Carnegie Oldpark Library: A Beacon of Community Heritage and Renewal in Belfast
Historic Tudor-style Carnegie Library in North Belfast, now a community-led hub for education, arts, and regeneration.
Carnegie Oldpark Library, located at 46 Oldpark Road in Belfast, is a historic Tudor-style building opened in 1906 with funding from Andrew Carnegie. Serving North Belfast for over a century, it was a vital public library fostering education and literacy. Though closed in 2010, it is now a community-led project aiming to restore and repurpose the library as a vibrant hub for education, arts, and social enterprise, preserving its legacy of democratizing knowledge.
A brief summary to Carnegie Oldpark
- 46 Oldpark Rd, Belfast, BT14 6FR, GB
- +442890509226
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 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 10:30 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays from 9:30 AM to 5 PM for potential community events and tours.
- Explore the Tudorbethan architectural features that make the building unique in Belfast.
- Engage with local community programs and social enterprises hosted in the restored spaces.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Metro bus routes serving Oldpark Road from Belfast city center, with journey times between 20 to 30 minutes. Buses run frequently during weekdays with standard fares around £2.50. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends and evenings.
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Taxi
A taxi from Belfast city center to Carnegie Oldpark Library typically takes 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Estimated fare ranges from £10 to £15. Taxis provide convenient door-to-door service, suitable for visitors with limited time or mobility.
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Walking
For those staying in North Belfast, walking to the library is feasible with routes on paved urban streets. Walking times vary from 15 to 40 minutes depending on starting point. The terrain is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.
Carnegie Oldpark location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Carnegie Oldpark
Origins and Philanthropic Vision
Carnegie Oldpark Library was established in 1906 as part of a philanthropic initiative by Andrew Carnegie, the Scottish-American steel magnate renowned for funding over 2,500 libraries worldwide. Belfast Corporation secured £15,000 from the Carnegie Trust to build three branch libraries, with Oldpark Library being the first and constructed in a distinctive Tudorbethan architectural style for under £5,000. It replaced a temporary branch and opened with a collection of 4,000 volumes, immediately becoming a key educational resource for North Belfast residents.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The library is an iconic example of Tudorbethan architecture, characterized by its historic design elements that blend Tudor and Elizabethan influences. This style gives the building a unique character within Belfast’s architectural landscape. The library was more than a repository of books; it housed newspapers and periodicals catering to diverse tastes, reflecting the community’s broad intellectual interests. Librarians upheld strict ethical standards, ensuring materials promoted positive moral values.Community Impact and Historical Role
During its first month, Carnegie Oldpark attracted over 4,400 visitors, highlighting its immediate popularity. Andrew Carnegie himself visited in 1910, delivering a speech on the importance of free libraries and literacy, marking his last visit to Ireland. The library played a crucial role in democratizing education in Belfast, providing free access to learning resources at a time when most libraries were private or subscription-based.Decline and Revival Efforts
Public funding cuts and declining patronage led to the library’s closure in 2010. However, the building was purchased by community leaders and the Northern Ireland Foundation, who envision transforming it into a thriving community hub. Plans include restoration, conservation, and repurposing the space for education, training, arts, and social enterprise, aiming to revitalize the Oldpark area and honor Carnegie’s legacy of accessible education.Current Vision and Community Engagement
The Lower Oldpark Community Association, with support from the Northern Ireland Foundation, leads the restoration initiative. They aim to raise £1 million to conserve the building and establish a social enterprise model. The vision includes commercial office rentals upstairs to fund free community activities such as education programs, arts workshops, and social events. This project represents a beacon of regeneration amid nearby historic sites and emerging community hubs.Legacy and Future Prospects
Carnegie Oldpark Library stands as a testament to Belfast’s educational and architectural heritage. Its revival is poised to reconnect the community with a historic symbol of learning and social progress. The project embodies the enduring principles of Andrew Carnegie’s philanthropy—democratizing access to knowledge and fostering community empowerment through culture and education.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Carlisle Circus
0.8 km
A historic North Belfast traffic circus with Victorian roots and a legacy shaped by war, industry, and community life.
Clifton Street Graveyard
0.9 km
Two centuries of Belfast's history etched in stone—where Republicans, Unionists, and ordinary citizens rest side by side.
Belfastlad Tours
1.2 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with personalized tours led by passionate locals at Belfastlad Tours.
Peace Wall Belfast
1.2 km
A barrier transformed into a canvas of hope—Belfast's Peace Wall tells stories of division, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Belfast Peace Lines
1.3 km
Where a single night in 1969 ignited decades of conflict and left scars still visible today.
2-6 Waring St
1.7 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Castle Buildings
1.8 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
The Back Of Boots
1.8 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Treasure Trails
1.8 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
1.9 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.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
1.9 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
1.9 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Albert Memorial Clock
1.9 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
1.9 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Numbers' Wall
1.9 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Unmissable attractions to see
Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre
0.4 km
Discover the haunting history and architectural beauty of Crumlin Road Gaol in Belfast, a must-visit for tourists seeking to understand Northern Ireland's past.
