Belfast Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Belfast
For over a century, the political situation of Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, has been the source of strife, first between the Crown-loyal Protestants and Irish Catholics, and more recently between the United Kingdom and the European Union.
Sitting on the banks of the River Lagan where it meets the Irish Sea, the city owes its name to this coastal condition, with "Belfast" derived from the Irish phrase “Beal Feirste” which means “Mouth of the Sand-bank Ford.”
Belfast was established as a town in 1613 and was mainly settled by the English and Manx Anglicans. Later, they were joined by Scottish Presbyterians and French Huguenot refugees, who introduced the production of linen, an industry that carried Belfast trade to the Americas.
In the 19th century Belfast rapidly evolved from a market town to a major industrial port, and was eventually granted a city status by Queen Victoria in 1888. The plentiful supply of cheap Catholic labor from outlying rural districts helped attract the English and Scottish settlers to the city. While the investment they brought was welcomed, the rich newcomers were Protestants, which was also the cause of insecurity and had helped trigger deadly sectarian riots between the Catholic and Protestant populations in 1864 and 1886.
In 1920–21, as the two parts of Ireland drew apart, Belfast suffered greatly during the violence accompanied that partition, as well as during the more recent conflict, known as the Troubles, from the late 1960s to 1998. Although heavily bombed during World War II and despite various episodes of sectarian conflict, Belfast has retained much of its historical heritage: 19th- & 20th-century architecture, beautiful landscapes, and more. There are plenty of spots in the city for tourists to marvel at, including:
Belfast City Hall – finished in 1906 in the Edwardian style which later influenced the Victoria Memorial in Calcutta, India, and Durban City Hall in South Africa.
Crown Liquor Saloon – internationally famous as the setting for the classic film, Odd Man Out, starring James Mason. The restaurant panels in the Crown Bar were originally made for Britannic, the sister ship of Titanic, built in Belfast.
Grand Opera House – completed in 1895 and bombed several times during the Troubles; now restored to its former glory and oriental theme.
Belfast Cathedral – aka St Anne's Cathedral, unusual in serving two separate dioceses.
For a closer acquaintance with these and other grand attractions of Belfast, take this self-guided introductory tour.
Sitting on the banks of the River Lagan where it meets the Irish Sea, the city owes its name to this coastal condition, with "Belfast" derived from the Irish phrase “Beal Feirste” which means “Mouth of the Sand-bank Ford.”
Belfast was established as a town in 1613 and was mainly settled by the English and Manx Anglicans. Later, they were joined by Scottish Presbyterians and French Huguenot refugees, who introduced the production of linen, an industry that carried Belfast trade to the Americas.
In the 19th century Belfast rapidly evolved from a market town to a major industrial port, and was eventually granted a city status by Queen Victoria in 1888. The plentiful supply of cheap Catholic labor from outlying rural districts helped attract the English and Scottish settlers to the city. While the investment they brought was welcomed, the rich newcomers were Protestants, which was also the cause of insecurity and had helped trigger deadly sectarian riots between the Catholic and Protestant populations in 1864 and 1886.
In 1920–21, as the two parts of Ireland drew apart, Belfast suffered greatly during the violence accompanied that partition, as well as during the more recent conflict, known as the Troubles, from the late 1960s to 1998. Although heavily bombed during World War II and despite various episodes of sectarian conflict, Belfast has retained much of its historical heritage: 19th- & 20th-century architecture, beautiful landscapes, and more. There are plenty of spots in the city for tourists to marvel at, including:
Belfast City Hall – finished in 1906 in the Edwardian style which later influenced the Victoria Memorial in Calcutta, India, and Durban City Hall in South Africa.
Crown Liquor Saloon – internationally famous as the setting for the classic film, Odd Man Out, starring James Mason. The restaurant panels in the Crown Bar were originally made for Britannic, the sister ship of Titanic, built in Belfast.
Grand Opera House – completed in 1895 and bombed several times during the Troubles; now restored to its former glory and oriental theme.
Belfast Cathedral – aka St Anne's Cathedral, unusual in serving two separate dioceses.
