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Situated on the eastern slopes of Cave Hill, a hill overlooking Belfast, Belfast Castle is a magnificent structure built in 1872 by Charles Lanyon in Northern Ireland… Remarkably well-preserved, the castle is often visited by tourists, and the area is a great place for a historical tour of Belfast! Not to mention the sumptuous panoramic views over the city and its valleys! Don’t forget your camera: it’d be a shame to miss out!
Belfast castle – © kilhan
Today’s Belfast Castle replaces an earlier castle built by the Normans in the 12th century. Destroyed in the meantime, it wasn’t until 1872 that a new castle was built for the third Marchioness of Donegal. The latter was built in a typically Scottish style, much appreciated by Queen Victoria.
The castle and gardens were finally sold to the City of Belfast in 1934. They are then used for receptions ranging from wedding parties to christenings and balls…
Finally, the château was renovated in the 1980s and opened to tourists, who have since flocked here in droves. It has to be said that the site is quite exceptional!
Good news for visitors: both the château and its gardens are open to the public. There’s no need for an admission ticket, or an exorbitant price tag: the entire visit is free! You’ll discover the different rooms of the castle, with its bedrooms, gigantic dining room, kitchens and playrooms.
Then it’s on to the magnificent, colorful gardens, with their superb trees and flowers. You can also enjoy the scenery by trying one of the restaurants on the castle’s outskirts, and even buy a few souvenirs in the on-site shop…
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
Antrim Rd, Belfast (County Antrim) - Northern Ireland
54.642889, -5.942167
30 minutes
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