Linen Hall Library
The Linen Hall Library is the oldest library in Belfast and the last subscribing library in Ireland. Over 225 years old, the library has one of the largest Robert Burns’ collections outside of Scotland as well as early Belfast and Ulster printed books. With an exciting calendar of events and exhibitions it is well worth a visit. More information
Barnett Demesne
Enjoy outstanding beauty within easy reach of Belfast city centre at Barnett Demesne, located next to Malone House. The park features an arboretum, daffodil garden, ecotrail, orienteering routes and children’s playground (near Shaw’s Bridge). For those looking for a little bit more adventure, try the bike trails and jump parks. More information
Botanic Gardens
Botanic Gardens was established in 1828 by the Belfast Botanic and Horticultural Society, in response to public interest in horticulture and botany. Originally known as the Belfast Botanic Garden, the site contained exotic tree species and impressive plant collections from the southern hemisphere, many of which can still be seen in the park. It’s also home to the Palm House and the Tropical Ravine. More information
Belfast Art Galleries
Belfast has a range of art galleries including the Belfast Print Workshop and Golden Thread Gallery, which display art by local and international artists. Catch a free exhibition at the Higgin Gallery at Malone House of Belfast’s finest amateur and professional artists and look out for the public art sculpture pieces throughout the impressive gardens. The Naughton Gallery at Queen’s University has a vibrant rolling programme of works from the university’s own collections, found on the first floor of the iconic Lanyon building. At Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich, the Gerard Dillon art gallery hosts an inspiring programme of high quality visual arts exhibitions in the Gaeltacht quarter. Space Craft is a hidden gem in Fountain Centre where the shop/gallery assistants are the Artist/Designer/Makers themselves which gives you a special insight into the work on display and the people who make it.
Oh Yeah Music Centre
A dedicated music centre in the heart of Belfast, the Oh Yeah Centre is a must see for any music fan wanting to explore the story of music from this prolific part of the world. The exhibition consists of four elements including a series of storyboards plotting the history of Northern Ireland music from folk to Snow Patrol and audio visual displays showing the likes of Them, The Undertones, Stiff Little Fingers and Gary Moore. More information