For a closer acquaintance with these and other grand attractions of Belfast, take this self-guided introductory tour.
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Belfast Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Belfast Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: Ireland » Belfast (See other walking tours in Belfast)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 11
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Ireland » Belfast (See other walking tours in Belfast)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 11
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Belfast City Hall
- Ulster Hall
- Crown Liquor Saloon
- Grand Opera House
- St. Mary's Church
- Belfast Cathedral
- Albert Memorial Clock
- The Big Fish
- Beacon of Hope
- Victoria Square Shopping Centre
- St. George's Market
1) Belfast City Hall (must see)
Belfast City Hall is a grand Edwardian Baroque masterpiece that dominates Donegall Square in the heart of Belfast’s city centre. Designed by Sir Alfred Brumwell Thomas and completed in 1906, this iconic building features gleaming Portland stone, a striking copper-domed roof rising 173 ft, and ornate detailing that reflects Belfast’s civic pride. It was built on the former site of the White Linen Hall to mark the city’s growing importance—thanks to its booming linen, shipbuilding, and engineering industries—and to cement its new city status granted in 1888.
Step inside and you’ll be greeted by splendid interiors such as the grand marble staircase, mosaic floors, and exquisitely carved oak and marble-clad spaces like the Council Chamber and Banquet Hall—noting the latter was rebuilt after damage during the Belfast Blitz in 1941. The stained-glass windows are spectacular, showcasing the Belfast coat of arms, portraits of British monarchs, and emblems of the city’s historical provinces. Guided tours last about 45 minutes and offer access to areas normally closed to the public, alongside a 16-room Visitor Exhibition that brings Belfast’s past to life via multilingual audio guides.
Outside, the beautifully landscaped grounds are home to significant memorials and statues, including the impressive Titanic Memorial Garden, the Cenotaph and Garden of Remembrance for war victims, and notable figures such as Queen Victoria, Edward Harland, Mary Ann McCracken, Winifred Carney, and James Magennis VC. These serene lawns offer a peaceful counterpoint to the bustling city around them.
For visitors, City Hall is much more than a civic landmark—it’s a hub of culture and community. Drop into the Bobbin Coffee Shop inside, peruse the gift shop for local keepsakes, or join a free tour (first-come, first-served) at scheduled times. Evening illuminations beautifully accent the exterior, making it a particularly atmospheric spot after dark. Whether you're fascinated by architecture, history, or simply looking for a picturesque gathering place, Belfast City Hall is an essential stop on your journey through Belfast.
Step inside and you’ll be greeted by splendid interiors such as the grand marble staircase, mosaic floors, and exquisitely carved oak and marble-clad spaces like the Council Chamber and Banquet Hall—noting the latter was rebuilt after damage during the Belfast Blitz in 1941. The stained-glass windows are spectacular, showcasing the Belfast coat of arms, portraits of British monarchs, and emblems of the city’s historical provinces. Guided tours last about 45 minutes and offer access to areas normally closed to the public, alongside a 16-room Visitor Exhibition that brings Belfast’s past to life via multilingual audio guides.
Outside, the beautifully landscaped grounds are home to significant memorials and statues, including the impressive Titanic Memorial Garden, the Cenotaph and Garden of Remembrance for war victims, and notable figures such as Queen Victoria, Edward Harland, Mary Ann McCracken, Winifred Carney, and James Magennis VC. These serene lawns offer a peaceful counterpoint to the bustling city around them.
For visitors, City Hall is much more than a civic landmark—it’s a hub of culture and community. Drop into the Bobbin Coffee Shop inside, peruse the gift shop for local keepsakes, or join a free tour (first-come, first-served) at scheduled times. Evening illuminations beautifully accent the exterior, making it a particularly atmospheric spot after dark. Whether you're fascinated by architecture, history, or simply looking for a picturesque gathering place, Belfast City Hall is an essential stop on your journey through Belfast.
