W5 Science and Discovery Centre, Belfast
Explore over 250 interactive science exhibits and live shows at Belfast’s award-winning W5 discovery centre in the vibrant Odyssey complex.
W5 is an award-winning interactive science and discovery centre located in the Odyssey complex in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. Featuring over 250 hands-on exhibits across eight zones, it offers engaging experiences in climate change, engineering, medical science, nature, and more. Suitable for all ages from toddlers to adults, W5 combines education with fun through live science shows, seasonal events, and a dedicated kids’ zone. Visitors can enjoy onsite cafes, picnic areas, and accessible facilities in a vibrant riverside setting.
A brief summary to W5
- The Odyssey, 2 Queens Quay, Belfast, BT3 9QQ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Pre-book your tickets online to secure your preferred entry time, as W5 operates timed admissions with reduced capacity.
- Allow 2 to 3 hours to fully explore all exhibits and enjoy live science demonstrations.
- Bring your own food to enjoy in the designated picnic areas or visit the onsite Coffee Lab for fresh snacks and drinks.
- Use lockers available on the ground floor and Level 2 for storing coats or bags during your visit.
- Check the seasonal event schedule for special exhibitions and adult-only after-hours events for unique experiences.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Bus
Frequent bus services connect Belfast city centre to the Odyssey complex, with a 5-minute walk from Laganside Bus Centre. Typical travel times range from 15 to 25 minutes, with fares around £2.50 to £3.50 one way. Services run regularly throughout the day but check schedules for evening and weekend variations.
-
Train
Titanic Quarter Station is approximately a 10-minute walk from W5, accessible via local train services from Belfast Lanyon Place and other regional stations. Trains run frequently with fares starting at around £3.00. The walk involves flat, paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
-
Car
Driving to W5 is convenient via the M2 and M3 motorways with exits at Queen’s Island. Onsite parking is available for a daily fee of about £5 to £8. Expect moderate traffic during peak hours and limited spaces during weekends or special events.
-
Walking
From Belfast city centre, walking to W5 takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes along scenic riverside paths. The route is mostly flat and accessible, making it a pleasant option for visitors staying nearby or those wishing to combine the visit with a city stroll.
W5 location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about W5
A Hub of Interactive Scientific Exploration
W5 stands as Northern Ireland’s premier science and discovery centre, nestled within the iconic Odyssey complex on Belfast’s waterfront. This expansive facility captivates visitors with over 250 interactive exhibits spread across eight immersive zones. Each zone offers a distinct theme, from the intricacies of medical science in the MED-Lab to the dynamic energy challenges in the Energise zone, supported by SSE Airtricity. The centre’s design encourages hands-on engagement, inviting guests to experiment, learn, and discover through tactile experiences that bring scientific concepts vividly to life.Engaging Exhibits for All Ages
Designed to inspire curiosity across generations, W5 welcomes visitors aged three and upwards, with free entry for toddlers under three. The Lost Planet zone caters especially to younger children with multisensory activities and dinosaur-themed adventures. Older children and adults can delve into complex topics such as climate change, engineering marvels, and medical imaging technologies. Daily live science demonstrations and shows add an energetic layer to the experience, ensuring that every visit is both educational and entertaining.Seasonal Events and Dynamic Programming
Beyond its permanent exhibitions, W5 hosts a rotating schedule of temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year. These seasonal programs often feature cutting-edge scientific themes and interactive storytelling, such as immersive dinosaur encounters using animatronics and soundscapes. This evolving content keeps the centre fresh and encourages repeat visits. Additionally, W5 organizes adult-only after-hours events, offering a unique opportunity for grown-ups to explore the exhibits in a relaxed, social atmosphere.Facilities and Visitor Comfort
W5 is thoughtfully equipped to enhance visitor comfort and convenience. The Coffee Lab café on level one serves a variety of fresh sandwiches, soups, salads, and beverages, including freshly ground coffee and teas. For those who prefer to bring their own food, designated picnic areas provide a welcoming space to relax. Lockers are available for storing personal items, and the centre is fully accessible, featuring wheelchair-friendly facilities, baby changing areas, and pushchair parking. Clean restrooms and water refill stations are conveniently located throughout.Location and Scenic Surroundings
Situated on the banks of the River Lagan, W5 benefits from its striking location within the Odyssey, a landmark millennium project in Belfast. The centre offers spectacular views of the river and city skyline, enhancing the visitor experience with a scenic backdrop. Its proximity to Belfast city centre and transport hubs like Titanic Quarter Station makes it easily accessible. The modern architecture of the Odyssey complements W5’s futuristic and educational ethos, creating a vibrant cultural destination.Educational Impact and Charitable Mission
Operated as a not-for-profit charitable organisation, W5 aims to foster formal and informal education in science and technology. Admission fees are treated as charitable donations under Gift Aid, supporting ongoing educational outreach and development. The centre’s commitment to learning is evident in its carefully curated exhibits and community engagement, making W5 a vital resource for schools, families, and science enthusiasts alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Titanic Hotel Belfast
0.5 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.6 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.
