SoundYard - Interactive Maritime Heritage Installation in Belfast
Experience Belfast’s shipyard heritage come alive through sound and light at the interactive SoundYard installation on Queens Quay.
SoundYard is a striking interactive art installation located at 2 Queens Quay in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. Inspired by the sounds of Belfast’s historic shipyards, it features over 500 suspended metal rods that create authentic shipyard noises when triggered by visitors’ movements. By day, it offers a playful sensory experience; by night, it transforms into a captivating light display, celebrating Belfast’s maritime legacy along the scenic Maritime Mile.
A brief summary to SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
- 2 Queens Quay, Belfast, BT3 9QQ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit at night to enjoy the stunning illuminated light display that transforms the installation into a glowing spectacle.
- Walk underneath the structure to activate the motion sensors and hear authentic shipyard sounds recreated by the installation.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along Belfast’s Maritime Mile to explore other historic and cultural attractions nearby.
- Use the accessible ramp on the north side for easier access if mobility is a concern; seating is available around the installation.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the paved waterfront paths and bring a jacket as it can be breezy near the water.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Bus
Take Metro bus routes 300 or 600 from Belfast city center to the Odyssey stop, located approximately 1.5 km from SoundYard. The walk from the bus stop to the installation is along flat, paved waterfront paths and takes about 15 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-20 minutes, with a single fare around £2.50.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central Belfast to SoundYard takes approximately 10 minutes depending on traffic. This is a convenient option if traveling with family or in a group. Estimated cost ranges from £7 to £12.
-
Walking
If staying near Belfast city center, walking to SoundYard along the Titanic Quarter waterfront is a scenic option. The route is about 2 km, mostly flat and paved, taking roughly 25-30 minutes. Suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair accessible.
SoundYard - Maritime Belfast location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Windy Conditions
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
A Celebration of Belfast's Shipbuilding Legacy
SoundYard stands as a vibrant homage to Belfast’s rich maritime and industrial heritage. Situated at 2 Queens Quay near the Odyssey and Abercorn Marina, this 6-metre tall and 9.6-metre wide installation evokes the rhythmic clanging, hammering, and riveting sounds that once filled the city’s shipyards. Designed by young architects Hannah Wilson, Matthew Kernan, and Eunan Deeney, SoundYard was the winning entry in the City Play Design Competition, aiming to blend playfulness with cultural storytelling along Belfast’s Maritime Mile.Innovative Design and Interactive Features
The installation consists of over 500 metal rods suspended in concentric circular rings from a steel frame. The outer veil of polished rods acts as an acoustic buffer and visual mirage, while the inner veil contains hollow sound tubes. Motion sensors detect visitors’ movements beneath the structure, activating motorized steel hammers that strike the tubes to recreate the nostalgic sounds of shipyard work. The soundscape grows louder with increased interaction, encouraging collaborative play and exploration.Day and Night Experiences
By day, SoundYard invites visitors to engage with its mechanical musical elements, offering a unique sensory connection to Belfast’s industrial past. As evening falls, the installation transforms into a glowing light sculpture, with illuminated metal rods casting dynamic reflections and enhancing the waterfront ambiance. It forms part of a series of illuminated attractions along the Maritime Mile, creating a magical nighttime experience for walkers and locals alike.Site Context and Accessibility
The site previously housed a brass foundry and coal yard, later an open grass amphitheater, making it a fitting location for a performance and play space. The surrounding walkway is smoothly paved, with a ramped path on the north side for accessibility. Safety features include railings along the water’s edge, signage, and lifesaving equipment provided by Belfast Harbour. Seating is available around the structure, though no onsite restroom facilities exist.Architectural and Environmental Considerations
The design thoughtfully incorporates principles of circular economy, emphasizing reuse, repurposing, and recycling of materials. The reflective columns and soffit create playful visual effects, inviting visitors to interact with their distorted reflections. Sound levels are carefully controlled to remain within legal limits, ensuring a pleasant environment for all.Connecting Past and Present Through Art
SoundYard not only preserves the memory of Belfast’s shipbuilding boom but also reinterprets it through contemporary art and technology. It stands near the historic Harland and Wolff shipyard, famed for constructing the Titanic, linking the city’s maritime past with its cultural present. This installation offers a sensory-rich, educational, and engaging experience that resonates with locals and visitors, celebrating Belfast’s identity along its iconic waterfront.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Titanic Hotel Belfast
0.5 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
Slipways
0.6 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.6 km
A 1960s road bridge over the River Lagan, connecting central Belfast with the Titanic Quarter and offering quiet riverside views from its pedestrian walkways.
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
0.7 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
Beacon of Hope
0.7 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.7 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
0.8 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
0.9 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Castle Buildings
1.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Alec the Goose
1.1 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Clifton House
1.1 km
Explore the historical significance and architectural elegance of Clifton House, a must-see landmark in Belfast that offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant heritage.
Queen's Arcade
1.2 km
Belfast's Victorian gem: restored elegance meets luxury shopping in a historic arcade promenade.