2) Ulster Hall
Ulster Hall is one of Northern Ireland’s most cherished cultural landmarks. Opened in May 1862 and designed by acclaimed Victorian architect William J. Barre, the hall was built to elevate Belfast’s artistic profile. Over a century and a half later, it remains a Grade A-listed jewel—fondly known as the "Grand Dame of Bedford Street"—with a beautifully restored red-brick façade, ornate columns, and an intricate iron-and-glass canopy that draws the eye of every visitor.
Walking through its doors, tourists encounter an interior rich in historic grandeur. The majestic Mulholland Grand Organ—a fine Victorian instrument donated in the 1860s—still commands attention from the stage. Along the walls, a series of atmospheric paintings by Joseph Carey depict the growing city's 19th-century landscape, adding a storytelling dimension to the space. A major refurbishment, completed in 2009, enhanced sightlines, reintroduced glazed windows, doubled capacity with a flexible ground-floor seating layout, and added modern amenities—all while preserving the hall’s classical charm.
Ulster Hall’s reputation is built on the legendary moments it has hosted. During World War II, it served as a dance hall beloved by American troops, later becoming Northern Ireland’s premier boxing venue, and from the 1960s onward, a spiritual home for rock music. Its stage has welcomed luminaries ranging from Charles Dickens and James Joyce to music icons like Led Zeppelin—who debuted “Stairway to Heaven” here in 1971—and contemporary stars like U2, Coldplay, Muse, and the Ulster Orchestra. Today, its calendar is a vibrant mix of live concerts, comedy nights, classical recitals, and even sporting events—a highlight of any visitor’s cultural itinerary.
With free entry to admire its artistry and guided tour options for deeper insight, this venue remains a captivating bridge between the city’s storied past and its exciting artistic present.
Walking through its doors, tourists encounter an interior rich in historic grandeur. The majestic Mulholland Grand Organ—a fine Victorian instrument donated in the 1860s—still commands attention from the stage. Along the walls, a series of atmospheric paintings by Joseph Carey depict the growing city's 19th-century landscape, adding a storytelling dimension to the space. A major refurbishment, completed in 2009, enhanced sightlines, reintroduced glazed windows, doubled capacity with a flexible ground-floor seating layout, and added modern amenities—all while preserving the hall’s classical charm.
Ulster Hall’s reputation is built on the legendary moments it has hosted. During World War II, it served as a dance hall beloved by American troops, later becoming Northern Ireland’s premier boxing venue, and from the 1960s onward, a spiritual home for rock music. Its stage has welcomed luminaries ranging from Charles Dickens and James Joyce to music icons like Led Zeppelin—who debuted “Stairway to Heaven” here in 1971—and contemporary stars like U2, Coldplay, Muse, and the Ulster Orchestra. Today, its calendar is a vibrant mix of live concerts, comedy nights, classical recitals, and even sporting events—a highlight of any visitor’s cultural itinerary.
With free entry to admire its artistry and guided tour options for deeper insight, this venue remains a captivating bridge between the city’s storied past and its exciting artistic present.
3) Crown Liquor Saloon
The Crown Liquor Saloon, often simply called the Crown Bar, is a dazzling testament to Victorian-era grandeur. Established in 1826 as the Railway Tavern and beautifully refurbished in 1885 by the Flanagan family, this pub has been gloriously preserved and is today managed by the National Trust while operated by Nicholson’s. It remains one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic pubs, celebrated as an outstanding example of a Victorian “gin palace”.
Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a riot of craftsmanship: intricate mosaic floors, luxurious stained glass, a majestic red‑granite bar, and an ornate ceiling accented by gas‑style lanterns. Much of this opulence is the handiwork of Italian artisans, originally commissioned for Belfast’s churches, who lent their expertise—after hours—to help fashion this captivating space. More than just decoration, it’s an immersive snapshot of 19th-century artistry and design.
One of the Crown’s most charming features is its ten carved wooden “snugs”—intimate booths once favored by discreet customers during the Victorian age. Each snug is fitted with original match-strike plates and bell‑push systems that patrons could use to summon staff. The stained‑glass windows framing these alcoves are adorned with fanciful motifs—clowns, pineapples, fairies—that add a whimsical touch.
