St George's Market, Belfast
Belfast’s oldest covered market: a weekend feast of food, crafts, music and history under a soaring Victorian roof.
Step into Belfast’s oldest covered market, a vibrant Victorian hall where the city’s soul comes alive through sizzling street food, local crafts, antiques, and live music. Open Friday to Sunday, this award-winning market buzzes with the scent of fresh bread, Atlantic fish, and handmade goods, all under a soaring glass roof supported by ornate iron columns. A true Belfast institution, it’s where generations have shopped, eaten, and socialised in a space that’s equal parts historic landmark and community living room.
A brief summary to Belfast Times
- St George's Market, 49-81 Oxford St, Belfast, BT1 3LA, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on Saturday for the best selection of local food, artisan producers and live music; arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds.
- Use the designated quiet hours (Friday, Saturday 9–10am; Sunday 10–11am) if you prefer a calmer, less noisy experience.
- Bring cash as well as cards; while many stalls accept cards, some smaller vendors may prefer or only take cash.
- Wear comfortable shoes and arrive hungry – the market is large and best explored on foot, with plenty of tempting food options to try.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking
From Belfast City Hall, follow Donegall Square East and then East Bridge Street; the market is about a 10-minute walk through the city centre, on a flat, paved route with clear signage.
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Public Transport
Take a train to Belfast Lanyon Place station; from there, the market is a five-minute walk along East Bridge Street, with step-free access and clear pedestrian paths.
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Bus
Several city bus routes stop near the city centre; from stops on Donegall Place or Castle Place, it is a short, flat walk of about 5–10 minutes to the market entrance on East Bridge Street.
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Taxi / Ride Share
A taxi or ride-share from the city centre takes around 5 minutes; drop-off is directly outside the market on East Bridge Street, with nearby pay-and-display parking if needed.
Belfast Times location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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A Belfast Institution Since 1604
St George’s Market stands as one of Belfast’s oldest and most beloved institutions, with a Friday market on this site dating back to 1604. The current red-brick and sandstone Victorian building, completed between 1890 and 1896, was designed by city surveyor JC Bretland and built to serve a growing industrial city. Inside, the airy hall is defined by 70 cast-iron pillars supporting a glass and slate roof, flooding the space with natural light and creating a cathedral-like atmosphere for commerce and community. Over the centuries, it has evolved from a place for butter, eggs, and fish into a dynamic weekend hub that reflects Belfast’s changing tastes and traditions.Three Distinct Weekend Markets
The market operates across three distinct days, each with its own character. Friday is the traditional Variety Market, open from early morning until early afternoon, where nearly 200 stalls sell everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to antiques, books, clothes, and Ireland’s leading retail fish market. Saturday transforms into the City Food and Craft Market, a celebration of local and international flavours with artisan producers, specialty foods, flowers, plants, and handmade crafts. Sunday blends the best of both, with a strong emphasis on local arts, crafts, and antiques, alongside a relaxed mix of food, music, and souvenirs, making it a favourite for a leisurely weekend browse.Food, Music and Local Flavours
Food is at the heart of St George’s Market, with traders offering everything from traditional Belfast baps and fresh seafood to global street food, baked goods, and specialty drinks. The Saturday food market in particular has earned national acclaim for its high-quality local produce and vibrant atmosphere. Live music from local bands and solo artists adds to the buzz on market days, turning the hall into an impromptu concert space. For those seeking a quieter experience, designated ‘quiet hours’ on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday reduce noise and music, creating a more accessible environment for visitors who prefer a calmer pace.A Restored Victorian Gem
After decades of use and some periods of decline, St George’s Market underwent a major £4.5 million restoration in the late 1990s, reopening in 1999 with renewed energy. The renovation preserved its historic fabric while modernising facilities, ensuring it remains a functional and attractive space for traders and visitors alike. Today, the market is not only a place to shop and eat but also a venue for events, exhibitions, food festivals, and cultural gatherings, reinforcing its role as a living part of Belfast’s civic and cultural life.Practicalities and Atmosphere
Entry to St George’s Market is free, and the market is open Friday to Sunday only, making it a perfect weekend destination in the city centre. Located just a short walk from Belfast City Hall and major transport links, it is easily accessible on foot or by public transport. The atmosphere is lively and inclusive, with a strong sense of local pride and community. Whether you’re sampling a £5.95 lunch special on Fab Food Friday, hunting for vintage treasures, or simply soaking up the music and chatter under the glass roof, St George’s Market offers an authentic and memorable slice of Belfast life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alec the Goose
0.0 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Beacon of Hope
0.4 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.5 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.
Frederick Temple Memorial
0.5 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.5 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Numbers' Wall
0.5 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
0.5 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
0.5 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
0.6 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.6 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.6 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.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.6 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Treasure Trails
0.6 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Castle Buildings
0.6 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.6 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Unmissable attractions to see
St George's Market
0.0 km
Belfast’s vibrant Victorian market blending fresh local produce, crafts, antiques, and live music in a historic city centre setting.
