Belfast Castle travel guide

Belfast Castle is a storied landmark, nestled on the slopes of Cave Hill in Belfast. The castle you see today was constructed in the 19th century, specifically between 1867 and 1870.

The building was commissioned by the 3rd Marquess of Donegall, replacing the original Belfast Castle, which was erected in the city center in the late 12th century but was destroyed by fire in 1708. The new castle design, a blend of Scottish baronial and Victorian architecture, was the work of architect John Lanyon.

Ownership of the castle passed to the Shaftesbury family following the marriage of the 3rd Marquess's daughter. In 1934, the 9th Earl of Shaftesbury donated the property to the city of Belfast.

In the 1970s, a comprehensive renovation was undertaken to preserve its historical and architectural significance. Today, Belfast Castle serves as a popular venue for weddings, events, and tourism, offering panoramic views over the city and Belfast Lough.

With beautifully landscaped gardens and an on-site visitor center, Belfast Castle remains a symbol of the city's rich heritage and a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Belfast Castle boasts a distinctive architectural style, blending Scottish Baronial and Victorian influences, which sets it apart from other historical structures. Its position on the slopes of Cave Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of Belfast City and Belfast Lough, making it a prime location for photography and sightseeing. The castle grounds feature meticulously maintained gardens, including a charming walled garden that hosts a variety of colorful plants and flowers.

A particularly enchanting aspect is the castle's Cat Garden, inspired by the legend that good fortune will come to those who have a cat living on the premises. Visitors can embark on a fun treasure hunt to find nine cat sculptures hidden throughout the garden. Inside the castle, the elegantly decorated rooms and the grand staircase showcase exquisite period details, providing an authentic glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its former residents. Additionally, Belfast Castle's Cellar Restaurant, located in the original wine cellar, offers a unique dining experience with a menu that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients.

Located in the dynamic Belfast, the popular Belfast Castle is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Belfast or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Northern Ireland.

Belfast is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Belfast offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Belfast and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable St George's Market, Botanic Gardens, Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre, Ulster Museum, and Peace Wall Belfast.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Belfast has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Belfast, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Northern Ireland!

Belfast Castle is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Belfast, Northern Ireland. If you're flying in, Belfast International Airport is approximately 11 miles (17.7 km) away from Belfast. From there, you can easily reach Belfast Castle by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Belfast, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Belfast Castle, which is located 3.2 miles (5.2 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Belfast Castle, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Antrim Rd, Belfast BT15 5GR, UK.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Belfast Castle!

The best time to explore Belfast Castle is during the late spring and summer months, from May to September. During this period, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and garden explorations. The extended daylight hours also allow visitors to make the most of their time, particularly in June and July when the days are longest.

Visiting in spring offers the added charm of blooming flowers in the castle’s gardens, while summer provides vibrant greenery and an array of seasonal events. Autumn, from late September to early November, is another excellent time for those who enjoy quieter surroundings and picturesque fall foliage. Although winter visits can be cozy and less crowded, the shorter days and cooler temperatures might limit outdoor activities.

To avoid peak crowd levels, consider visiting on weekdays or early in the morning. Additionally, keep an eye out for special events such as historical reenactments, garden tours, and local festivals that often take place during the summer months, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit.

To truly enjoy your visit to Belfast Castle, joining a tour that features this popular castle in Belfast is highly recommended. As one of Northern Ireland's most iconic attractions, Belfast Castle draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Belfast Castle starting at just 152.8 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Belfast Castle and other top attractions in Belfast than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Belfast include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Belfast Castle's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Belfast Castle and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind castle in Northern Ireland.

Conveniently explore Belfast Castle and plenty more captivating attractions in Belfast by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Belfast Castle and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Belfast has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Belfast Castle below.

Aside from Belfast Castle, Belfast is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Belfast, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely St George's Market, Botanic Gardens, and Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre.

St George's Market is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Belfast, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of St George's Market is 12 East Bridge St, Belfast BT1 3NQ, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in Belfast is Botanic Gardens. Like St George's Market, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 8,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is College Park Ave, Botanic Ave, Belfast BT7 1LP, UK.

Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Belfast. This museum and top attraction in Belfast has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,600 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of 53-55 Crumlin Rd, Belfast BT14 6ST, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Belfast below.