Cathedral Quarter Belfast: A Vibrant Fusion of History, Art, and Culture
Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter blends historic charm with vibrant street art, world-class culture, and lively nightlife in a uniquely creative urban district.
Nestled around the iconic St. Anne's Cathedral, Belfast's Cathedral Quarter is a dynamic cultural hub where historic cobbled streets meet vibrant street art and contemporary creativity. This lively district offers a rich blend of Romanesque architecture, world-class arts venues, bustling pubs, and colorful murals, making it a must-visit for those seeking to experience Belfast’s artistic spirit and heritage in an atmospheric urban setting.
A brief summary to Cathedral Quarter Moural
- 44-46 Waring St, 2ED, BT1 2ED, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit St. Anne’s Cathedral early to appreciate its Romanesque architecture and tranquil interior before the crowds arrive.
- Explore the vibrant street art on Talbot, Hill, and Waring Streets, including the famous murals like 'Son of Protogoras' and 'The Duel of Belfast.'
- Attend the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival or Festival of Fools if visiting in May for a lively mix of music, theatre, and circus performances.
- Stop by the Merchant Hotel to admire its stunning Victorian interiors and enjoy a cocktail at its renowned bar.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Metro bus routes 8, 11, or 26 from Belfast city center to stops near Waring Street; journey times range from 10 to 20 minutes with frequent service. Tickets cost approximately £2.50–£3.50 one way.
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Walking
From Belfast City Hall, it’s a pleasant 15- to 20-minute walk along flat, paved streets to the Cathedral Quarter. The route is wheelchair accessible and passes through central urban areas.
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Taxi
Taxis from Belfast city center to the Cathedral Quarter take about 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically between £6 and £10.
Cathedral Quarter Moural 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 Cathedral Quarter Moural
A Cultural Heartbeat Centered on St. Anne’s Cathedral
The Cathedral Quarter is anchored by the striking St. Anne’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque design built from 1899 onwards. Its soaring stone pillars, intricate mosaics, and colorful stained glass windows create a serene yet awe-inspiring atmosphere. The cathedral’s 40-metre stainless steel spire, known locally as the “rod to God,” rises prominently above the city skyline, symbolizing the district’s blend of tradition and modernity. Surrounding the cathedral, the quarter’s cobbled streets and historic buildings echo Belfast’s rich industrial and religious past.Street Art as a Living Gallery
The district is renowned for its vibrant street art, which transforms walls, laneways, and courtyards into an open-air gallery. Iconic murals such as MTO’s “Son of Protogoras” on Talbot Street, depicting a red-haired boy clutching a dove pierced by arrows symbolizing religious conflict, and Conor Harrington’s “The Duel of Belfast” on Hill Street, illustrate Belfast’s complex history through contemporary artistic expression. The murals coexist with sculptures and installations, offering a visual narrative that celebrates creativity while reflecting on the city’s past.Arts, Entertainment, and Culinary Delights
The Cathedral Quarter pulses with artistic energy, hosting venues like The MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre) and The Black Box, which feature theatre, live music, exhibitions, and workshops. The area’s pubs, such as the historic Duke of York and the Dark Horse, provide lively atmospheres with live music and traditional hospitality. Culinary experiences range from artisan coffee shops like Established Coffee to fine dining at The Muddlers Club and rustic Italian fare at Coppi, making the quarter a gastronomic destination.Architectural Charm and Urban Vibes
Beyond the cathedral, the quarter’s 19th-century buildings, including the grand Merchant Hotel housed in a former bank, showcase Victorian elegance alongside modern renovations. Narrow streets like Hill, Talbot, and Waring are lined with cozy pubs, street art, and boutique shops, creating a welcoming and eclectic urban environment. Umbrella Passage, adorned with hanging umbrellas and colorful murals, offers a whimsical and photogenic spot that captures the quarter’s quirky charm.Festivals and Community Spirit
The Cathedral Quarter is home to vibrant annual events such as the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival and the Festival of Fools, which celebrate music, theatre, circus arts, and local talent. These festivals animate the streets with performances and cultural gatherings, reinforcing the area’s role as Belfast’s creative and social hub. The quarter’s ongoing regeneration reflects a community embracing both its heritage and a progressive, artistic future.A Dynamic Neighborhood Inviting Exploration
Whether wandering its cobbled lanes, admiring murals, enjoying live performances, or sampling local cuisine, visitors find the Cathedral Quarter a place to linger and discover. Its blend of history, art, and vibrant nightlife makes it an essential part of Belfast’s identity and a captivating destination for travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Albert Memorial Clock
0.1 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
2-6 Waring St
0.1 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Numbers' Wall
0.2 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Beacon of Hope
0.3 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.4 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.
