2-6 Waring Street, Belfast
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
A stunning Victorian-era sandstone building on one of Belfast's oldest and most historically significant streets. Originally constructed as the headquarters of Ulster Bank in 1860, this Grade A listed Italianate masterpiece now operates as the luxurious five-star Merchant Hotel. The ornate façade features sculptural representations of Britannia, Justice, and Commerce, while the interior showcases an impressive domed banking hall with elaborate plasterwork. Located in the heart of Belfast's Cathedral Quarter, this architectural gem reflects the city's mercantile heritage and Victorian prosperity.
A brief summary to 2-6 Waring St
- 2-6 Waring St, Belfast, BT1 2LA, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Luxury
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit The Great Room Restaurant within the hotel to experience the original banking hall's spectacular domed interior with its ornate plasterwork and Corinthian columns, even if not staying overnight.
- Examine the cast-iron lampstands flanking the entrance, featuring winged greyhounds and serpents—some of the finest surviving metalwork in Belfast, cast by Scottish ironmaster Laidlaw.
- Explore the surrounding Cathedral Quarter, where Sugar House Lane Entry (adjacent to the building) connects through to High Street, offering access to numerous galleries, cafes, and historic alleyways.
- Observe the roofline sculptures of Britannia flanked by Justice and Commerce, along with the twelve Grecian urns—architectural elements that symbolise Victorian prosperity and mercantile values.
- Time your visit for late afternoon to capture the golden sandstone façade in warm light, which enhances the building's Italianate detailing and sculptural ornamentation.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport from City Centre
From Belfast Central Station, take the Glider G1 or G2 bus service heading towards the Cathedral Quarter. Journey time is approximately 8–12 minutes depending on traffic. Alight at the stop near Donegall Street or High Street, then walk 2–3 minutes to Waring Street. Alternatively, local Metro buses serving routes 1, 2, and 9 also stop nearby. Single journey fares are approximately £1.50–£2.00.
-
Taxi or Ride-Share
From any central Belfast location, a taxi or ride-share service (such as Uber) to 2-6 Waring Street typically costs £4–£8 and takes 5–10 minutes depending on traffic and starting point. Taxis are readily available throughout the city centre and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
-
Walking from City Hall
From Belfast City Hall, walk north through the city centre via Donegall Place and Donegall Street for approximately 10–12 minutes. The route is flat, well-lit, and passes through the main shopping and business district. Turn east onto High Street, then onto Waring Street. The walk is straightforward and suitable for most fitness levels.
-
Parking Nearby
Street parking on Waring Street is limited and subject to time restrictions. Several multi-storey car parks operate within 2–5 minutes' walk, including the Donegall Street car park and the Cathedral Quarter car parks. Parking costs typically range from £1.50–£2.50 per hour, with daily rates around £8–£12. Check signage for current restrictions and rates.
2-6 Waring St location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about 2-6 Waring St
A Street Born from Commerce and Tanning
Waring Street emerged as one of Belfast's most important thoroughfares during the 17th century, taking its name from Thomas Waring, a successful tanner-merchant who established a profitable tannery on the street around 1645. The Waring family, originally from Lancashire, England, arrived in Ireland around 1600 and built considerable wealth through their leather business and merchant shipping operations. Before its renaming, the street was known as Broad Street and served as the commercial heart of the developing town. Its proximity to the quays and docks made it an ideal location for mercantile activity, and it soon attracted Belfast's most prominent merchants and business leaders. Archaeological evidence has revealed the existence of tanneries, potteries, and saltpans along the street, particularly at its eastern end near Lime Kiln Dock. Despite the presence of sewers emptying into the dock, Waring Street became a desirable and fashionable residential address for Belfast's early sovereigns and wealthy merchants. The street's transformation from a medieval settlement focus to a commercial hub accelerated after the accidental destruction of Belfast Castle, which redirected business activity toward areas more convenient for trade.The Ulster Bank Building: A Victorian Triumph
The structure at 2-6 Waring Street stands as one of Belfast's finest architectural achievements. The site was acquired in 1836, but construction did not commence until 1857, after Ulster Bank directors Robert Grimshaw and James Heron undertook a study tour of Glasgow and Edinburgh to examine the finest banking architecture of the era. Their vision was clear: the building must appear elegant, substantial, and prosperous. Over sixty architectural proposals were submitted to the bank's committee, with a prize of £100 offered for the best design. The winning design came from James Hamilton, a talented young Glaswegian architect whose innovative approach impressed the selection committee. Completed in 1860, the building showcases a masterful Italianate style executed in golden sandstone. The exterior displays paired windows and intricate sculptural ornamentation, with three monumental figures crowning the roofline: Britannia flanked by Justice and Commerce. Twelve gigantic Grecian urns adorn the roof, while elaborate cast-iron lampstands featuring winged greyhounds and coiling serpents frame the entrance. The ironwork, cast by Scottish ironmaster Laidlaw, ranks among the finest surviving metalwork in Belfast, displaying a delicacy comparable to lacework. The interior proved equally spectacular. The main banking hall, now known as The Great Room Restaurant, features a soaring vaulted dome with an octagonal glass centre. Ornate plasterwork by Belfast craftsman George Crowe adorns the walls with fruit and foliage designs in magnificent friezes. Four Corinthian columns frame the space, their capitals embellished with plump putti representing Science, Painting, Scripture, and Music. When the designs were exhibited at the 1858 London Architectural Exhibition, the prestigious literary magazine Athenaeum praised them as "very commendable, earnest, massive, rich and suitable."War, Transformation, and Modern Luxury
