Belfast Castle: Victorian Elegance Amidst Cave Hill’s Scenic Splendor
Explore Belfast Castle’s Victorian charm and scenic Cave Hill setting, where history, nature, and panoramic city views converge.
Perched on the lower slopes of Cave Hill Country Park, Belfast Castle is a striking Victorian-era landmark offering panoramic views over Belfast Lough. Built in the 1860s and gifted to the city in 1934, the castle blends historic architecture, manicured gardens, and woodland trails. Visitors can explore the castle’s elegant interiors, enjoy the Cave Hill Visitor Centre, and relax in onsite cafes and restaurants. The estate is also a popular venue for weddings and events, set within a natural wildlife habitat.
A brief summary to Belfast Castle
- Antrim Rd, Belfast, Belfast, BT15 5GR, GB
- +442890776925
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-9 pm
- Thursday 9 am-9 pm
- Friday 9 am-9 pm
- Saturday 9 am-9 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Cave Hill Visitor Centre inside the castle for free exhibits and an 8-minute film about the castle’s history and surroundings.
- Book ahead for the Cellar Restaurant to enjoy local cuisine in a unique Victorian cellar setting.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike the nearby Cavehill Trail, a 4.5-mile circular route with varied terrain and rewarding views.
- Check for private events or weddings that may close parts of the castle or grounds to the public.
- Explore the gardens and parkland for peaceful walks and discover quirky cat-themed sculptures throughout the estate.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Metro bus service from Belfast city centre to Belfast Castle on Antrim Road; the journey typically takes 25 to 35 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, with a single fare around £2.50. Note that service frequency reduces in the evenings and on Sundays.
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Car
Driving from Belfast city centre to Belfast Castle takes about 15 to 20 minutes via Antrim Road. Free onsite parking is available but limited, especially during events. Accessible parking spaces are designated for disabled visitors.
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Taxi
Taxis from central Belfast to the castle take approximately 15 minutes and cost around £10-£15. A freephone taxi booking service is available at the castle reception for return trips.
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Walking and Hiking
For active visitors, walking from nearby Cave Hill Country Park entrances to the castle is possible via well-marked trails. The Castle Trail is a gentle 1.3 km circular route suitable for most fitness levels, while the Cavehill Trail is a more challenging 7.2 km hike requiring sturdy footwear and good fitness.
Belfast Castle 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 Belfast Castle
Architectural Grandeur and Historical Legacy
Belfast Castle stands as a testament to Victorian elegance, completed in 1870 after the original city-centre castle was lost to fire. Commissioned by the 3rd Marquis of Donegall and finished through the patronage of Lord Ashley (later the 8th Earl of Shaftesbury), the castle’s design features classic Victorian elements with unique touches such as the serpentine Italianate staircase adorned with the Shaftesbury crest. The Donegall coat of arms above the entrance recalls the castle’s noble origins. In 1934, the Shaftesbury family generously gifted the castle to Belfast City, marking its transition from private residence to public asset.A Hub for Culture, Events, and Community
Since its reopening in 1988 after extensive restoration, Belfast Castle has evolved into a vibrant venue hosting weddings, conferences, and social gatherings. Its Victorian-style cellar area, featuring cobbled lanes and vintage gas lamps, houses the Cellar Restaurant and Tavern Café, which serve local produce and cater to diverse dietary needs. The castle also includes an antique shop and visitor information centre, enriching the cultural experience. Throughout the year, public events such as concerts and fairs enliven the estate, making it a dynamic community focal point.Gardens, Trails, and Natural Beauty
Surrounding the castle are beautifully maintained gardens and parkland that seamlessly blend into Cave Hill Country Park’s woodland and heath. Visitors can enjoy several walking routes, including the short Castle Trail through the gardens and the more challenging Cavehill Trail, which ascends to McArt’s Fort and offers sweeping views. The estate supports diverse wildlife, including long-eared owls and sparrowhawks, and is home to Belfast’s rare town hall clock plant. Sculptures and quirky cat-themed art add charm to the outdoor spaces.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
Belfast Castle welcomes visitors daily with free admission to the castle, gardens, and Cave Hill Visitor Centre, which offers exhibits and a film detailing the area’s natural and human history. The site provides free onsite parking with designated disabled and family spaces. Accessibility features include wheelchair hire and toilets for disabled visitors. Assistance dogs are permitted indoors, with outdoor seating available for other pets. The Cellar Restaurant requires booking and offers a varied menu with special dietary accommodations.Panoramic Views and Photographic Opportunities
Situated approximately 400 feet above sea level, the castle offers some of the best vantage points to admire Belfast’s skyline and Belfast Lough. The terraces and gardens provide iconic photo spots, popular with both locals and tourists. The blend of historic architecture and natural surroundings creates a picturesque setting for photography, events, and quiet reflection.Engaging with Belfast’s Heritage and Landscape
The Cave Hill Visitor Centre inside the castle enriches the visitor experience with displays on the castle’s history, the Shaftesbury family, and the natural environment of Cave Hill. Visitors can learn about the former Pleasure Gardens, Floral Hall, and Bellevue Zoo, which once thrived on the estate. The centre also highlights local flora and fauna, encouraging appreciation for the protected natural heritage of the area.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
McArt's Fort
0.6 km
Explore the ancient Iron Age McArt's Fort atop Cave Hill, where history meets panoramic views over Belfast and beyond.
Clifton Street Graveyard
3.9 km
Two centuries of Belfast's history etched in stone—where Republicans, Unionists, and ordinary citizens rest side by side.
Carlisle Circus
3.9 km
A historic North Belfast traffic circus with Victorian roots and a legacy shaped by war, industry, and community life.
