City Hall Garden of Remembrance
A tranquil memorial garden honouring those who gave their lives for Irish freedom, nestled in Belfast's historic city centre.
A solemn and beautifully maintained memorial garden nestled within the grounds of Belfast City Hall, dedicated to those who gave their lives for Irish freedom. Located in the heart of Belfast's city centre on Donegall Square, this peaceful space features a striking sculptural centrepiece and inscribed poetry, offering visitors a moment of quiet reflection amid the bustling urban landscape. Free to visit year-round, the garden forms part of the broader City Hall grounds, which include the Titanic Memorial Garden and the Cenotaph.
A brief summary to City Hall Garden of Remembrance
- 10 Donegall Square W, Belfast, BT1 6JH, GB
- +442890320202
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during off-peak hours (9:30 am to 11 am or 3 pm to 5 pm) for a quieter, more contemplative experience away from crowds.
- Combine your visit with a guided tour of Belfast City Hall itself (£6 per person, approximately 50 minutes) to gain deeper insight into the building's architecture and Belfast's history.
- Explore the adjacent memorials within the grounds, including the Titanic Memorial Garden and the Cenotaph, to fully appreciate the breadth of Belfast's commemorative spaces.
- During winter months (December to February), visit in the afternoon when daylight hours are shorter to avoid arriving after the grounds close at 7 pm.
- Bring appropriate footwear, as the grounds feature both manicured lawns and cobbled paths that can be uneven or slippery in wet weather.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
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Public Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Donegall Square and the surrounding city centre, with journey times typically 10–25 minutes depending on your starting point within Belfast. Translink operates frequent services throughout the day and evening. Fares vary by zone, typically ranging from £1.50 to £3.50 for a single journey. Check Translink's journey planner for your specific route and real-time service information.
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Walking from Belfast City Centre
If you are already in Belfast's city centre (near Donegall Place, Royal Avenue, or High Street), the garden is within a 5–10 minute walk. Head towards Donegall Square, which is clearly signposted. The terrain is flat, paved city streets with good accessibility. Entry gates are located on Donegall Square North, East, and West.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services (such as Uber) are readily available throughout Belfast. Journey times from most city-centre locations are 5–15 minutes. Fares typically range from £5 to £12 depending on your starting point. Ask the driver to drop you at Donegall Square or City Hall.
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Car Parking
Several multi-storey car parks are located within 2–5 minutes' walk of City Hall, including facilities on Donegall Square itself and nearby streets. Parking charges vary by operator and duration, typically £1.50–£3.00 per hour or £5–£8 for a full day. On-street parking is limited and subject to time restrictions during business hours.
City Hall Garden of Remembrance location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about City Hall Garden of Remembrance
A Monument to Freedom and Remembrance
The Garden of Remembrance at Belfast City Hall stands as a solemn tribute to all those who sacrificed their lives in the cause of Irish freedom. Positioned within the meticulously maintained grounds of the iconic City Hall building, this garden provides a tranquil sanctuary for reflection and remembrance in the heart of Belfast's bustling city centre. The space is thoughtfully designed to encourage quiet contemplation, allowing visitors to pause and honour the memory of those commemorated here.Architectural and Sculptural Significance
The garden's focal point is a magnificent sculpture that draws inspiration from the ancient legend of the Children of Lir, a tale from Irish mythology in which four children are transformed into swans and remain so for 900 years before being restored to human form. This powerful artistic representation serves as a symbol of transformation, resilience, and hope. Accompanying the sculpture is a poignant poem by Liam Mac Uistin, inscribed on the wall behind the artwork. The poem concludes with the stirring words: "O generations of freedom remember us, the generations of the vision." These words encapsulate the garden's purpose as a space dedicated to honouring sacrifice and inspiring future generations to remember the struggle for freedom.Setting Within City Hall Grounds
The Garden of Remembrance is one of several significant memorial spaces within the broader City Hall grounds, which encompass two manicured lawns, the Titanic Memorial Garden, and the Cenotaph. The entire grounds are surrounded by Portland stone architecture and feature ornate gates bearing the City Coat of Arms, accompanied by decorative lamps adorned with seahorses and cherubs—symbols representing Belfast's industrial and manufacturing heritage. The carefully landscaped environment creates an atmosphere of dignity and respect, making it an essential destination for those seeking to understand Belfast's complex history and the sacrifices made by its people.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The garden is freely accessible to the public throughout the year, with opening times varying seasonally. From May to September, the grounds remain open from 7 am to 9 pm, while from October to April, access is available from 7 am to 7 pm. During the Belfast Christmas Market season, which runs from mid-November to late December, the grounds follow market opening hours, typically from 10 am to 8 pm on weekdays and extending to 10 pm on weekends. The location is easily reached on foot from Belfast's city centre, with multiple bus stops in close proximity and excellent public transport connections via Translink. Visitors can enter through gates on Donegall Square North, East, or West, making the garden accessible from various directions.A Place for Quiet Reflection
While the City Hall building itself hosts guided tours, exhibitions, and serves as a venue for events and celebrations, the Garden of Remembrance maintains its character as a dedicated space for contemplation. The garden's design deliberately encourages visitors to slow down and reflect, away from the energy of the surrounding city. Whether visited during a peaceful morning, a lunch break, or a quiet afternoon, the garden offers a meaningful experience that connects visitors to Belfast's historical narrative and the broader Irish story of struggle and freedom.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Frederick Temple Memorial
0.1 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.1 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.1 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
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.
