Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum, Belfast
Explore Northern Ireland’s vital World War II history through intimate exhibits and engaging family activities in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
The Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum in Belfast offers a focused, engaging look at Northern Ireland’s role during the Second World War. Located in the Cathedral Quarter, this compact museum features exhibits on the Belfast Blitz, the American military presence, the Ulster Home Guard, and wartime life including the contributions of women and industry. Admission is free, and the museum is open weekdays and Saturdays with family-friendly activities on weekends.
A brief summary to Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum
- 21 Talbot St, Belfast, BT1 2LD, GB
- +442890320392
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Plan for a visit of under one hour as the museum is compact but rich in detail.
- Visit on Saturdays to enjoy family-friendly craft activities inspired by the 1940s.
- Take advantage of free admission and no need for advance booking.
- Use nearby public transport or pay-and-display parking; there is no on-site parking.
- Ask about guided tours tailored to your group’s interests for a deeper experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Bus
Several Translink bus routes serve stops near the museum in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter. Travel times from Belfast City Centre range from 10 to 20 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with single fares typically costing around £2.50 GBP. Check local timetables for exact routes and times.
-
Walking
The museum is approximately a 13-minute walk (1.3 miles) from Belfast City Hall along mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible and suitable for most visitors, providing a pleasant urban stroll through the city centre.
-
Car
Visitors arriving by car can use nearby pay-and-display street parking on Talbot Street or multi-story car parks within walking distance. Parking fees vary but expect around £1.50 to £3.00 GBP per hour. Note there is no dedicated on-site parking, and parking wardens regularly patrol the area.
Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum
Honouring Northern Ireland’s Wartime Legacy
The Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum stands as a poignant tribute to the people of Northern Ireland during the Second World War. Situated opposite Belfast Cathedral in the historic Cathedral Quarter, this museum preserves and presents the stories of courage, resilience, and community spirit that shaped the region’s wartime experience. Its collection includes thousands of artifacts such as uniforms, photographs, radios, and artworks, all carefully conserved to keep the memory alive.A Window into the Belfast Blitz and Beyond
Central to the museum’s narrative is the Belfast Blitz, a devastating series of German air raids that profoundly impacted the city and its inhabitants. Visitors learn about the American military presence in Northern Ireland, the efforts of the Ulster Home Guard, and the vital role women played in wartime industries and civil defence. The exhibits provide a vivid picture of daily life during the war years, including rationing and community responses to the conflict.Compact Yet Comprehensive Experience
Although the museum occupies just one room, it offers a rich and immersive experience that can be explored in under an hour. The intimate scale allows for close engagement with exhibits and personal stories, including oral histories that continue to be collected. Visitors can also enjoy a beautiful stained glass window and bronze sculptures that add artistic depth to the historical displays.Family Engagement and Educational Outreach
On Saturdays, the museum hosts family craft activities inspired by its collection, featuring 1940s music, wartime costume dress-up, and interactive experiences like weighing out weekly sweet rations. The museum also offers tailored guided tours and outreach talks for schools and community groups, emphasizing accessibility and inclusivity.Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
The Northern Ireland War Memorial is committed to making the museum accessible to all visitors. Facilities include accessible toilets with baby-changing amenities, guide dog access, and support for visitors with additional needs. While there is no on-site parking, nearby pay-and-display street parking and multi-story car parks are available. The museum is well-served by public transport and is within walking distance of Belfast City Hall.Preserving History for Future Generations
The museum continues to collect and conserve wartime artifacts and oral histories, aiming to expand and possibly relocate to larger premises in the future. Its dedication to education, remembrance, and community engagement ensures that the legacy of Northern Ireland’s wartime experience remains a vital part of the city’s cultural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
2-6 Waring St
0.2 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.3 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
0.3 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Castle Buildings
0.4 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Beacon of Hope
0.5 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Treasure Trails
0.5 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
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.
The Back Of Boots
0.6 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
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.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.6 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.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
0.6 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
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.
