Belfast: The Complete Guide
For over a century, Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, has been a focal point of political strife. This began with conflicts between Crown-loyal Protestants and Irish Catholics, and more recently between the United Kingdom and the European Union.
Situated on the banks of the River Lagan where it meets the Irish Sea, the city derives its name from the Irish phrase “Beal Feirste,” meaning “Mouth of the Sand-bank Ford.”
Belfast was established as a town in 1613, initially settled by English and Manx Anglicans. Later, Scottish Presbyterians and French Huguenot refugees joined them, introducing linen production, an industry that expanded Belfast’s trade to the Americas.
In the 19th century, Belfast transformed rapidly from a market town into a major industrial port, achieving city status granted by Queen Victoria in 1888. The city’s growth was fueled by an influx of cheap Catholic labor from rural areas, which attracted English and Scottish settlers. While their investment was welcomed, the wealthy Protestant newcomers exacerbated sectarian tensions, leading to deadly riots between Catholic and Protestant populations in 1864 and 1886.
During the partition of Ireland in 1920–21, Belfast experienced significant violence. The city also suffered greatly during the more recent conflict known as the Troubles, from the late 1960s to 1998. Despite being heavily bombed during World War II and enduring various episodes of sectarian conflict, Belfast has preserved much of its historical heritage.
History of Belfast
Early History of Belfast
Belfast’s history dates back to the Iron Age, with evidence of ancient settlements around the area. Its name is derived from the Irish phrase “Beal Feirste,” meaning “Mouth of the Sand-bank Ford,” indicative of its coastal and riverine location.
Establishment of Belfast as a Town
Belfast was formally established as a town in 1613. Initially settled by English and Manx Anglicans, it soon attracted Scottish Presbyterians and French Huguenot refugees. These new inhabitants introduced linen production, which became a cornerstone of Belfast’s economy and facilitated trade with the Americas.
Industrial Revolution and City Status
In the 19th century, Belfast underwent rapid industrialization, evolving from a market town into a major industrial port. This growth was driven by its linen, shipbuilding, and rope-making industries. In 1888, Queen Victoria granted Belfast city status. The influx of cheap labor from rural areas, primarily Catholic, helped attract English and Scottish settlers. However, the arrival of wealthy Protestant newcomers heightened sectarian tensions, leading to violent riots in 1864 and 1886.
Belfast During Partition and the Troubles
The partition of Ireland in 1920–21 caused significant turmoil in Belfast, exacerbating existing sectarian conflicts. The city was deeply affected during the Troubles, a period of violent conflict from the late 1960s to 1998, marked by clashes between nationalist/republican and unionist/loyalist communities.
World War II and Post-War Period
During World War II, Belfast was heavily bombed, suffering extensive damage. Despite this, the city managed to preserve much of its historical heritage. The post-war period saw various redevelopment projects aimed at revitalizing the city.
Modern Belfast
In recent decades, Belfast has transformed into a vibrant city known for its cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and economic revitalization. Efforts to promote peace and reconciliation have helped heal divisions, making Belfast a dynamic and welcoming destination for visitors.
Visiting Belfast for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Belfast on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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Best places to See in
1. Titanic Belfast
Explore the history of the famous ship at Titanic Belfast, an interactive museum located on the site of the original shipyard where the RMS Titanic was built. The museum offers nine galleries with exhibits that detail the ship’s construction, voyage, and legacy.
2. Belfast Castle
Visit Belfast Castle, a stunning 19th-century mansion set on the slopes of Cave Hill. The castle offers beautiful gardens, scenic views of the city, and a visitor center that delves into the castle’s history and the surrounding area.
3. St. George’s Market
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of St. George’s Market, one of the best markets in the UK and Ireland. It operates every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, offering a variety of local produce, crafts, food, and live music.
4. Ulster Museum
Discover a wide range of exhibits at the Ulster Museum, located in the Botanic Gardens. The museum features collections of art, history, and natural sciences, including everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.
5. Belfast City Hall
Tour Belfast City Hall, an iconic landmark in the heart of the city. The building’s stunning architecture is complemented by its rich history, which you can explore through guided tours and exhibitions.
6. Crumlin Road Gaol
Visit Crumlin Road Gaol, a 19th-century prison that once held some of Belfast’s most notorious criminals. The guided tours provide fascinating insights into the prison’s history, including its role during the Troubles.
7. Botanic Gardens
Stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens, a public park featuring a Victorian-era Palm House, the Tropical Ravine, and extensive flowerbeds. The gardens are a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature in the city.
8. Peace Walls
Take a tour of the Peace Walls, which separate Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods in Belfast. The murals and graffiti on these walls tell the story of the city’s troubled past and its journey toward peace.
9. Cave Hill Country Park
Hike up Cave Hill Country Park, offering panoramic views of Belfast and the surrounding countryside. The park features walking trails, archaeological sites, and the iconic Napoleon’s Nose, a cliff that is said to have inspired Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels.”
10. The MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre)
Experience contemporary art at The MAC, Belfast’s premier arts venue. The center hosts a variety of exhibitions, theater performances, and workshops, making it a hub for cultural activities in the city.
