Titanic Distillers at Thompson Dock, Belfast
Discover Belfast’s Titanic heritage and whiskey revival at Thompson Dock’s historic pumphouse distillery.
Titanic Distillers, located at Thompson Dock and Pumphouse in Belfast's Titanic Quarter, is the city's first working whiskey distillery in nearly 90 years. Set within the historic dock where the RMS Titanic was fitted out, this site offers visitors a unique blend of maritime heritage and whiskey tradition. Explore the restored pumphouse, learn about Belfast’s industrial past, and enjoy guided tours featuring award-winning Irish spirits in an authentic shipyard setting.
A brief summary to Titanic Distillers
- Thompson Dock & Pumphouse, Queens Rd, Belfast, BT3 9DT, GB
- +442890992992
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book a guided tour in advance to experience the full history and tasting sessions offered by Titanic Distillers.
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and more personalized tours.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Titanic Quarter to explore other maritime heritage sites nearby.
- Wear comfortable footwear as the dock area involves walking on uneven surfaces.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Glider bus service from Belfast City Hall to the Titanic Quarter; the journey takes about 15-20 minutes and costs approximately £1.90. The stop is a short walk from Thompson Dock and the distillery. Services run frequently throughout the day, making this a convenient and affordable option.
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Taxi
A taxi from Belfast city center to Titanic Distillers at Thompson Dock typically takes 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, with fares ranging from £8 to £15. This option offers direct and flexible access, especially suitable for groups or visitors with limited mobility.
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Walking
For those who enjoy a scenic stroll, walking from Belfast city center to the Titanic Quarter takes approximately 30-40 minutes along mostly flat terrain. The route follows the waterfront and offers views of the harbor and city landmarks. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for variable weather.
Titanic Distillers 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 Titanic Distillers
A Historic Maritime Landmark Reborn
Thompson Dock, situated on Queen's Island in Belfast, is a monumental dry dock constructed in 1911 to accommodate the largest ocean liners of its era, including the RMS Titanic and Olympic. This vast dock, measuring 259 meters in length and nearly 30 meters wide, was the final resting place of Titanic on dry land during her fitting out before her ill-fated maiden voyage. Adjacent to the dock is the pumphouse, an engineering marvel that pumped out water at an astonishing rate, enabling the dock to be drained and ships to be serviced. Today, this site is preserved as a heritage attraction, offering a tangible connection to Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy and the Titanic’s story.The Revival of Belfast’s Whiskey Tradition
Within the historic pumphouse, Titanic Distillers has established Belfast’s first working whiskey distillery in almost a century. The distillery honors the city’s once-thriving whiskey industry, which vanished for decades before its recent revival. Visitors can experience the distilling process firsthand, viewing the three Forsyth’s stills alongside the original Gwynne pumping engines. The distillery intertwines the story of Belfast’s industrial innovation with its rich whiskey heritage, bringing to life the craftsmanship and spirit of the city’s dockworkers and distillers.Immersive Tours and Tastings
Titanic Distillers offers a range of guided tours tailored to different interests and durations, including dock tours, signature tours, premium tours, and legacy tours. Each tour provides an engaging narrative about the site’s history, the distilling process, and the city’s cultural heritage, culminating in sensory tastings of award-winning Irish whiskey, gin, and cocktails. Visitors clock in as workers once did, stepping back in time to connect with the lives and labors that shaped Belfast’s maritime and distilling industries.Architectural and Industrial Heritage
The pumphouse itself is a remarkable example of early 20th-century industrial architecture, restored to preserve its original character while securing its future. The dock’s design—with its precise dimensions allowing just inches of clearance for the Titanic—demonstrates the extraordinary engineering feats of the era. Walking along the dock floor offers an unparalleled sense of scale and history, as visitors can physically grasp the enormity of the Olympic-class liners. The site’s preservation allows for an authentic experience of Belfast’s industrial past, set against the backdrop of the modern Titanic Quarter redevelopment.Setting and Atmosphere in Titanic Quarter
Located in Belfast’s vibrant Titanic Quarter, the distillery sits within a dynamic cultural and historical precinct that celebrates the city’s maritime heritage. The area combines restored shipyard buildings, museums, and modern amenities, creating a lively atmosphere where history and contemporary life converge. The dock and pumphouse offer a tranquil yet evocative environment, inviting reflection on the human stories behind Belfast’s industrial achievements.Connecting Past and Present
Titanic Distillers embodies a fusion of Belfast’s past and present, reviving a lost craft within the very walls where Titanic’s story unfolded. The distillery not only produces premium spirits but also preserves and shares the narratives of the workers, engineers, and innovators who shaped the city. This unique site stands as a testament to Belfast’s resilience and creativity, inviting visitors to engage deeply with its maritime and distilling heritage in an immersive and memorable way.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Slipways
0.8 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
Titanic Hotel Belfast
0.9 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
1.1 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
2.0 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.
Beacon of Hope
2.1 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Albert Memorial Clock
2.1 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
2.2 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
2.2 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Clifton Street Graveyard
2.3 km
Two centuries of Belfast's history etched in stone—where Republicans, Unionists, and ordinary citizens rest side by side.
Mural
2.3 km
Explore Belfast's vibrant mural art scene, a colorful reflection of the city's history and culture, captivating every visitor with its rich storytelling.
