SoundYard - Interactive Maritime Heritage Experience in Belfast
Experience Belfast’s maritime heritage come alive through interactive sound and art at SoundYard on the vibrant Maritime Mile waterfront.
SoundYard is a striking interactive art installation located on Belfast’s Maritime Mile at 2 Queens Quay. Inspired by the sounds of the historic shipyards, this all-weather structure features over 500 suspended metal rods that produce authentic shipyard sounds activated by motion sensors. It celebrates Belfast’s rich maritime and industrial heritage, offering a unique sensory experience for visitors of all ages and abilities along the vibrant waterfront.
A brief summary to SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
- 2 Queens Quay, Belfast, BT3 9QQ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit after dark to enjoy the stunning illumination of the metal rods, enhancing the sensory experience.
- Walk underneath the structure to activate the motion sensors and hear authentic shipyard sounds.
- Combine your visit with nearby Maritime Mile attractions like the Odyssey and Titanic Belfast for a full day of exploration.
- The installation is fully accessible, with smooth pathways and ramps suitable for visitors of all abilities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the Metro bus routes 26 or 26A from Belfast city centre to the Odyssey stop, located within 150 meters of SoundYard. Services run approximately every 10-15 minutes, with a journey time of 15-20 minutes. Tickets cost around £2.50-£3.00 GBP one way.
-
Train and Walk
From Belfast Lanyon Place railway station, take a 15-minute walk along the Titanic Quarter waterfront to reach SoundYard. The walk is mostly flat and accessible, passing key Maritime Mile attractions.
-
Car
Drive to the Maritime Mile area where parking is available near the Odyssey complex, approximately 50 meters from SoundYard. Accessible parking spaces are provided. Parking fees vary but typically cost £3-£6 GBP for a few hours.
SoundYard - Maritime Belfast location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
A Living Tribute to Belfast’s Shipbuilding Legacy
SoundYard stands as a dynamic homage to Belfast’s once-thriving shipyards, where the rhythmic clanging of metal and riveting once echoed across the city. Situated on Queens Quay, the site itself holds historical significance, having been part of Belfast Harbour’s expansion in the mid-19th century and formerly home to Kelly’s Coal Yards and a brass foundry. The installation captures the industrial spirit of the area, transforming sound into an immersive play experience that connects visitors directly with the city’s maritime past.Innovative Design Rooted in Community and Sustainability
The installation was the winning entry in a design competition organized by the Royal Society of Ulster Architects, created by young architects Hannah Wilson, Matthew Kernan, and Eunan Deeney. SoundYard’s design thoughtfully incorporates principles of the circular economy, utilizing repurposed and recyclable materials. The structure rises over 6 meters tall and spans nearly 10 meters wide, composed of more than 500 suspended metal rods. These rods are equipped with motion sensors that activate sounds reminiscent of shipyard work, such as hammering and riveting, creating an interactive soundscape that invites playful engagement.An All-Weather, Accessible Experience on the Waterfront
Located adjacent to the Odyssey and Abercorn Marina, SoundYard is designed to be accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities. The surrounding area features smooth paved walkways, ramps, and bench seating, ensuring comfort and ease of access. Safety is prioritized with secure railings along the waterfront and lifesaving equipment nearby. While there are no onsite restrooms, nearby facilities are available. The installation is open 24/7, allowing visitors to experience its unique soundscape and stunning illumination after dark, when the metal rods are lit to create a captivating visual spectacle along the Maritime Mile.Connecting Past and Present Through Sound and Art
SoundYard not only entertains but educates by reviving the auditory atmosphere of Belfast’s shipyards, which were once the heartbeat of the city’s economy and identity. The sounds evoke the memory of thousands of workers who built iconic vessels, including the RMS Titanic. Visitors can walk beneath the structure to trigger the sounds themselves, offering a tactile and auditory connection to the industrial heritage. This innovative installation complements other Maritime Mile attractions, enriching the narrative of Belfast’s waterfront and its evolution from industrial powerhouse to vibrant cultural destination.Community Impact and Cultural Significance
Managed by Maritime Belfast Trust, a charity dedicated to preserving the city’s maritime heritage, SoundYard plays a vital role in revitalizing Belfast’s waterfront. It supports local tourism and community engagement by providing a space that is both playful and meaningful. The installation is part of a broader strategy to animate the Maritime Mile, fostering a lively environment where history, art, and public life intersect. Funded by Tourism NI, Belfast Harbour, and other partners, SoundYard represents a forward-thinking approach to heritage interpretation and urban regeneration.Experiencing SoundYard Today
Visitors to SoundYard can enjoy a sensory journey that blends art, history, and technology. The interactive sounds and illuminated structure offer a memorable experience day or night. Its location near the Odyssey entertainment complex and other Maritime Mile highlights makes it an ideal stop for families, history enthusiasts, and art lovers alike. Whether listening to the evocative sounds of the shipyard or admiring the installation’s glowing presence after sunset, SoundYard invites you to engage with Belfast’s maritime story in a fresh and inspiring way.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Titanic Hotel Belfast
0.5 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
Slipways
0.6 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.6 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.
