Belfast City Hall: Iconic Baroque Revival Landmark at the Heart of Belfast
Discover Belfast’s majestic City Hall, a Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart with rich history and stunning architecture.
Belfast City Hall, located in Donegall Square North, is a stunning Baroque Revival building completed in 1906. Serving as the civic headquarters of Belfast City Council, it features opulent interiors, magnificent stained glass windows, and beautifully maintained grounds with memorial gardens. Visitors can join guided tours to explore historic chambers and a visitor exhibition that traces Belfast’s rich history. The City Hall also hosts events and a popular Christmas market each winter.
A brief summary to Belfast City Hall
- Donegall Square N, Belfast, BT1 5GS, GB
- +442890320202
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance or arrive early to secure a spot, as they are popular and run multiple times daily.
- Visit the City Hall grounds during the Belfast Christmas Market for festive atmosphere and extended opening hours.
- Use the Bobbin Coffee Shop inside City Hall for refreshments while supporting a social enterprise.
- Explore the visitor exhibition after your tour to deepen your understanding of Belfast’s history and culture.
- Plan your visit during off-peak hours, typically 9:30am–11am or 3pm–5pm, for a quieter experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take Translink Metro buses serving Belfast city centre, with stops near Donegall Square North. The journey time from Belfast Central Station is approximately 10–15 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares around £2.50–£3.50 one way.
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Walking
If you are in central Belfast, walking to City Hall is easy and scenic, with routes from major landmarks like St George’s Market or the Cathedral Quarter taking 10–20 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets accessible to all.
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-hailing services provide direct access to City Hall from anywhere in Belfast, typically taking 5–15 minutes depending on traffic. Fares usually range from £5 to £15.
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Train and Bus Combination
From Belfast Lanyon Place or Great Victoria Street train stations, take a short 10-minute bus ride or a 15-minute walk to City Hall. Train tickets from regional locations vary widely in price and should be booked in advance for best rates.
Belfast City Hall 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 Belfast City Hall
Architectural Grandeur and Historical Significance
Belfast City Hall stands proudly in the centre of Donegall Square as a symbol of Belfast’s civic pride and heritage. Designed by Sir Alfred Brumwell Thomas and completed in 1906, the building is a masterpiece of Baroque Revival architecture. Constructed from distinctive Portland stone, its copper-domed roof is instantly recognizable on the city skyline. The building replaced the White Linen Hall and cost the equivalent of over £128 million today, reflecting Belfast’s prosperity at the time.Exploring the Interior and Guided Tours
Inside, the City Hall boasts lavish interiors including the Irish-oak panelled Council Chamber and the marble-clad Rotunda, adorned with civic regalia and historic portraits. Visitors can join expert-led guided tours lasting about 45 minutes, which provide access to areas not normally open to the public. These tours include stories of Belfast’s history, the building’s construction, and its role in city governance. A visitor exhibition spanning 16 rooms offers a self-guided journey through Belfast’s past and present, enhanced by optional audio guides in multiple languages.Beautiful Grounds and Memorial Gardens
Surrounding the City Hall are meticulously maintained lawns and gardens featuring several memorials such as the Titanic Memorial Garden, the Cenotaph, and the Garden of Remembrance. The grounds are a peaceful urban oasis where locals and visitors alike relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Seasonal events, including the renowned Belfast Christmas Market from mid-November to late December, bring vibrant life to the area, with extended opening hours and festive decorations.Visitor Amenities and Facilities
Belfast City Hall is well equipped for visitors, featuring a gift shop near the Grand Staircase offering souvenirs and local crafts. The Bobbin Coffee Shop, located in the east wing, provides refreshments and supports social enterprise initiatives. Accessibility is a priority, with facilities including baby changing, toilets, and wheelchair access. The City Hall also hosts a variety of public and private events in its grand function rooms and outdoor spaces.Practical Information for Visitors
The City Hall is open daily, with typical hours from 9:30am to 5pm on weekdays and 10am to 5pm on weekends. Guided tours run multiple times daily, with tickets priced at £6 for adults and free entry to the exhibition for children. Off-peak visiting times are recommended for a quieter experience. The grounds have longer opening hours depending on the season, and the City Hall is easily accessible from major bus stops in Belfast city centre.Cultural and Civic Importance
More than just a government building, Belfast City Hall is a cultural landmark that reflects the city’s identity and history. It plays host to civic ceremonies, commemorations, and community events, making it a living part of Belfast’s urban fabric. Its prominent position and striking architecture continue to inspire pride and attract visitors from around the world.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Belfast City Hall Tours
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Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Frederick Temple Memorial
0.0 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
0.1 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.1 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.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.1 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.1 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.1 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.1 km
Discover the heart of Belfast with a free walking tour that unveils the city's history, culture, and hidden gems through the eyes of local guides.
Treasure Trails
0.1 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
The Back Of Boots
0.2 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Castle Buildings
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Numbers' Wall
0.5 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
0.5 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Alec the Goose
0.5 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.6 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Unmissable attractions to see
Belfastology Walking Tours
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Discover Belfast through the passionate eyes of locals who know every corner, story, and hidden gem.
Walking Tours Belfast
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Expert-led walking tours of Belfast's history, culture, and urban landscape by Blue Badge qualified local guides.
