Northern Ireland’s capital city is the perfect gateway to the tippy top of this country, and a force to be reckoned with. While taking in the welcoming Irish hospitality and discovering what’s on offer, don’t miss eight of the best photo spots in Belfast.
1. Titanic Quarter
It’s well known that Belfast had a strong ship building industry; in particular, being the place where the RMS Titanic was designed and constructed. The Titanic Quarter has transformed from the old shipyards to a modern hub. The Titanic Belfast Museum presides over the area with its ship’s bow shape overlooking the River Lagan. Its unique, angular shape makes it one of the most photographed buildings in Ireland – even by night when it is lit up.
2. Commercial Court
With its colourful neon umbrellas that light up the sky, buildings and street, Commercial Court is the perfect evening or nighttime photo spot. Conveniently, it’s located outside of the iconic Duke of York pub.
3. Street art
Belfast has an exceptional street art scene, giving travellers an artsy surprise when exploring the city. If you’re on the hunt to capture as much street art as possible, Cathedral Quarter is the place to go. Belfast’s most famous pieces include Long Runs The Fox on North Street, Dance by Candlelight on Hill Street and tributes to Prince and Jon Snow from Game of Thrones (a nod to Ireland being one of the main filming locations for the television series).
4. Lanyon Building
With its red brick and sandstone exterior, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were on the set of Harry Potter at Lanyon Building. Named for its architect, Charles Lanyon, this grandiose building is part of Queen’s University that was founded in 1845.
5. The Dome
Aptly named, The Dome is just as you would imagine. Found in the heart of Belfast in the Victoria Square shopping centre, The Dome shows off with its 360-degree rooftop views – one of the best panoramas of the city.
6. Belfast City Hall
Built in the classical Rennaissance style, the Belfast City Hall exudes an air of grandeur. This lends itself to being one of the most photographed buildings in Belfast. The City Hall has since had exterior panels added that come to life at night, changing for seasonal events. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the beautiful interior as well – it’s free to visit!
7. C.S. Lewis Square
Located in East Belfast is the C.S. Lewis Square, the area which was the author’s hometown. As the author of the thrilling The Chronicles of Narnia series, it is an honour for Belfast to have a square dedicated to him. Decorated with seven sculptures of characters from The Lion, The Witch & the Wardrobe, this will delight adults and children alike.
8. The Big Fish
Designed by John Kindness, this 10-metre sculpture was installed on Donegall Quay in 1999 to celebrate the regeneration of the River Lagan. The Big Fish’s scales are individual mosaics that depict the history and spirit of Belfast, so snap a selfie then take a closer inspection to read each mosaic tile.
We hope this has inspired you to visit Belfast, and Ireland! Join us on a Globus or Cosmos tour through the Emerald Isle.