Shankill Graveyard
0.9 km
Explore Belfast’s oldest cemetery, where centuries of history, stories, and community spirit rest beneath tranquil grounds on the historic Shankill Road.
Clifton House
1.1 km
Step into Belfast’s Georgian Poor House, where history, heritage, and care intertwine in tranquil gardens at Clifton House.
St Patrick's Church
1.2 km
A majestic Romanesque Catholic church in Belfast, famed for its soaring spire, sacred relics, and the celebrated artwork of Sir John Lavery.
Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden
1.2 km
A tranquil Belfast garden honoring local martyrs of the Troubles with poignant memorials and serene landscaping.
Irish Republican History Museum
1.3 km
Explore the profound history of Ireland at the Irish Republican History Museum, where stories of resilience and independence come to life.
Clonard Monastery
1.3 km
A historic sanctuary in Belfast blending Gothic beauty, spiritual devotion, and a legacy of peace and reconciliation.
St Peter's Cathedral
1.4 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Belfast, symbolizing faith, history, and community resilience with its iconic twin spires and vibrant worship life.
Belfast Central Library
1.4 km
Discover Belfast’s Victorian architectural gem and cultural heart, where history, heritage, and community converge in a stunning public library.
Bobby Sands Mural
1.5 km
A striking tribute on Falls Road, the Bobby Sands Mural commemorates a pivotal figure in Northern Ireland’s struggle and enduring spirit of resistance.
Mural
1.5 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant mural at 1 Church St, a vivid testament to the city’s history, culture, and dynamic street art tradition.
Belfast Cathedral, the Cathedral Church of St Anne
1.6 km
Discover Belfast Cathedral’s Romanesque beauty, historic mosaics, and the soaring Spire of Hope in the heart of the city’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter.
CastleCourt Shopping Centre
1.6 km
Belfast’s vibrant shopping centre with over 80 stores, family-friendly facilities, and easy-access parking in the city centre.
The Spire Of Hope, Belfast
1.6 km
A soaring 40-metre steel beacon of hope atop Belfast’s historic St Anne’s Cathedral, shining brightly across the city skyline.
The MAC
1.6 km
Belfast's vibrant contemporary arts centre blending theatre, galleries, and café culture in a welcoming modern space.
Essential places to dine
Academy Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Bank Square Brasserie
1.6 km
French bistro elegance meets Northern Irish ingredients in Belfast's most welcoming modern European brasserie.
Coppi Restaurant
1.6 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Dumpling Library
1.6 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
1.6 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Buba
1.6 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Mourne Seafood Bar
1.6 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a lively, rustic setting in Belfast’s city centre with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
1.7 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
City Picnic
1.7 km
Savor award-winning burgers and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at City Picnic.
Jumon
1.7 km
Vibrant South Asian vegetarian cuisine with bold flavours and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Belfast.
Waterman Restaurant
1.7 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Northern Whig
1.7 km
Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
1.8 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Six By Nico Belfast
1.8 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
The Lantern Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience the best of British and modern European cuisine at The Lantern Restaurant in Belfast—where flavors meet tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Name Shops - Belfast
1.5 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
Top Gift
1.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Top Gift, Belfast's charming gift shop offering an eclectic selection for every traveler.
The Holy Shop
1.6 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
Fuzz Vintage
1.6 km
Unearth timeless retro treasures at Fuzz Vintage, where Belfast's Rosemary Street hides eclectic clothing from decades past in a shopper's paradise of sustainable style.
Forsight Belfast
1.7 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Alchemy and Ashes NI
1.7 km
A west Belfast haven for crystals, tarot, alternative fashion, and esoteric gifts in a moody, intimate setting.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
1.7 km
Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
1.8 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.
Little Heart
1.8 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
1.8 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
Art Loves at The Merchant
1.8 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
1.8 km
Explore the heart of Irish culture at Norn Irish Gift Shop in Belfast, where unique souvenirs and artisan crafts await every traveler.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
1.9 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
White Stuff Belfast
1.9 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
1.9 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Reporter. Bar
1.3 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Sunflower Public House
1.3 km
Belfast's authentic corner pub with Troubles-era charm, live music nightly, wood-fired pizzas, and a buzzing garden—where history meets hearty ales and eclectic vibes.
Maddens
1.5 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
1.6 km
A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
The Dark Horse
1.7 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
1.7 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
Monico Bars
1.7 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
39 Gordon Street
1.7 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Spaniard
1.8 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
The American Bar
1.8 km
Historic Sailortown pub pouring perfect pints, live tunes, and bargain bites in Belfast's Docklands—a raw gem for locals and music seekers.
The National
1.8 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Bert's Jazz Bar
1.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Ulster Sports Club
1.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
Henry's
1.9 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Jailhouse
1.9 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Art Department
1.3 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Anthology Ni
1.3 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Shoe Factory
1.3 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Boombox Belfast
1.3 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Kremlin
1.4 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Craics Ninety
1.7 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Voodoo
1.7 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Club Lux
1.7 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Ollie's Belfast
1.8 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Thompsons Garage
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Club Honey
2.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Alibi
2.6 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
2.7 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Saturday Night Nightclub
15.5 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
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
