SoundYard - Maritime Belfast: An Interactive Tribute to Shipyard Heritage
Experience Belfast’s shipyard past through interactive sound and light at SoundYard, a captivating maritime art installation on Queen’s Quay.
SoundYard is a striking interactive art installation located at 2 Queens Quay, Belfast, near the Odyssey and Abercorn Marina. Inspired by Belfast’s historic shipyards, this 6-metre-tall, 9.6-metre-wide pavilion features over 500 suspended metal rods that create authentic shipyard sounds when visitors move beneath it. By day, it offers a sensory experience of industrial heritage; by night, it transforms into a captivating light display along the Maritime Mile.
A brief summary to SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
- 2 Queens Quay, Belfast, BT3 9QQ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 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 at dusk to enjoy the stunning illuminated light display that transforms SoundYard into a glowing waterfront spectacle.
- Walk beneath the installation to activate the motion sensors and hear the authentic shipyard sounds come alive.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the surrounding Maritime Mile area offers smooth pathways ideal for a leisurely stroll.
- Bring a camera to capture the reflective metal rods and playful distorted reflections on the polished columns.
- Note that there are no restroom facilities onsite, so plan accordingly before your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Translink Metro bus routes 600 or 600A from Belfast city centre to the Odyssey stop, approximately a 15-20 minute journey. From the stop, it is a 5-10 minute walk along Queens Quay to SoundYard. Buses run frequently, with tickets costing around £2.50-£3.50.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Belfast city centre to SoundYard takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £8-£12. Taxis are widely available in the city and provide direct, convenient access.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in the Titanic Quarter or city centre, walking to SoundYard is an enjoyable option. The route along the waterfront is mostly flat and paved, taking approximately 20-30 minutes from central Belfast.
SoundYard - Maritime Belfast 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 SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
A Living Echo of Belfast’s Shipbuilding Legacy
SoundYard stands as a dynamic homage to Belfast’s maritime and industrial past, situated on Queen's Quay close to the Odyssey and Abercorn Marina. The installation was conceived through the City Play Design Competition, aiming to blend playful interaction with cultural storytelling. Its design draws on the intense, rhythmic sounds that once filled the shipyards—hammering, riveting, and clanging metal—bringing this auditory history back to life for visitors.Innovative Design and Immersive Interaction
The pavilion measures six metres tall and nearly ten metres wide, supported by 16 slim columns and featuring two concentric veils of suspended metal rods. The outer veil serves as an acoustic and visual buffer, while the inner veil contains hollow sound tubes. Motion sensors detect visitors’ movements beneath the structure, triggering motorised steel hammers that strike the tubes, producing authentic shipyard sounds. The soundscape grows richer with more interaction, encouraging collective play and exploration.Architectural and Environmental Thoughtfulness
Designed by architects Hannah Wilson, Matthew Kernan, and Eunan Deeney, SoundYard incorporates principles of the circular economy, emphasizing reuse, repurposing, and recycling. The reflective metal rods create a mirage effect, while polished columns invite playful engagement through distorted reflections. The site itself, formerly home to a brass foundry and coal yard, was thoughtfully adapted to host this performance space, blending history with contemporary urban design.Day and Night Experiences Along the Maritime Mile
During daylight, visitors can enjoy the interactive sounds and visual spectacle of the installation. At night, SoundYard transforms into a luminous landmark as the metal rods and veils are illuminated, enhancing the ambiance of the Maritime Mile waterfront. It complements other illuminated attractions nearby, such as the Great Light and Titanic Belfast, enriching the riverside stroll.Accessibility and Practical Features
The area around SoundYard is smoothly paved with a ramped pathway for wheelchair access, though some medium steps surround the structure. Safety is prioritized with railings and lifesaving equipment along the water’s edge. Seating is available for rest and contemplation. Sound levels have been carefully tested to remain within legal limits, ensuring a safe and pleasant environment.A Cultural and Sensory Landmark in Belfast
SoundYard offers a unique fusion of art, history, and play, making it a must-see for those interested in Belfast’s maritime heritage. It invites visitors to connect with the city’s industrial roots through sound and light, creating an engaging and memorable experience on the waterfront.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Titanic Hotel Belfast
0.5 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
Slipways
0.6 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.6 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 Samson & Goliath Cranes
0.7 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
Beacon of Hope
0.7 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.7 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
0.8 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
0.9 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Castle Buildings
1.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Alec the Goose
1.1 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Clifton House
1.1 km
Explore the historical significance and architectural elegance of Clifton House, a must-see landmark in Belfast that offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant heritage.
