Ormeau Park: Belfast’s Historic Urban Green Haven
Belfast’s oldest municipal park blending historic charm with vibrant sports, nature, and cultural events in a sprawling urban green space.
Ormeau Park is Belfast’s oldest municipal park, opened in 1871, blending rich history with vibrant recreational facilities. Spanning over 100 acres, it offers diverse amenities including sports courts, playgrounds, woodland trails, and horticultural displays. The park hosts community events and the famous Belsonic music festival, making it a lively and cherished green space near Belfast city centre.
A brief summary to Ormeau Park
- Ormeau Rd, Belfast, BT7 3GG, GB
- +442890320202
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 7:30 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-9 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-9 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-9 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-9 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Saturday morning to join the free 5km parkrun or enjoy the junior parkrun on Sundays.
- Explore the BMX track during off-club hours for a fun cycling experience; check club reserved times.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in designated areas surrounded by beautiful horticultural displays.
- Attend the Belsonic music festival in June for world-class live performances in a vibrant outdoor setting.
- Use public transport with Metro bus routes 7A-D from Belfast city centre for convenient access.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take Metro bus routes 7A, 7B, 7C, or 7D from Belfast city centre, with journey times around 15-25 minutes. Buses stop directly outside Ormeau Park on Ormeau Road. Tickets cost approximately £2.50-£3.50 one way. Services run frequently throughout the day but check schedules for evening and weekend variations.
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Car
Driving to Ormeau Park typically takes 10-20 minutes from Belfast city centre depending on traffic. On-site parking is available but can fill during events or weekends. Be mindful of parking restrictions on surrounding streets. No parking fees apply within the park.
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Walking
From Belfast city centre, walking to Ormeau Park takes approximately 30-40 minutes via Ormeau Road. The route is mostly flat and urban, suitable for most fitness levels. Walking offers a pleasant way to experience the local neighbourhood and riverside views.
Ormeau Park 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Ormeau Park
A Legacy Rooted in Belfast’s Past
Ormeau Park stands as Belfast’s oldest public park, officially opened in 1871 after the city corporation acquired the land from the Donegall family estate. Originally a private estate with Ormeau Cottage as its centerpiece, the park’s transformation into a municipal space marked a significant moment in Belfast’s urban development. The design competition for the park was won by young architect Timothy Hevey, whose vision still shapes the park’s layout today. The park’s opening was celebrated with a grand parade and speeches, signaling its importance as a public asset.A Multifaceted Urban Oasis
Covering approximately 100 acres, Ormeau Park offers a rich blend of natural and recreational features. Visitors can explore woodland areas, horticultural displays, and specimen trees alongside manicured lawns and seasonal flower beds. The park’s extensive sports facilities include soccer pitches, tennis courts, basketball and netball courts, bowling greens, and a BMX track. Two children’s playgrounds provide family-friendly spaces, while eco-trails and orienteering courses invite exploration and engagement with nature.Community and Cultural Vibrancy
Ormeau Park is a hub for community activities and events throughout the year. It hosts the weekly 5km parkrun and junior parkrun, encouraging fitness and social interaction. The park’s pavilion supports local clubs and activities such as chess, with free outdoor tables available. One of its most notable events is the Belsonic music festival, an internationally recognized summer concert series that draws large crowds and world-class artists, enriching Belfast’s cultural calendar.Natural Beauty and Environmental Features
The park’s landscape includes mature trees and woodland habitats that support local wildlife, offering a tranquil retreat within the city. Although the original boating lake no longer exists—having been filled in during wartime—the park’s green spaces and river views contribute to its scenic appeal. Seasonal bedding and horticultural efforts maintain a colorful and inviting environment, enhancing the park’s role as a nature escape and urban sanctuary.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Ormeau Park is accessible from multiple entrances along Ormeau Road, Ormeau Embankment, Park Road, and Ravenhill Road. It is well-served by Metro bus routes from Belfast city centre, making it easy to reach. Facilities such as restrooms, picnic areas, drinking water, seating, and parking support visitor comfort. The park’s open hours from early morning until dusk allow for flexible visits, whether for exercise, leisure, or attending events.Ongoing Significance in Belfast’s Urban Fabric
More than a century after its opening, Ormeau Park remains a vital green lung for Belfast, balancing historic charm with contemporary recreational needs. Its role as a venue for sports, cultural events, and community gatherings ensures it continues to foster social cohesion and wellbeing. The park’s preservation and management by Belfast City Council reflect a commitment to maintaining this treasured space for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alec the Goose
1.3 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Shaftesbury Square
1.4 km
A historic and bustling junction in Belfast where Victorian heritage meets vibrant modern city life.
