 60 minute intervals service connecting Dublin on a Sunday. Please city centre with Belfast 16 check the timetable for Portrush Ballycastle Bushmills times daily, in less than services during off peak Coleraine 2hrs. Free Wi-Fi, toilets and times and weekends. reclining seats on board. 00 353 1 465 9972 Airport Transfers Londonderry dublincoach.ie Coach service connecting both Ballymena Larne Belfast Airports to Strabane Derry~Londonderry. 028 7126 9996 Magherafelt airporter.co.uk Newtownabbey Bangor Cookstown Omagh Belfast Lisburn Belleek Northern Dungannon Portadown Ireland Portaferry Enniskillen Downpatrick

Newcastle Newry

Value Cabs Receipt Treats Present a Value Cabs receipt within 7 days of your journey to any of their participating partners including restaurants, cafes, (028) entertainment venues, clubs and service providers to avail of exclusive offers and discounts. valuecabs.co.uk 90 80 90 80

56 VISITBELFAST.COM Scheduled Airline Services

George Best Belfast Wroclaw FERRY CAR Belfast City INTERNATIONAL Malaga RESERVATIONS HIRE Airport Airport Alicante belfastcityairport.com belfastairport.com Tenerife 028 9093 9093 028 9448 4848 Lanzarote Stena Line Auto Europe (broker) Faro stenaline.co.uk autoeurope.co.uk Girona 0844 770 7070 0800 358 1229 Aer Lingus EasyJet aerlingus.com easyjet.com Jet2 Steam Packet Enterprise Rent A Car 0871 718 2020 0870 600 0000 jet2.com steam-packet.com enterprise.com London Heathrow Alicante 0871 226 1737 0872 299 2992 0800 800 227 Alicante Amsterdam Alicante Depots located at: Faro Barcelona Almeria P&O Belfast International Malaga Birmingham Antalya poferries.com Airport, George Best Palma de Mallorca Bristol Crete 0800 130 0030 Belfast City Airport, Bordeaux Dubrovnik 157 Cromac Street, British Airways Dubrovnik Faro Boucher Crescent. britishairways.com Edinburgh Fuerteventura 0844 8484 888 Faro Funchal Europcar London Heathrow Geneva Girona TAXIS europcar.co.uk Glasgow Ibiza Belfast City Centre Eastern Airways Ibiza Lanzarote 028 9032 5520 easternairways.com Jersey Las Palmas (Gran Value Cabs Depots located at: Isle of Man Krakow Canaria) valuecabs.co.uk Belfast International Newcastle Lanzarote Malaga 028 9080 9080 Airport, George Best Liverpool Malta Belfast City Airport, KLM London Gatwick Menorca (Mahon) fonaCAB 90-92 Grosvenor Road. klm.com London Luton Naples fonacab.com 0207 660 0293 London Stansted Paphos 028 9033 3333 Rhino Car Hire (broker) Amsterdam Lyon Palma Majorca rhinocarhire.com Malaga Reus 0845 508 9845 FlyBE Manchester Rhodes Depots located at: flybe.com Newcastle Tenerife Belfast International 0871 700 2000 Nice Zante Airport, George Best Aberdeen Palma (Majorca) Belfast City Airport, Birmingham Paris Charles de Gaulle Norwegian Belfast Titanic Quarter Cardiff Reykjavik (Iceland) norwegian.com and Belfast City Centre. East Midlands Split 0330 828 0854 Edinburgh New York/Newburgh Sixt Car Rental Exeter Ryanair Boston/Providence sixt.co.uk Glasgow ryanair.com 0844 248 6620 Inverness 0871 246 0000 Virgin Atlantic Depots located at: Leeds/ Bradford London Gatwick virgin-atlantic.com Belfast International Liverpool Milan 0344 209 7777 Airport, George Best London City Malta Orlando Belfast City Airport, Manchester Berlin Titanic Quarter. Newquay Krakow Wizz Air Southampton Warsaw wizzair.com Gdansk 0907 292 0102 Icelandair Katowice www.icelandair.com Vilnius 0207 874 1000 Reykjavik

Scheduled Ferry Sailings

This information is Depart Arrive Carrier Sailing Time correct at time of Cairnryan Belfast Stena Line (superfast ferry) 2 hours 15 mins publication but is subject to change Douglas Belfast Isle of Man Steam Packet Co 2 hours 45 mins without notice. Please Liverpool Belfast Stena Line (ferry) 8 hours check with carriers Cairnryan Larne P&O Irish Sea (ferry) 2 hours for confirmation of Holyhead Dun Laoghaire Stena HSS (superfast ferry) 2 hours flight/ferry operating schedules. Fishguard Rosslare Stena Line (super ferry) 3 hours 30 mins

VISITBELFAST.COM 57 Belfast Zoo

OWNABBEY

RRICKFERGUSCA Greater Belfast NEWT Belfast Belfast Visitor Information Centre Castle Lough CAVE HILL Local Information Centre COUNTRY PARK M2 North to Belfast International Airport

Ballysillan Road

D1 Cruise Terminal Stena Line ay

rw George Best Belfast City

WATERWORKS Moto Airport PARK ALEXANDRA Stormont Dock PARK

Antrim Road

North HMS Titanic’s Dock Belfast Caroline & Pump-House BANGOR YORKGATE

Crumlin Road Crumlin Titanic Road Gaol SYDENHAM The Mater Quarter VICTORIA Hospital Titanic PARK s WOODVALE Belfast T13 Harland & Wolff PARK Spectrum Clifton House Belfast Met Centre Shankill Road University PRONI of Ulster SSE Arena Sydenham Bypas Cathedral Clonard TITANIC Monastery Quarter link Newtownards Road EastSide Conway Belfast Visitor Centre Mill Belfast West Welcome City Centre Waterfront Centre Grosven l Gaeltacht o r Road City Hal St George’s CENTRAL GT VICTORIA Market STATION Quarter Royal STREET Victoria EastSide Hospital Linen Falls Road Quarter Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich BOTANIC Belfast City Belfast City Castlereagh Road Cemetery Hospital ORMEAU PARK Queen’s University BOG MEADOWS BOTANIC Windsor GARDENS Rav Milltown n Park Ormeau Road Cemetery Str Ulster Museum Road enhill

ADELAIDE anmillis Road

Kingspan Queen’s Rugby Stadium Lyric Theatre Lisburn and Dubli Quarter

M1 to Lisburn Road CASEMENT Schomberg PARK House

BALMORAL

MUSGRAVE PARK King’s Hall South alone Road Belfast M

LAGAN MEADOWS

CLEMENT 58 VISITBELFAST.COM WILSON PARK

Malone House

Opening Summer 2018

City Centre Location 300 Bedrooms Meeting Rooms Seahorse Bar & Restaurant The Grand Cafe

Beautifully simple, simply beautiful.

Call 028 9047 1066 or visit hastingshotels.com/grand-central

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