The Big Fish: Belfast’s Ceramic Mosaic Icon of History and Myth
A 10-metre ceramic mosaic fish celebrating Belfast’s history, mythology, and river regeneration on the vibrant Donegall Quay waterfront.
The Big Fish is a striking 10-metre-long ceramic mosaic sculpture by John Kindness, located on Donegall Quay in Belfast. Created in 1999 to celebrate the regeneration of the River Lagan, it features over 300 hand-painted tiles depicting Belfast’s rich history, from Tudor times to modern headlines, alongside local schoolchildren’s artwork. Also known as the Salmon of Knowledge, it references Irish mythology and contains a time capsule with images and poetry about the city.
A brief summary to The Big Fish
- Donegall Quay, Belfast, BT1 3NG, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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
- Take time to closely examine the ceramic tiles to discover historical images, texts, and children’s artwork that narrate Belfast’s story.
- Visit at different times of day to see how the sculpture’s colors and details change with natural light and evening illumination.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Titanic Quarter and Custom House Square for a fuller Belfast waterfront experience.
- Look out for the time capsule inside the sculpture, a unique feature preserving Belfast’s heritage for future generations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Metro bus services from Belfast city centre, which run frequently to the Donegall Quay area near the River Lagan. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes with a single fare around £2.50. Note that some buses may have limited service on Sundays.
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Walking
From Belfast city centre, the Big Fish is a 15-20 minute walk along mostly flat, paved paths. The route is accessible and offers scenic views of the waterfront and city landmarks.
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Car
Driving to Donegall Quay is possible with nearby parking options such as Station Street car park, open 24 hours with hourly rates around £1.50-£3.00. Note that traffic can be busy during peak hours and parking spaces may be limited.
The Big Fish 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 The Big Fish
A Symbol of Belfast’s Regeneration and Heritage
The Big Fish was commissioned in 1999 by the Laganside Corporation and funded by the National Lottery and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. It stands at the confluence of the River Farset and the River Lagan, a site of great historical significance as the River Farset gave Belfast its name. This 10-metre-long sculpture celebrates the regeneration of the River Lagan area, marking a new chapter in Belfast’s urban renewal while honoring its maritime and industrial past.A Mosaic of Stories in Ceramic Tiles
The sculpture’s outer skin is a mosaic of over 300 ceramic tiles, each intricately decorated with texts, images, and drawings that tell stories from Belfast’s history. These range from Tudor-era documents and industrial scenes to contemporary newspaper headlines. Contributions from local schools and day centres add a personal touch, featuring children’s drawings of soldiers and traditional Ulster breakfasts. The Ulster Museum provided many historic images, making the Big Fish a vibrant visual archive of the city’s evolving identity.Mythology and the Salmon of Knowledge
The Big Fish is also known as the Salmon of Knowledge, inspired by an Irish legend about Fionn mac Cumhaill, a mythical warrior who gained all the world’s wisdom by tasting a magical salmon. This mythological connection adds cultural depth, symbolizing wisdom, storytelling, and learning from the past. Local lore suggests that kissing the Big Fish might grant the gift of wisdom, blending folklore with public art in a uniquely Belfast fashion.A Time Capsule Beneath the Scales
Inside the sculpture lies a time capsule containing information, images, and poetry about Belfast, preserving the city’s heritage for future generations. This hidden element underscores the Big Fish’s role not just as public art but as a living historical document, inviting reflection on Belfast’s journey through time.Location and Visitor Experience
Situated on Donegall Quay beside the River Lagan, near landmarks such as the Lagan Lookout and Custom House, the Big Fish is a prominent feature of Belfast’s waterfront. Its petrol blue ceramic scales shimmer in daylight and are illuminated at night, making it a popular photo spot with views of the river and the iconic Harland & Wolff cranes in the background. The sculpture is accessible 24/7 and free to visit, offering a tranquil yet engaging experience amid the city’s vibrant docklands.Artistic Craftsmanship and Cultural Significance
Created by Northern Irish artist John Kindness, the Big Fish combines traditional blue-and-white Delft ceramic techniques with contemporary public art. It stands as a testament to Belfast’s artistic spirit and cultural resilience, symbolizing the city’s ability to embrace its history while looking forward. The Big Fish remains one of Belfast’s most beloved landmarks, frequently featured in tourism materials and celebrated as a quirky, educational, and meaningful urban icon.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.2 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.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.2 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Beacon of Hope
0.2 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Numbers' Wall
0.2 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
0.4 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Castle Buildings
0.6 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Alec the Goose
0.7 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Treasure Trails
0.7 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.7 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
0.7 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.7 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.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.7 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.8 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.8 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
The Back Of Boots
0.8 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Unmissable attractions to see
TOUR MISTERIOS Y LEYENDAS
0.0 km
Discover Belfast’s mysterious past and legends on a captivating walking tour through its iconic streets and hidden stories.
