Background

Storybox at Portview Trade Centre, Belfast

Discover Storybox, a creative gift shop nestled in Belfast’s historic Portview Trade Centre, where heritage meets artistry and community spirit.

5

Storybox is a unique gift shop located within the historic Portview Trade Centre in Belfast. Housed in a former linen spinning mill dating back to the early 1900s, Storybox offers visitors a creative and inspiring shopping experience amid a vibrant hub of artistic and cultural enterprises. The shop is part of a dynamic community focused on heritage, innovation, and social value, making it a distinctive destination for gifts and storytelling in Belfast.

A brief summary to Storybox

  • Studio A111, PortView Trade Centre, 310 Newtownards Rd, Belfast, BT4 1HE, GB
  • +447710004160
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter shopping experience and to explore other creative businesses within Portview Trade Centre.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the historic industrial architecture of the former linen mill.
  • Check for any special events or exhibitions hosted at Portview Trade Centre to enrich your visit.
  • Use public transport like the nearby Sydenham Train Station for convenient access and to reduce parking challenges.
widget icon

Storybox location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

Unlock the Best of Storybox

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Storybox

A Heritage Site Transformed into a Creative Hub

Storybox is situated inside the Portview Trade Centre, a building steeped in Belfast's industrial history. Originally constructed as the Strand Spinning Mill in the late 19th to early 20th century, the site was a key player in the city's linen industry, notable for pioneering the employment of women and blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative technologies. With the decline of linen production, the mill ceased operations in the early 1980s and was repurposed into a vibrant workspace for creative businesses, preserving many original architectural features while offering modern facilities.

Storybox: A Gift Shop with a Narrative

Within this historic setting, Storybox stands out as a gift shop that emphasizes storytelling through its curated selection of items. The shop offers a range of unique and artistic gifts that reflect the creative spirit of the trade centre. Visitors can expect to find locally inspired products that celebrate Belfast’s culture and heritage, making it a perfect spot for meaningful souvenirs or special presents.

Community and Social Impact at Portview

Portview Trade Centre is more than just a commercial space; it is a community-focused project aimed at social regeneration. The site incorporates educational hubs and social tenancy projects designed to foster skills development and community engagement. Supported by initiatives such as the Heritage Lottery Fund, the trade centre aspires to be a carbon-neutral site that integrates heritage conservation with social value, contributing positively to one of Northern Ireland’s most economically challenged areas.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The architecture of Portview Trade Centre retains much of its industrial character, with exposed brickwork, large windows, and spacious interiors that inspire creativity. Storybox benefits from this unique environment, which blends historic charm with contemporary artistic energy. The centre also hosts events and exhibitions, adding cultural vibrancy to the visitor experience.

Location and Accessibility

Located on Newtownards Road, just a short drive from Belfast city centre, Storybox is easily accessible by car and public transport. The trade centre is close to Sydenham Train Station and major road networks, making it convenient for visitors exploring Belfast’s creative quarters. The surrounding area, while historically industrial, is undergoing revitalization, with Portview playing a key role in this urban renewal.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors to Storybox can enjoy a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere where creativity and history intersect. The shop’s setting within a lively trade centre filled with artists, designers, and cultural organizations creates a unique shopping environment. Whether browsing for gifts or soaking in the heritage ambiance, Storybox offers a memorable Belfast experience that combines past and present in a meaningful way.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Storybox

Popular Hotels near Storybox

Select Currency