Beyond its beauty, the Crown Bar holds a poignant place in Belfast’s history. Suffering damage during the Troubles—owing to its proximity to the frequently bombed Europa Hotel—it has withstood much yet endured thanks to successive restorations, including major efforts by the National Trust in 1978 and again in 2007. Today, it stands proud as both a vibrant gathering spot and a living monument to Belfast’s resilience, blending history, architecture, and traditional pub culture in one unforgettable visit.
Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a riot of craftsmanship: intricate mosaic floors, luxurious stained glass, a majestic red‑granite bar, and an ornate ceiling accented by gas‑style lanterns. Much of this opulence is the handiwork of Italian artisans, originally commissioned for Belfast’s churches, who lent their expertise—after hours—to help fashion this captivating space. More than just decoration, it’s an immersive snapshot of 19th-century artistry and design.
One of the Crown’s most charming features is its ten carved wooden “snugs”—intimate booths once favored by discreet customers during the Victorian age. Each snug is fitted with original match-strike plates and bell‑push systems that patrons could use to summon staff. The stained‑glass windows framing these alcoves are adorned with fanciful motifs—clowns, pineapples, fairies—that add a whimsical touch.
Beyond its beauty, the Crown Bar holds a poignant place in Belfast’s history. Suffering damage during the Troubles—owing to its proximity to the frequently bombed Europa Hotel—it has withstood much yet endured thanks to successive restorations, including major efforts by the National Trust in 1978 and again in 2007. Today, it stands proud as both a vibrant gathering spot and a living monument to Belfast’s resilience, blending history, architecture, and traditional pub culture in one unforgettable visit.
4) Grand Opera House (must see)
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Belfast, the Grand Opera House is an architectural gem and cultural linchpin. Designed by famed theatre architect Frank Matcham, it opened in December 1895 as the “New Grand Opera House and Cirque”. A striking example of Victorian “oriental style” theatre architecture, its main auditorium is widely regarded as the best preserved in the UK.
For over a century, the Grand Opera House has been a pulsating centre for the arts. It has survived tumultuous times, including wartime repurposing, bomb damage during the Troubles, and even a brush with demolition—but was rescued and listed as Northern Ireland’s first protected building in the 1970s. After extensive renovations in 1980, 2006, and a major £12.2 million restoration in 2020–21, both its ornate auditorium and modern foyers shine brighter than ever.
Today, the venue boasts a 1,058‑seat main auditorium, the intimate Baby Grand studio, and stylish bars on multiple floors. Its annual pantomime tradition continues unabated, delighting families since the very first season featured “Bluebeard” in 1895. Beyond entertainment, the Opera House offers behind‑the‑scenes tours and a compelling heritage exhibition, ideal for history lovers.
A visit here offers more than a show—it’s a journey through Belfast’s cultural soul. Whether you're drawn to grand musicals, drama, opera, dance, or comedy—or simply wish to admire its ornate mouldings and historic atmosphere—the Grand Opera House presents an unforgettable experience at the crossroads of past and present.
For over a century, the Grand Opera House has been a pulsating centre for the arts. It has survived tumultuous times, including wartime repurposing, bomb damage during the Troubles, and even a brush with demolition—but was rescued and listed as Northern Ireland’s first protected building in the 1970s. After extensive renovations in 1980, 2006, and a major £12.2 million restoration in 2020–21, both its ornate auditorium and modern foyers shine brighter than ever.
Today, the venue boasts a 1,058‑seat main auditorium, the intimate Baby Grand studio, and stylish bars on multiple floors. Its annual pantomime tradition continues unabated, delighting families since the very first season featured “Bluebeard” in 1895. Beyond entertainment, the Opera House offers behind‑the‑scenes tours and a compelling heritage exhibition, ideal for history lovers.
A visit here offers more than a show—it’s a journey through Belfast’s cultural soul. Whether you're drawn to grand musicals, drama, opera, dance, or comedy—or simply wish to admire its ornate mouldings and historic atmosphere—the Grand Opera House presents an unforgettable experience at the crossroads of past and present.