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.
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.
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
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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.
2-6 Waring St
0.6 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Alec the Goose
0.6 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Numbers' Wall
0.6 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.7 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Unmissable attractions to see
Memorial to World War I and II soldiers
0.0 km
A solemn Portland stone cenotaph in Belfast’s Donegall Square honoring the heroic sacrifices of World War I and II soldiers.
Donegall Square W
0.0 km
Historic heart of Belfast featuring City Hall, iconic architecture, the Titanic Memorial, and stories of commerce and heritage.
Hop On Hop Off Belfast Bus
0.0 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.
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.
Belfast City Hall
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s majestic City Hall, a Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart with rich history and stunning architecture.
Walking Tours Belfast
0.1 km
Expert-led walking tours of Belfast's history, culture, and urban landscape by Blue Badge qualified local guides.
Belfastology Walking Tours
0.1 km
Discover Belfast through the passionate eyes of locals who know every corner, story, and hidden gem.
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.
Visit Belfast
0.1 km
Your essential first stop in Belfast city centre for expert travel advice, tickets, maps, and local insights opposite City Hall.
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.
Philly Pump / The Allotment
0.1 km
Innovative vegan and vegetarian bistro in Belfast offering fresh, locally sourced plant-based dishes in a welcoming, sustainable setting.
The Linen Hall
0.1 km
Belfast's independent cultural sanctuary housing rare collections, world-class exhibitions, and mythology-inspired café.
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.
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.
Ulster Hall
0.2 km
Belfast’s iconic Victorian concert hall blending rich history, legendary performances, and vibrant cultural life since 1862.
Essential places to dine
Yügo
0.1 km
Discover Yügo’s vibrant pan-Asian small plates in Belfast’s stylish industrial setting, perfect for sharing bold, creative flavors.
The Rusty Saddle
0.1 km
Experience the best grilled dishes at The Rusty Saddle in Belfast - where flavor meets atmosphere in a delightful dining experience.
Coco
0.1 km
A quirky, stylish bistro in Belfast’s Linen Quarter serving creative dishes with attentive service in a vibrant atmosphere.
Deanes EIPIC
0.1 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s city centre, blending innovation, local ingredients, and elegant atmosphere.
Home Restaurant
0.1 km
A modern European dining spot in Belfast offering fresh, local flavors with vegan and gluten-free options in a cozy, lively atmosphere.
Parisien
0.1 km
Chic French brasserie in Belfast with elegant interiors, classic cuisine, and a terrace overlooking City Hall.
Stix and Stones City Centre
0.1 km
Interactive steakhouse where you cook premium beef on heated stones at your table in vibrant Belfast.
JAMES ST
0.2 km
Experience Belfast’s finest chargrilled steaks and warm hospitality in a stylish yet relaxed setting at James St.
EDO Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
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.
The Chubby Cherub
0.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy Mediterranean charm combine at The Chubby Cherub, a beloved Belfast restaurant for every occasion.
Howard Street
0.2 km
Elegant modern European dining in Belfast’s vibrant city center, blending Irish tradition with contemporary flair.
The Lantern Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience the best of British and modern European cuisine at The Lantern Restaurant in Belfast—where flavors meet tradition.
AMPM Restaurant
0.2 km
Eclectic bohemian dining in Belfast city centre with seasonal modern European cuisine and vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
0.2 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
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.
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.
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.
Great Northern Mall
0.3 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
FatFace
0.3 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.4 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.
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.
The Holy Shop
0.4 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
AllSaints
0.4 km
Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.4 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
New Look
0.4 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
Boux Avenue
0.4 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
Margot
0.2 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
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.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
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.
The Garrick
0.3 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
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.
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.
Maddens
0.4 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
Bittles Bar
0.5 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.
Filthy McNastys
0.5 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
The Points
0.5 km
A warm, old-school Dublin Road pub with regular live music, a glowing log fire and an unpretentious atmosphere for evening sessions.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Thompsons Garage
0.2 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
0.9 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
0.9 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
1.9 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
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
