Queen's Arcade
Belfast's Victorian gem: restored elegance meets luxury shopping in a historic arcade promenade.
Belfast's sole Victorian shopping arcade, Queen's Arcade captivates with its 1880 heritage, restored mosaic floors, ornate ceilings, and elegant boutiques housing luxury brands like Rolex and Omega. Nestled in the city center, this historic passageway blends 19th-century grandeur with modern sophistication, offering a serene escape amid urban bustle for browsing, window shopping, and savoring architectural splendor.
A brief summary to Queen's Arcade
- Queen's Arcade, Belfast, BT1 5FE, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Admire the original mosaic floors and ornate ceilings, restored to their 19th-century splendor—perfect for photography.
- Visit Lunn's Jewellers for exquisite watches and diamonds, or browse exclusive Rolex and Omega boutiques.
- Discover the traditional sweet shop at one end for nostalgic treats amid the luxury surroundings.
- Come on weekday afternoons for a quieter browse through the boutiques and historic features.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Glimpire Street bus stop, 5-minute walk via pedestrian zones; frequent Ulsterbus and Translink services from citywide, £1.90-£2.50 single fare.
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Walking
From Belfast City Hall, 8-10 minute stroll along Donegall Place on flat, paved sidewalks; fully accessible, no steep inclines.
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Car
Park at Victoria Square multi-story, 3-5 minute walk; £2.50 per hour, limited spaces during peak retail hours.
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Taxi
Black taxi rank at City Hall, 4-6 minute ride through traffic; £5-£8 depending on demand.
Queen's Arcade location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Queen's Arcade
Victorian Origins and Legacy
Built in 1880 as a fashionable promenade and business thoroughfare, Queen's Arcade stands as Belfast's only surviving Victorian shopping arcade. This elegant covered passageway was designed to connect key streets in the bustling city center, providing sheltered passage for the well-heeled shoppers of the era. Its enduring presence reflects Belfast's rapid industrial growth during the late 19th century, when grand architecture symbolized prosperity and progress.Restorations Reviving Grandeur
The arcade has undergone significant restorations, including one in 1935 by Hobart & Heron Architects and a major £2.2 million project in 2019. These efforts meticulously restored original features like intricate mosaic flooring, ornate cast-ironwork, and decorative ceilings, blending authentic Victorian details with subtle contemporary enhancements. The result is a space that honors its heritage while feeling fresh and inviting.Architectural Marvels Up Close
Step inside to admire the sweeping arched glass roof that floods the arcade with natural light, highlighting the patterned terrazzo floors laid in intricate designs. Elaborate plasterwork adorns the walls and ceilings, featuring floral motifs and classical elements typical of Victorian opulence. Domed entrances flanked by ornate iron gates add a sense of ceremonial arrival, evoking the promenade's original purpose as a social hub.Luxury Boutiques and Hidden Gems
Queen's Arcade houses exclusive retailers, including Ireland's only boutiques for Rolex, Omega, TAG Heuer, and Montblanc, offering special edition pieces and high-end jewelry from Lunn's Jewellers. Independent shops complement this with unique offerings, from traditional sweet confections to artisanal goods. The curated mix creates an atmosphere of refined indulgence, perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind treasures.A Timeless City Center Passage
Positioned amid Belfast's vibrant core, the arcade serves as a tranquil link between busy thoroughfares, drawing locals and visitors alike. Its compact layout encourages leisurely exploration, with every turn revealing polished details and inviting storefronts. Whether seeking luxury timepieces or simply architectural inspiration, Queen's Arcade delivers a quintessential Belfast experience steeped in elegance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 City Hall Tours
0.2 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Frederick Temple Memorial
0.2 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
2-6 Waring St
0.4 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Numbers' Wall
0.4 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.5 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Beacon of Hope
0.6 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Unmissable attractions to see
Queen's Café Bar
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill offerings at Queen's Café Bar, the ultimate dining and nightlife destination in Belfast.
