Visit belfast

Belfast Castle
The familiar landmark of Belfast Castle, overlooks the city from a prominent site 400 feet above sea level on the slopes of Cave Hill. This magnificent sandstone building, recently restored by Belfast City Council's Parks Department, has close associations with the city's history.
The first 'Belfast Castle' was built by the Normans in the late 12th century. On the same site a stone and timber castle was erected in 1611. The home of Sir Arthur Chichester, barron of Belfast, was burned down in 1708, leaving only street names (eg Castle Place) to mark the site.

Belfast Zoo
Belfast Zoo owes its origins to public transport in the form of trams. Horse drawn trams of the Belfast Street Tramway Company and the steam tramway of the Cavehill and Whitewell Tramway company carried passengers, from Belfast, to the outlying villages of Whitewell and Glengormley. In 1911 the line was taken over by the Belfast Corporation who decided to build a playground and pleasure gardens - Bellevue Gardens - at the end of the line, to encourage customers and provide a recreational area. During the 20's and 30's Bellevue was a popular destination for day excursions and, in 1933, it was decided to have a ' representative zoological collection' on the site. In 1934, twelve acres on either side of the Grand Floral Staircase were laid out as Bellevue Zoo. In the first year there were 284,713 visitors.
City of Belfast Zoological Gardens
During the 50's and 60's the Zoo went into decline and when the Parks Committee took control of the facility in 1962, it was clear that drastic restoration measures were needed. In 1974, the development of the new Belfast Zoological Gardens was started. Since then, Belfast City Council has fully supported this development and has shown concern for, and awareness of, the major conservation problems facing wildlife today. Through their efforts, the City Council have provided and maintained a unique recreational and conservation facility of which they, and the people of Belfast, can be justly proud.

Cave Hill
Cave Hill and the other surrounding mountains are big distinguishing factors in North Belfast. Their beauty and extent should be clear from the first moment you enter the region. There are many things to do on Cave Hill and the surrounding area. Firstly, there are many paths that lead you up and help you experience the stunning views and get a feel for the mountain. Nearby are such places like Belfast Castle and there is even an adventure playground for the kids! Situated to the right of Cave Hill is Belfast Zoo. This is a key attraction in Belfast and can make a great family day out.

Colin Glen Forest Park
The site for recreation is situated on the Belfast / Lisburn border. Made up of over 200 acres of parklands, wildlife ponds and a lake, the site is divided by the Colin River. Officially recognised as the starting point of the Ulster way, the forest park leads you to the Belfast Hills including Divis Mountain. This ‘green lung’ is a haven of tranquillity. The resident Woodland Café offers you further relaxation with a tantalising healthier approach.

Floral Hall
Purchased in 1912 by the Belfast Corportation, the Cavehill and Whitewell Tramway features Belfast Zoo and Floral Hall. Opened in 1930 as a concert and dance venue, Floral Hall was a successful building, becoming Belfast's largest and most popular concert venue, seating up to 1000 people at a time. The building has an unusual Art Deco yet modern style of architecture, featuring thing metal windows, smooth walls, and a circular porch. It is one of only a handful of buildings surviving from the early 20th century in the city. However, since the troubles, concerts ended in the hall, and it eventually shut down and became a storage facility for the zoo.

The Odyssey
Odyssey is a multi-functional entertainment and educational venue situated at Queen’s Quay, Belfast. The venue offers an indoor Arena which seats up to 10,000 people and is the home of the Belfast Giants Ice Hockey Team; the Pavilion, which features the 12 screen multiplex Storm Cinemas, ten-pin bowling, an IMAX® Cinema and a range of restaurants, bars and leisure facilities; W5 – whowhatwherewhenwhy, an interactive discovery centre where families can enjoy an exhilarating educational experience.

Queen’s University of Belfast
Queen's University is unique. Few other Universities across the world combine international recognition for research and national recognition for innovation in the curriculum with the student-centred ethos and leadership role in the community which are the hallmarks of Queen’s.
A Queen's University degree is valued by employers who recognise the high standards of our education. Of our 2004 graduates, 90 per cent were employed or undertaking further study after graduating (Queen's Careers Service Guide 2006 figures).

Places to visit and things to do in Belfast