5) St. Mary's Church
Saint Mary's Church is a Roman Catholic church located in Chapel Lane and Smithfield area of Belfast. It is mother church for the city and a mensal parish. It was opened on this site in 1784. At the time, it was the only Roman Catholic church in the then town of Belfast after the relaxation of some of the Penal Laws. The church grounds contain an undistinguished grotto dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes.
In the census of 1782, there were only 365 Catholics recorded living in Belfast. Following a collection from the local Church of Ireland and Presbyterian congregations, funds were donated to the building of Saint Mary's Church.
In 1813, the church's pulpit was donated by the Anglican Vicar of Belfast, Canon Turner, continuing the positive relationship between the Roman Catholic church and the local Protestant congregations. Later, in 1815, Saint Patrick's Church was built to accommodate the growing Catholic population of the city.
As Belfast's Catholic population grew after the famine, the church was deemed too small and thus architect John O'Neill was contracted to design a church big enough for the burgeoning congregation. In 1868 the church was enlarged and renovated into a new Romanesque style building.
The church holds two masses a day from Sunday - Monday, and three a day on Friday and Saturday. The 6pm Mass on both Friday and Saturday are held in the Irish language.
In the census of 1782, there were only 365 Catholics recorded living in Belfast. Following a collection from the local Church of Ireland and Presbyterian congregations, funds were donated to the building of Saint Mary's Church.
In 1813, the church's pulpit was donated by the Anglican Vicar of Belfast, Canon Turner, continuing the positive relationship between the Roman Catholic church and the local Protestant congregations. Later, in 1815, Saint Patrick's Church was built to accommodate the growing Catholic population of the city.
As Belfast's Catholic population grew after the famine, the church was deemed too small and thus architect John O'Neill was contracted to design a church big enough for the burgeoning congregation. In 1868 the church was enlarged and renovated into a new Romanesque style building.
The church holds two masses a day from Sunday - Monday, and three a day on Friday and Saturday. The 6pm Mass on both Friday and Saturday are held in the Irish language.
6) Belfast Cathedral (must see)
Belfast Cathedral, also known as Saint Anne's Cathedral, was built on the same grounds as the parish church of Saint Anne. The original church, built in 1776, was encased by Belfast Cathedral upon its construction in 1899. The only remnant of the first church is the Good Samaritan window, located in the sanctuary.
Belfast Cathedral was designed by architect Sir Thomas Drew. It was completed in 1904. The church was expanded in 1924 and again in 1932. Tragically, the cathedral was nearly destroyed during World War II. Due to The Troubles and staggering finance issues, reconstruction wasn't completed until 1981.
Today, church-goers and visitors to Belfast will see the beauty of the mosaics, stone sculptures and gothic-influenced arches. The feature that arguably stands out the most is the Spire of Hope, a 131-foot (40 meter) steel spire. The Spire of Hope was added in 2007.
Another feature that visitors should note is the Belfast Cathedral organ. It was built in 1907 by Harrison and Harrison, and then rebuilt in 1975. It is the second-largest pipe organ in Northern Ireland.
Visitors are welcome inside Belfast Cathedral. It is open from 10 AM to 4 PM from Tuesday through Saturday. It is also open for church services at 11 AM on Sundays.
Belfast Cathedral was designed by architect Sir Thomas Drew. It was completed in 1904. The church was expanded in 1924 and again in 1932. Tragically, the cathedral was nearly destroyed during World War II. Due to The Troubles and staggering finance issues, reconstruction wasn't completed until 1981.
Today, church-goers and visitors to Belfast will see the beauty of the mosaics, stone sculptures and gothic-influenced arches. The feature that arguably stands out the most is the Spire of Hope, a 131-foot (40 meter) steel spire. The Spire of Hope was added in 2007.
Another feature that visitors should note is the Belfast Cathedral organ. It was built in 1907 by Harrison and Harrison, and then rebuilt in 1975. It is the second-largest pipe organ in Northern Ireland.
Visitors are welcome inside Belfast Cathedral. It is open from 10 AM to 4 PM from Tuesday through Saturday. It is also open for church services at 11 AM on Sundays.