The building's fortunes shifted dramatically during the Belfast Blitz of April and May 1941. German bombers targeted the city's shipyards and factories, and Waring Street, situated perilously close to these installations, suffered severe damage. The devastating "Fire Raid" of 4–5 May saw incendiary bombs tear through the area, destroying the Queen Anne Hotel and much of the surrounding streetscape. The Ulster Bank building, however, survived this onslaught, though the surrounding neighbourhood was transformed into a wasteland of rubble and empty sites. The street remained scarred for years until the late 1950s, when redevelopment plans began to restore vitality to the area. In 2006, the Ulster Bank headquarters underwent a dramatic transformation, reopening as the five-star Merchant Hotel. A substantial £16.5 million extension, completed in 2010, added contemporary facilities while preserving the original Grade A listed structure's architectural integrity. The hotel's Great Room Restaurant now occupies the former banking hall, allowing visitors to dine beneath the same ornate dome that once witnessed financial transactions.Waring Street's Renaissance
Today, Waring Street has experienced a remarkable revival as a vibrant cultural and hospitality destination. The Merchant Hotel's prestigious status has catalysed broader improvements throughout the street and its surrounding lanes. Numerous pubs, restaurants, and informal eating establishments now populate the alleyways branching off the main thoroughfare, breathing new life into Belfast's historic commercial centre. The street's resurgence has successfully restored vitality to what was once the medieval and mercantile heart of the city, making it a fitting tribute to its centuries-old significance in Belfast's development.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
2-6 Waring St
0.0 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.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.2 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Castle Buildings
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Beacon of Hope
0.4 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Treasure Trails
0.4 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.5 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.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.5 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.
The Back Of Boots
0.5 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.5 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.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.5 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
0.5 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.5 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.5 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.5 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
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.
Commercial Court
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Commercial Court, a vibrant cobbled alley alive with colourful murals, lively pubs, and rich mercantile heritage.
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.
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.
The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
0.1 km
Interactive sensory cocktail experience in Belfast's heart, where taste meets discovery and every drink tells a story.
Trade union mural
0.1 km
A vibrant mural in Belfast celebrating the city’s proud labor history and the enduring spirit of trade union solidarity.
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.
High St
0.1 km
High Street Belfast: Where historic charm meets vibrant shopping and lively city culture in the heart of Belfast.
Whites Tavern
0.1 km
Discover the essence of Irish culture at Whites Tavern in Belfast, where history, music, and delectable cuisine come together in a lively pub atmosphere.
Cathedral Quarter Moural
0.1 km
Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter blends historic charm with vibrant street art, world-class culture, and lively nightlife in a uniquely creative urban district.
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.
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.
Catalyst Arts Gallery
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s dynamic artist-led gallery showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art and fostering creative community since 1993.
The Crown Entry passage
0.2 km
Historic Crown Entry in Belfast, a moody passageway where revolutionary ideas once took root and the city’s oldest urban fabric endures.
Essential places to dine
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.0 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.0 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
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.
The Northern Whig
0.1 km
Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
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.
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.
Mumbai 27
0.2 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
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.
Buba
0.2 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
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.
Bootleggers
0.2 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
Coppi Restaurant
0.3 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Roam
0.3 km
Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Academy Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
City Picnic
0.4 km
Savor award-winning burgers and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at City Picnic.
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.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
0.2 km
Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
Forsight Belfast
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
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.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.2 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.
Søstrene Grene
0.2 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
Fuzz Vintage
0.2 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.
Born and Bred
0.2 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
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.
FatFace
0.3 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.3 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Top Gift
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Top Gift, Belfast's charming gift shop offering an eclectic selection for every traveler.
Tommy Hilfiger
0.3 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
The Black Box
0.1 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
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
0.1 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
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.
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.
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.
Monico Bars
0.2 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
Henry's
0.2 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Jailhouse
0.2 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.
Bittles Bar
0.3 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.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Sunflower Public House
0.4 km
Belfast's authentic corner pub with Troubles-era charm, live music nightly, wood-fired pizzas, and a buzzing garden—where history meets hearty ales and eclectic vibes.
The Reporter. Bar
0.4 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Architectural Shots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
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
- Business Friendly