Slipways
0.6 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
0.7 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
Beacon of Hope
0.7 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.7 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
0.8 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
0.9 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Castle Buildings
1.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Alec the Goose
1.1 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Clifton House
1.2 km
Explore the historical significance and architectural elegance of Clifton House, a must-see landmark in Belfast that offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant heritage.
Queen's Arcade
1.2 km
Belfast's Victorian gem: restored elegance meets luxury shopping in a historic arcade promenade.
Treasure Trails
1.2 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
The Titanic Memorial Garden
1.2 km
Discover the Titanic Memorial Garden in Belfast, a serene park dedicated to the memory of the Titanic tragedy, offering beauty and reflection in the heart of the city.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
1.3 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
0.1 km
Experience Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage through interactive sound and light at the striking SoundYard installation on Queen’s Quay.
SSE Arena Belfast
0.1 km
Belfast’s vibrant SSE Arena on Queens Quay offers world-class concerts, sports, and family events in a modern waterfront setting.
Glass of Thrones - Odyssey
0.2 km
Discover the vivid House Targaryen stained glass window at Odyssey Point, a dazzling tribute to Game of Thrones in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter.
Street Food
0.2 km
Discover vibrant fast-food flavors in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where local heritage meets global street food culture.
Maritime Mile
0.3 km
Explore Belfast’s historic waterfront trail, where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and iconic landmarks along the Maritime Mile.
SS Nomadic
0.3 km
The last White Star Line vessel and Titanic's tender ship—a floating museum of maritime elegance and history.
Titanic Quarter Limited
0.5 km
Explore Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: where maritime history meets vibrant urban regeneration along the scenic waterfront.
Donegall Quay
0.5 km
Discover Donegall Quay, Belfast’s historic riverside promenade blending maritime heritage, public art, and vibrant urban life along the River Lagan.
Titanic experience
0.5 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 Belfast
0.5 km
Explore the Titanic Belfast Museum: Dive into the history of the RMS Titanic and experience its remarkable legacy in an iconic setting.
The Big Fish
0.5 km
A 10-metre ceramic mosaic fish celebrating Belfast’s history, mythology, and waterfront regeneration at Donegall Quay.
TOUR MISTERIOS Y LEYENDAS
0.5 km
Discover Belfast’s mysterious past and legends on a captivating walking tour through its iconic streets and hidden stories.
Lagan Lookout
0.6 km
Discover panoramic river views and urban charm at Belfast’s iconic Lagan Lookout and Weir, a gateway between city and sea.
Harland & Wolff HQ & Drawing Offices
0.6 km
Historic Harland & Wolff HQ and Drawing Offices: birthplace of Titanic’s design and Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy.
Custom House Square
0.6 km
Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
Essential places to dine
Novelli at City Quays
0.3 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Hickson's Point
0.5 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant culture at Hickson's Point in Belfast - your gateway to local flavors.
The Pantry at Titanic Belfast
0.5 km
Savor locally inspired dishes in a historic setting at The Pantry, Titanic Belfast’s welcoming restaurant celebrating Northern Ireland’s finest produce.
Drawing Office Two Bar
0.6 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
0.6 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
OX Belfast
0.7 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
Buba
0.8 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Coppi Restaurant
0.8 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.8 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Dumpling Library
0.8 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Waterman Restaurant
0.8 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
0.8 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Mumbai 27
0.8 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.8 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
Taylor & Clay
0.8 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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Titanic Store
0.5 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.
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.8 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
0.8 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
0.9 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
0.9 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
0.9 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
House of Fraser
0.9 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Tommy Hilfiger
0.9 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
0.9 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
1.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Boux Avenue
1.0 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
1.0 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
New Look
1.0 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
Replay Store Belfast
1.0 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
AllSaints
1.0 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 American Bar
0.5 km
Historic Sailortown pub pouring perfect pints, live tunes, and bargain bites in Belfast's Docklands—a raw gem for locals and music seekers.
Pavilion One Bar
0.5 km
A convivial, shipyard‑inspired hotel bar with polished brass, hearty pub dishes and a relaxed atmosphere in the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
The Harland Bar
0.6 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.
The Tipsy Bird
0.7 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
39 Gordon Street
0.7 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
Ulster Sports Club
0.8 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
0.8 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
0.8 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
The Black Box
0.8 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Dark Horse
0.8 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The National
0.8 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
0.9 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
0.9 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
0.9 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Monico Bars
1.0 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Educational
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
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
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
