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The 10 fascinating places you need to visit while in Belfast

Editorial Feature

It can be difficult finding the best spots to check out in a new city. There are museums, bars and monuments to consider, not to mention where to stay during your trip and places to dine in style.

That’s why Checklist has put together this list of 10 highlights you don’t want to miss on your visit to Belfast.

1. The Europa Hotel

First thing’s first; where do you stay during your trip? Located in the heart of Belfast, The Europa is one of Hastings Hotels’ flagship properties. The property is celebrating its 50th year of welcoming visitors both humble and world-renowned, such as the Clintons and the Dalai Lama.

There’s plenty for those interested in Belfast’s history, as The Europa played a significant part in the city’s eventful past. It is currently holding an installation in the lobby depicting the hotel’s role in the transformation of Belfast into the city it is today.

Find out more at europahotelbelfast.com

2. The Queens Film Theatre

This theatre first opened its doors in 1968, bringing the best independent, international and cult cinema to Belfast. The iconic venue will be showing the 2022 film Belfast, a semi-autobiographical telling the story of a working-class family during the difficult times of the late 1960s.

They also feature a brochure archive, displaying artwork from every film shown at the theatre for the last 50 years. Perfect for taking a stroll through the cinematic history of northern Ireland.

Find out more at queensfilmtheatre.com

3. Belfast Black Taxi Tours

Who knows a city better than its taxi drivers? The Belfast Black Taxi Tours take advantage of the wealth of knowledge and local history hoarded by local cabbies to show you the real Belfast.

Experience a memorable tour of the cities most significant and entertaining locations from the backseat of a genuine Belfast black cab. The company offers sightseeing tours, a political mural tour, and a Game of Thrones tour.

Find out more at blacktaxitours.com

4. Titanic Belfast

Visit the very spot the original Titanic was designed, built and launched more than a century ago. The disastrous story of the passenger liner is chronicled in full details at the Titanic Belfast, a real piece of British and Irish history.

The striking museum is unmissable and draws the eye of all passersby. Located next to the Slipway that the historic ship was launched from, the museum also houses the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Vessel in the world. A perfect museum for history buffs and fans of the film.

Find out more at titanicbelfast.com

5. The Observatory

The tallest cocktail bar in all of Belfast and northern Ireland, The Observatory is located on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel Belfast.

Featuring an evolving cocktail menu and panoramic views of the entire city, sip in style at the height of luxury. Hotel residents are a priority, so if you’re serious about your afternoon tea make sure you book a room at the Grand Central.

Find out more at grandcentralhotelbelfast.com

6. Line of Duty Tour

Do you know a super-fan of the BBC crime drama that gripped viewers across the UK? Treat them to a walking tour of the city of Belfast, visiting the locations for some of the show’s most iconic scenes.

Venture behind the scenes at the award-winning hit show Line of Duty. The tour lasts two hours and hits all the highlights of the show, culminating in a visit to the infamous graffiti-covered alleyway the characters would meet in for clandestine discussions.

Find out more at britmovietours.com

7. Belfast Cathedral

Belfast boasts one of the most impressive cathedrals in the area; St Annes. One of the city’s top tourist attractions, the cathedral’s construction features intricate stonework and inspiring stained-glass windows.

Discover the peaceful and stunning interior of the home of Belfast’s faith. The building houses The Spire of Hope, The Titanic Pall and the Tomb of Lord Carson.

Find out more at belfastcathedral.org

8. The Linen Quarter

The area that once housed the headquarters for Ireland’s global linen industry has been renovated and converted into international businesses and the heart of Belfast’s hospitality.

The historic Victorian red-brick exteriors are still on display as you walk the length of the bustling quarter. With more than 40 cafes, bars and restaurants, you’ll be spoilt for choice for your relaxed city lunch.

Find out more at linenquarter.org

9. CS Lewis Square

Celebrating the life and achievements of author and Belfast native CS Lewis, this park is littered with statues of characters from his most popular series; The Chronicles of Narnia.

Convene with Aslan over the fate of the magical land, or pop in for tea with Mr Tumnus with seven stunning displays of modern art depicting classic literary characters.

Perfect for a little Narnia fan and your inner child, make sure you check out this landmark for a dollop of nostalgia.

Find out more at visitbelfast.com

10. Cave Hill Country Park

Prepare to see the city from a perspective like no other, as you traverse the hills of the country park to gain a vantage point overlooking the entire city.

A great idea for those that want a breath of fresh air or get some exercise during their city break, Cave Hill Country Park has various walking trails leading across the area of outstanding natural beauty.

Cave Hill features a playground, archaeological sites, Belfast Castle and scenic views aplenty.

Find out more at belfastcity.gov.uk

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

Laura Forsyth

After graduating with a Journalism and English Literature degree, Laura has gone on to work for national television and as a reporter for the UK’s biggest news outlets. With years of experience in the media industry, Laura is now the managing editor for Hurst Media Company, and the food, travel and health editor for checklists.co.uk

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