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The world famous Northern Ireland city lies on the northeastern coast of the country. Evidence of Bronze Age structures originated 5,000 years ago. The Iron Age people also settled here and these ancient fort structures remain scattered about the hills of Belfast.
Though a long history of wealthy families established homes here, the village was largely small and economically insignificant during the Middle Ages. Norman John De Courcy constructed a castle in the 1100s despite the fact that the opposing O’Neill family had a prominent presence. A descendant of the O’Neill family constructed the Grey Castle in the 1300s.
Belfast began experiencing substantial growth in the 1600s, when Sir Arthur Chichester started developing the architectural features of the community. Belfast officially acquired borough status in 1613. English and Scottish settlers played a part in the population growth under the Plantation of Ulster plan.
Belfast bloomed as a commercial and industrial centre in the 1700s, having linen, rope making, shipbuilding and tobacco production facilities. The Harland and Wolff shipbuilding factory became one of the largest in the world, employing over 35,000 people. Belfast shipbuilders constructed the famous passenger ship Titanic.
The Society of the United Irishmen formed in Belfast in 1791, in attempts of bringing together all Irish, regardless of religion. The city experienced its share of political trouble starting in 1888. Local residents argued and rioted over whether or not Ireland should enjoy freedom from the British crown and rule itself. Belfast officially acquired city status in 1921. During World War II, the Germans mercilessly bombed Belfast by air leaving 1,000 dead and tens of thousands without homes.
Belfast endured political and social strife again beginning in the 1960s, with the much-celebrated war between the Catholic Nationalists and the Protestant Unionists. Bombings, protests, rioting and violence lasted until an agreed cease-fire in 2001.
Activities and Attractions
A city the size of Belfast offers a multitude of destinations to explore and enjoy. Companies hold tours daily by bus, car, on bike and by foot. A popular tour evolves around the Titanic. Constructed here in the early 1900s, visitors learn the various aspects of Belfast connected with the famous passenger ship.
Famed author C.S. Lewis grew up in Belfast. Explore the city by seeing where the author played, schooled, lived and what particular areas in Belfast inspired the fictional world of Aslan.
Guided tours might also include boat excursions along the coast. Visitors may take in the scenic beauty that surrounds Belfast while visiting archaeological and geological areas of interest.
Cycling and walking enthusiasts venture through the city or into the many gardens, parks and wooded areas of Belfast.
Cave Hill Castle Park includes a moderately strenuous hike up the slopes to the breathtaking fortress. Once on top, visitors get a commanding view of the surroundings. The castle welcomes guests and the second floor hosts a visitor’s centre and exhibits explaining the history of the castle and Belfast. The cellar hides a popular restaurant that serves everything from a quick cup of tea to full meals. Traveling down the slopes guests encounter five caves, of which no one for sure knows the origin or purpose. The park itself has vast open areas, gardens and children’s play areas.
The visually stunning Botannical Gardens express the Victorian history of Belfast. Browse through the hundreds of tropical plants in the Palm House or the Tropical Ravine. Stroll through the park and encounter flower gardens, rose gardens and a selection of mature trees amongst a bowling green, playground and walking paths.
Thrill seekers appreciate the majesty and splendour of the Divis and Black Mountains. Reaching a height of 1,562 feet (478 metres) above sea level, the destination offers the chance to engage in hiking or rock climbing. Enjoy the view overlooking Belfast or visit one of the sites harbouring ancient hill forts and megaliths.
Visitors searching for cultural entertainment find that Belfast has a host of galleries and theatres that include the Grand Opera House. The elegant Victorian structure offers world class live performances covering vast genres of entertainment that include comedy, classical and modern music concerts, ballets and opera.
The Ulster Museum contains collections covering everything from archaeology and geology to cultural and natural history. See prehistoric tools, Bronze Age jewellery and medieval armour. Compare evolving fashion in the costume exhibit or marvel at the size of dinosaurs.
The Ulster Folk and Transport Museum visualizes the history of life, work and play in the early years of Ireland. Transportation exhibits include bicycles to wagons.
Places to Stay and Dining
Guests indulge in luxury stays at hotels boasting a European flair. Revel in surroundings filled with designer fabrics and and elegant finishing touches that include marble accents. Dine in style while enjoying soft piano music performed live or enjoy a cocktail in secluded lounges.
Visitors relax and have a fine dining experience at the Barking Dog restaurant. Order two, three or four course meals that might include flaked crab on toasted sourdough bread, followed by smoked haddock with cheddar-mashed potatoes and minted peas. Desserts offered include homemade honey ice cream topped with a rich chocolate sauce.
Accommodation in Belfast
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