Castle Buildings
0.4 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Treasure Trails
0.6 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.6 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.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.6 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
0.6 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
The Back Of Boots
0.6 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.6 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.6 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.6 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.6 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
0.1 km
Historic Belfast pub with lively Irish music downstairs and Yardbird’s famed rotisserie chicken upstairs in a rustic, vibrant setting.
Creative Tours Belfast
0.1 km
Explore Belfast’s vibrant music scene on foot with expert guides, historic venues, and live performances in the UNESCO City of Music.
The Cloth Ear
0.1 km
A cosy, unpretentious hotel pub inside The Merchant Hotel, offering classic pub dishes, local beers and a snug atmosphere in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Custom House Square
0.1 km
Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
0.1 km
Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
Harp Bar
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Harp Bar, Belfast's favorite pub for craft beers, live music, and authentic Irish hospitality.
Duke of York
0.1 km
Experience the heart of Belfast's pub culture at Duke of York, a vibrant spot with rich history, local brews, and a warm atmosphere.
Queen's Square
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s oldest square, where rich history meets vibrant city life in a lively cultural plaza.
The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
0.2 km
Interactive sensory cocktail experience in Belfast's heart, where taste meets discovery and every drink tells a story.
McHughs Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover McHugh's Bar & Restaurant, a vibrant pub and dining experience in Belfast's Queen's Square, blending tradition with contemporary flavors.
Commercial Court
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Commercial Court, a vibrant cobbled alley alive with colourful murals, lively pubs, and rich mercantile heritage.
Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum
0.2 km
Explore Northern Ireland’s WWII history through immersive exhibits, family activities, and heartfelt remembrance in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Trade union mural
0.2 km
A vibrant mural in Belfast celebrating the city’s proud labor history and the enduring spirit of trade union solidarity.
GoT To Escape - Game of Thrones Escape Rooms
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in thrilling Game of Thrones escape rooms in Belfast’s historic Church Lane, where teamwork and clever puzzles await.
Donegall Quay
0.2 km
Discover Donegall Quay, Belfast’s historic riverside promenade blending maritime heritage, public art, and vibrant urban life along the River Lagan.
Essential places to dine
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.1 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
0.1 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Waterman Restaurant
0.1 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.1 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
0.1 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
Mumbai 27
0.2 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Buba
0.2 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
The Northern Whig
0.2 km
Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
Dumpling Library
0.2 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Coppi Restaurant
0.2 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Taylor & Clay
0.2 km
Award-winning Belfast steakhouse with a bespoke wood-fired Asador grill, serving premium local meats and seasonal dishes in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Bootleggers
0.3 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
OX Belfast
0.3 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
Academy Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Novelli at City Quays
0.4 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.1 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
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
0.3 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
0.3 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
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.
Forsight Belfast
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.4 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.
Tommy Hilfiger
0.4 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
0.4 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Fuzz Vintage
0.4 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.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.4 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
White Stuff Belfast
0.4 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
FatFace
0.4 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Replay Store Belfast
0.4 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
39 Gordon Street
0.1 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Spaniard
0.1 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
Ulster Sports Club
0.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
The Black Box
0.1 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
Bert's Jazz Bar
0.1 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 Dark Horse
0.1 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The National
0.2 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Henry's
0.3 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Jailhouse
0.3 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
The Tipsy Bird
0.3 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Monico Bars
0.3 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
Bittles Bar
0.4 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.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
The Reporter. Bar
0.5 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Garrick
0.5 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ollie's Belfast
0.1 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
0.1 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
0.1 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
0.4 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
0.5 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Shoe Factory
0.5 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Anthology Ni
0.5 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
The Art Department
0.5 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Voodoo
0.5 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Cabaret Supper Club
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Alibi
1.6 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
1.6 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
2.5 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
14.0 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
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Viral Moments
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
- 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