Queen's Arcade
1.2 km
Belfast's Victorian gem: restored elegance meets luxury shopping in a historic arcade promenade.
Treasure Trails
1.2 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
The Titanic Memorial Garden
1.3 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.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
1.3 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
W5
0.1 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.
Glass of Thrones - Odyssey
0.2 km
Discover the vivid House Targaryen stained glass window at Odyssey Point, a dazzling tribute to Game of Thrones in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter.
SSE Arena Belfast
0.2 km
Belfast’s vibrant SSE Arena on Queens Quay offers world-class concerts, sports, and family events in a modern waterfront setting.
Street Food
0.3 km
Discover vibrant fast-food flavors in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where local heritage meets global street food culture.
Maritime Mile
0.3 km
Explore Belfast’s historic waterfront trail, where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and iconic landmarks along the Maritime Mile.
SS Nomadic
0.3 km
The last White Star Line vessel and Titanic's tender ship—a floating museum of maritime elegance and history.
Titanic Belfast
0.5 km
Explore the Titanic Belfast Museum: Dive into the history of the RMS Titanic and experience its remarkable legacy in an iconic setting.
Titanic experience
0.5 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.
Titanic Quarter Limited
0.5 km
Explore Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: where maritime history meets vibrant urban regeneration along the scenic waterfront.
Donegall Quay
0.5 km
Discover Donegall Quay, Belfast’s historic riverside promenade blending maritime heritage, public art, and vibrant urban life along the River Lagan.
Harland & Wolff HQ & Drawing Offices
0.5 km
Historic Harland & Wolff HQ and Drawing Offices: birthplace of Titanic’s design and Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy.
The Big Fish
0.6 km
A 10-metre ceramic mosaic fish celebrating Belfast’s history, mythology, and waterfront regeneration at Donegall Quay.
TOUR MISTERIOS Y LEYENDAS
0.6 km
Discover Belfast’s mysterious past and legends on a captivating walking tour through its iconic streets and hidden stories.
Lagan Lookout
0.6 km
Discover panoramic river views and urban charm at Belfast’s iconic Lagan Lookout and Weir, a gateway between city and sea.
Custom House Square
0.6 km
Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
Essential places to dine
Novelli at City Quays
0.3 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Hickson's Point
0.5 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant culture at Hickson's Point in Belfast - your gateway to local flavors.
The Pantry at Titanic Belfast
0.5 km
Savor locally inspired dishes in a historic setting at The Pantry, Titanic Belfast’s welcoming restaurant celebrating Northern Ireland’s finest produce.
Drawing Office Two Bar
0.6 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
0.6 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
Coppi Restaurant
0.7 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Buba
0.7 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
OX Belfast
0.8 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.8 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Dumpling Library
0.8 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Waterman Restaurant
0.8 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
0.8 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Mumbai 27
0.8 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.8 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.8 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Titanic Store
0.5 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.
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.8 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
0.8 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
0.9 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
0.9 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
0.9 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
House of Fraser
0.9 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Tommy Hilfiger
1.0 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
1.0 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
1.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
1.0 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Boux Avenue
1.0 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
New Look
1.0 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
Replay Store Belfast
1.0 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
FatFace
1.0 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The American Bar
0.5 km
Historic Sailortown pub pouring perfect pints, live tunes, and bargain bites in Belfast's Docklands—a raw gem for locals and music seekers.
Pavilion One Bar
0.5 km
A convivial, shipyard‑inspired hotel bar with polished brass, hearty pub dishes and a relaxed atmosphere in the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
The Harland Bar
0.6 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.
39 Gordon Street
0.7 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Tipsy Bird
0.8 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Ulster Sports Club
0.8 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
0.8 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 Spaniard
0.8 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
The Black Box
0.8 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Dark Horse
0.8 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The National
0.8 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Bittles Bar
0.9 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 Jailhouse
1.0 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
1.0 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Reporter. Bar
1.0 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Ollie's Belfast
0.8 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Kremlin
1.0 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
1.0 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
1.0 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Shoe Factory
1.0 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
1.0 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Cabaret Supper Club
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
1.2 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Alibi
2.2 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
2.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
3.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
13.4 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
- Quirky
- Unique
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Art & Design
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- 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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
