Albert Memorial Clock: Belfast’s Leaning Victorian Landmark
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
The Albert Memorial Clock, completed in 1869, is a striking Gothic-style clock tower in Belfast’s Queen’s Square. Built to honor Prince Albert, consort to Queen Victoria, it stands 34 metres tall and is famous for its distinctive lean caused by marshy ground beneath. This iconic monument, richly decorated with statues and heraldic details, marks the edge of the Cathedral Quarter and embodies Belfast’s rich industrial heritage and Victorian grandeur.
A brief summary to Albert Memorial Clock
- 17 Queen's Square, Belfast, BT1 3FF, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours for the best views and photo opportunities of the clock’s intricate Gothic details.
- Explore the surrounding Cathedral Quarter to experience Belfast’s vibrant arts, dining, and nightlife scene.
- Look for the statue of Prince Albert in the robes of a Knight of the Garter on the western side of the tower.
- Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Big Fish sculpture to learn about Belfast’s maritime heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Metro bus routes 8A or 8B from Belfast city center, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-20 minutes. Alight at Queen’s Square stop near the Albert Clock. Tickets cost around £2.50-£3.50 one way.
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Train
From Belfast Central or Great Victoria Street stations, walk about 15 minutes to Queen’s Square. Trains run regularly from surrounding areas to these stations. Walking route is flat and accessible.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Belfast city center to the Albert Memorial Clock takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £5-£8. Taxis are widely available but may be limited during peak hours.
Albert Memorial Clock 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 Albert Memorial Clock
A Regal Tribute in Gothic Splendour
The Albert Memorial Clock was erected between 1865 and 1869 as a memorial to Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, who died in 1861. Designed by local architect William J. Barre, the tower showcases an eclectic mix of Early French and Italian Gothic styles, featuring flying buttresses, heraldic lions, and intricate carvings. A life-sized statue of Prince Albert, sculpted by Samuel Ferris Lynn, stands prominently on the western side, dressed in the robes of a Knight of the Garter, gazing towards the River Lagan.The Leaning Tower of Belfast
Built on reclaimed marshland near the River Farset, the Albert Clock began to lean soon after completion due to unstable wooden foundations unable to fully support its 2,000-tonne weight. By the early 20th century, the lean was so pronounced—about 1.25 metres off vertical—that parts of the tower’s decoration were removed for safety. Despite this, the clock remained a beloved city landmark, affectionately nicknamed Belfast’s answer to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. A major restoration in 2002 stabilized the lean and repaired weather and traffic damage, preserving the tower’s historic charm.A Witness to Belfast’s Changing Times
Over its 150+ years, the Albert Memorial Clock has stood through Belfast’s industrial boom, the Troubles, and the city’s modern renaissance. Originally marking the gateway to the bustling docks, it now anchors the vibrant Cathedral Quarter, an area known for arts, music, and nightlife. The square around the clock has transformed from a once-notorious red-light district to a welcoming public space with trees, fountains, and sculptures. The clock tower has also served as a traditional meeting point for locals, including New Year’s Eve celebrations.Engineering and Timekeeping Innovations
The clock mechanism was manually wound twice a year, requiring a climb of 140 steps, until the year 2000 when it was electrified, bringing it into the modern era. The tower’s lean once affected the pendulum’s swing, causing timing inaccuracies, but restoration efforts have improved its reliability. The bell and clock, weighing two tonnes, continue to chime accurately, symbolizing Belfast’s blend of heritage and progress.Surrounding Environment and Cultural Context
Queen’s Square, where the Albert Clock stands, is built on the historic site of the River Farset’s ford—the origin point of Belfast itself. Though the river is now covered, its legacy lives on in the city’s name and landmarks like the nearby Big Fish sculpture, which celebrates Belfast’s maritime history and industries such as shipbuilding and linen production. The clock tower’s location at the edge of the Cathedral Quarter places it amid a lively district filled with pubs, restaurants, and cultural venues.A Photographic and Iconic Symbol
The Albert Memorial Clock remains one of Belfast’s most photographed and recognizable landmarks. Its distinctive lean and ornate Victorian design make it a popular subject for visitors capturing the city’s character. Whether admired from the bustling streets or as part of a cultural tour, the clock tower offers a tangible connection to Belfast’s past and present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Albert Memorial Clock
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Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
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A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
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Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Beacon of Hope
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A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
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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
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Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Treasure Trails
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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
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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
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Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
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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
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Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
The Back Of Boots
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Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
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Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Belfast City Hall Tours
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Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
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Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Unmissable attractions to see
McHughs Bar & Restaurant
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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
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Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
Cathedral Quarter Moural
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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
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Immerse yourself in thrilling Game of Thrones escape rooms in Belfast’s historic Church Lane, where teamwork and clever puzzles await.
The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
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Interactive sensory cocktail experience in Belfast's heart, where taste meets discovery and every drink tells a story.
The Cloth Ear
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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
0.2 km
Historic Belfast pub with lively Irish music downstairs and Yardbird’s famed rotisserie chicken upstairs in a rustic, vibrant setting.
High St
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High Street Belfast: Where historic charm meets vibrant shopping and lively city culture in the heart of Belfast.
TOUR MISTERIOS Y LEYENDAS
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Discover Belfast’s mysterious past and legends on a captivating walking tour through its iconic streets and hidden stories.
The Big Fish
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A 10-metre ceramic mosaic fish celebrating Belfast’s history, mythology, and waterfront regeneration at Donegall Quay.
Lagan Lookout
0.2 km
Discover panoramic river views and urban charm at Belfast’s iconic Lagan Lookout and Weir, a gateway between city and sea.
Creative Tours Belfast
0.2 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
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Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
Donegall Quay
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Discover Donegall Quay, Belfast’s historic riverside promenade blending maritime heritage, public art, and vibrant urban life along the River Lagan.
Harp Bar
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Harp Bar, Belfast's favorite pub for craft beers, live music, and authentic Irish hospitality.
Essential places to dine
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
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Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
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Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Six By Nico Belfast
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Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
Taylor & Clay
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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
0.2 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
Waterman Restaurant
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Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.2 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
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.
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.
Mumbai 27
0.3 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Buba
0.3 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Dumpling Library
0.3 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
0.3 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Roam
0.4 km
Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
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
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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
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Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Fossil Store Belfast
0.3 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.3 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
House of Fraser
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A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
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Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Replay Store Belfast
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Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
FatFace
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Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Boux Avenue
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Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
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Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
White Stuff Belfast
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Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ulster Sports Club
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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
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
The National
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Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
The Spaniard
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A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
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.
39 Gordon Street
0.2 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Black Box
0.2 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Dark Horse
0.2 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The Jailhouse
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Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
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A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Bittles Bar
0.2 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.
Monico Bars
0.3 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
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.
The Garrick
0.4 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
The Reporter. Bar
0.6 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
0.1 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
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.
Kremlin
0.5 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Shoe Factory
0.6 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Boombox Belfast
0.6 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Anthology Ni
0.6 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
The Art Department
0.6 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Alibi
1.5 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
13.9 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
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