Belfastlad Tours
0.6 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with personalized tours led by passionate locals at Belfastlad Tours.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.6 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trade union mural
0.1 km
A vibrant mural in Belfast celebrating the city’s proud labor history and the enduring spirit of trade union solidarity.
The Spire Of Hope, Belfast
0.1 km
A soaring 40-metre steel beacon of hope atop Belfast’s historic St Anne’s Cathedral, shining brightly across the city skyline.
Belfast Cathedral, the Cathedral Church of St Anne
0.1 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.
Harp Bar
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Harp Bar, Belfast's favorite pub for craft beers, live music, and authentic Irish hospitality.
Duke of York
0.1 km
Experience the heart of Belfast's pub culture at Duke of York, a vibrant spot with rich history, local brews, and a warm atmosphere.
Commercial Court
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Commercial Court, a vibrant cobbled alley alive with colourful murals, lively pubs, and rich mercantile heritage.
Creative Tours Belfast
0.1 km
Explore Belfast’s vibrant music scene on foot with expert guides, historic venues, and live performances in the UNESCO City of Music.
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
0.1 km
Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
The MAC
0.1 km
Belfast's vibrant contemporary arts centre blending theatre, galleries, and café culture in a welcoming modern space.
The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
0.1 km
Historic Belfast pub with lively Irish music downstairs and Yardbird’s famed rotisserie chicken upstairs in a rustic, vibrant setting.
The Cloth Ear
0.2 km
A cosy, unpretentious hotel pub inside The Merchant Hotel, offering classic pub dishes, local beers and a snug atmosphere in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Mural
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant mural at 1 Church St, a vivid testament to the city’s history, culture, and dynamic street art tradition.
Cathedral Quarter Moural
0.2 km
Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter blends historic charm with vibrant street art, world-class culture, and lively nightlife in a uniquely creative urban district.
Belfast Central Library
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s Victorian architectural gem and cultural heart, where history, heritage, and community converge in a stunning public library.
The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
0.3 km
Interactive sensory cocktail experience in Belfast's heart, where taste meets discovery and every drink tells a story.
Essential places to dine
Mumbai 27
0.0 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Dumpling Library
0.1 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Buba
0.1 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Waterman Restaurant
0.1 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.1 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
Coppi Restaurant
0.1 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
0.2 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
Academy Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
The Northern Whig
0.2 km
Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.2 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Taylor & Clay
0.4 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.
Bootleggers
0.4 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
Bank Square Brasserie
0.4 km
French bistro elegance meets Northern Irish ingredients in Belfast's most welcoming modern European brasserie.
Mourne Seafood Bar
0.4 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a lively, rustic setting in Belfast’s city centre with a welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.2 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Forsight Belfast
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
0.3 km
Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
Fuzz Vintage
0.3 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.
Top Gift
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Top Gift, Belfast's charming gift shop offering an eclectic selection for every traveler.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
0.3 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
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.
Søstrene Grene
0.4 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
The Name Shops - Belfast
0.4 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
Urban Outfitters
0.4 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
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.
White Stuff Belfast
0.4 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
FatFace
0.4 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
The Holy Shop
0.5 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.5 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dark Horse
0.1 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
0.1 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
39 Gordon Street
0.1 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Spaniard
0.2 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
Bert's Jazz Bar
0.2 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
0.3 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Ulster Sports Club
0.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
Monico Bars
0.3 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
The Reporter. Bar
0.3 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Sunflower Public House
0.3 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.
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.
Maddens
0.5 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
The Tipsy Bird
0.5 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
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Craics Ninety
0.1 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Club Lux
0.1 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
0.2 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Kremlin
0.3 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Shoe Factory
0.3 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Boombox Belfast
0.3 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
0.3 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
The Art Department
0.3 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Voodoo
0.5 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Cabaret Supper Club
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Alibi
1.6 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
1.7 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
2.4 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
14.2 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
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Fun
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
