Forestside Shopping Centre, Belfast
A comprehensive suburban shopping centre in Belfast offering diverse stores, dining, and excellent parking facilities for a convenient retail experience.
Forestside Shopping Centre in Upper Galwally, Belfast, offers a comprehensive shopping experience with a wide variety of stores including fashion, food outlets, and health & beauty. It features extensive parking facilities and accessibility services, making it a convenient destination for shoppers seeking both everyday essentials and specialty items in a modern retail environment.
A brief summary to Forestside Shopping Centre
- Upper Galwally, Belfast, BT8 6FX, GB
- +442890494990
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-9 pm
- Thursday 9 am-10 pm
- Friday 9 am-10 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-6 pm
Local tips
- Take advantage of the free 4-hour parking to explore the centre without rush.
- Check individual store opening hours as they may vary from the centre’s general schedule.
- Visit Forestside Cookery School for a unique culinary experience beyond shopping.
- Use designated disabled and parent-and-buggy parking spaces located near all entrances.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Forestside Shopping Centre typically takes 15 to 25 minutes from Belfast city centre via the Upper Knockbreda Road. Ample parking is available across four car parks with free parking for up to four hours and a nominal fee for longer stays. Note that parking spaces for disabled visitors and parents with buggies are conveniently located near entrances.
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Bus
Several local bus routes connect Belfast city centre to the Forestside area, with journey times ranging from 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Bus stops are within walking distance of the centre, but service frequency may vary, so check schedules in advance.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Belfast and can reach Forestside Shopping Centre in approximately 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers direct and convenient access, especially for groups or those carrying shopping bags.
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Walking
Walking to Forestside Shopping Centre is feasible from nearby residential areas within Upper Galwally. Terrain is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchair users and strollers. Walking times vary but generally range from 10 to 30 minutes depending on starting point.
Forestside Shopping Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Forestside Shopping Centre
A Modern Retail Hub in Belfast's Suburbs
Forestside Shopping Centre is situated in Upper Galwally, Belfast, serving as a key retail destination for the surrounding residential areas. The centre blends convenience with variety, hosting a diverse mix of stores ranging from well-known fashion brands like H&M, Marks & Spencer, Monsoon, and Next, to specialty shops such as Goldsmiths and Vogue Fashions. It also includes essential supermarkets like Dunnes Stores and Sainsbury's, catering to everyday grocery needs.Shopping and Dining Variety
Beyond retail, Forestside offers a selection of food outlets and eateries, including Caffè Nero and Jamaica Blue, providing casual dining options for visitors. The centre also features unique experiences such as the Forestside Cookery School, adding an interactive culinary element to the shopping trip. This variety ensures that visitors can enjoy both shopping and leisure in one location.Accessibility and Parking Facilities
Forestside is designed with accessibility in mind, providing designated parking spaces for guests with disabilities and parent-and-buggy parking adjacent to entrances. The centre boasts four car parks with a total of over 1,200 spaces, including underground, upper, and multi-storey car parks. Parking is free for up to four hours, with a nominal charge for extended stays, supporting both short visits and longer shopping excursions.Operating Hours and Visitor Convenience
The centre operates from 9am to 9pm Monday through Wednesday, extending to 10pm on Thursdays and Fridays, and closing earlier on weekends and Sundays. Individual store hours may vary, so visitors are encouraged to check specific shop times. Amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and information boards enhance the visitor experience, while free Wi-Fi connectivity is available throughout the centre.Community and Environment
Forestside Shopping Centre plays an important role in the local community, providing a safe, welcoming environment for all ages. Its location in a suburban setting offers a tranquil shopping atmosphere away from the bustle of Belfast city centre, while still maintaining easy access to urban amenities. The centre’s management emphasizes customer service and convenience, ensuring a pleasant visit for families, seniors, and solo shoppers alike.Notable Features and Visitor Experience
With nearly 950 photos documenting its vibrant retail scene, Forestside is recognized for its great variety of stores and customer-focused services. The centre’s layout allows for quick navigation, making it suitable for both quick errands and leisurely shopping days. Its blend of fashion, food, and specialty shops, combined with ample parking and accessibility features, makes Forestside a distinctive shopping destination in Northern Ireland.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lord Kelvin Statue
2.8 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s own Lord Kelvin with this striking bronze statue set in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Shaftesbury Square
3.4 km
A historic and bustling junction in Belfast where Victorian heritage meets vibrant modern city life.
