Titanic Distillers at Thompson Dock, Belfast
Discover Belfast’s Titanic heritage and whiskey revival at the historic Thompson Dock and Pumphouse, home to Titanic Distillers.
Titanic Distillers is Belfast’s first working whiskey distillery in nearly 90 years, housed in the historic Pumphouse beside Thompson Graving Dock. This site, part of Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, is where the RMS Titanic was fitted out before her maiden voyage. Visitors can explore the distillery’s traditional workings alongside the heritage of the dock and the shipyard, immersing themselves in the city’s rich maritime and whiskey-making history.
A brief summary to Titanic Distillers
- Thompson Dock & Pumphouse, Queens Rd, Belfast, BT3 9DT, GB
- +442890992992
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance to secure a spot on the popular Signature or Premium tours with whiskey tastings.
- Allow at least one hour to fully explore the dock, pumphouse, and distillery experience.
- Visit the café inside the pumphouse for refreshments and a chance to relax in a historic setting.
- Combine your visit with other Titanic Quarter attractions like Titanic Belfast and the Nomadic tender.
- Check opening hours before visiting, as they may vary seasonally and tours require last admission one hour before closing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take Metro buses serving the Titanic Quarter from Belfast city center, with journey times between 15 to 25 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, and a single fare costs approximately £2.50. The stop is a short walk from Thompson Dock and the Pumphouse. Check schedules for weekend and evening service variations.
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Taxi
Taxis from Belfast city center to Thompson Dock take around 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £8 to £12. Taxis offer flexible drop-off close to the site entrance, suitable for visitors with limited mobility or those seeking convenience.
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Car
Driving to Thompson Dock is possible with nearby parking options in the Titanic Quarter. Parking fees typically range from £3 to £6 for a few hours. Note that the area can be busy during peak times, and some roads may have restrictions. Use a GPS navigation system for the best route.
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Walking
For visitors staying near the Titanic Quarter or Belfast city center, walking to Thompson Dock takes approximately 25 to 40 minutes over mostly flat terrain. The route offers views of the waterfront and other Titanic-related landmarks, making for an enjoyable and accessible stroll.
Titanic Distillers location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Titanic Distillers
Historic Roots of Thompson Dock and the Pumphouse
Thompson Graving Dock, located on the west side of Queen's Island in Belfast, was constructed by the Belfast Harbour Commissioners and opened in 1911. It was designed specifically to accommodate the mammoth Olympic-class liners, including the RMS Titanic. Measuring 850 feet in length and 100 feet in width at the dock floor, the dock’s dimensions perfectly matched the Titanic’s hull, allowing only a narrow margin for the ship’s transit. Adjacent to the dock stands the Pumphouse, an Edwardian engineering marvel originally built to pump water out of the dock. The pumphouse’s powerful engines could drain 26 million imperial gallons of water in just 90 minutes, a rate equivalent to two swimming pools per minute. This infrastructure was crucial for the fitting-out process of the Titanic and other great liners, enabling workers to access parts of the ship normally submerged underwater.The Pumphouse’s Transformation into Titanic Distillers
Today, the Pumphouse has been restored and repurposed as the home of Titanic Distillers, Belfast’s first working whiskey distillery in almost 90 years. The distillery pays homage to the shipyard workers of the early 20th century, inviting visitors to ‘clock in’ as they did a century ago. Inside, guests can witness the distillery’s three Forsyth’s stills operating alongside the original Gwynne pumping engines, blending industrial heritage with contemporary craft. The site tells the intertwined stories of Belfast’s maritime legacy and whiskey tradition, exploring why whiskey production disappeared and how it has now been revived in the city.Visitor Experience and Tours
