Donegall Square
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Donegall Square is the civic heart of Belfast, anchored by the magnificent City Hall and surrounded by Victorian-era architecture that reflects the city's industrial heritage. Named after the Donegall family, this central public space features historic buildings, memorials including the relocated Titanic Memorial, and serves as a vibrant gathering point for locals and visitors. The square's four sides—North, South, East, and West—each showcase distinctive architectural gems and cultural landmarks.
A brief summary to Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
- Belfast, BT1 5WX, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit Belfast City Hall during daylight hours to fully appreciate the Baroque Revival architecture and interior decoration. The building's copper dome is particularly striking when bathed in green light on St. Patrick's Day.
- Examine the carved portholes on Yorkshire House (now Ten Square Hotel) to spot the faces of historical figures including Newton, Shakespeare, Washington, and Michelangelo—a charming architectural detail often overlooked.
- Allow time to explore each side of the square—North, South, East, and West—as each features distinct buildings and memorials that collectively tell the story of Belfast's development.
- The Titanic Memorial on Donegall Square West provides a poignant moment of reflection on Belfast's deep connection to maritime history. The memorial was relocated here from Donegall Square North for safety reasons.
- Visit the Linen Hall Library to appreciate both its exterior architectural details and its interior collections spanning Belfast's cultural heritage. It is the oldest library in Belfast.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Public Transport
Donegall Square is served by Translink's central transport hub. Multiple bus routes converge at or near the square, with services running throughout the day. Journey times from other parts of Belfast typically range from 10 to 25 minutes depending on origin. Buses are frequent during peak hours (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM weekdays) with reduced service on Sundays. No fare required if you hold a valid Translink pass or contactless payment card.
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Walking
Donegall Square is highly walkable from most of Belfast's city centre. From Central Station, allow 15–20 minutes on level ground via Lagan Street and Donegall Place. From the Cathedral Quarter, the walk takes 10–15 minutes. The square itself is pedestrianised around City Hall, making it safe and accessible for all abilities.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services (Uber, Fona Cab) operate throughout Belfast. Journey times from the airport are approximately 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £8 to £15 from central locations. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
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Parking
On-street parking is available in nearby side streets but can be difficult to secure during peak times (10 AM–4 PM weekdays). The NCP car park is located 5 minutes away on Chichester Street, with typical rates around £1.50–£2.50 per hour. Several other multi-storey car parks are within 10 minutes' walk of the square.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
The Civic Heart of Belfast
Donegall Square stands as the defining public space of Belfast's city centre, a grand plaza that has evolved from exclusive residential area to the commercial and civic nucleus of Northern Ireland's capital. Named after the Donegall family, whose titles of marquess and baron date back to the 1500s, the square represents the city's transformation during the late 18th and early 19th centuries when commercial power shifted southward from the White Linen Hall. Today, it remains a focal point where pedestrians, shoppers, and visitors converge, with Donegall Place—the city's main shopping street—extending northward from the square's upper edge.Architectural Splendour and Industrial Legacy
The square's most dominant feature is Belfast City Hall, completed in 1906 as a Baroque Revival masterpiece constructed from white-gray Portland stone. Its central copper dome, now verdigris green, crowns corner towers, columns, and balustrades that frame an ornate pediment at the main entrance. The building's interior is equally impressive, with lush decoration befitting its role as headquarters of Belfast City Council. Surrounding City Hall are some of Belfast's finest Victorian buildings, each telling stories of the city's industrial prominence. The Scottish Provident Building, erected in 1902, asserts commercial authority through its sandstone facade, complete with octagonal pavilions topped with verdigris domes and a pediment featuring detailed crests and copper dolphins. The Scottish Temperance Building, constructed in 1904 with dark red sandstone and high turrets, blends Scottish baronial features with French chateau aesthetics. Yorkshire House, originally a Victorian linen warehouse built in 1863, displays eccentrically selected carved portholes featuring the faces of Newton, Shakespeare, Washington, and Columbus among others. The Linen Hall Library, the oldest library in Belfast, graces the square with sculpted fabric swag above its entrance, a fitting tribute to the linen industry that built the city.Memorials and Public Spaces
The square's open green spaces provide a setting for numerous statues, memorials, and monuments that commemorate Belfast's history and notable figures. Queen Victoria stands prominently on a plinth surrounded by figures representing Belfast's chief industries at the turn of the 20th century—weaving and shipbuilding. The Titanic Memorial, originally positioned at Donegall Square North, was relocated to Donegall Square West due to traffic safety concerns, creating a poignant tribute to those who perished on the ill-fated ship. Additional monuments honour Frederick Temple, Winifred Carney, Sir Edward James Harland, and those who fell in the Boer War and Korean War. These memorials collectively reflect the city's deep connections to maritime history, industrial achievement, and the broader historical events that shaped the nation.Banking and Commercial Heritage
Donegall Square evolved into a major financial centre, with numerous bank and society branches establishing headquarters around the square, including HSBC, Nationwide, Santander, Bank of Scotland, Bank of Ireland, Danske Bank, and Ulster Bank. The square's commercial significance was underscored by the Northern Bank robbery of December 19, 2004, when £26.5 million in cash was stolen from the bank's headquarters on Donegall Square West—one of the largest bank robberies in British and Irish history. The square also hosts numerous law firms and professional offices, cementing its status as a hub of financial and legal activity in the city.A Living Urban Centre
Today, Donegall Square functions as a vibrant meeting point and gathering space for people of all ages. The surrounding streets feature shops, cafés, and restaurants that cater to both workers and visitors. The square's central location within Translink's transport hub provides easy access to major shopping districts and other parts of the city. Whether serving as a backdrop for civic events, a quiet spot for reflection at its memorials, or a bustling social hub, Donegall Square embodies Belfast's journey from exclusive residential enclave to the dynamic, historically rich city centre it is today.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Belfast City Hall Tours
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Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Frederick Temple Memorial
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A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
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.