Lagan Lookout
0.0 km
Discover panoramic river views and urban charm at Belfast’s iconic Lagan Lookout and Weir, a gateway between city and sea.
Donegall Quay
0.1 km
Discover Donegall Quay, Belfast’s historic riverside promenade blending maritime heritage, public art, and vibrant urban life along the River Lagan.
Queen's Square
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s oldest square, where rich history meets vibrant city life in a lively cultural plaza.
McHughs Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
Discover McHugh's Bar & Restaurant, a vibrant pub and dining experience in Belfast's Queen's Square, blending tradition with contemporary flavors.
Custom House Square
0.1 km
Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
Cathedral Quarter Moural
0.2 km
Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter blends historic charm with vibrant street art, world-class culture, and lively nightlife in a uniquely creative urban district.
GoT To Escape - Game of Thrones Escape Rooms
0.3 km
Immerse yourself in thrilling Game of Thrones escape rooms in Belfast’s historic Church Lane, where teamwork and clever puzzles await.
The Cloth Ear
0.3 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.
The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
0.3 km
Historic Belfast pub with lively Irish music downstairs and Yardbird’s famed rotisserie chicken upstairs in a rustic, vibrant setting.
The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
0.3 km
Interactive sensory cocktail experience in Belfast's heart, where taste meets discovery and every drink tells a story.
Creative Tours Belfast
0.3 km
Explore Belfast’s vibrant music scene on foot with expert guides, historic venues, and live performances in the UNESCO City of Music.
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
0.3 km
Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
Harp Bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Harp Bar, Belfast's favorite pub for craft beers, live music, and authentic Irish hospitality.
High St
0.4 km
High Street Belfast: Where historic charm meets vibrant shopping and lively city culture in the heart of Belfast.
Essential places to dine
OX Belfast
0.2 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
0.3 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Novelli at City Quays
0.3 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Taylor & Clay
0.3 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.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
0.3 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Bootleggers
0.3 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.3 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
Waterman Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.4 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
Buba
0.4 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Mumbai 27
0.4 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
The Northern Whig
0.4 km
Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
Dumpling Library
0.4 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
0.4 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Roam
0.6 km
Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.3 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
0.3 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
0.4 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
House of Fraser
0.4 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
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.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
0.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.5 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Boux Avenue
0.5 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
New Look
0.5 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
Replay Store Belfast
0.5 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
FatFace
0.5 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
AllSaints
0.5 km
Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tipsy Bird
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
39 Gordon Street
0.3 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Spaniard
0.3 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
The National
0.3 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 Black Box
0.3 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
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.
The Dark Horse
0.4 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
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.
Henry's
0.4 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Monico Bars
0.5 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
The Garrick
0.6 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
0.6 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
0.7 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
Ollie's Belfast
0.3 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
0.3 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
0.3 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Cabaret Supper Club
0.6 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.
Kremlin
0.7 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
0.7 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
0.7 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Anthology Ni
0.7 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
The Art Department
0.7 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Voodoo
0.7 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
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
1.7 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
2.7 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
13.7 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
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
