Great Northern Mall
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
Great Northern Mall is a compact retail arcade on Great Victoria Street in Belfast city center, serving as a vital pedestrian thoroughfare linking the city's commercial heart to transport hubs. Opened in 1993, this 13,087-square-foot shopping destination houses 14 retail units alongside cafes and services, welcoming nearly 94,000 visitors weekly. The mall functions as both a shopping venue and a key urban connector, recently repositioned as a gateway to Halt Belfast, a vibrant street food market and community space.
A brief summary to Great Northern Mall
- 48-52 Great Victoria St, Belfast, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-8 pm
- Friday 9 am-8 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings between 9 AM and noon to experience the mall at its quietest, allowing you to browse independent retailers without the weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed shopping pace.
- Combine your mall visit with a trip to Halt Belfast, the street food market and community space directly accessible through the mall's pedestrian link—perfect for lunch or casual dining after shopping.
- Take advantage of extended Thursday and Friday hours until 8 PM if you prefer evening shopping, allowing you to explore the mall after work or other daytime activities.
- Use the mall as a strategic starting point for exploring Great Victoria Street's wider attractions, including the nearby Europa Hotel and connections to Belfast's cultural quarter.
- Check for seasonal promotions and special events at the mall's anchor retailers, particularly Boots and the various cafes, which often feature exclusive offers during holiday periods.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Great Northern Mall location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Great Northern Mall
A Historic Passage Through Belfast's Heart
Great Northern Mall stands as one of Belfast's most strategically important retail spaces, occupying a pivotal position on Great Victoria Street in the heart of the city center. Opened in 1993, the mall was originally conceived as a pedestrian link connecting the bustling commercial district to the former Great Victoria Street Railway Station and the Europa Bus Centre. Though both transport terminals have since closed or relocated, the mall has seamlessly evolved to maintain its role as a crucial urban artery, now serving as the primary pedestrian gateway to Halt Belfast—a dynamic street food market and community space that officially launched in July 2025 on the site of the former bus station.Retail Character and Commercial Mix
The mall comprises 14 retail units of varying sizes, creating an intimate shopping environment that balances accessibility with commercial diversity. Anchor tenants include Boots The Chemists, a trusted pharmacy presence, while the food and beverage offerings feature Caffe Nero, The Streat, a juice bar, and Connectz Cafe, ensuring visitors can refresh themselves while shopping. Beyond these established names, the arcade houses independent retailers including Metro Barbers, clothing boutiques, phone accessory shops, and specialty stores that give the space its distinctive local character. The common service yard to the rear provides essential operational infrastructure while maintaining the pedestrian-focused experience at street level.Visitor Flow and Urban Significance
With an impressive weekly footfall averaging 93,834 visitors, Great Northern Mall demonstrates substantial foot traffic that reflects its importance as a transit corridor and shopping destination. The mall's catchment area extends across a 30-minute drive radius, encompassing a population of over 817,000 people, making it a genuinely significant retail and connectivity hub for the wider Belfast metropolitan area. The space functions most effectively during weekday hours when the shopping experience feels less congested, allowing visitors to browse comfortably and explore the smaller independent retailers that might be overlooked during busier periods.Gateway to Contemporary Belfast Culture
The mall's recent transformation into a connector to Halt Belfast has reinvigorated its cultural significance. Rather than serving solely as a shopping arcade, it now functions as a threshold between traditional retail and the emerging food and community culture that defines contemporary Belfast. This evolution reflects broader urban regeneration in the city center, positioning Great Northern Mall not merely as a place to purchase goods, but as a vital social and cultural intersection where locals and visitors alike converge.Accessibility and Practical Navigation
Located at 48-52 Great Victoria Street, the mall benefits from excellent connectivity to Belfast's city center attractions and amenities. Its position on one of the city's principal thoroughfares ensures easy pedestrian access from surrounding streets, while the nearby Botanic station provides public transport connections. The mall's design prioritizes foot traffic flow, with clear sightlines and logical retail arrangement that guide visitors naturally through the space. The connection to the multi-story car park and former transport stations means that those arriving by vehicle or public transport find convenient access to the mall's offerings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.4 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Frederick Temple Memorial
0.4 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.4 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.4 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.4 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
0.4 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.4 km
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
0.4 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.4 km
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.
Treasure Trails
0.5 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Shaftesbury Square
0.5 km
A historic and bustling junction in Belfast where Victorian heritage meets vibrant modern city life.
Castle Buildings
0.6 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Alec the Goose
0.8 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
2-6 Waring St
0.9 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Belfastlad Tours
0.9 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with personalized tours led by passionate locals at Belfastlad Tours.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fibber Magee
0.1 km
Experience the heart of Belfast at Fibber Magee, a traditional Irish pub offering delicious food, local brews, and vibrant entertainment.
Grand Opera House
0.1 km
Belfast’s magnificent Victorian theatre with an exquisite oriental-style auditorium, hosting world-class performances since 1895.
Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum
0.3 km
Explore the rich military history of Northern Ireland at the Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum, a captivating tribute to bravery and sacrifice.
Ulster Hall
0.3 km
Belfast’s iconic Victorian concert hall blending rich history, legendary performances, and vibrant cultural life since 1862.
Philly Pump / The Allotment
0.3 km
Innovative vegan and vegetarian bistro in Belfast offering fresh, locally sourced plant-based dishes in a welcoming, sustainable setting.
Memorial to World War I and II soldiers
0.3 km
A solemn Portland stone cenotaph in Belfast’s Donegall Square honoring the heroic sacrifices of World War I and II soldiers.
City Hall Garden of Remembrance
0.3 km
A tranquil memorial garden honouring those who gave their lives for Irish freedom, nestled in Belfast's historic city centre.
Donegall Square W
0.3 km
Historic heart of Belfast featuring City Hall, iconic architecture, the Titanic Memorial, and stories of commerce and heritage.
Hop On Hop Off Belfast Bus
0.3 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.
Belfast City Sightseeing
0.4 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.
Belfast City Hall
0.4 km
Discover Belfast’s majestic City Hall, a Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart with rich history and stunning architecture.
The Linen Hall
0.4 km
Belfast's independent cultural sanctuary housing rare collections, world-class exhibitions, and mythology-inspired café.
Visit Belfast
0.4 km
Your essential first stop in Belfast city centre for expert travel advice, tickets, maps, and local insights opposite City Hall.
Walking Tours Belfast
0.4 km
Expert-led walking tours of Belfast's history, culture, and urban landscape by Blue Badge qualified local guides.
Front of Belfast City Hall
0.4 km
Experience Belfast’s iconic Baroque Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic heart at the stunning Front of City Hall.
Essential places to dine
The Ginger Bistro
0.1 km
Vibrant modern European bistro celebrating local produce and exceptional hospitality in Belfast's city centre.
Hope Street Restaurant Belfast
0.2 km
Fresh Northern Irish cuisine in an intimate Belfast setting, perfectly positioned for pre-theatre dining and special occasions.
Actons restaurant
0.2 km
Belfast's premier gluten-free dining destination with exceptional Irish cuisine and dedicated celiac protocols.
Howard Street
0.2 km
Elegant modern European dining in Belfast’s vibrant city center, blending Irish tradition with contemporary flair.
JAMES ST
0.2 km
Experience Belfast’s finest chargrilled steaks and warm hospitality in a stylish yet relaxed setting at James St.
Flame
0.2 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and Asian fusion dishes in a stylish, welcoming Belfast city center setting with curated cocktails and elegant ambiance.
Deanes EIPIC
0.2 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s city centre, blending innovation, local ingredients, and elegant atmosphere.
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.
EDO Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
Yügo
0.3 km
Discover Yügo’s vibrant pan-Asian small plates in Belfast’s stylish industrial setting, perfect for sharing bold, creative flavors.
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.
Stix and Stones City Centre
0.3 km
Interactive steakhouse where you cook premium beef on heated stones at your table in vibrant Belfast.
Home Restaurant
0.3 km
A modern European dining spot in Belfast offering fresh, local flavors with vegan and gluten-free options in a cozy, lively atmosphere.
Coco
0.3 km
A quirky, stylish bistro in Belfast’s Linen Quarter serving creative dishes with attentive service in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Teal Monkey
0.4 km
A lively modern European restaurant in Belfast blending quirky decor, fresh flavors, and live music for a memorable dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great Northern Mall
0.0 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
0.4 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 - Donegall Place
0.5 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Little Heart
0.5 km
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
0.5 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
Noor Bazaar
0.5 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
0.6 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
0.6 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
White Stuff Belfast
0.7 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.7 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.
FatFace
0.7 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
The Name Shops - Belfast
0.7 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
Replay Store Belfast
0.7 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
AllSaints
0.7 km
Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.7 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Perch Rooftop Bar
0.2 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Pug Uglys
0.2 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
The Broken shaker Belfast
0.3 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
Filthy McNastys
0.3 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
The Points
0.4 km
A warm, old-school Dublin Road pub with regular live music, a glowing log fire and an unpretentious atmosphere for evening sessions.
Limelight Lounge
0.4 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
Margot
0.5 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
0.6 km
A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
Lavery's
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavery's, Belfast's premier pub and comedy club, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
0.6 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 Woodworkers
0.6 km
Belfast's top rotating tap room: craft beers on rotation, timber warmth, board games, and platters in Queen's Quarter's lively heart.
The Garrick
0.6 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Maddens
0.6 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
Monico Bars
0.8 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
Henry's
0.8 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Thompsons Garage
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Alibi
0.6 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
0.7 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Ollie's Belfast
1.0 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
1.1 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
1.1 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
1.1 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
1.1 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Kremlin
1.1 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Anthology Ni
1.1 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
1.1 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Club Honey
1.7 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
14.6 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
- Casual
- Lively
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