Alec the Goose
3.7 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Frederick Temple Memorial
3.9 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Belfast City Hall Tours
3.9 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
4.0 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
4.0 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
4.0 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.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
4.0 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
4.0 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
4.0 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.
Treasure Trails
4.1 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Beacon of Hope
4.1 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
The Back Of Boots
4.1 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
4.2 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
Museum of Orange Heritage - Free Admission
1.3 km
Discover the rich history and global heritage of the Orange Institution at Belfast’s Museum of Orange Heritage, located in historic Schomberg House.
The Belvoir Oak
1.9 km
Discover the ancient majesty of Northern Ireland’s oldest oak, a serene natural monument nestled in Belfast’s Belvoir Park Forest.
Ormeau Park
2.4 km
Belfast’s oldest municipal park blending historic charm with vibrant sports, nature, and cultural events in a sprawling urban green space.
Botanic Gardens
2.6 km
Discover Belfast’s Victorian botanical gem with stunning glasshouses, vibrant gardens, and rich cultural heritage in a serene 28-acre urban oasis.
Ulster Museum
2.7 km
Explore the Ulster Museum, a stunning fusion of art, history, and natural beauty in the heart of Belfast's Botanic Gardens.
The Palm House
2.7 km
Explore Belfast’s iconic Victorian Palm House, a stunning glass and iron botanical marvel nestled in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Game of Thrones Tours
3.2 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Westeros with Game of Thrones Tours in Belfast, a must-visit for fans and nature lovers alike.
National Trust - Minnowburn
3.3 km
Discover Minnowburn’s peaceful woodlands and riverside trails, a natural sanctuary just outside Belfast with rich wildlife and scenic valley views.
McCombs Coaches
3.3 km
Comfortable and engaging coach tours from Belfast to Northern Ireland’s iconic sights, including the Giant’s Causeway and historic castles.
Giants Causeway Tour
3.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and legendary charm of the Giant's Causeway on a guided tour from Belfast, a remarkable natural wonder not to be missed.
The Stroud Street Murals
3.4 km
Explore Belfast’s Stroud Street Murals—an open-air gallery celebrating punk heritage, urban wildlife, and creative innovation on vibrant Victorian walls.
George Best Mural
3.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s football icon with the vibrant George Best Mural, a cultural landmark honoring local pride and sporting greatness.
St Malachy's Church
3.6 km
Discover Belfast’s historic St Malachy's Church, famed for its Tudor Gothic style and breathtaking fan-vaulted ceiling inspired by Westminster Abbey.
Connswater Greenway
3.7 km
Discover Belfast’s scenic Connswater Greenway, a revitalized riverside park blending nature, history, and community in East Belfast.
Giant's Ring
3.7 km
Explore the Giant's Ring, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic henge near Belfast, featuring a central dolmen and vast ceremonial earthworks steeped in ancient mystery.
Essential places to dine
Hendrix Restaurant| Belfast
2.3 km
Modern fusion dining with Italian-Mexican flair, creative cocktails, and theatrical open kitchen on South Belfast's cultural corridor.
Blank Restaurant
2.7 km
Discover a rare Irish dining experience with creative dishes and exceptional service in Belfast’s charming Malone Road district.
Molly's Yard
2.9 km
Discover modern Irish cuisine in a charming 19th-century stable block with cozy indoor dining and a peaceful courtyard in Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter.
Deanes at Queens
2.9 km
Experience modern European cuisine with Michelin-recognized quality in Belfast’s vibrant University Quarter, overlooking picturesque College Gardens.
Scalini
3.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy ambiance at Scalini, a beloved Italian restaurant on Belfast’s vibrant Botanic Avenue.
A Peculiar Tea
3.0 km
Where afternoon tea becomes a story-driven escape into imagination and culinary wonder.