Visit Belfast
0.1 km
Your essential first stop in Belfast city centre for expert travel advice, tickets, maps, and local insights opposite City Hall.
The Linen Hall
0.1 km
Belfast's independent cultural sanctuary housing rare collections, world-class exhibitions, and mythology-inspired café.
Front of Belfast City Hall
0.1 km
Experience Belfast’s iconic Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart at the stunning Front of City Hall.
Walking Tours Belfast
0.1 km
Expert-led walking tours of Belfast's history, culture, and urban landscape by Blue Badge qualified local guides.
Timescape - Live Escape Games
0.2 km
Dive into immersive, themed escape rooms in Belfast where teamwork and clever puzzles unlock thrilling adventures in just 60 minutes.
Belfast City Sightseeing
0.2 km
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.
Kelly's Cellars
0.2 km
Step into Belfast’s oldest pub, Kelly’s Cellars, where history, traditional music, and hearty Irish fare blend in a timeless city-centre setting.
Belfastology Walking Tours
0.2 km
Discover Belfast through the passionate eyes of locals who know every corner, story, and hidden gem.
Corn Market
0.2 km
Cornmarket: Belfast’s historic trading heart transformed into a lively cultural and shopping hub with iconic public art.
Hop On Hop Off Belfast Bus
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
Historic heart of Belfast featuring City Hall, iconic architecture, the Titanic Memorial, and stories of commerce and heritage.
Belfast City Hall
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s majestic City Hall, a Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart with rich history and stunning architecture.
Spirit of Belfast
0.2 km
A bold steel sculpture symbolizing Belfast’s industrial heritage and community spirit in the heart of the city centre.
The Titanic Memorial Garden
0.2 km
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.
Essential places to dine
Jumon
0.1 km
Vibrant South Asian vegetarian cuisine with bold flavours and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Belfast.
City Picnic
0.1 km
Savor award-winning burgers and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at City Picnic.
Parisien
0.1 km
Chic French brasserie in Belfast with elegant interiors, classic cuisine, and a terrace overlooking City Hall.
Roam
0.1 km
Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Mourne Seafood Bar
0.2 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a lively, rustic setting in Belfast’s city centre with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Chubby Cherub
0.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy Mediterranean charm combine at The Chubby Cherub, a beloved Belfast restaurant for every occasion.
Home Restaurant
0.2 km
A modern European dining spot in Belfast offering fresh, local flavors with vegan and gluten-free options in a cozy, lively atmosphere.
AMPM Restaurant
0.2 km
Eclectic bohemian dining in Belfast city centre with seasonal modern European cuisine and vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Yügo
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
Interactive steakhouse where you cook premium beef on heated stones at your table in vibrant Belfast.
Bank Square Brasserie
0.3 km
French bistro elegance meets Northern Irish ingredients in Belfast's most welcoming modern European brasserie.
EDO Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
The Rusty Saddle
0.3 km
Experience the best grilled dishes at The Rusty Saddle in Belfast - where flavor meets atmosphere in a delightful dining experience.
The Lantern Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience the best of British and modern European cuisine at The Lantern Restaurant in Belfast—where flavors meet tradition.
Deanes EIPIC
0.3 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s city centre, blending innovation, local ingredients, and elegant atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
0.0 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
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.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
0.1 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
0.1 km
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
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.
White Stuff Belfast
0.2 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
0.2 km
Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
The Holy Shop
0.2 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
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
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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.
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.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
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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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
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.
Henry's
0.3 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Garrick
0.3 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
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.
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
0.3 km
A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
Maddens
0.3 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
The National
0.4 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 Perch Rooftop Bar
0.4 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Bittles Bar
0.4 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
0.4 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
Bert's Jazz Bar
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
The Black Box
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Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Voodoo
0.1 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Thompsons Garage
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Ollie's Belfast
0.5 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
0.5 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
0.5 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
0.6 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.
The Art Department
0.6 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
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.
Boombox Belfast
0.7 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Alibi
1.1 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
1.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
2.0 km
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
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