Lord Kelvin Statue
1.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s own Lord Kelvin with this striking bronze statue set in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Frederick Temple Memorial
1.6 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Belfast City Hall Tours
1.6 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Beacon of Hope
1.7 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
1.7 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
1.7 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.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
1.7 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
1.7 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
1.7 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
1.7 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.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
1.7 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.
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.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Botanic Gardens
1.2 km
Discover Belfast’s Victorian botanical gem with stunning glasshouses, vibrant gardens, and rich cultural heritage in a serene 28-acre urban oasis.
The Palm House
1.2 km
Explore Belfast’s iconic Victorian Palm House, a stunning glass and iron botanical marvel nestled in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Game of Thrones Tours
1.3 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Westeros with Game of Thrones Tours in Belfast, a must-visit for fans and nature lovers alike.
St Malachy's Church
1.3 km
Discover Belfast’s historic St Malachy's Church, famed for its Tudor Gothic style and breathtaking fan-vaulted ceiling inspired by Westminster Abbey.
Belfast Times
1.3 km
Belfast’s oldest covered market: a weekend feast of food, crafts, music and history under a soaring Victorian roof.
St George's Market
1.3 km
Belfast’s vibrant Victorian market blending fresh local produce, crafts, antiques, and live music in a historic city centre setting.
Ulster Museum
1.3 km
Explore the Ulster Museum, a stunning fusion of art, history, and natural beauty in the heart of Belfast's Botanic Gardens.
Waterfront Hall
1.4 km
Belfast’s iconic entertainment and conference venue blending architectural elegance with cultural vibrancy in the heart of the city.
McCombs Coaches
1.4 km
Comfortable and engaging coach tours from Belfast to Northern Ireland’s iconic sights, including the Giant’s Causeway and historic castles.
Giants Causeway Tour
1.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and legendary charm of the Giant's Causeway on a guided tour from Belfast, a remarkable natural wonder not to be missed.
The Stroud Street Murals
1.5 km
Explore Belfast’s Stroud Street Murals—an open-air gallery celebrating punk heritage, urban wildlife, and creative innovation on vibrant Victorian walls.
Ulster Hall
1.5 km
Belfast’s iconic Victorian concert hall blending rich history, legendary performances, and vibrant cultural life since 1862.
Granny Annies Kitchen
1.5 km
A vibrant Belfast gastropub blending fresh Irish flavors, lively live music, and a quirky, relaxed atmosphere in the city center.
George Best Mural
1.5 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s football icon with the vibrant George Best Mural, a cultural landmark honoring local pride and sporting greatness.
Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum
1.5 km
Explore the rich military history of Northern Ireland at the Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum, a captivating tribute to bravery and sacrifice.
Essential places to dine
Molly's Yard
1.1 km
Discover modern Irish cuisine in a charming 19th-century stable block with cozy indoor dining and a peaceful courtyard in Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter.
Scalini
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy ambiance at Scalini, a beloved Italian restaurant on Belfast’s vibrant Botanic Avenue.
Stock Kitchen & Bar
1.3 km
Elevated Irish dining with fresh local flavors and market views in Belfast’s historic St George’s Market.
