About Belfast
Belfast is the largest city in Northern Ireland, and the capital of the Northern part of the island of Ireland that is still part of the United Kingdom. As a result, Belfast is something of a meeting point of cultures between mainland Britain and Ireland. Belfast was the center of the ongoing struggle between Irish nationalists and British loyalists, and during the 70s and 80s was one of the world's most dangerous cities. However, the dark period known as the Troubles came to an end with the Good Friday agreement in 1998. Nowadays, Belfast is no more dangerous than any other city of comparable size in Europe.
Perhaps it's this dark past that has made Belfast so future-facing. Once an industrial powerhouse and center of shipbuilding, Belfast has reinvented itself as a major player in the aerospace industry. The city combines old world charm with cutting edge modernity. And, as the capital of Northern Ireland, it's also a cultural hub. Whatever you like to do, chances are you'll find it in Belfast.
Things to do in Belfast
As an ancient city with a fascinating history, Belfast isn’t short of things to do. Whether you like to learn about history, admire gorgeous Irish scenery, or dance the night away to the strains of traditional music in a lively pub, Belfast has you covered. You could spend years in the city and never exhaust the possibilities for entertainment.
- Explore the history of the world’s most famous ship at Titanic Belfast. The Titanic was built in Belfast, and this state-of-the-art museum explores the history of the Belfast shipyards and the creation of the ill-fated ocean liner. It also explains in detail the tragic fate of the ship and her passengers.
- Shop like a local at St. George's market. This Victorian covered market has been a fixture of the city for generations and remains a fun and lively place to wander through the stalls and soak up the unique atmosphere.
- Venture behind bars at Crumlin Road Gaol. This notorious prison was built in the 19th century and housed many notorious figures from the Troubles. The scene of several executions, the prison is now a fascinating museum and also a surprisingly popular wedding venue.
- Breathe in the tranquility at Belfast Botanic Gardens. This 28-acre facility brings a tropical feel to this northern climate and is the perfect place to unwind and stroll among hundreds of different plant species.
- Dance the night away at the Dirty Onion. This iconic pub is one of the best places in the city to catch traditional Irish folk music. Musicians perform seven nights a week, so no matter when you visit, you'll be able to soak up the local culture.
Transit options in Belfast
- Belfast is home to both an international airport and a smaller city airport that handles flights to the rest of the UK and parts of Ireland. The international airport is connected to the city by bus 300, which brings passengers to the city center in around 50 minutes.
- Lanyon Place is Belfast's main train station. From here, you can catch trains all over Ireland. The Enterprise train service connects Belfast with Dublin.
- Translink provides bus service throughout Belfast. The city center is relatively compact and easy to get around, and bus services are reliable.
Luggage storage in Belfast
Belfast's compact size makes it extremely walkable for a capital city. And in many ways, the city is best explored on foot. The quaint streets and unique neighborhoods make Belfast a great pedestrian city.
You'll want to travel light. Which is why Bounce offers convenient luggage storage in Belfast, along with many other cities around the globe. Drop off any size bags for as long as you like in the knowledge they'll be safely looked after until you return. That way, you can enjoy everything Belfast has to offer.
Attractions and activities near Belfast
- Lough Neagh: Just outside Belfast, Lough Neagh is the largest lake in Britain. Large as it is, the lake is surprisingly shallow for its size, though it can get rough on a windy day. If the weather allows, it's a great place to go fishing or boating or simply go for a walk and admire the scenery. Make sure to leave your bags at a luggage storage in Belfast before making the trip out to this beautiful lake.
- Giant's Causeway: Marvel at the unique volcanic rock formation of the Giant's Causeway. One of Northern Ireland's most popular tourist attractions, the basalt columns of this coastal formation are one of the world's most unique locations for photographs. Roughly an hour's drive from Belfast, the Giant's Causeway is steeped in myths and legends and is a perfect place to explore the wilder side of Northern Ireland.
- Down Royal: Get your heart pumping at Down Royal racecourse. Nothing beats the excitement of putting some money on a horse, and you don't need to be an expert to try your luck. Whether you win big or not, you'll have a great time watching these majestic animals run and enjoying the thrilling atmosphere.