Catalyst Arts Gallery
2.3 km
Discover contemporary art in Belfast at Catalyst Arts Gallery, a hub for innovative exhibitions and community engagement.
Victoria Square
2.4 km
Explore Victoria Square, Belfast's premier shopping center featuring stunning architecture, diverse retail options, and delightful dining experiences.
The Dome
2.4 km
Discover the architectural marvel of The Dome in Belfast, where history and culture meet breathtaking views.
Carlisle Circus
2.4 km
A historic North Belfast traffic circus with Victorian roots and a legacy shaped by war, industry, and community life.
Spirit of Belfast
2.4 km
Explore the Spirit of Belfast, a captivating sculpture that reflects the resilient culture and rich history of this vibrant city in Northern Ireland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Titanic Distillery & Pump House
0.0 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Titanic Pumphouse reborn as a vibrant whiskey distillery blending maritime heritage with award-winning spirits.
HMS Caroline
0.1 km
Step aboard HMS Caroline, Belfast’s historic WWI light cruiser, and explore a century of naval history in a fully restored floating museum.
The Great Light, Maritime Mile
0.4 km
Discover Belfast's maritime heritage at The Great Light, a stunning landmark celebrating the city's rich shipbuilding history along The Maritime Mile.
Glass of Thrones - HMS Caroline
0.6 km
Discover the dramatic House Lannister stained glass window beside historic HMS Caroline, blending Game of Thrones lore with Belfast’s maritime heritage.
The Iron Throne - Glass of Thrones
0.6 km
Experience the iconic Iron Throne in vibrant stained glass on Belfast’s Titanic Slipways, where fantasy meets maritime history.
Harland & Wolff HQ & Drawing Offices
0.9 km
Historic Harland & Wolff HQ and Drawing Offices: birthplace of Titanic’s design and Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy.
Titanic Belfast
0.9 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
0.9 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
0.9 km
Explore Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: where maritime history meets vibrant urban regeneration along the scenic waterfront.
SS Nomadic
1.1 km
The last White Star Line vessel and Titanic's tender ship—a floating museum of maritime elegance and history.
Maritime Mile
1.2 km
Explore Belfast’s historic waterfront trail, where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and iconic landmarks along the Maritime Mile.
Street Food
1.3 km
Discover vibrant fast-food flavors in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where local heritage meets global street food culture.
Victoria Park - Belfast
1.3 km
A vibrant 60-acre park in East Belfast offering lakeside walks, sports, playgrounds, and unique planespotting near the city airport.
SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
1.4 km
Experience Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage through interactive sound and light at the striking SoundYard installation on Queen’s Quay.
W5
1.4 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.
Essential places to dine
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
0.8 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
Drawing Office Two Bar
0.9 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
The Pantry at Titanic Belfast
0.9 km
Savor locally inspired dishes in a historic setting at The Pantry, Titanic Belfast’s welcoming restaurant celebrating Northern Ireland’s finest produce.
Hickson's Point
0.9 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant culture at Hickson's Point in Belfast - your gateway to local flavors.
Novelli at City Quays
1.7 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Coppi Restaurant
2.1 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Buba
2.1 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Dumpling Library
2.1 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Mumbai 27
2.1 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
The Hoose Bistro
2.1 km
East Belfast's premier intimate bistro serving contemporary British cuisine with exceptional cocktails and genuine warmth.
OX Belfast
2.2 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
Waterman Restaurant
2.2 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
2.2 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
2.2 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Academy Restaurant
2.2 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Titanic Store
0.9 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.
Storybox
1.8 km
Discover Storybox, a creative gift shop nestled in Belfast’s historic Portview Trade Centre, where heritage meets artistry and community spirit.
Dandy Lion Shop
1.8 km
Explore the Dandy Lion Shop in Belfast for unique antiques and gifts, perfect for collectors and treasure hunters alike.
The Union Jack Shop
1.9 km
Explore a treasure trove of Unionist memorabilia at The Union Jack Shop in Belfast, celebrating British culture with a unique selection of gifts.
Art Loves at The Merchant
2.2 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Fiddlesticks
2.2 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and expert framing at Fiddlesticks, Belfast's gem on Belmont Road for unique souvenirs and preserved memories.
Connswater Shopping Centre
2.2 km
Discover Connswater Shopping Centre: Belfast's vibrant retail hub with diverse shops, dining options, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
American Madness
2.2 km
East Belfast’s cult vintage shop for reworked Americana, denim, military surplus, and retro band and Harley-Davidson tees.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
2.2 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
2.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
2.3 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
2.3 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
House of Fraser
2.3 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Tommy Hilfiger
2.4 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
2.4 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Harland Bar
0.9 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.
Pavilion One Bar
0.9 km
A convivial, shipyard‑inspired hotel bar with polished brass, hearty pub dishes and a relaxed atmosphere in the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
The American Bar
1.4 km
Historic Sailortown pub pouring perfect pints, live tunes, and bargain bites in Belfast's Docklands—a raw gem for locals and music seekers.
39 Gordon Street
2.1 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Tipsy Bird
2.1 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
2.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
The Dark Horse
2.2 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
2.2 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
Bert's Jazz Bar
2.2 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 Spaniard
2.2 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
The National
2.2 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
The Reporter. Bar
2.2 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Bittles Bar
2.3 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
2.3 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
2.3 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