7) Albert Memorial Clock
The Albert Memorial Clock, often simply called the Albert Clock, is one of Belfast’s most recognisable landmarks. Perched in Queen’s Square at the east end of High Street, this Gothic Revival clock tower was built between 1865 and 1869 as a memorial to Prince Albert, consort to Queen Victoria. Designed by the accomplished architect W. J. Barre, also famed for Belfast's Ulster Hall, it stands approximately 113 feet (34 meters) tall.
Constructed of pinkish Scrabo sandstone, the tower blends French and Italian Gothic styles, adorned with flying buttresses, heraldic lions, angels, gargoyles, floral motifs, and crowned by an ornate octagonal belfry. A striking life-size statue of Prince Albert in the robes of a Knight of the Garter, sculpted by S. F. Lynn, stands on the west face. Inside, a two-tonne bell cast by Francis Moore could once be heard up to 8 miles away.
One of the tower’s most intriguing quirks is its lean—an eastward tilt of about four feet—earning it the affectionate nickname “Belfast’s Leaning Tower of Pisa.” The tilt resulted from the tower being built on reclaimed, marshy ground near the River Farset, supported on timber piles. Ornamental pinnacles and the statue canopy were removed in 1924 to ease stress, and a substantial restoration between 2000 and 2002 reinforced the foundations and reinstated lost carvings.
Today, the Albert Clock stands as a poetic fusion of Victorian craftsmanship, civic pride, and idiosyncratic charm. It survived damage from an IRA bomb in 1992, and its tilted stance and intricate stonework make it a delightful must-see for architecture buffs, history lovers, and photographers alike. Whether admired by day or illuminated at night, it richly rewards a stroll through Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Constructed of pinkish Scrabo sandstone, the tower blends French and Italian Gothic styles, adorned with flying buttresses, heraldic lions, angels, gargoyles, floral motifs, and crowned by an ornate octagonal belfry. A striking life-size statue of Prince Albert in the robes of a Knight of the Garter, sculpted by S. F. Lynn, stands on the west face. Inside, a two-tonne bell cast by Francis Moore could once be heard up to 8 miles away.
One of the tower’s most intriguing quirks is its lean—an eastward tilt of about four feet—earning it the affectionate nickname “Belfast’s Leaning Tower of Pisa.” The tilt resulted from the tower being built on reclaimed, marshy ground near the River Farset, supported on timber piles. Ornamental pinnacles and the statue canopy were removed in 1924 to ease stress, and a substantial restoration between 2000 and 2002 reinforced the foundations and reinstated lost carvings.
Today, the Albert Clock stands as a poetic fusion of Victorian craftsmanship, civic pride, and idiosyncratic charm. It survived damage from an IRA bomb in 1992, and its tilted stance and intricate stonework make it a delightful must-see for architecture buffs, history lovers, and photographers alike. Whether admired by day or illuminated at night, it richly rewards a stroll through Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
8) The Big Fish
The Big Fish—also known locally and lovingly as the Big Blue Fish—is one of Belfast’s most eye-catching and cherished public art pieces. Created by artist John Kindness in 1999, this 10-meter-long ceramic mosaic sculpture was installed at Donegall Quay, near the Lagan Lookout and Customs House, to mark the regeneration of the River Lagan. Officially a salmon (yes, the signs confirm it!), it stands right where the River Farset, from which Belfast gets its name (Béal Feirste meaning "mouth of the Farset"), meets the Lagan. The sculpture is hard to miss—not just because of its size, but because it sits at the very heart of the city’s history.
What makes The Big Fish truly special is its skin. Each shimmering blue ceramic tile is printed with texts, illustrations, and images that collectively tell the story of Belfast. From Tudor-era maps to 20th-century headlines, it’s like a visual time capsule. There are even drawings by schoolchildren and community members, adding a personal and playful layer to the piece—including an Ulster Fry and a cheerful soldier. Contributions came from local schools and day centres, while historic imagery was provided by the Ulster Museum. Inside the fish, there’s a literal time capsule too, containing images, poetry, and documents about the city.
