EastSide Visitor Centre, Belfast
Discover East Belfast’s rich heritage, enjoy cozy café vibes, and explore the magical world of C.S. Lewis at the EastSide Visitor Centre.
The EastSide Visitor Centre in Belfast serves as a welcoming gateway to East Belfast, offering rich insights into the area's history, culture, and notable figures like C.S. Lewis. Located within the vibrant C.S. Lewis Square, the centre features a cozy café, exhibition spaces, and access to stunning outdoor sculptures. It’s an ideal spot for visitors to relax, enjoy refreshments, and explore the unique character of East Belfast.
A brief summary to EastSide Visitor Centre
- 402, A20, Belfast, BT4 1HH, GB
- +442890458114
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit early on weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and a fresh chai latte at the café.
- Don’t miss the Narnia statues in C.S. Lewis Square just outside the centre for fantastic photo opportunities.
- Check the centre’s exhibition schedule for local art displays and cultural events during your visit.
- Use the Visitor Centre’s maps and information to explore nearby parks and boutiques in East Belfast.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Metro bus services operating along the A20 corridor, with stops near C.S. Lewis Square. Journey times from Belfast city centre range from 15 to 25 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2.50–£3.50. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evening and weekend variations.
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Car
Driving to the EastSide Visitor Centre is convenient via the A20. Nearby parking is available around C.S. Lewis Square, though some spaces may require payment or have time restrictions. Travel time from Belfast city centre is about 15 minutes depending on traffic.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, a walk from Belfast city centre to the Visitor Centre takes around 45 minutes. The route is mostly flat and urban, suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair accessible.
EastSide Visitor Centre 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 EastSide Visitor Centre
A Cultural Hub in East Belfast
The EastSide Visitor Centre stands as a vibrant cultural hub nestled in the heart of East Belfast, within the dynamic C.S. Lewis Square. This centre offers visitors a comprehensive introduction to the area’s rich heritage, showcasing key attractions, famous local personalities, and the community’s unique spirit. It serves not only as an information point but also as a social space where locals and tourists converge to learn and unwind.Celebrating C.S. Lewis and Local Artistry
A highlight of the Visitor Centre is its connection to C.S. Lewis, the celebrated author born in Belfast. The centre embraces this legacy with themed décor and nearby iconic Narnia statues scattered throughout C.S. Lewis Square, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can admire these sculptures, which bring Lewis’s beloved characters to life, while the centre’s gallery spaces often host exhibitions that celebrate local art and culture.A Cozy Café Experience
Within the centre, a welcoming café invites guests to enjoy a range of refreshments, including popular chai lattes and light snacks. The café’s ambiance is warm and inviting, with seating areas that offer views of the surrounding park and sculptures. This makes it an excellent spot for a leisurely breakfast or a relaxing coffee break amid your explorations of East Belfast.Community and Events
The EastSide Visitor Centre also functions as a venue for community events and meetings, with spaces available for hire on its upper floors. This aspect reinforces its role as a cornerstone of local life, fostering cultural exchange and engagement. The centre’s staff provide helpful information and maps to assist visitors in navigating the wider EastSide area, enhancing the overall visitor experience.Exploring East Belfast’s Vibrant Surroundings
Beyond the centre itself, East Belfast offers a lively atmosphere with boutique shops, green parks like Belmont and Victoria Park, and a diverse food scene. The Visitor Centre is perfectly positioned for those wishing to explore these attractions, making it a practical starting point for discovering the neighborhood’s charm and character.Accessibility and Visitor Information
Open daily with extended hours during weekdays, the centre is accessible to a wide range of visitors. It provides essential amenities such as restrooms and seating, ensuring comfort during your visit. Entry to the Visitor Centre and the surrounding C.S. Lewis Square is free, making it an accessible cultural destination for all.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
1.2 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
Titanic Hotel Belfast
1.6 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
Slipways
1.7 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
1.9 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.
Beacon of Hope
2.0 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Alec the Goose
2.0 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Albert Memorial Clock
2.2 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
2.2 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
2.3 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
The MAC
2.4 km
Discover Belfast's cultural hub at The MAC, where art, performance, and local flavors come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum
2.4 km
Explore the profound military history of Northern Ireland at the War Memorial Museum – a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.
Trade union mural
2.4 km
Explore the Trade Union Mural in Belfast, a vibrant celebration of labor history and artistic expression that showcases the city's rich cultural heritage.
The Titanic Memorial Garden
2.4 km
Discover the Titanic Memorial Garden in Belfast, a serene park dedicated to the memory of the Titanic tragedy, offering beauty and reflection in the heart of the city.
The Spire Of Hope, Belfast
2.4 km
Discover the Spire of Hope in Belfast, an architectural marvel symbolizing resilience and hope, providing a stunning backdrop for your travels.
Castle Buildings
2.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
CS Lewis Square
0.1 km
Discover CS Lewis Square, a charming tribute to the beloved author in Belfast, featuring captivating sculptures, lush gardens, and a vibrant atmosphere.
CS Lewis Statue - The Searcher
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Searcher statue and immerse yourself in the magical world of C.S. Lewis at Belfast’s CS Lewis Square.
Connswater Greenway
0.4 km
Discover Belfast’s scenic Connswater Greenway, a revitalized riverside park blending nature, history, and community in East Belfast.
Victoria Park - Belfast
1.1 km
A vibrant 60-acre park in East Belfast offering lakeside walks, sports, playgrounds, and unique planespotting near the city airport.
