The Searcher Statue at CS Lewis Square, Belfast
Discover the enchanting Searcher statue and immerse yourself in the magical world of C.S. Lewis at Belfast’s CS Lewis Square.
The Searcher is a captivating bronze statue located at CS Lewis Square in Belfast, depicting Digory Kirke, a character from C.S. Lewis’s Narnia series. Situated outside the Holywood Arches Library, the statue features a detailed wardrobe inspired by 'The Magician’s Nephew' and is surrounded by inscriptions that explore Lewis’s literary themes. The square itself is a vibrant cultural space celebrating Lewis’s legacy with additional sculptures and an adjacent visitor centre.
A brief summary to CS Lewis Statue - The Searcher
- 4 Holywood Rd, Belfast, BT4 1NT, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late evening for a quieter experience and beautiful lighting on the statue.
- Explore the adjacent CS Lewis Square to see other bronze sculptures of Narnia characters.
- Stop by the EastSide Visitor Centre for interactive displays and a coffee at JACK Coffee Bar.
- Use nearby retail park parking or public transport to avoid limited on-street parking.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Holywood Road near CS Lewis Square, with journey times from Belfast city centre ranging from 15 to 25 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day; single fares cost approximately £2.50 GBP. The stop is a short walk from the statue.
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Car
Driving to Holywood Road offers limited on-street parking near the statue and additional parking at a retail park opposite. Traffic can be busy during peak hours. Parking fees may apply, typically around £3-£5 GBP for a few hours.
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Walking
From Belfast city centre, a 30-40 minute walk along Newtownards Road and Connswater Greenway leads to CS Lewis Square and The Searcher statue. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for all fitness levels.
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Cycling
The statue is accessible via the Connswater and Comber Greenways, providing safe, scenic cycling routes from central Belfast. Bike racks are available near the EastSide Visitor Centre.
CS Lewis Statue - The Searcher 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 CS Lewis Statue - The Searcher
A Tribute to C.S. Lewis’s Imagination
The Searcher statue, created by sculptor Ross Wilson, stands prominently outside the Holywood Arches Library on Holywood Road in Belfast. It honors C.S. Lewis, the famed Belfast-born author known for the Chronicles of Narnia. The statue depicts Digory Kirke, a key figure from Lewis’s book 'The Magician’s Nephew,' standing beside a large bronze wardrobe made from an enchanted apple tree, symbolizing the gateway to Narnia. This evocative sculpture invites visitors to reflect on Lewis’s imaginative world and the profound ideas woven into his stories.Symbolism and Literary Significance
The statue’s design is rich with symbolism. On the back of the wardrobe, a lion’s head represents Aslan, the central figure of Lewis’s Narnia series, while inscriptions detail the metaphorical significance of the wardrobe. The text explains how Lewis did not merely hang clothes in the wardrobe but hung ideas of sacrifice, redemption, and freedom, encouraging viewers to seek revelation in the ordinary. A poignant quote from Lewis himself is engraved at the statue’s base: “This world is a great sculptor’s shop. We are the statues and there is a rumour going round the shop that some of us are some day going to come to life.”CS Lewis Square: A Cultural Hub
The statue is part of the larger CS Lewis Square, a public space opened in 2016 to celebrate Lewis’s legacy. The square features seven bronze sculptures depicting beloved characters from 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,' including Aslan, Mr. Tumnus, and the White Witch. The square is open 24/7 and fully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors at any time. Adjacent to the square is the EastSide Visitor Centre, which offers interactive displays, a wall map of local attractions, and the JACK Coffee Bar, serving locally sourced food and drinks.Engaging Visitor Experience
Visitors to The Searcher and CS Lewis Square can immerse themselves in the world of Narnia through the sculptures and interpretive panels. The square is family-friendly and accessible, with free trail maps available to guide visitors through the area’s cultural and historical highlights. The surrounding greenways and parks add to the tranquil environment, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a reflective pause.Location and Accessibility
Located at 4 Holywood Road, Belfast, The Searcher statue is easily accessible by various transport options. The area offers limited on-street parking and nearby retail park parking. Public transport routes serve the vicinity, and the square is well connected to pedestrian and cycling paths, including the Connswater and Comber Greenways. The presence of the visitor centre enhances accessibility with amenities such as restrooms and seating areas.Legacy and Inspiration
The Searcher statue and CS Lewis Square stand as enduring tributes to C.S. Lewis’s literary genius and his roots in Belfast. They inspire visitors to explore themes of discovery, faith, and imagination. The statue’s invitation to be a 'searcher' echoes Lewis’s own journey and encourages all who visit to look beyond the surface to find deeper meaning in the world around them.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
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Titanic Hotel Belfast
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Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
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Beacon of Hope
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Numbers' Wall
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Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum
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Castle Buildings
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Unmissable attractions to see
EastSide Visitor Centre
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CS Lewis Square
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Discover CS Lewis Square, a charming tribute to the beloved author in Belfast, featuring captivating sculptures, lush gardens, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Connswater Greenway
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Victoria Park - Belfast
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Titanic Mural
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Street Food
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Titanic Quarter Limited
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Harland & Wolff HQ & Drawing Offices
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Historic Harland & Wolff HQ and Drawing Offices: birthplace of Titanic’s design and Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy.
Maritime Mile
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Titanic experience
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SS Nomadic
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SSE Arena Belfast
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Titanic Belfast
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W5
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Essential places to dine
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Drawing Office Two Bar
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The Wolff Grill Restaurant
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The Pantry at Titanic Belfast
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Hickson's Point
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Olivers Restaurant
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Stock Kitchen & Bar
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OX Belfast
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Novelli at City Quays
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Bootleggers
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Taylor & Clay
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The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
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The Thirsty Goat Belfast
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Six By Nico Belfast
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Waterman Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
American Madness
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Connswater Shopping Centre
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The Union Jack Shop
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Storybox
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Dandy Lion Shop
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Fiddlesticks
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Titanic Store
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Esik Creations
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House of Fraser
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New Look
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Bittles Bar
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The American Bar
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39 Gordon Street
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Henry's
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Harp Bar
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Boombox Belfast
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Alibi
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Club Honey
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Saturday Night Nightclub
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