More than just a quirky photo spot, the Big Fish is a symbol of Belfast’s cultural rebirth and deep connection to the water that shaped it. Locals might chuckle at its playful nicknames, but there’s no denying that this gleaming salmon has swum its way into the city’s heart—and become one of its most iconic landmarks.
What makes The Big Fish truly special is its skin. Each shimmering blue ceramic tile is printed with texts, illustrations, and images that collectively tell the story of Belfast. From Tudor-era maps to 20th-century headlines, it’s like a visual time capsule. There are even drawings by schoolchildren and community members, adding a personal and playful layer to the piece—including an Ulster Fry and a cheerful soldier. Contributions came from local schools and day centres, while historic imagery was provided by the Ulster Museum. Inside the fish, there’s a literal time capsule too, containing images, poetry, and documents about the city.
More than just a quirky photo spot, the Big Fish is a symbol of Belfast’s cultural rebirth and deep connection to the water that shaped it. Locals might chuckle at its playful nicknames, but there’s no denying that this gleaming salmon has swum its way into the city’s heart—and become one of its most iconic landmarks.
9) Beacon of Hope
The Beacon of Hope is a public art sculpture located in Thanksgiving Square, created by Scottish artist Andy Scott. Standing 19.5 meters tall, it was completed in 2007 after six years of planning and construction. The sculpture portrays a graceful female figure made of stainless steel and bronze, spiraling upwards with an outstretched arm holding a symbolic "ring of thanksgiving." At her feet rests a bronze globe that represents peace, harmony, and the global connections of Belfast—marking cities to which its people and industries have migrated or contributed. Over time, the sculpture has earned affectionate local nicknames such as "Nuala with the Hula," "The Bell on the Ball," and "The Thing with the Ring."
More than just a beautiful addition to Belfast’s skyline, the Beacon of Hope carries a deep message of reconciliation and gratitude. The idea for the sculpture was originally inspired by Myrtle Smyth, who was moved by her visit to Thanks-Giving Square in Dallas, Texas. Andy Scott brought that vision to life, with the piece becoming a symbol of the city's renewal and its ongoing journey towards peace. Fabrication was carried out by P.F. Copeland in Newtownabbey, and the bronze globe was cast by Beltane Studios in Peebles. The sculpture quickly gained popularity and has since been embraced by the Belfast City Council, local businesses, tourism boards, and even television companies as a symbol of civic pride.
Today, the Beacon of Hope stands not only as one of the tallest sculptures in Belfast but also as one of its most iconic. With its soaring figure, powerful symbolism, and universal message, it has become a beloved landmark—celebrated for both its artistic merit and its representation of Belfast’s resilient and outward-looking spirit.
More than just a beautiful addition to Belfast’s skyline, the Beacon of Hope carries a deep message of reconciliation and gratitude. The idea for the sculpture was originally inspired by Myrtle Smyth, who was moved by her visit to Thanks-Giving Square in Dallas, Texas. Andy Scott brought that vision to life, with the piece becoming a symbol of the city's renewal and its ongoing journey towards peace. Fabrication was carried out by P.F. Copeland in Newtownabbey, and the bronze globe was cast by Beltane Studios in Peebles. The sculpture quickly gained popularity and has since been embraced by the Belfast City Council, local businesses, tourism boards, and even television companies as a symbol of civic pride.
Today, the Beacon of Hope stands not only as one of the tallest sculptures in Belfast but also as one of its most iconic. With its soaring figure, powerful symbolism, and universal message, it has become a beloved landmark—celebrated for both its artistic merit and its representation of Belfast’s resilient and outward-looking spirit.
10) Victoria Square Shopping Centre
Victoria Square is a shopping center with nearly 100 shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. The shopping center is comprised of four floors and a glass dome with a 360 degree view of the city. There is also a residential area with more than 100 individual apartments.
Construction on the shopping center was completed in 2008. It as one of the largest and most expensive property developments in northern Ireland. The design by Building Design Partnership and T+T Design includes a rooftop covered in sedum, which is meant to lower the carbon footprint of the building.