Granny Annies Kitchen
0.2 km
A vibrant Belfast gastropub blending fresh Irish flavors, lively live music, and a quirky, relaxed atmosphere in the city center.
Waterfront Hall
0.2 km
Belfast’s iconic entertainment and conference venue blending architectural elegance with cultural vibrancy in the heart of the city.
The Dome
0.3 km
Explore The Dome in Belfast, a stunning architectural masterpiece offering breathtaking city views and rich cultural history.
Victoria Square
0.3 km
Belfast’s vibrant shopping centre with over 70 stores, diverse dining, an 8-screen cinema, and panoramic views from the iconic glass Dome.
St Malachy's Church
0.3 km
Discover Belfast’s historic St Malachy's Church, famed for its Tudor Gothic style and breathtaking fan-vaulted ceiling inspired by Westminster Abbey.
The Titanic Memorial Garden
0.4 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.
Spirit of Belfast
0.5 km
A bold steel sculpture symbolizing Belfast’s industrial heritage and community spirit in the heart of the city centre.
Belfastology Walking Tours
0.5 km
Discover Belfast through the passionate eyes of locals who know every corner, story, and hidden gem.
GoT To Escape - Game of Thrones Escape Rooms
0.5 km
Immerse yourself in thrilling Game of Thrones escape rooms in Belfast’s historic Church Lane, where teamwork and clever puzzles await.
Catalyst Arts Gallery
0.5 km
Discover Belfast’s dynamic artist-led gallery showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art and fostering creative community since 1993.
Belfast City Hall
0.5 km
Discover Belfast’s majestic City Hall, a Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart with rich history and stunning architecture.
The Crown Entry passage
0.5 km
Historic Crown Entry in Belfast, a moody passageway where revolutionary ideas once took root and the city’s oldest urban fabric endures.
Walking Tours Belfast
0.5 km
Expert-led walking tours of Belfast's history, culture, and urban landscape by Blue Badge qualified local guides.
Front of Belfast City Hall
0.5 km
Experience Belfast’s iconic Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart at the stunning Front of City Hall.
Essential places to dine
Stock Kitchen & Bar
0.0 km
Elevated Irish dining with fresh local flavors and market views in Belfast’s historic St George’s Market.
AMPM Restaurant
0.4 km
Eclectic bohemian dining in Belfast city centre with seasonal modern European cuisine and vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
OX Belfast
0.4 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
The Chubby Cherub
0.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy Mediterranean charm combine at The Chubby Cherub, a beloved Belfast restaurant for every occasion.
Bootleggers
0.4 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
Taylor & Clay
0.5 km
Award-winning Belfast steakhouse with a bespoke wood-fired Asador grill, serving premium local meats and seasonal dishes in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Zen
0.5 km
Stylish Asian fusion dining in Belfast’s city centre, with creative sushi, bold flavours, and a sleek, modern interior.
Roam
0.5 km
Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Coco
0.5 km
A quirky, stylish bistro in Belfast’s Linen Quarter serving creative dishes with attentive service in a vibrant atmosphere.
Parisien
0.5 km
Chic French brasserie in Belfast with elegant interiors, classic cuisine, and a terrace overlooking City Hall.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.6 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Flame
0.6 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and Asian fusion dishes in a stylish, welcoming Belfast city center setting with curated cocktails and elegant ambiance.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.6 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
The Northern Whig
0.6 km
Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
The Rusty Saddle
0.6 km
Experience the best grilled dishes at The Rusty Saddle in Belfast - where flavor meets atmosphere in a delightful dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Norn Irish Gift Shop
0.0 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating Northern Irish creativity and cultural character
Esik Creations
0.1 km
Explore Esik Creations in Belfast, where local artistry meets unique gifts for every occasion, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
House of Fraser
0.3 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
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
0.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
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.
Fossil Store Belfast
0.3 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Tommy Hilfiger
0.4 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.4 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Replay Store Belfast
0.4 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
0.4 km
Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
Urban Outfitters
0.4 km
Trendy fashion, accessories and lifestyle finds in Belfast’s Victoria Square – a stylish, youthful shopping destination in the heart of the city.
FatFace
0.4 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Born and Bred
0.4 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Garrick
0.3 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Bittles Bar
0.3 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.
Margot
0.4 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
The Tipsy Bird
0.4 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
0.4 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 Jailhouse
0.5 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
0.5 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Limelight Lounge
0.5 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
The National
0.6 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Ulster Sports Club
0.6 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
0.6 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 Broken shaker Belfast
0.6 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
The Spaniard
0.6 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
Pug Uglys
0.6 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
Monico Bars
0.6 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
