Exploring Donegall Quay: The Heart of Belfast's Waterfront
Discover the charm of Donegall Quay in Belfast, where the river meets culture, cuisine, and captivating views.
Donegall Quay is a vibrant hub in Belfast, offering stunning waterfront views, cultural activities, and easy access to the city's attractions. Ideal for leisurely strolls, dining, and exploration, it captures the essence of Belfast's maritime heritage.
A brief summary to Donegall Quay
- Belfast, GB
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for stunning views over the river and city skyline.
- Check local schedules for events or festivals happening at Waterfront Hall.
- Try the local seafood dishes at one of the many restaurants along the quay.
- Consider taking a river cruise to learn more about Belfast's maritime history.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the city center, head towards the River Lagan. Walk down Donegall Place towards the river, which will take you about 10 minutes. Once you reach the river, turn left onto the promenade. Continue walking along the riverbank for about 5 minutes until you see Donegall Quay on your right, just past the iconic Titanic Quarter. Enjoy the riverside views as you approach your destination.
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Bus
From the city center, find the nearest bus stop on Donegall Square North. Take Metro bus number 2 towards the Titanic Quarter. The journey will take about 10 minutes. Get off at the stop named 'Lagan Weir', and from there, it's a short 5-minute walk. Cross the road and head towards the river. Walk along the riverbank, and you'll see Donegall Quay ahead of you.
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Taxi
If you prefer a taxi, you can easily find one at designated taxi ranks in the city center. Simply tell the driver you want to go to Donegall Quay. The ride will take about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, and you'll be dropped off right at the quay, which is located along the River Lagan.
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Bicycle
If you are comfortable cycling, you can rent a bike from one of the many bike-sharing schemes around Belfast. Start from the city center and ride down to the River Lagan. Follow the cycle path along the river to Donegall Quay. The ride will take approximately 15 minutes, and you can enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Discover more about Donegall Quay
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.
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.
Numbers' Wall
0.3 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Beacon of Hope
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A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
2-6 Waring St
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Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
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.
Alec the Goose
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A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Big Fish
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A 10-metre ceramic mosaic fish celebrating Belfast’s history, mythology, and waterfront regeneration at Donegall Quay.
TOUR MISTERIOS Y LEYENDAS
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Custom House Square
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Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
Lagan Lookout
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Discover panoramic river views and urban charm at Belfast’s iconic Lagan Lookout and Weir, a gateway between city and sea.
Queen's Square
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Discover Belfast’s oldest square, where rich history meets vibrant city life in a lively cultural plaza.
McHughs Bar & Restaurant
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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.
Creative Tours Belfast
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The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
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Historic Belfast pub with lively Irish music downstairs and Yardbird’s famed rotisserie chicken upstairs in a rustic, vibrant setting.
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.
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.
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.
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
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Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
Duke of York
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Experience the heart of Belfast's pub culture at Duke of York, a vibrant spot with rich history, local brews, and a warm atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Novelli at City Quays
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Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
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The Thirsty Goat Belfast
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Waterman Restaurant
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Six By Nico Belfast
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Buba
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Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
OX Belfast
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Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
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.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
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Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
Coppi Restaurant
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Mumbai 27
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Bootleggers
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Dumpling Library
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The Northern Whig
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Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
Academy Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art Loves at The Merchant
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Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
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Urban Outfitters
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Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
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Søstrene Grene
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Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
Tommy Hilfiger
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Fossil Store Belfast
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House of Fraser
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L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
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Build-A-Bear Workshop
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Boux Avenue
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Replay Store Belfast
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Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
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FatFace
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Forsight Belfast
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39 Gordon Street
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Ulster Sports Club
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Bert's Jazz Bar
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The Tipsy Bird
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The Spaniard
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The Black Box
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The National
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The Dark Horse
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Bittles Bar
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The Jailhouse
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Henry's
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Monico Bars
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Revolución de Cuba Belfast
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The Garrick
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Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
The Reporter. Bar
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A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
