The Samson & Goliath Cranes: Belfast’s Iconic Shipyard Giants
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
The Samson and Goliath cranes are towering yellow gantry cranes located at the Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast. Standing at 106 and 96 meters respectively, these monumental structures symbolize Belfast’s rich shipbuilding heritage, once home to the builders of the Titanic. Constructed in the late 1960s and early 1970s, they remain dominant features of the city skyline and are protected historic monuments, representing the industrial might and cultural identity of Belfast.
A brief summary to The Samson & Goliath Cranes
- West Bank Drive, Belfast, BT3 9DF, GB
- +442890458456
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- View the cranes from the Titanic Quarter for excellent photo opportunities with the city skyline.
- Visit nearby Titanic Belfast museum to deepen your understanding of the shipbuilding history linked to the cranes.
- Bring binoculars or a zoom lens to appreciate details like the Krupp logo and maintenance features on the cranes.
- The site is an active industrial area; respect safety barriers and do not attempt to enter restricted zones.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the Metro bus services 26 or 26A from Belfast city centre to the Titanic Quarter stop, approximately 15-20 minutes travel time. Buses run frequently but check schedules on weekends and holidays. A single ticket costs around £2.50.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Belfast city centre to the Harland and Wolff shipyard takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £8 and £12. Taxis provide direct access but may be limited during peak hours.
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Walking
From Belfast city centre, a 3.5 km walk to the cranes takes about 40-50 minutes along mostly flat urban terrain. Suitable for most walkers, this route passes through the Titanic Quarter and offers cityscape views.
The Samson & Goliath Cranes location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Samson & Goliath Cranes
Monumental Engineering Marvels of Belfast
The Samson and Goliath cranes are two colossal gantry cranes situated in the historic Harland and Wolff shipyard on Queen’s Island, Belfast. Goliath, completed in 1969, rises 96 meters high, while Samson, finished in 1974, stands even taller at 106 meters. Both cranes feature an impressive span of 140 meters and a lifting capacity of 840 tonnes, making them among the largest shipbuilding cranes in the world. Manufactured by the German engineering firm Krupp, these cranes were integral to the modernization of Belfast’s shipbuilding industry during the mid-20th century.Symbols of a Storied Shipbuilding Legacy
Harland and Wolff was once the largest shipbuilding company in Belfast, employing up to 35,000 workers at its peak and constructing over 1,700 vessels, including the legendary Titanic. The arrival of Samson and Goliath marked a new era of industrial capability, yet ironically coincided with the gradual decline of shipbuilding in the region due to global competition. Despite this downturn, the cranes have endured as powerful symbols of Belfast’s industrial past and cultural identity.Preservation Amidst Change
Although shipbuilding activities have largely ceased, the cranes remain preserved as historic monuments under Northern Ireland’s heritage protections. While not classified as listed buildings, they are recognized for their architectural and historic significance. The cranes continue to be maintained and occasionally used for heavy lifting within the shipyard’s current operations, which focus more on repair and engineering. Their bright yellow silhouettes dominate the skyline and serve as a constant reminder of the city’s maritime heritage.Visual Landmarks and Cultural Icons
The cranes’ striking yellow color and immense scale make them instantly recognizable from across Belfast and beyond. They are visible from the nearby City Airport, the Titanic Quarter, and many vantage points throughout the city. Locally known as Samson and Goliath after the biblical figures, they have become a source of pride and a defining feature of Belfast’s urban landscape, frequently appearing in photographs, films, and cultural references.Modern Context and Visitor Experience
Today, the area surrounding the cranes is part of the Titanic Quarter, a vibrant redevelopment zone blending tourism, education, and business. While direct access to the cranes is restricted due to their location within an active industrial site, viewing them from the perimeter offers a unique perspective on Belfast’s industrial evolution. The cranes’ preservation amidst urban renewal highlights the city’s respect for its heritage while looking toward a dynamic future.Enduring Legacy in Belfast’s Skyline
As Belfast continues to evolve, the Samson and Goliath cranes stand as steadfast monuments to the city’s shipbuilding glory days. Their presence encapsulates a narrative of innovation, resilience, and identity, linking past generations of shipbuilders with the present. These cranes are not merely industrial relics but enduring icons that define Belfast’s skyline and spirit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
0.0 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
Titanic Hotel Belfast
0.4 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
Slipways
0.5 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
1.1 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.
Beacon of Hope
1.2 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Albert Memorial Clock
1.3 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
1.4 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
1.5 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
The Spire Of Hope, Belfast
1.5 km
Discover the Spire of Hope in Belfast, an architectural marvel symbolizing resilience and hope, providing a stunning backdrop for your travels.
Alec the Goose
1.5 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Trade union mural
1.5 km
Explore the Trade Union Mural in Belfast, a vibrant celebration of labor history and artistic expression that showcases the city's rich cultural heritage.
Belfast Cathedral, the Cathedral Church of St Anne
1.5 km
Discover Belfast Cathedral, a stunning blend of history and architecture in Northern Ireland, where faith and culture meet in a vibrant city.