Slipways
4.3 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
Titanic Hotel Belfast
4.4 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
Belfastlad Tours
4.5 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with personalized tours led by passionate locals at Belfastlad Tours.
2-6 Waring St
4.7 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Peace Wall Belfast
4.7 km
A barrier transformed into a canvas of hope—Belfast's Peace Wall tells stories of division, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Belfast Peace Lines
4.8 km
Where a single night in 1969 ignited decades of conflict and left scars still visible today.
Albert Memorial Clock
4.8 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
4.8 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
Numbers' Wall
4.9 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Catalyst Arts Gallery
4.9 km
Discover contemporary art in Belfast at Catalyst Arts Gallery, a hub for innovative exhibitions and community engagement.
Castle Buildings
4.9 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
4.9 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cave Hill Country Park
0.9 km
Explore the scenic beauty and historical significance of Cave Hill Country Park, a must-see natural attraction in Belfast.
Belfast Zoo
1.3 km
Explore Belfast Zoo’s 55 acres of wildlife, conservation, and stunning views on the slopes of Cave Hill in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Cab Tours Belfast Black Taxi Tours
3.4 km
Explore Belfast’s complex history through intimate Black Taxi Tours led by local guides sharing personal stories and iconic murals.
Hazelbank Park
3.4 km
A scenic waterfront park in Newtownabbey offering stunning views, accessible paths, vibrant gardens, and family-friendly outdoor activities.
Carnegie Oldpark
3.6 km
Historic Tudor-style Carnegie Library in North Belfast, now a community-led hub for education, arts, and regeneration.
Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre
3.8 km
Discover the haunting history and architectural beauty of Crumlin Road Gaol in Belfast, a must-visit for tourists seeking to understand Northern Ireland's past.
Clifton House
4.1 km
Step into Belfast’s Georgian Poor House, where history, heritage, and care intertwine in tranquil gardens at Clifton House.
Titanic Distillers
4.1 km
Discover Belfast’s Titanic heritage and whiskey revival at the historic Thompson Dock and Pumphouse, home to Titanic Distillers.
The Great Light, Maritime Mile
4.1 km
Discover Belfast's maritime heritage at The Great Light, a stunning landmark celebrating the city's rich shipbuilding history along The Maritime Mile.
Titanic Distillery & Pump House
4.1 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Titanic Pumphouse reborn as a vibrant whiskey distillery blending maritime heritage with award-winning spirits.
HMS Caroline
4.1 km
Step aboard HMS Caroline, Belfast’s historic WWI light cruiser, and explore a century of naval history in a fully restored floating museum.
Glass of Thrones - HMS Caroline
4.2 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
4.2 km
Experience the iconic Iron Throne in vibrant stained glass on Belfast’s Titanic Slipways, where fantasy meets maritime history.
Shankill Graveyard
4.2 km
Explore Belfast’s oldest cemetery, where centuries of history, stories, and community spirit rest beneath tranquil grounds on the historic Shankill Road.
St Patrick's Church
4.2 km
A majestic Romanesque Catholic church in Belfast, famed for its soaring spire, sacred relics, and the celebrated artwork of Sir John Lavery.
Essential places to dine
The Pantry at Titanic Belfast
4.3 km
Savor locally inspired dishes in a historic setting at The Pantry, Titanic Belfast’s welcoming restaurant celebrating Northern Ireland’s finest produce.
Hickson's Point
4.4 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant culture at Hickson's Point in Belfast - your gateway to local flavors.
Academy Restaurant
4.4 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
4.4 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
Drawing Office Two Bar
4.4 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
Coppi Restaurant
4.5 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Dumpling Library
4.5 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Buba
4.5 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Novelli at City Quays
4.5 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Mumbai 27
4.6 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Waterman Restaurant
4.7 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
4.7 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
4.7 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Six By Nico Belfast
4.7 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
4.8 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Abbey Centre Shopping
2.1 km
Discover Abbey Centre Shopping, a lively retail and entertainment hub in Newtownabbey, featuring diverse shops and dining options for all tastes.
Titanic Store
4.4 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.
Top Gift
4.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Top Gift, Belfast's charming gift shop offering an eclectic selection for every traveler.
The Name Shops - Belfast
4.7 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
Art Loves at The Merchant
4.8 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Fuzz Vintage
4.8 km
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.
Forsight Belfast
4.8 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
4.8 km
Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
The Holy Shop
4.8 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
4.9 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
4.9 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.
Urban Outfitters
4.9 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
4.9 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
4.9 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
White Stuff Belfast
5.0 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The American Bar
4.1 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 Reporter. Bar
4.4 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Harland Bar
4.4 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.
Pavilion One Bar
4.4 km
A convivial, shipyard‑inspired hotel bar with polished brass, hearty pub dishes and a relaxed atmosphere in the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
Sunflower Public House
4.5 km
Belfast's authentic corner pub with Troubles-era charm, live music nightly, wood-fired pizzas, and a buzzing garden—where history meets hearty ales and eclectic vibes.
39 Gordon Street
4.6 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Dark Horse
4.6 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
4.7 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Spaniard
4.8 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
Maddens
4.8 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
Bert's Jazz Bar
4.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Ulster Sports Club
4.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
Monico Bars
4.8 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
The National
4.8 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Whites Tavern
4.8 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
Boombox Belfast
4.3 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
4.4 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
The Art Department
4.4 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Shoe Factory
4.4 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Kremlin
4.4 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Craics Ninety
4.6 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Club Lux
4.6 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
4.7 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Voodoo
4.9 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Thompsons Garage
5.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
5.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Club Honey
5.7 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Alibi
6.0 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
6.1 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Saturday Night Nightclub
15.9 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
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
