The Great Light: Belfast’s Maritime Beacon on the Titanic Mile
Discover Belfast’s monumental 130-year-old lighthouse optic, a rare maritime treasure shining on the Titanic Walkway in the heart of the Titanic Quarter.
The Great Light is a monumental 130-year-old lighthouse optic located on the Titanic Walkway in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. Weighing 10 tonnes and standing 7 metres tall, this rare Fresnel Hyper-Radial lens once served Tory Island and Mew Island lighthouses, symbolizing Belfast’s rich maritime heritage. Housed in a modern interpretive structure, it offers free public access and insight into the city’s industrial past along a scenic waterfront path.
A brief summary to The Great Light, Maritime Mile
- Titanic Quarter, The Maritime Mile, Belfast, BT3 9FH, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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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 during daylight to fully appreciate the intricate Fresnel lens and the surrounding waterfront views.
- Take time to read the informative panels along the Titanic Walkway for rich context on Belfast’s maritime history.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Titanic Belfast and HMS Caroline for a comprehensive maritime experience.
- If the protective blinds are down, it is to shield the optic from sunlight—plan your visit accordingly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take Metro buses serving the Titanic Quarter area from Belfast city centre, with journey times around 15-25 minutes. Services run frequently during the day. Walking from the nearest stop involves a flat, accessible 5-10 minute stroll along the Titanic Walkway. Standard single fares cost approximately £2.50.
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Taxi
Taxis from Belfast city centre to the Titanic Quarter take about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. This is a convenient option for groups or those with limited mobility. Typical fares range from £8 to £15.
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Walking
From Titanic Belfast museum, it is a pleasant 10-15 minute flat walk along the Titanic Walkway to the Great Light. The route is fully paved and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
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Car
Private vehicles can access nearby parking facilities in the Titanic Quarter, with some on-site parking available. Parking fees vary but typically range from £1 to £3 per hour. Note that weekends and event days may have limited availability.
The Great Light, Maritime Mile location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about The Great Light, Maritime Mile
A Maritime Giant Preserved
The Great Light is one of the largest lighthouse optics ever constructed, boasting a remarkable 130-year history. Originally crafted in Paris in 1887 by renowned manufacturers Barbier and Fenestre, this Fresnel Hyper-Radial lens weighs 10 tonnes and measures 7 metres tall. It was designed to project one of the strongest lighthouse beams in the world, serving crucial navigational roles at Tory Island Lighthouse off Donegal and later at Mew Island Lighthouse near Belfast. The optic’s engineering excellence reflects Belfast’s past prominence as a global maritime and industrial hub.From Sea Beacon to Urban Landmark
After decades of maritime service, the Great Light was retired in 2014 and relocated to Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where it now stands as a centerpiece of the Maritime Mile. This 500-metre waterfront walkway connects historic sites such as the Titanic Slipways, HMS Caroline, and Thompson Dock. The optic is housed within a specially designed, durable interpretive structure that preserves the lens and educates visitors about its significance, innovation, and the city’s shipbuilding legacy.Exploring the Titanic Walkway Experience
Visitors to the Great Light can enjoy a scenic stroll along the Titanic Walkway on Victoria Wharf, which offers panoramic views of Belfast Harbour and the iconic Titanic Belfast museum. Along the path, informative panels detail the city’s maritime history, shipbuilding achievements, and the role of the Great Light in ensuring safe navigation. The walkway’s blend of industrial heritage and modern urban regeneration creates a reflective and engaging atmosphere.Architectural and Historical Significance
The Great Light’s Fresnel lens is a rare artefact representing the pinnacle of 19th-century lighthouse technology. Its construction involved two of the world’s most esteemed optic manufacturers, Barbier and Fenestre and the Chance Brothers. The optic’s presence in Belfast underscores the city’s historical importance in linen production, shipbuilding, and rope-making, industries that powered Belfast’s rise as a major port and industrial center.Preservation and Public Access
The optic has been meticulously restored and is now accessible to the public free of charge. The interpretive structure is designed to protect the lens from sunlight and environmental damage, ensuring its preservation for at least 100 years. This accessibility allows visitors to appreciate the scale and craftsmanship of the Great Light up close, making it a unique educational and cultural asset within Belfast’s maritime landscape.A Living Tribute to Belfast’s Maritime Heritage
As part of the Maritime Mile, the Great Light serves as a beacon not only for ships but also for the city’s ongoing celebration of its maritime past. It stands as a testament to Belfast’s enduring connection to the sea, shipbuilding, and industrial innovation, inviting visitors to reflect on the city’s transformation from a shipyard powerhouse to a vibrant cultural destination.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Slipways
0.5 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
Titanic Hotel Belfast
0.5 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
0.8 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
1.6 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.