2-6 Waring St
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Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Numbers' Wall
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A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Albert Memorial Clock
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Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Alec the Goose
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A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Unmissable attractions to see
Belfast City Sightseeing
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Discover Belfast’s heritage and vibrant culture aboard an open-top hop-on hop-off bus with live guides and flexible 1- or 2-day tickets.
The Linen Hall
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Belfast's independent cultural sanctuary housing rare collections, world-class exhibitions, and mythology-inspired café.
Front of Belfast City Hall
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Experience Belfast’s iconic Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart at the stunning Front of City Hall.
Hop On Hop Off Belfast Bus
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Discover Belfast’s vibrant history and culture at your own pace with an open-top hop-on hop-off bus tour featuring live guides and panoramic city views.
Donegall Square W
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Historic heart of Belfast featuring City Hall, iconic architecture, the Titanic Memorial, and stories of commerce and heritage.
Walking Tours Belfast
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Expert-led walking tours of Belfast's history, culture, and urban landscape by Blue Badge qualified local guides.
City Hall Garden of Remembrance
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A tranquil memorial garden honouring those who gave their lives for Irish freedom, nestled in Belfast's historic city centre.
Belfast City Hall
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Discover Belfast’s majestic City Hall, a Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart with rich history and stunning architecture.
Queen's Café Bar
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill offerings at Queen's Café Bar, the ultimate dining and nightlife destination in Belfast.
Belfastology Walking Tours
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Discover Belfast through the passionate eyes of locals who know every corner, story, and hidden gem.
Memorial to World War I and II soldiers
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A solemn Portland stone cenotaph in Belfast’s Donegall Square honoring the heroic sacrifices of World War I and II soldiers.
Queen's Arcade
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Belfast’s only Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques and timeless elegance in the heart of the city.
The Titanic Memorial Garden
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A serene and symbolic garden beside Belfast City Hall honoring all who lost their lives on the RMS Titanic with a striking memorial and evocative plantings.
Philly Pump / The Allotment
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Innovative vegan and vegetarian bistro in Belfast offering fresh, locally sourced plant-based dishes in a welcoming, sustainable setting.
Timescape - Live Escape Games
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Dive into immersive, themed escape rooms in Belfast where teamwork and clever puzzles unlock thrilling adventures in just 60 minutes.
Essential places to dine
Parisien
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Chic French brasserie in Belfast with elegant interiors, classic cuisine, and a terrace overlooking City Hall.
Home Restaurant
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A modern European dining spot in Belfast offering fresh, local flavors with vegan and gluten-free options in a cozy, lively atmosphere.
Yügo
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Discover Yügo’s vibrant pan-Asian small plates in Belfast’s stylish industrial setting, perfect for sharing bold, creative flavors.
Stix and Stones City Centre
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Interactive steakhouse where you cook premium beef on heated stones at your table in vibrant Belfast.
The Rusty Saddle
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Experience the best grilled dishes at The Rusty Saddle in Belfast - where flavor meets atmosphere in a delightful dining experience.
EDO Restaurant
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Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
Deanes EIPIC
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Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s city centre, blending innovation, local ingredients, and elegant atmosphere.
Jumon
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Vibrant South Asian vegetarian cuisine with bold flavours and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Belfast.
Roam
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Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
The Chubby Cherub
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Authentic Italian flavors and cozy Mediterranean charm combine at The Chubby Cherub, a beloved Belfast restaurant for every occasion.
City Picnic
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Savor award-winning burgers and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at City Picnic.
The Lantern Restaurant
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Experience the best of British and modern European cuisine at The Lantern Restaurant in Belfast—where flavors meet tradition.
Coco
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A quirky, stylish bistro in Belfast’s Linen Quarter serving creative dishes with attentive service in a vibrant atmosphere.
JAMES ST
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Experience Belfast’s finest chargrilled steaks and warm hospitality in a stylish yet relaxed setting at James St.
AMPM Restaurant
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Eclectic bohemian dining in Belfast city centre with seasonal modern European cuisine and vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Norn Irish Gift Shop
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Explore the heart of Irish culture at Norn Irish Gift Shop in Belfast, where unique souvenirs and artisan crafts await every traveler.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
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Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Little Heart
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Discover heartfelt wire art and whimsical keepsakes in Belfast's sole Victorian arcade—a boutique gem blending heritage charm with personal creativity.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
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German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
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Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
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.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
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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.
The Holy Shop
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Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
FatFace
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Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
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.
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.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
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Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Forsight Belfast
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Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Fuzz Vintage
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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.
AllSaints
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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 Broken shaker Belfast
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A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
Margot
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Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
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Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
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Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Garrick
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Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
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A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
Monico Bars
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Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
Maddens
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Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
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.
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.
Pug Uglys
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Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
Bittles Bar
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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 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.
Limelight Lounge
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Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Voodoo
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Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Thompsons Garage
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Ollie's Belfast
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A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
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Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Craics Ninety
0.7 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Shoe Factory
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Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Kremlin
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Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
The Art Department
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Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Anthology Ni
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A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
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A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Alibi
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Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
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Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
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Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
14.3 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
- Lively
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