Catalyst Arts Gallery
1.5 km
Discover contemporary art in Belfast at Catalyst Arts Gallery, a hub for innovative exhibitions and community engagement.
Spirit of Belfast
1.6 km
Explore the Spirit of Belfast, a captivating sculpture that reflects the resilient culture and rich history of this vibrant city in Northern Ireland.
Mural
1.7 km
Explore Belfast's vibrant mural art scene, a colorful reflection of the city's history and culture, captivating every visitor with its rich storytelling.
Unmissable attractions to see
Harland & Wolff HQ & Drawing Offices
0.4 km
Historic Harland & Wolff HQ and Drawing Offices: birthplace of Titanic’s design and Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy.
Titanic experience
0.4 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.
Maritime Mile
0.4 km
Explore Belfast’s historic waterfront trail, where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and iconic landmarks along the Maritime Mile.
SS Nomadic
0.4 km
The last White Star Line vessel and Titanic's tender ship—a floating museum of maritime elegance and history.
Street Food
0.4 km
Discover vibrant fast-food flavors in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where local heritage meets global street food culture.
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.
Titanic Mural
0.5 km
A vibrant mural celebrating Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage and the spirit of the Titanic’s shipyard community.
SSE Arena Belfast
0.6 km
Belfast’s vibrant SSE Arena on Queens Quay offers world-class concerts, sports, and family events in a modern waterfront setting.
The Iron Throne - Glass of Thrones
0.6 km
Experience the iconic Iron Throne in vibrant stained glass on Belfast’s Titanic Slipways, where fantasy meets maritime history.
Glass of Thrones - HMS Caroline
0.7 km
Discover the dramatic House Lannister stained glass window beside historic HMS Caroline, blending Game of Thrones lore with Belfast’s maritime heritage.
W5
0.7 km
An award-winning science and discovery centre in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where over 250 interactive exhibits spark curiosity and fun for all ages.
SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
0.7 km
Experience Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage through interactive sound and light at the striking SoundYard installation on Queen’s Quay.
Glass of Thrones - Odyssey
0.8 km
Discover the vivid House Targaryen stained glass window at Odyssey Point, a dazzling tribute to Game of Thrones in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter.
The Great Light, Maritime Mile
0.8 km
Discover Belfast's maritime heritage at The Great Light, a stunning landmark celebrating the city's rich shipbuilding history along The Maritime Mile.
HMS Caroline
1.0 km
Step aboard HMS Caroline, Belfast’s historic WWI light cruiser, and explore a century of naval history in a fully restored floating museum.
Essential places to dine
Drawing Office Two Bar
0.4 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
0.4 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
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.
Novelli at City Quays
1.0 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
OX Belfast
1.2 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
1.4 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Taylor & Clay
1.4 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.
Bootleggers
1.4 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
Buba
1.4 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Coppi Restaurant
1.4 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
1.4 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Waterman Restaurant
1.4 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
Six By Nico Belfast
1.4 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
Dumpling Library
1.4 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
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.
Storybox
1.0 km
Discover Storybox, a creative gift shop nestled in Belfast’s historic Portview Trade Centre, where heritage meets artistry and community spirit.
Dandy Lion Shop
1.0 km
Explore the Dandy Lion Shop in Belfast for unique antiques and gifts, perfect for collectors and treasure hunters alike.
The Union Jack Shop
1.1 km
Explore a treasure trove of Unionist memorabilia at The Union Jack Shop in Belfast, celebrating British culture with a unique selection of gifts.
Art Loves at The Merchant
1.4 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
1.4 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
1.4 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Connswater Shopping Centre
1.4 km
Discover Connswater Shopping Centre: Belfast's vibrant retail hub with diverse shops, dining options, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
House of Fraser
1.4 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Born and Bred
1.4 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
1.5 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
Tommy Hilfiger
1.5 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
1.5 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
1.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
1.5 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating Northern Irish creativity and cultural character
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pavilion One Bar
0.4 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
0.4 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 American Bar
1.0 km
Historic Sailortown pub pouring perfect pints, live tunes, and bargain bites in Belfast's Docklands—a raw gem for locals and music seekers.
The Tipsy Bird
1.3 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Ulster Sports Club
1.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
39 Gordon Street
1.4 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
Bert's Jazz Bar
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Bittles Bar
1.4 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 Spaniard
1.4 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
The National
1.4 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
The Black Box
1.4 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Dark Horse
1.5 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The Jailhouse
1.5 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
1.5 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Whites Tavern
1.6 km
Discover Whites Tavern, a historic Irish pub in Belfast offering traditional cuisine, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Lux
1.4 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Ollie's Belfast
1.4 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Craics Ninety
1.4 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Kremlin
1.7 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
1.7 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Cabaret Supper Club
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Anthology Ni
1.7 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Shoe Factory
1.7 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Thompsons Garage
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
The Art Department
1.7 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Voodoo
1.8 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Alibi
2.6 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
2.6 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
3.8 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
12.7 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
- Unique
- Historic
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