Albert Memorial Clock
1.7 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Beacon of Hope
1.7 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Numbers' Wall
1.8 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
1.9 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Clifton Street Graveyard
1.9 km
Two centuries of Belfast's history etched in stone—where Republicans, Unionists, and ordinary citizens rest side by side.
Victoria Square
2.0 km
Explore Victoria Square, Belfast's premier shopping center featuring stunning architecture, diverse retail options, and delightful dining experiences.
The Dome
2.0 km
Discover the architectural marvel of The Dome in Belfast, where history and culture meet breathtaking views.
Carlisle Circus
2.0 km
A historic North Belfast traffic circus with Victorian roots and a legacy shaped by war, industry, and community life.
Spirit of Belfast
2.1 km
Explore the Spirit of Belfast, a captivating sculpture that reflects the resilient culture and rich history of this vibrant city in Northern Ireland.
Castle Buildings
2.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Alec the Goose
2.1 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Unmissable attractions to see
Glass of Thrones - HMS Caroline
0.3 km
Discover the dramatic House Lannister stained glass window beside historic HMS Caroline, blending Game of Thrones lore with Belfast’s maritime heritage.
The Iron Throne - Glass of Thrones
0.3 km
Experience the iconic Iron Throne in vibrant stained glass on Belfast’s Titanic Slipways, where fantasy meets maritime history.
HMS Caroline
0.3 km
Step aboard HMS Caroline, Belfast’s historic WWI light cruiser, and explore a century of naval history in a fully restored floating museum.
Titanic Distillery & Pump House
0.4 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Titanic Pumphouse reborn as a vibrant whiskey distillery blending maritime heritage with award-winning spirits.
Titanic Distillers
0.4 km
Discover Belfast’s Titanic heritage and whiskey revival at the historic Thompson Dock and Pumphouse, home to Titanic Distillers.
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.
Harland & Wolff HQ & Drawing Offices
0.6 km
Historic Harland & Wolff HQ and Drawing Offices: birthplace of Titanic’s design and Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy.
Titanic experience
0.6 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
0.6 km
Explore Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: where maritime history meets vibrant urban regeneration along the scenic waterfront.
SS Nomadic
0.8 km
The last White Star Line vessel and Titanic's tender ship—a floating museum of maritime elegance and history.
Maritime Mile
0.8 km
Explore Belfast’s historic waterfront trail, where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and iconic landmarks along the Maritime Mile.
Street Food
0.9 km
Discover vibrant fast-food flavors in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where local heritage meets global street food culture.
SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
1.0 km
Experience Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage through interactive sound and light at the striking SoundYard installation on Queen’s Quay.
W5
1.1 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.
SSE Arena Belfast
1.1 km
Belfast’s vibrant SSE Arena on Queens Quay offers world-class concerts, sports, and family events in a modern waterfront setting.
Essential places to dine
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
0.5 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
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
0.5 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
Hickson's Point
0.6 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant culture at Hickson's Point in Belfast - your gateway to local flavors.
Novelli at City Quays
1.3 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Coppi Restaurant
1.7 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Buba
1.7 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Dumpling Library
1.7 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Mumbai 27
1.8 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Waterman Restaurant
1.8 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
1.8 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
OX Belfast
1.8 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
1.8 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Academy Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Six By Nico Belfast
1.8 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
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
1.7 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
1.7 km
Explore the Dandy Lion Shop in Belfast for unique antiques and gifts, perfect for collectors and treasure hunters alike.
The Union Jack Shop
1.8 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
1.8 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
1.9 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
1.9 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
1.9 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
1.9 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
House of Fraser
2.0 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Tommy Hilfiger
2.0 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
2.0 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
2.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
2.0 km
Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
2.0 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Harland Bar
0.5 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.
Pavilion One Bar
0.6 km
A convivial, shipyard‑inspired hotel bar with polished brass, hearty pub dishes and a relaxed atmosphere in the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
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.
39 Gordon Street
1.7 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Tipsy Bird
1.8 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
1.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
The Dark Horse
1.8 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The Black Box
1.8 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
Bert's Jazz Bar
1.8 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
1.8 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
The National
1.9 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 Reporter. Bar
1.9 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Bittles Bar
1.9 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
2.0 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
2.0 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Lux
1.7 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
1.7 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
1.8 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
1.9 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Kremlin
1.9 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Anthology Ni
1.9 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Shoe Factory
1.9 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
1.9 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Cabaret Supper Club
2.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
2.2 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Alibi
3.2 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
3.3 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
4.1 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
12.9 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- 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
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- 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
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