Titanic Distillers offers a range of guided tours, including the Dock Tour, Signature Tour, Premium Tour, and Legacy Tour, each featuring sensory tastings of award-winning Irish spirits. The tours provide a comprehensive journey through the history of the dock, the engineering feats of the pumphouse, and the art of whiskey making. Visitors can also explore the dry dock itself, walking its length to fully grasp the immense scale of the Titanic and its sister ships. The Pumphouse includes a visitor center and café, offering refreshments and a relaxed atmosphere to complement the immersive experience.Significance within Belfast’s Titanic Quarter
Thompson Dock and the Pumphouse are key landmarks within Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, an area dedicated to preserving and celebrating the city’s shipbuilding heritage. The dock remains the only place where visitors can truly appreciate the Titanic’s scale, as the ship’s hull once occupied the entire dry dock footprint. Nearby attractions include the Titanic Belfast museum and the restored White Star Line tender Nomadic. The area blends historical preservation with modern development, symbolizing Belfast’s industrial past and its evolving cultural identity.Architectural and Industrial Heritage
The Pumphouse’s red brick Edwardian architecture stands as a testament to early 20th-century industrial design, with its robust construction surviving over a century in a harsh maritime environment. The dock’s engineering, including its caisson gate and stepped dock sides, exemplifies the advanced shipbuilding technology of the era. Preservation efforts have maintained the site’s authenticity, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the shipyard and the monumental task of building the Titanic.Engagement and Accessibility
Visitors are encouraged to spend at least an hour exploring the site, with options for self-guided or expert-led tours. The site is accessible by public transport, car, and taxi, and is integrated into Belfast’s broader tourism circuit. The distillery and dock offer a unique combination of cultural heritage, industrial history, and contemporary craft, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts, whiskey lovers, and those interested in Belfast’s maritime legacy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Slipways
0.8 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
Titanic Hotel Belfast
0.9 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
1.1 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
2.0 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.
Beacon of Hope
2.1 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Albert Memorial Clock
2.1 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
2.2 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
2.2 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Clifton Street Graveyard
2.3 km
Two centuries of Belfast's history etched in stone—where Republicans, Unionists, and ordinary citizens rest side by side.
Mural
2.3 km
Explore Belfast's vibrant mural art scene, a colorful reflection of the city's history and culture, captivating every visitor with its rich storytelling.
Catalyst Arts Gallery
2.3 km
Discover contemporary art in Belfast at Catalyst Arts Gallery, a hub for innovative exhibitions and community engagement.
Victoria Square
2.4 km
Explore Victoria Square, Belfast's premier shopping center featuring stunning architecture, diverse retail options, and delightful dining experiences.
The Dome
2.4 km
Discover the architectural marvel of The Dome in Belfast, where history and culture meet breathtaking views.
Carlisle Circus
2.4 km
A historic North Belfast traffic circus with Victorian roots and a legacy shaped by war, industry, and community life.
Spirit of Belfast
2.4 km
Explore the Spirit of Belfast, a captivating sculpture that reflects the resilient culture and rich history of this vibrant city in Northern Ireland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Titanic Distillery & Pump House
0.0 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Titanic Pumphouse reborn as a vibrant whiskey distillery blending maritime heritage with award-winning spirits.
HMS Caroline
0.1 km
Step aboard HMS Caroline, Belfast’s historic WWI light cruiser, and explore a century of naval history in a fully restored floating museum.
The Great Light, Maritime Mile
0.4 km
Discover Belfast's maritime heritage at The Great Light, a stunning landmark celebrating the city's rich shipbuilding history along The Maritime Mile.
Glass of Thrones - HMS Caroline
0.6 km
Discover the dramatic House Lannister stained glass window beside historic HMS Caroline, blending Game of Thrones lore with Belfast’s maritime heritage.
The Iron Throne - Glass of Thrones
0.6 km
Experience the iconic Iron Throne in vibrant stained glass on Belfast’s Titanic Slipways, where fantasy meets maritime history.
Harland & Wolff HQ & Drawing Offices
0.9 km
Historic Harland & Wolff HQ and Drawing Offices: birthplace of Titanic’s design and Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy.
