Belfast, Ireland
Belfast, Ireland Guide, Including Belfast Hotels
Belfast is nestled in a valley. It is the capital of Northern Ireland. Hence Belfast, is a vibrant and lively Celtic city. Situated on the River Lagan, the pedestrian-friendly city enjoys a focal point in Donegal Square. For example the architecturally stunning City Hall dominates the skyline. Elsewhere Victorian and Edwardian architecture can be enjoyed by visitors on foot. Hence this is truly a beautiful historic city to visit.
Places of interest:
Belfast’s glorious seafaring history and place at the forefront of the industrial revolution is evident in the largest shipyard in Great Britain. For example the city’s name is derived from the Irish “beal feirste” which means “at the mouth of the sandpit”. Nightlife, arts, festivals, dining and shopping are all in abundance in the city. As a result the sea front in particular is now friendly to pedestrians. In addition visitors can enjoy the best of Irish culture in street musicians and theater against the backdrop of the Irish Sea.
Belfast Castle
Standing 120 meters above sea level, Belfast Castle offers breathtaking and panoramic views of the city, bay and surrounding areas. Belfast Castle was the ancestral home of the Chichester, later Donegall, family. They were descendants of Arthur Chichester who owned the land that was to become the city in the 1600s.
Ulster Museum, set over 8000 square meters of grounds, is likely to take up a full day. For example it is extensive and fascinating with its archaeology, ethnography, art, history and natural sciences exhibits. Also the collections portray and celebrate the history, culture, artistic, scientific and industrial achievements. In short, the story of the Irish people from their ancient roots up until modern day. In addition the museum houses both permanent and temporary collections.
For stunning hiberno-romanesque architecture, the Belfast Cathedral is worth a visit. For example the exciting, interactive and interpretive St. Patrick Center tells the story of Ireland’s patron saint, in his own words.
The Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park and City of Belfast International Rose Garden are in the southern outskirts of Belfast. They feature an International Rose Exhibition, as well as gardens, walks, a children’s playground and live music concerts. It boasts a collection of over 20,000 volumes of Irish literature and an enviable Robert Burns collection.
Belfast, Ireland – Things to do:
Belfast will never leave tourists wondering how to entertain themselves! Plenty of things to do and see exist in Belfast.
- The world class Belfast Zoo features plenty of don’t-miss attractions, including the monkey park, reptile house and children’s playground.
- Walking Tours of Belfast include The Old Town, Titanic Trail and the City Centre Walk.
- The oldest covered market in Ireland is St George’s Market. For example they offer a range of fish and specialty foods that are unrivaled in Europe.
- Harland and Wolfe. Its famous cranes, Samson and Goliath, can be seen from all over the city.
- At the The Ulster Folk and Transport Museum a fascinating insight into the history and the daily lives of Ulster people can be found.
- The Home Front Heritage Center features collections that portray the Belfast experience of the Second World War. Hence it is also home to the museum of the Royal Ulster Rifles.
- W5 is a world renowned innovative and interactive center of science and technology exploration. For example they have activities, exhibits and demonstrations to expand and intrigue minds of all ages.
Belfast, Ireland – Food & Drink:
If it is excellent food the tourist seeks, they won’t have to look far in Belfast.
- Traditional pub fare in a historical atmosphere is to be found at Belfast’s most famous pub. For example the Crown Liquor Saloon is in the heart of the historical district.
- Altos was rated number one by Yahoo travel for stylish and contemporary cuisine. For example they serve cutting-edge Mediterranean food and featuring an extensive wine list and specialty coffee choices.
- The Gypsy Queen Vegetarian Restaurant is on of Europe’s premier vegetarian dining destinations.
- For the cuisine enthusiast, Deane’s Restaurant is a high end, luxurious dining experience. For example theyfeature dishes created by one of Ireland’s top chefs.
- Live music pubs are a staple of Belfast nightlife. For example these include the Duke of York, Morrisons and at the docks, Pat’s Bar Princes.
Belfast Hotels & Accommodation:
As befitting a major European destination, a full range of accommodation options are available in Belfast. For example visitors can chose from cozy, family run bed and breakfast establishments. Also a variety of self catering options and luxury five star hotels to suit every taste, set of requirements and budget.
- Ravenhill Guest House
- The Crescent Townhouse
- Europa Hotel
- The Malone Lodge Hotel
- Tara Lodge
- The Park Avenue Hotel
- The Stormont Hotel
- The Chimney Corner Hotel
- Culloden Hotel
- Days Hotel
- Jurys Inn Belfast
- Ramada Belfast
- Parkview Lodge
- Ten Square
Entertainment
Nightlife is one of Belfast’s main attractions, with revelers enjoying everything from world class dance clubs to traditional pubs. For example it comprises The Potthouse Bar & Grill, Sugar Nighclub, which plays Top 40, House and classic Disco, and the Soap Bar guestroom. The Fly and The Grill Room and Bar are also notable
Belfast nightspots.
The Movie House Cinema on the Golden Mile offers the latest cinema releases. This includes the art house and independent films. In addition Ireland’s only 3D and 2D large format cinema, the SheridanIMAX is located on Queen’s Quay. As well fantastic shopping is available in the city center Donegall Place. In addition the Waterfront Concert Hall hosts concerts and music tours from all over the world.
Belfast enjoys an enviable position at the forefront of Hibernian culture, scenery and history. The city has an ideal and unique combination of Celtic culture and British industrial influence. Belfast is an ideal seaside destination for family friendly events, educational and historical attractions. Nightlife that is second to none throughout Europe. In common with much of the British Isles, Belfast experiences a temperate and often wet climate.
For more posts about Ireland including Belfast and Dublin, click here.
You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
July 16th, 2012 at 1:27 pm
have not been to Belfast Ireland, but would really like to visit.