Zen
1.3 km
Stylish Asian fusion dining in Belfast’s city centre, with creative sushi, bold flavours, and a sleek, modern interior.
Darcy's Belfast
1.3 km
A warm, family-run bistro serving hearty traditional Irish dishes with local ingredients in a cozy Belfast setting.
A Peculiar Tea
1.3 km
Where afternoon tea becomes a story-driven escape into imagination and culinary wonder.
The Teal Monkey
1.4 km
A lively modern European restaurant in Belfast blending quirky decor, fresh flavors, and live music for a memorable dining experience.
Villa Italia
1.4 km
A beloved Belfast institution serving authentic Italian stone-baked pizzas and classic pasta dishes in a warm Georgian setting.
Holohan's Pantry
1.4 km
Authentic Irish flavors with a contemporary twist in Belfast’s vibrant University Road dining scene.
Causeway Cafe
1.4 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Causeway Cafe in Belfast—your cozy retreat for delicious meals and warm hospitality.
Hendrix Restaurant| Belfast
1.4 km
Modern fusion dining with Italian-Mexican flair, creative cocktails, and theatrical open kitchen on South Belfast's cultural corridor.
Deanes at Queens
1.5 km
Experience modern European cuisine with Michelin-recognized quality in Belfast’s vibrant University Quarter, overlooking picturesque College Gardens.
Hope Street Restaurant Belfast
1.5 km
Fresh Northern Irish cuisine in an intimate Belfast setting, perfectly positioned for pre-theatre dining and special occasions.
Coco
1.5 km
A quirky, stylish bistro in Belfast’s Linen Quarter serving creative dishes with attentive service in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Ginger Bistro
1.5 km
Vibrant modern European bistro celebrating local produce and exceptional hospitality in Belfast's city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Yard Shop - Furniture & Accessories
0.7 km
Discover Belfast’s charming Yard Shop, a treasure trove of antique and rustic furniture and home accessories that bring character to any space.
Esik Creations
1.2 km
Explore Esik Creations in Belfast, where local artistry meets unique gifts for every occasion, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Olive & Rose Apparels
1.3 km
Explore the latest fashion trends at Olive & Rose Apparels, a stylish boutique in the heart of Belfast, offering unique clothing for every occasion.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
1.3 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating Northern Irish creativity and cultural character
Noor Bazaar
1.5 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
House of Fraser
1.6 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
New Look
1.6 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
AllSaints
1.6 km
Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
Boux Avenue
1.6 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
1.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
1.6 km
Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
Fossil Store Belfast
1.6 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Tommy Hilfiger
1.7 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Replay Store Belfast
1.7 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
1.7 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hatfield House
0.5 km
Historic Irish pub on Belfast’s Ormeau Road blending vintage charm, hearty food, live music, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
Parador Lodge
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Parador Lodge, Belfast's charming pub destination.
Limelight Lounge
1.3 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
The Woodworkers
1.3 km
Belfast's top rotating tap room: craft beers on rotation, timber warmth, board games, and platters in Queen's Quarter's lively heart.
Lavery's
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavery's, Belfast's premier pub and comedy club, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
The Points
1.4 km
A warm, old-school Dublin Road pub with regular live music, a glowing log fire and an unpretentious atmosphere for evening sessions.
Filthy McNastys
1.4 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
Pug Uglys
1.5 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
Margot
1.5 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
The Garrick
1.6 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
1.6 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Bittles Bar
1.6 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 Broken shaker Belfast
1.6 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Cutters Wharf
1.7 km
A stylish riverside bar and restaurant in Belfast blending modern European cuisine with lively entertainment and scenic river views.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Scratch Nightclub
1.3 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Alibi
1.4 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Cabaret Supper Club
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
1.9 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
1.9 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
2.0 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
2.1 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Kremlin
2.3 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Shoe Factory
2.4 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Anthology Ni
2.4 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
The Art Department
2.4 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Boombox Belfast
2.4 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Club Honey
3.1 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
13.3 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- 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
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