City Hall Garden of Remembrance
0.1 km
A tranquil memorial garden honouring those who gave their lives for Irish freedom, nestled in Belfast's historic city centre.
The Titanic Memorial Garden
0.1 km
A serene and symbolic garden beside Belfast City Hall honoring all who lost their lives on the RMS Titanic with a striking memorial and evocative plantings.
Front of Belfast City Hall
0.1 km
Experience Belfast’s iconic Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart at the stunning Front of City Hall.
Memorial to World War I and II soldiers
0.1 km
A solemn Portland stone cenotaph in Belfast’s Donegall Square honoring the heroic sacrifices of World War I and II soldiers.
Hop On Hop Off Belfast Bus
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant history and culture at your own pace with an open-top hop-on hop-off bus tour featuring live guides and panoramic city views.
Donegall Square W
0.1 km
Historic heart of Belfast featuring City Hall, iconic architecture, the Titanic Memorial, and stories of commerce and heritage.
Belfast City Sightseeing
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s heritage and vibrant culture aboard an open-top hop-on hop-off bus with live guides and flexible 1- or 2-day tickets.
Visit Belfast
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Your essential first stop in Belfast city centre for expert travel advice, tickets, maps, and local insights opposite City Hall.
The Linen Hall
0.1 km
Belfast's independent cultural sanctuary housing rare collections, world-class exhibitions, and mythology-inspired café.
Queen's Café Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill offerings at Queen's Café Bar, the ultimate dining and nightlife destination in Belfast.
Queen's Arcade
0.2 km
Belfast’s only Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques and timeless elegance in the heart of the city.
Philly Pump / The Allotment
0.2 km
Innovative vegan and vegetarian bistro in Belfast offering fresh, locally sourced plant-based dishes in a welcoming, sustainable setting.
Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum
0.2 km
Explore the rich military history of Northern Ireland at the Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum, a captivating tribute to bravery and sacrifice.
Essential places to dine
Parisien
0.1 km
Chic French brasserie in Belfast with elegant interiors, classic cuisine, and a terrace overlooking City Hall.
Coco
0.1 km
A quirky, stylish bistro in Belfast’s Linen Quarter serving creative dishes with attentive service in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Chubby Cherub
0.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy Mediterranean charm combine at The Chubby Cherub, a beloved Belfast restaurant for every occasion.
Yügo
0.2 km
Discover Yügo’s vibrant pan-Asian small plates in Belfast’s stylish industrial setting, perfect for sharing bold, creative flavors.
The Rusty Saddle
0.2 km
Experience the best grilled dishes at The Rusty Saddle in Belfast - where flavor meets atmosphere in a delightful dining experience.
AMPM Restaurant
0.2 km
Eclectic bohemian dining in Belfast city centre with seasonal modern European cuisine and vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Home Restaurant
0.2 km
A modern European dining spot in Belfast offering fresh, local flavors with vegan and gluten-free options in a cozy, lively atmosphere.
Deanes EIPIC
0.2 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s city centre, blending innovation, local ingredients, and elegant atmosphere.
Stix and Stones City Centre
0.2 km
Interactive steakhouse where you cook premium beef on heated stones at your table in vibrant Belfast.
Roam
0.2 km
Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
EDO Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
JAMES ST
0.2 km
Experience Belfast’s finest chargrilled steaks and warm hospitality in a stylish yet relaxed setting at James St.
Flame
0.2 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and Asian fusion dishes in a stylish, welcoming Belfast city center setting with curated cocktails and elegant ambiance.
Actons restaurant
0.2 km
Belfast's premier gluten-free dining destination with exceptional Irish cuisine and dedicated celiac protocols.
Jumon
0.3 km
Vibrant South Asian vegetarian cuisine with bold flavours and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Belfast.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
0.1 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
0.1 km
Explore the heart of Irish culture at Norn Irish Gift Shop in Belfast, where unique souvenirs and artisan crafts await every traveler.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
0.2 km
Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
Little Heart
0.2 km
Discover heartfelt wire art and whimsical keepsakes in Belfast's sole Victorian arcade—a boutique gem blending heritage charm with personal creativity.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
0.2 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
White Stuff Belfast
0.3 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
FatFace
0.3 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Replay Store Belfast
0.3 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
AllSaints
0.3 km
Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.3 km
Discover authentic Irish treasures at Carrolls Irish Gifts in Belfast's bustling Castle Place—a shopper's haven for Claddagh rings, Aran knits, Guinness gear, and gourmet hampers evoking the Emerald Isle's timeless charm.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.3 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
New Look
0.3 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
Boux Avenue
0.3 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
0.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Fossil Store Belfast
0.4 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Margot
0.1 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
The Broken shaker Belfast
0.1 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
The Garrick
0.2 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
0.2 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Pug Uglys
0.3 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
Henry's
0.4 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Jailhouse
0.4 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Monico Bars
0.4 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
0.4 km
A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
Limelight Lounge
0.4 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
Bittles Bar
0.4 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.
Maddens
0.5 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
The National
0.5 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Bert's Jazz Bar
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Thompsons Garage
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Voodoo
0.3 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Ollie's Belfast
0.6 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
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.
Kremlin
0.8 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Shoe Factory
0.8 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
0.8 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Anthology Ni
0.8 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
0.8 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Alibi
0.9 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
2.0 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
14.3 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
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- 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
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