Titanic Belfast
0.9 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
0.9 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
0.9 km
Explore Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: where maritime history meets vibrant urban regeneration along the scenic waterfront.
SS Nomadic
1.1 km
The last White Star Line vessel and Titanic's tender ship—a floating museum of maritime elegance and history.
Maritime Mile
1.2 km
Explore Belfast’s historic waterfront trail, where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and iconic landmarks along the Maritime Mile.
Street Food
1.3 km
Discover vibrant fast-food flavors in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where local heritage meets global street food culture.
Victoria Park - Belfast
1.3 km
A vibrant 60-acre park in East Belfast offering lakeside walks, sports, playgrounds, and unique planespotting near the city airport.
SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
1.4 km
Experience Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage through interactive sound and light at the striking SoundYard installation on Queen’s Quay.
W5
1.4 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.
Essential places to dine
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
0.8 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
Drawing Office Two Bar
0.9 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
The Pantry at Titanic Belfast
0.9 km
Savor locally inspired dishes in a historic setting at The Pantry, Titanic Belfast’s welcoming restaurant celebrating Northern Ireland’s finest produce.
Hickson's Point
0.9 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant culture at Hickson's Point in Belfast - your gateway to local flavors.
Novelli at City Quays
1.7 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Coppi Restaurant
2.1 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Buba
2.1 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Dumpling Library
2.1 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Mumbai 27
2.1 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
The Hoose Bistro
2.1 km
East Belfast's premier intimate bistro serving contemporary British cuisine with exceptional cocktails and genuine warmth.
OX Belfast
2.2 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
Waterman Restaurant
2.2 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
2.2 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
2.2 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Academy Restaurant
2.2 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Titanic Store
0.9 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.
Storybox
1.8 km
Discover Storybox, a creative gift shop nestled in Belfast’s historic Portview Trade Centre, where heritage meets artistry and community spirit.
Dandy Lion Shop
1.8 km
Explore the Dandy Lion Shop in Belfast for unique antiques and gifts, perfect for collectors and treasure hunters alike.
The Union Jack Shop
1.9 km
Explore a treasure trove of Unionist memorabilia at The Union Jack Shop in Belfast, celebrating British culture with a unique selection of gifts.
Art Loves at The Merchant
2.2 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Fiddlesticks
2.2 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and expert framing at Fiddlesticks, Belfast's gem on Belmont Road for unique souvenirs and preserved memories.
Connswater Shopping Centre
2.2 km
Discover Connswater Shopping Centre: Belfast's vibrant retail hub with diverse shops, dining options, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
American Madness
2.2 km
East Belfast’s cult vintage shop for reworked Americana, denim, military surplus, and retro band and Harley-Davidson tees.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
2.2 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
2.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
2.3 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
2.3 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
House of Fraser
2.3 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Tommy Hilfiger
2.4 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
2.4 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Harland Bar
0.9 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.
Pavilion One Bar
0.9 km
A convivial, shipyard‑inspired hotel bar with polished brass, hearty pub dishes and a relaxed atmosphere in the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
The American Bar
1.4 km
Historic Sailortown pub pouring perfect pints, live tunes, and bargain bites in Belfast's Docklands—a raw gem for locals and music seekers.
39 Gordon Street
2.1 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Tipsy Bird
2.1 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
2.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
The Dark Horse
2.2 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The Black Box
2.2 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
Bert's Jazz Bar
2.2 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
2.2 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
The National
2.2 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
The Reporter. Bar
2.2 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Bittles Bar
2.3 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
2.3 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
2.3 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Lux
2.1 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
2.1 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
2.1 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
2.2 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Kremlin
2.2 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Anthology Ni
2.3 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Shoe Factory
2.3 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
2.3 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Cabaret Supper Club
2.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
2.6 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Alibi
3.6 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
3.6 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
4.5 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
12.6 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
- Historic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