Titanic Mural
1.1 km
A vibrant mural celebrating Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage and the spirit of the Titanic’s shipyard community.
Street Food
1.5 km
Discover vibrant fast-food flavors in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where local heritage meets global street food culture.
Titanic Quarter Limited
1.5 km
Explore Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: where maritime history meets vibrant urban regeneration along the scenic waterfront.
Maritime Mile
1.6 km
Explore Belfast’s historic waterfront trail, where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and iconic landmarks along the Maritime Mile.
Harland & Wolff HQ & Drawing Offices
1.6 km
Historic Harland & Wolff HQ and Drawing Offices: birthplace of Titanic’s design and Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy.
Titanic experience
1.6 km
Discover the dramatic story of the Titanic where it was built, through immersive exhibits and cutting-edge technology in Belfast’s iconic waterfront landmark.
SS Nomadic
1.6 km
The last White Star Line vessel and Titanic's tender ship—a floating museum of maritime elegance and history.
SSE Arena Belfast
1.6 km
Belfast’s vibrant SSE Arena on Queens Quay offers world-class concerts, sports, and family events in a modern waterfront setting.
Titanic Belfast
1.6 km
Explore the Titanic Belfast Museum: Dive into the history of the RMS Titanic and experience its remarkable legacy in an iconic setting.
W5
1.7 km
An award-winning science and discovery centre in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where over 250 interactive exhibits spark curiosity and fun for all ages.
SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
1.8 km
Experience Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage through interactive sound and light at the striking SoundYard installation on Queen’s Quay.
Essential places to dine
The Hoose Bistro
0.3 km
East Belfast's premier intimate bistro serving contemporary British cuisine with exceptional cocktails and genuine warmth.
Drawing Office Two Bar
1.6 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
1.6 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
The Pantry at Titanic Belfast
1.7 km
Savor locally inspired dishes in a historic setting at The Pantry, Titanic Belfast’s welcoming restaurant celebrating Northern Ireland’s finest produce.
Hickson's Point
1.7 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant culture at Hickson's Point in Belfast - your gateway to local flavors.
Stock Kitchen & Bar
2.0 km
Elevated Irish dining with fresh local flavors and market views in Belfast’s historic St George’s Market.
OX Belfast
2.0 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
Novelli at City Quays
2.0 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Bootleggers
2.2 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
Taylor & Clay
2.2 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.
Olivers Restaurant
2.2 km
A warm, modern European dining experience in Belfast’s Ballyhackamore with exceptional food and inviting ambiance.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
2.2 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
2.3 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Six By Nico Belfast
2.3 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
Waterman Restaurant
2.3 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Union Jack Shop
0.2 km
Explore a treasure trove of Unionist memorabilia at The Union Jack Shop in Belfast, celebrating British culture with a unique selection of gifts.
Storybox
0.2 km
Discover Storybox, a creative gift shop nestled in Belfast’s historic Portview Trade Centre, where heritage meets artistry and community spirit.
Dandy Lion Shop
0.3 km
Explore the Dandy Lion Shop in Belfast for unique antiques and gifts, perfect for collectors and treasure hunters alike.
Connswater Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Discover Connswater Shopping Centre: Belfast's vibrant retail hub with diverse shops, dining options, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
American Madness
0.3 km
East Belfast’s cult vintage shop for reworked Americana, denim, military surplus, and retro band and Harley-Davidson tees.
Fiddlesticks
0.9 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and expert framing at Fiddlesticks, Belfast's gem on Belmont Road for unique souvenirs and preserved memories.
Titanic Store
1.6 km
Discover Titanic treasures in Belfast's shipyard heart: exclusive memorabilia, local crafts, and publications that sail the story of the unsinkable ship into your hands.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
2.0 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating Northern Irish creativity and cultural character
Esik Creations
2.0 km
Explore Esik Creations in Belfast, where local artistry meets unique gifts for every occasion, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
House of Fraser
2.1 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Urban Outfitters
2.2 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
2.2 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
New Look
2.2 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
Born and Bred
2.2 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Fossil Store Belfast
2.2 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Harland Bar
1.6 km
Elegant piano bar in Harland & Wolff's historic offices, serving Titanic-inspired cocktails amid shipyard artefacts and live music in Belfast's Titanic Quarter.
Pavilion One Bar
1.6 km
A convivial, shipyard‑inspired hotel bar with polished brass, hearty pub dishes and a relaxed atmosphere in the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
The Tipsy Bird
2.0 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Bittles Bar
2.1 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.
The American Bar
2.2 km
Historic Sailortown pub pouring perfect pints, live tunes, and bargain bites in Belfast's Docklands—a raw gem for locals and music seekers.
Ulster Sports Club
2.2 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
2.2 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 National
2.3 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
The Garrick
2.3 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
The Spaniard
2.3 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
39 Gordon Street
2.3 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Jailhouse
2.3 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
2.3 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Black Box
2.3 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
Harp Bar
2.4 km
Discover Harp Bar, Belfast's vibrant pub offering local brews, live music, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ollie's Belfast
2.3 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
2.3 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
2.3 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Cabaret Supper Club
2.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
2.6 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Kremlin
2.6 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
2.7 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Anthology Ni
2.7 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Shoe Factory
2.7 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
2.7 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Scratch Nightclub
3.0 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Alibi
3.0 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Club Honey
4.5 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
11.8 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage 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
- 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
- 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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly