The Linen Hall Library
Belfast's independent cultural sanctuary housing rare collections, world-class exhibitions, and mythology-inspired café.
A Victorian-era cultural institution housed in a former linen warehouse overlooking Belfast City Hall, The Linen Hall Library has served as an independent community resource for over 200 years. This accredited museum and library combines world-renowned rare book collections with contemporary arts programming, a mythology-inspired café, and a charity bookshop. Free admission welcomes visitors to explore its eclectic holdings spanning literature, history, philosophy, and art.
A brief summary to The Linen Hall
- 17 Donegall Square N, Belfast, BT1 5GB, GB
- +442890321707
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit Chapter Coffee on Level 2 for specialty coffee and cakes while enjoying views across Donegall Square. The café's Irish mythology-inspired design creates a distinctive atmosphere worth experiencing even if you're not browsing the collections.
- Allow time to explore the charity bookshop at 55-59 Royal Avenue (opposite CastleCourt) for pre-loved books and rare editions at excellent value. The shop's eclectic selection spans fiction, history, philosophy, and art.
- Check the library's events calendar before visiting to coincide your trip with exhibitions, cultural programming, or special displays that enhance the experience beyond the permanent collections.
- Use the Fountain Street entrance if you require lift access, as it provides direct access to all floors via customer lift. Wheelchair access is available throughout the entire building.
- Arrive early on weekdays to experience the library at its quietest, allowing for contemplative browsing of collections and unhurried café time with views over the historic square.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport (Bus)
Multiple bus routes serve the city centre near Donegall Square. Journey times from Belfast's main transport hub (Europa Bus Centre) are approximately 5–10 minutes depending on route. Services run frequently throughout the day. Single journey fares are typically £1.70–£2.20. The library is within a 5-minute walk of several bus stops on Royal Avenue and Donegall Place.
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Walking from Belfast City Centre
The library is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from most city centre destinations. From Belfast Central Station, the walk takes approximately 15–20 minutes via High Street and Donegall Place. From the Cathedral Quarter, allow 10–15 minutes. The route is flat, well-lit, and passes through busy commercial streets with clear signage.
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Parking (On-Street and Car Parks)
Multiple car parks are within 100 metres: Montgomery Street (0.1 km), City Car Park (0.2 km), and Library Street (0.2 km). Parking charges typically range from £1–£3 per hour depending on the facility. On-street parking on surrounding streets is limited and subject to time restrictions. Allow 5–10 minutes to walk from any car park to the library entrance.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis are readily available throughout Belfast city centre. Journey times from major hotels or attractions typically range from 5–15 minutes depending on location and traffic. Ride-share services operate in Belfast with fares generally ranging from £5–£15 for city centre trips. Drop-off is convenient on Donegall Square North directly in front of the building.
The Linen Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about The Linen Hall
A Living Monument to Enlightenment Ideals
The Linen Hall Library stands as one of Belfast's most distinctive cultural landmarks, occupying a striking Victorian-era building that once served as a linen warehouse. Established over 200 years ago by founding members who embraced radical Enlightenment principles, the institution has maintained its independence throughout its history, operating on the foundational belief that its resources belong to the community and exist for the community's benefit. This commitment to accessibility and shared knowledge remains central to its identity today, distinguishing it from many other libraries and cultural institutions.Collections and Curatorial Excellence
The library houses world-renowned collections that extend far beyond conventional lending materials. Visitors encounter rare and antiquarian books, manuscripts, and ephemera spanning literature, history, philosophy, art, and specialized subjects. The institution functions as an accredited museum, with curated exhibitions and acquisitions that reflect both historical significance and contemporary relevance. The adjacent charity bookshop offers pre-loved volumes at accessible prices, allowing visitors to discover quality editions across popular fiction, classic literature, and niche subjects. For collectors and serious readers, the library maintains online shops through established platforms, expanding access to its most sought-after titles.A Multifaceted Visitor Experience
Beyond its role as a repository of knowledge, The Linen Hall functions as a vibrant cultural centre. Chapter Coffee, the in-house café situated on the second level, draws inspiration from Irish mythology and folklore while offering views across historic Donegall Square toward Belfast City Hall. The café serves an all-day menu featuring specialty coffee, tea, scones, cakes, and tray-bakes, creating an inviting space for contemplation and conversation. The library regularly hosts arts programming, exhibitions, and cultural events that engage diverse audiences and foster community dialogue.Architecture and Accessibility
The building's Victorian character is complemented by thoughtful modern accessibility features. Wheelchair access is available throughout the entire structure, with all floors accessible via customer lift. The Fountain Street entrance provides direct lift access for visitors requiring assistance. The single-level charity bookshop ensures ease of navigation, while the main library's multi-floor layout remains fully navigable for visitors with mobility considerations. The location's proximity to multiple car parks and public transport connections enhances accessibility for visitors arriving from across Belfast and beyond.Positioning in Belfast's Cultural Landscape
Situated on Donegall Square North, directly opposite Belfast City Hall, The Linen Hall occupies a prominent position within the city's civic and cultural geography. Its location places it within walking distance of major attractions, shopping districts, and transport hubs. The institution's role as a free-admission cultural space distinguishes it within Belfast's tourism and leisure offerings, providing visitors with an intellectually enriching experience that complements the city's broader heritage narrative. The library's independence and community-focused mission reflect values that have shaped Belfast's cultural identity across generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Back Of Boots
0.0 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.1 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.1 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.1 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.
Treasure Trails
0.1 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.1 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.1 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
0.1 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.1 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Frederick Temple Memorial
0.2 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Castle Buildings
0.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
2-6 Waring St
0.5 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Numbers' Wall
0.5 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.6 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Alec the Goose
0.7 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Unmissable attractions to see
Visit Belfast
0.1 km
Your essential first stop in Belfast city centre for expert travel advice, tickets, maps, and local insights opposite City Hall.
Belfast City Sightseeing
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s heritage and vibrant culture aboard an open-top hop-on hop-off bus with live guides and flexible 1- or 2-day tickets.
Queen's Café Bar
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill offerings at Queen's Café Bar, the ultimate dining and nightlife destination in Belfast.
Hop On Hop Off Belfast Bus
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant history and culture at your own pace with an open-top hop-on hop-off bus tour featuring live guides and panoramic city views.
Donegall Square W
0.1 km
Historic heart of Belfast featuring City Hall, iconic architecture, the Titanic Memorial, and stories of commerce and heritage.
Front of Belfast City Hall
0.1 km
Experience Belfast’s iconic Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart at the stunning Front of City Hall.
Queen's Arcade
0.1 km
Belfast’s only Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques and timeless elegance in the heart of the city.
Walking Tours Belfast
0.1 km
Expert-led walking tours of Belfast's history, culture, and urban landscape by Blue Badge qualified local guides.
City Hall Garden of Remembrance
0.1 km
A tranquil memorial garden honouring those who gave their lives for Irish freedom, nestled in Belfast's historic city centre.
Philly Pump / The Allotment
0.1 km
Innovative vegan and vegetarian bistro in Belfast offering fresh, locally sourced plant-based dishes in a welcoming, sustainable setting.
Belfast City Hall
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s majestic City Hall, a Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart with rich history and stunning architecture.
Belfastology Walking Tours
0.2 km
Discover Belfast through the passionate eyes of locals who know every corner, story, and hidden gem.
Memorial to World War I and II soldiers
0.2 km
A solemn Portland stone cenotaph in Belfast’s Donegall Square honoring the heroic sacrifices of World War I and II soldiers.
Timescape - Live Escape Games
0.2 km
Dive into immersive, themed escape rooms in Belfast where teamwork and clever puzzles unlock thrilling adventures in just 60 minutes.
The Titanic Memorial Garden
0.2 km
A serene and symbolic garden beside Belfast City Hall honoring all who lost their lives on the RMS Titanic with a striking memorial and evocative plantings.
Essential places to dine
Home Restaurant
0.1 km
A modern European dining spot in Belfast offering fresh, local flavors with vegan and gluten-free options in a cozy, lively atmosphere.
Stix and Stones City Centre
0.1 km
Interactive steakhouse where you cook premium beef on heated stones at your table in vibrant Belfast.
Parisien
0.1 km
Chic French brasserie in Belfast with elegant interiors, classic cuisine, and a terrace overlooking City Hall.
Yügo
0.1 km
Discover Yügo’s vibrant pan-Asian small plates in Belfast’s stylish industrial setting, perfect for sharing bold, creative flavors.
EDO Restaurant
0.1 km
Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
Jumon
0.2 km
Vibrant South Asian vegetarian cuisine with bold flavours and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Belfast.
City Picnic
0.2 km
Savor award-winning burgers and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at City Picnic.
The Rusty Saddle
0.2 km
Experience the best grilled dishes at The Rusty Saddle in Belfast - where flavor meets atmosphere in a delightful dining experience.
The Lantern Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience the best of British and modern European cuisine at The Lantern Restaurant in Belfast—where flavors meet tradition.
Deanes EIPIC
0.2 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s city centre, blending innovation, local ingredients, and elegant atmosphere.
Roam
0.2 km
Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Mourne Seafood Bar
0.2 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a lively, rustic setting in Belfast’s city centre with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Chubby Cherub
0.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy Mediterranean charm combine at The Chubby Cherub, a beloved Belfast restaurant for every occasion.
JAMES ST
0.2 km
Experience Belfast’s finest chargrilled steaks and warm hospitality in a stylish yet relaxed setting at James St.
Coco
0.3 km
A quirky, stylish bistro in Belfast’s Linen Quarter serving creative dishes with attentive service in a vibrant atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Norn Irish Gift Shop
0.0 km
Explore the heart of Irish culture at Norn Irish Gift Shop in Belfast, where unique souvenirs and artisan crafts await every traveler.
Little Heart
0.1 km
Discover heartfelt wire art and whimsical keepsakes in Belfast's sole Victorian arcade—a boutique gem blending heritage charm with personal creativity.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
0.1 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
0.1 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
The Holy Shop
0.2 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
0.2 km
Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.3 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.
White Stuff Belfast
0.3 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
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.
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.
FatFace
0.3 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Forsight Belfast
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
The Name Shops - Belfast
0.3 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
Replay Store Belfast
0.3 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
Top Gift
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Top Gift, Belfast's charming gift shop offering an eclectic selection for every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Broken shaker Belfast
0.2 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
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Margot
0.3 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
0.3 km
A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
0.3 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Maddens
0.3 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
The Garrick
0.3 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Monico Bars
0.3 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
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.
Pug Uglys
0.4 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
The National
0.5 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
0.5 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.
The Spaniard
0.5 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
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