Holohan's Pantry
3.1 km
Authentic Irish flavors with a contemporary twist in Belfast’s vibrant University Road dining scene.
Villa Italia
3.1 km
A beloved Belfast institution serving authentic Italian stone-baked pizzas and classic pasta dishes in a warm Georgian setting.
Shu Restaurant Belfast
3.2 km
Experience refined modern French cuisine with Irish influences in Belfast’s stylish Shu Restaurant and lively Juls Bar.
Darcy's Belfast
3.3 km
A warm, family-run bistro serving hearty traditional Irish dishes with local ingredients in a cozy Belfast setting.
Causeway Cafe
3.3 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Causeway Cafe in Belfast—your cozy retreat for delicious meals and warm hospitality.
The Teal Monkey
3.4 km
A lively modern European restaurant in Belfast blending quirky decor, fresh flavors, and live music for a memorable dining experience.
Zen
3.6 km
Stylish Asian fusion dining in Belfast’s city centre, with creative sushi, bold flavours, and a sleek, modern interior.
Hope Street Restaurant Belfast
3.7 km
Fresh Northern Irish cuisine in an intimate Belfast setting, perfectly positioned for pre-theatre dining and special occasions.
The Ginger Bistro
3.7 km
Vibrant modern European bistro celebrating local produce and exceptional hospitality in Belfast's city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Yard Shop - Furniture & Accessories
2.1 km
Discover Belfast’s charming Yard Shop, a treasure trove of antique and rustic furniture and home accessories that bring character to any space.
Olive & Rose Apparels
3.1 km
Explore the latest fashion trends at Olive & Rose Apparels, a stylish boutique in the heart of Belfast, offering unique clothing for every occasion.
Deja Vu
3.2 km
Discover Belfast’s premier boutique for exquisite pre-loved designer fashion and exceptional personal service on Lisburn Road.
Noor Bazaar
3.4 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
Emporio
3.5 km
Discover timeless elegance and bespoke designer womenswear at Emporio, Belfast’s trusted boutique for over 30 years.
Esik Creations
3.6 km
Explore Esik Creations in Belfast, where local artistry meets unique gifts for every occasion, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
3.7 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating Northern Irish creativity and cultural character
Connswater Shopping Centre
3.8 km
Discover Connswater Shopping Centre: Belfast's vibrant retail hub with diverse shops, dining options, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Great Northern Mall
3.8 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
American Madness
3.9 km
East Belfast’s cult vintage shop for reworked Americana, denim, military surplus, and retro band and Harley-Davidson tees.
New Look
4.0 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
AllSaints
4.0 km
Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
House of Fraser
4.0 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Boux Avenue
4.0 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
4.0 km
Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Parador Lodge
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Parador Lodge, Belfast's charming pub destination.
Cutters Wharf
1.7 km
A stylish riverside bar and restaurant in Belfast blending modern European cuisine with lively entertainment and scenic river views.
Hatfield House
2.6 km
Historic Irish pub on Belfast’s Ormeau Road blending vintage charm, hearty food, live music, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
The Woodworkers
3.3 km
Belfast's top rotating tap room: craft beers on rotation, timber warmth, board games, and platters in Queen's Quarter's lively heart.
Lavery's
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavery's, Belfast's premier pub and comedy club, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
The Points
3.5 km
A warm, old-school Dublin Road pub with regular live music, a glowing log fire and an unpretentious atmosphere for evening sessions.
Filthy McNastys
3.5 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
Limelight Lounge
3.5 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
Pug Uglys
3.7 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
3.8 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Margot
3.9 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
The Broken shaker Belfast
3.9 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
The Garrick
3.9 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Bittles Bar
4.0 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Scratch Nightclub
3.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Alibi
3.3 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Cabaret Supper Club
3.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
3.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
4.2 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Ollie's Belfast
4.3 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
4.5 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
4.5 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Club Honey
4.7 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Kremlin
4.7 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Shoe Factory
4.7 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
4.7 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Anthology Ni
4.7 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
4.8 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
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
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Parks & Gardens
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
