St Patrick's Church, Belfast
A majestic Romanesque Catholic church in Belfast, famed for its soaring spire, sacred relics, and the celebrated artwork of Sir John Lavery.
St Patrick's Church in Belfast is a striking Romanesque-style Catholic church located at 199 Donegall Street. Consecrated in 1877, it features a soaring 54-meter spire, beautiful sandstone arches, and houses significant religious relics including a medieval silver reliquary of St Patrick’s arm. The church is renowned for its rich history, architectural grandeur, and artworks, including a triptych by Sir John Lavery, a celebrated local artist.
A brief summary to St Patrick's Church
- 199 Donegall St, Belfast, BT1 2FL, GB
- +442890324597
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to experience a quieter atmosphere and better appreciate the church’s architectural details.
- Don’t miss the medieval silver reliquary of St Patrick’s arm and the triptych altarpiece by Sir John Lavery inside the church.
- Attend a service or special event to experience the church’s vibrant community spirit and acoustics.
- Explore the left transept to find Bishop Dorrian’s memorial and learn about his role in the church’s history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Metro buses 1A, 1B, or 1C from Belfast city center to Donegall Street; journey time approximately 10-15 minutes. Services run frequently with fares around £2.50. Note that bus stops are a short walk from the church.
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Taxi
Taxis from Belfast city center to St Patrick's Church take about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £5-£8. Taxis are readily available but may be limited late at night.
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Walking
From Belfast city center, walking to the church takes about 15-20 minutes over mostly flat, paved streets. Suitable for most visitors with moderate mobility.
St Patrick's Church 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 St Patrick's Church
Historical Roots and Reclamation
St Patrick's Church stands on a site with deep historical significance dating back to the early Christian era in Belfast. The ancient parish of Shankill originally encompassed the area, with the first church linked to the White Church of Shankill. Following the Reformation, the church was acquired and rebuilt by English Protestant settlers in 1812, renamed in honor of St George. However, the Catholic community reclaimed the ancient title and dedicated the new church on Donegall Street to St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. The present church’s foundation stone was laid in 1875 by Bishop Patrick Dorrian, marking a pivotal moment in Belfast’s Catholic heritage.Architectural Grandeur and Design
Designed by architect Timothy Hevey, a former associate of Augustus Pugin, St Patrick's Church was completed rapidly and consecrated in 1877. The building showcases Romanesque style with multi-colored sandstone and an imposing 54-meter (180 feet) spire crowned by a two-ton bell cast in Dublin. Inside, the nave is separated from the aisles by ten elegant red sandstone arches supported by slender rose and grey Dumfries granite pillars. The sanctuary is highlighted by three further arches and a striking 15-meter-high pitch pine ceiling, creating a majestic and contemplative atmosphere.Artistic Treasures and Relics
The church houses several treasures of international importance. Among these is a priceless medieval silver reliquary containing a relic believed to be part of St Patrick’s arm, a symbol of deep spiritual significance. Additionally, a small bone relic from St Patrick’s burial site in Downpatrick is permanently kept here. The parish also holds a relic of St Anthony of Padua. Artistic heritage is represented by a notable triptych altarpiece titled 'Madonna of the Lakes,' painted by Sir John Lavery, a renowned Belfast-born society painter who was baptized in the church.Spiritual and Community Significance
St Patrick’s Church remains a vibrant center for worship and community life in Belfast. The burial place of Bishop Dorrian lies beneath the sanctuary, marked by a red marble line, and his memorial in sandstone and alabaster is situated in the left transept. The church has witnessed Belfast’s complex religious history and continues to serve as a beacon of faith and reconciliation amidst a city known for its cultural and sectarian divides.Preservation and Restoration Efforts
The church has undergone careful restoration to preserve its architectural and artistic heritage. These efforts have ensured that original features, including the reredos and tabernacle, remain faithful to historical designs. The parish archives maintain extensive documentation, including correspondence from Sir John Lavery, which enriches the understanding of the church’s cultural legacy.Location and Visitor Experience
Situated on Donegall Street in central Belfast, St Patrick’s Church is easily accessible and offers visitors a profound experience of Northern Ireland’s religious history, architectural beauty, and artistic wealth. Its towering spire is a prominent landmark in the city skyline, inviting exploration and reflection within its serene interior.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Carlisle Circus
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Clifton Street Graveyard
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Belfastlad Tours
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2-6 Waring St
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Albert Memorial Clock
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Castle Buildings
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Numbers' Wall
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The Back Of Boots
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Treasure Trails
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Belfast Free Walking Tour
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If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
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Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
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Giant's Causeway Experiences
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DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
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Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
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A 1960s road bridge over the River Lagan, connecting central Belfast with the Titanic Quarter and offering quiet riverside views from its pedestrian walkways.
Unmissable attractions to see
Clifton House
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Step into Belfast’s Georgian Poor House, where history, heritage, and care intertwine in tranquil gardens at Clifton House.
Belfast Central Library
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The MAC
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Belfast's vibrant contemporary arts centre blending theatre, galleries, and café culture in a welcoming modern space.
Belfast Cathedral, the Cathedral Church of St Anne
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The Spire Of Hope, Belfast
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A soaring 40-metre steel beacon of hope atop Belfast’s historic St Anne’s Cathedral, shining brightly across the city skyline.
Mural
0.4 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant mural at 1 Church St, a vivid testament to the city’s history, culture, and dynamic street art tradition.
Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum
0.4 km
Explore Northern Ireland’s WWII history through immersive exhibits, family activities, and heartfelt remembrance in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Trade union mural
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A vibrant mural in Belfast celebrating the city’s proud labor history and the enduring spirit of trade union solidarity.
Commercial Court
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Discover Belfast’s historic Commercial Court, a vibrant cobbled alley alive with colourful murals, lively pubs, and rich mercantile heritage.
Harp Bar
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Harp Bar, Belfast's favorite pub for craft beers, live music, and authentic Irish hospitality.
Duke of York
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Experience the heart of Belfast's pub culture at Duke of York, a vibrant spot with rich history, local brews, and a warm atmosphere.
Creative Tours Belfast
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Explore Belfast’s vibrant music scene on foot with expert guides, historic venues, and live performances in the UNESCO City of Music.
CastleCourt Shopping Centre
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Belfast’s vibrant shopping centre with over 80 stores, family-friendly facilities, and easy-access parking in the city centre.
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
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Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
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Historic Belfast pub with lively Irish music downstairs and Yardbird’s famed rotisserie chicken upstairs in a rustic, vibrant setting.
Essential places to dine
Academy Restaurant
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Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Coppi Restaurant
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Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Dumpling Library
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Buba
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Mumbai 27
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Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Waterman Restaurant
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Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
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Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
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Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
The Northern Whig
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Six By Nico Belfast
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Bank Square Brasserie
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The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
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Mourne Seafood Bar
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City Picnic
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Jumon
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Top Gift
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The Name Shops - Belfast
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Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
Fuzz Vintage
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Forsight Belfast
0.6 km
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Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
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Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.6 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
The Holy Shop
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Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
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Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
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White Stuff Belfast
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Søstrene Grene
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Urban Outfitters
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Montblanc Boutique Belfast
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Sunflower Public House
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The Dark Horse
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The Black Box
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Maddens
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Monico Bars
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Bert's Jazz Bar
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The National
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Ulster Sports Club
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Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
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Henry's
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The Jailhouse
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The American Bar
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- 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
- Solo Female Friendly