The anchor tenant at Victoria Square is House of Fraser. Other stores in the shopping center include Guess, H&M, Hugo Boss, Kiehls, Swarovski and Urban Outfitters. Restaurants such as Frankie & Benny's, Nando's, Starbucks and TGI Friday's are also available. Those looking for entertainment at Victoria Square will find an eight-screen cinema with 3D films and premier seating.
The shops of Victoria Square are open daily. Shoppers can visit Victoria Square from 9:30 AM to 6 PM Monday through Wednesday, 9:30 AM to 9 PM on Thursday and Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM on Saturday and 1 PM to 6 PM each Sunday.
Construction on the shopping center was completed in 2008. It as one of the largest and most expensive property developments in northern Ireland. The design by Building Design Partnership and T+T Design includes a rooftop covered in sedum, which is meant to lower the carbon footprint of the building.
The anchor tenant at Victoria Square is House of Fraser. Other stores in the shopping center include Guess, H&M, Hugo Boss, Kiehls, Swarovski and Urban Outfitters. Restaurants such as Frankie & Benny's, Nando's, Starbucks and TGI Friday's are also available. Those looking for entertainment at Victoria Square will find an eight-screen cinema with 3D films and premier seating.
The shops of Victoria Square are open daily. Shoppers can visit Victoria Square from 9:30 AM to 6 PM Monday through Wednesday, 9:30 AM to 9 PM on Thursday and Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM on Saturday and 1 PM to 6 PM each Sunday.
11) St. George's Market (must see)
Saint George's Market is the last surviving Victorian covered market in Belfast. It was built in three phases between 1890 and 1896. Before 1890, Saint George's Market was an open market and most likely contained a slaughterhouse and a meat market.
The original (pre 1890) market was smaller than the new structure. It was built in red brick with sandstone dressing. Externally it features Roman styled arches with Latin and Irish inscriptions - the City’s Latin motto "what shall we give in return for so much?" and the Irish phrase "Red Hand of Ireland".
The main entrance arch displays the Belfast Coat of Arms. This newly covered market opened to the public on 20 June 1890. By the 1980s, Saint George’s Market had developed into a general market and it became the last of Belfast’s thriving Victorian markets.
Today Saint George’s Market is primarily used as a food market, however a number of other events are held at the site. These range from food festivals, art initiatives, exhibitions, charity launches, fashion shoots and live music events. The market also regularly holds music concerts. Acts including Duffy, Newton Faulkner, Deep Purple, Biffy Clyro and Mark Ronson have played the venue.
The original (pre 1890) market was smaller than the new structure. It was built in red brick with sandstone dressing. Externally it features Roman styled arches with Latin and Irish inscriptions - the City’s Latin motto "what shall we give in return for so much?" and the Irish phrase "Red Hand of Ireland".
The main entrance arch displays the Belfast Coat of Arms. This newly covered market opened to the public on 20 June 1890. By the 1980s, Saint George’s Market had developed into a general market and it became the last of Belfast’s thriving Victorian markets.
Today Saint George’s Market is primarily used as a food market, however a number of other events are held at the site. These range from food festivals, art initiatives, exhibitions, charity launches, fashion shoots and live music events. The market also regularly holds music concerts. Acts including Duffy, Newton Faulkner, Deep Purple, Biffy Clyro and Mark Ronson have played the venue.
Walking Tours in Belfast, Ireland
Create Your Own Walk in Belfast
Creating your own self-guided walk in Belfast is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Belfast Victorian Architecture Jewels
Described as “modestly scaled, undemonstrative, somewhat solid in aspect, and usually restrained (sometimes even austere) in its use of external decoration”, the urban landscape of Belfast has been influenced by the demands of shipbuilding and linen industry, much as transitioning between culture, arts, commerce, and education. Still, the architectural spectrum of the city is quite broad and... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
The Troubles and Peace Process Landmarks
Decades past the official end of The Troubles in Belfast, the price of peace in Northern Ireland remains high. One of the means with which to secure it, back in 1969, was erecting a wall to physically separate the capital's warring Protestant and Catholic communities. Known since as the Peace Wall, the structure has become a popular tourist attraction for the multiple murals painted thereon... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
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