Treasure Trails
1.2 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
The Titanic Memorial Garden
1.3 km
Discover the Titanic Memorial Garden in Belfast, a serene park dedicated to the memory of the Titanic tragedy, offering beauty and reflection in the heart of the city.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich mythology of Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, through guided tours and immersive experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
W5
0.1 km
An award-winning science and discovery centre in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where over 250 interactive exhibits spark curiosity and fun for all ages.
Glass of Thrones - Odyssey
0.2 km
Discover the vivid House Targaryen stained glass window at Odyssey Point, a dazzling tribute to Game of Thrones in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter.
SSE Arena Belfast
0.2 km
Belfast’s vibrant SSE Arena on Queens Quay offers world-class concerts, sports, and family events in a modern waterfront setting.
Street Food
0.3 km
Discover vibrant fast-food flavors in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where local heritage meets global street food culture.
Maritime Mile
0.3 km
Explore Belfast’s historic waterfront trail, where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and iconic landmarks along the Maritime Mile.
SS Nomadic
0.3 km
The last White Star Line vessel and Titanic's tender ship—a floating museum of maritime elegance and history.
Titanic Belfast
0.5 km
Explore the Titanic Belfast Museum: Dive into the history of the RMS Titanic and experience its remarkable legacy in an iconic setting.
Titanic experience
0.5 km
Discover the dramatic story of the Titanic where it was built, through immersive exhibits and cutting-edge technology in Belfast’s iconic waterfront landmark.
Titanic Quarter Limited
0.5 km
Explore Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: where maritime history meets vibrant urban regeneration along the scenic waterfront.
Donegall Quay
0.5 km
Discover Donegall Quay, Belfast’s historic riverside promenade blending maritime heritage, public art, and vibrant urban life along the River Lagan.
Harland & Wolff HQ & Drawing Offices
0.5 km
Historic Harland & Wolff HQ and Drawing Offices: birthplace of Titanic’s design and Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy.
The Big Fish
0.6 km
A 10-metre ceramic mosaic fish celebrating Belfast’s history, mythology, and waterfront regeneration at Donegall Quay.
TOUR MISTERIOS Y LEYENDAS
0.6 km
Discover Belfast’s mysterious past and legends on a captivating walking tour through its iconic streets and hidden stories.
Lagan Lookout
0.6 km
Discover panoramic river views and urban charm at Belfast’s iconic Lagan Lookout and Weir, a gateway between city and sea.
Custom House Square
0.6 km
Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
Essential places to dine
Novelli at City Quays
0.3 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Hickson's Point
0.5 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant culture at Hickson's Point in Belfast - your gateway to local flavors.
The Pantry at Titanic Belfast
0.5 km
Savor locally inspired dishes in a historic setting at The Pantry, Titanic Belfast’s welcoming restaurant celebrating Northern Ireland’s finest produce.
Drawing Office Two Bar
0.6 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
0.6 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
Coppi Restaurant
0.7 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Buba
0.7 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
OX Belfast
0.8 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.8 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Dumpling Library
0.8 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Waterman Restaurant
0.8 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
0.8 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Mumbai 27
0.8 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.8 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.8 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Titanic Store
0.5 km
Discover Titanic treasures in Belfast's shipyard heart: exclusive memorabilia, local crafts, and publications that sail the story of the unsinkable ship into your hands.
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.8 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
0.8 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
0.9 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
0.9 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
0.9 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
House of Fraser
0.9 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Tommy Hilfiger
1.0 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
1.0 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
1.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
1.0 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Boux Avenue
1.0 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
New Look
1.0 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
Replay Store Belfast
1.0 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
FatFace
1.0 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The American Bar
0.5 km
Historic Sailortown pub pouring perfect pints, live tunes, and bargain bites in Belfast's Docklands—a raw gem for locals and music seekers.
Pavilion One Bar
0.5 km
A convivial, shipyard‑inspired hotel bar with polished brass, hearty pub dishes and a relaxed atmosphere in the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
The Harland Bar
0.6 km
Elegant piano bar in Harland & Wolff's historic offices, serving Titanic-inspired cocktails amid shipyard artefacts and live music in Belfast's Titanic Quarter.
39 Gordon Street
0.7 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Tipsy Bird
0.8 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Ulster Sports Club
0.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
Bert's Jazz Bar
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
The Spaniard
0.8 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
The Black Box
0.8 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Dark Horse
0.8 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The National
0.8 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Bittles Bar
0.9 km
Discover Belfast’s iconic flatiron-shaped pub, Bittles Bar, where rich Irish culture, history, and a curated whiskey selection blend in a cozy, historic setting.
The Jailhouse
1.0 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
1.0 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Reporter. Bar
1.0 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Lux
0.7 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Craics Ninety
0.7 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Ollie's Belfast
0.8 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Kremlin
1.0 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
1.0 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Anthology Ni
1.0 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Shoe Factory
1.0 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
The Art Department
1.0 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Cabaret Supper Club
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
1.2 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Alibi
2.2 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
2.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
3.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
13.4 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