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
0.7 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
Beacon of Hope
0.7 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.7 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
0.8 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
0.9 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Castle Buildings
1.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Alec the Goose
1.1 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Clifton House
1.1 km
Explore the historical significance and architectural elegance of Clifton House, a must-see landmark in Belfast that offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant heritage.
Queen's Arcade
1.2 km
Belfast's Victorian gem: restored elegance meets luxury shopping in a historic arcade promenade.
Treasure Trails
1.2 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
The Titanic Memorial Garden
1.3 km
Discover the Titanic Memorial Garden in Belfast, a serene park dedicated to the memory of the Titanic tragedy, offering beauty and reflection in the heart of the city.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
1.3 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
W5
0.1 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.
Glass of Thrones - Odyssey
0.2 km
Discover the vivid House Targaryen stained glass window at Odyssey Point, a dazzling tribute to Game of Thrones in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter.
SSE Arena Belfast
0.2 km
Belfast’s vibrant SSE Arena on Queens Quay offers world-class concerts, sports, and family events in a modern waterfront setting.
Street Food
0.3 km
Discover vibrant fast-food flavors in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where local heritage meets global street food culture.
Maritime Mile
0.3 km
Explore Belfast’s historic waterfront trail, where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and iconic landmarks along the Maritime Mile.
SS Nomadic
0.3 km
The last White Star Line vessel and Titanic's tender ship—a floating museum of maritime elegance and history.
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 experience
0.5 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.
Titanic Quarter Limited
0.5 km
Explore Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: where maritime history meets vibrant urban regeneration along the scenic waterfront.
Donegall Quay
0.5 km
Discover Donegall Quay, Belfast’s historic riverside promenade blending maritime heritage, public art, and vibrant urban life along the River Lagan.
Harland & Wolff HQ & Drawing Offices
0.5 km
Historic Harland & Wolff HQ and Drawing Offices: birthplace of Titanic’s design and Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy.
The Big Fish
0.6 km
A 10-metre ceramic mosaic fish celebrating Belfast’s history, mythology, and waterfront regeneration at Donegall Quay.
TOUR MISTERIOS Y LEYENDAS
0.6 km
Discover Belfast’s mysterious past and legends on a captivating walking tour through its iconic streets and hidden stories.
Lagan Lookout
0.6 km
Discover panoramic river views and urban charm at Belfast’s iconic Lagan Lookout and Weir, a gateway between city and sea.
Custom House Square
0.6 km
Central Belfast’s vibrant square blending historic grandeur with lively festivals and cultural celebrations year-round.
Essential places to dine
Novelli at City Quays
0.3 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
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.
Drawing Office Two Bar
0.6 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
0.6 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
Coppi Restaurant
0.7 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Buba
0.7 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
OX Belfast
0.8 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
0.8 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Dumpling Library
0.8 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Waterman Restaurant
0.8 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
0.8 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Mumbai 27
0.8 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.8 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.8 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
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.
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.8 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
0.8 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
0.9 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
0.9 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
0.9 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
House of Fraser
0.9 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Tommy Hilfiger
1.0 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
1.0 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
1.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
1.0 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Boux Avenue
1.0 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
New Look
1.0 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
Replay Store Belfast
1.0 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
FatFace
1.0 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The American Bar
0.5 km
Historic Sailortown pub pouring perfect pints, live tunes, and bargain bites in Belfast's Docklands—a raw gem for locals and music seekers.
Pavilion One Bar
0.5 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
0.6 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.
39 Gordon Street
0.7 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Tipsy Bird
0.8 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
0.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
Bert's Jazz Bar
0.8 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 Spaniard
0.8 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
The Black Box
0.8 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Dark Horse
0.8 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The National
0.8 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Bittles Bar
0.9 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 Jailhouse
1.0 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
1.0 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Reporter. Bar
1.0 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Lux
0.7 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
0.7 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Ollie's Belfast
0.8 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Kremlin
1.0 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
1.0 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Anthology Ni
1.0 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Shoe Factory
1.0 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
1.0 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Cabaret Supper Club
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
1.2 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Alibi
2.2 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
2.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
3.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
13.4 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
- Unique
- Interactive
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
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
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
