Belfast Castle

Belfast Castle which includes heritage architecture, a castle and a fountain
Belfast Castle
Belfast Castle
Belfast Castle
Belfast Castle


The city of Belfast in Northern Ireland is steeped in history and the impressive Belfast Castle is a significant part of this heritage. Built in the early 19th Century to replace the original Norman fortification that once stood in the centre of the city, Belfast Castle is an opulent structure built in the grandiose Scottish Baronial style.

Unlike the original, Belfast Castle does not stand in the city centre, but on the outskirts of Belfast in the lush greenery of Cavehill Country Park. Its location on the slopes of Cavehill means visitors to this lavish Georgian retreat will not only be able to enjoy the secluded wonder of the castle, its many turrets and extensive grounds, but also unique, breathtaking views over Belfast, the lakes and stretching Northern Irish coastline beyond.

Belfast Castle’s impressive architecture attracts historians and art lovers alike. The building underwent an extensive renovation in the 1970s and now plays host to countless events, conferences and fine dining. Particularly worthy of note is Belfast Castle’s Cellar Restaurant, which is renowned in the area for its fresh, mouth-watering menus, made from the best local produce. And don’t worry – this airy and bright restaurant is not as dark as the name might suggest!

A visit to Belfast Castle is guaranteed to make an impression. Situated on the Antrim Road close to Fortwilliam Golf Club, drive up from Belfast City for afternoon tea, head to the restaurant, or if you fall in love with the place, you could even tie the knot here.

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The Lansdowne Hotel

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Titanic view luxury apartment Belfast in the leafy castle view area of Belfast

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The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Belfast Castle

Belfast Castle offers a variety of enjoyable activities for visitors, including guided tours that delve into its rich history. The surrounding grounds are perfect for leisurely walks, providing stunning views of the city and beyond. For golf enthusiasts, there are nearby golf courses where one can enjoy a round amidst picturesque scenery. Whether you’re exploring the castle or taking in the lush landscapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

For shopping near Belfast Castle, visit Victoria Square Shopping Centre and Castle Court Shopping Centre, both 1.9km away, offering a variety of shops and family-friendly entertainment. St. George's Market, also 1.9km away, provides a vibrant atmosphere with local produce and crafts.

Recreation

Cave Hill Country Park offers a tranquil retreat, perfect for relaxation and wellness amidst stunning landscapes. Enjoy leisurely walks with breathtaking views of Belfast. For vibrant energy, visit the SSE Arena for thrilling sports events or Ulster Hall for captivating live music performances, both just a short distance away.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Jetpack Adventures, located 3.1km from Belfast Castle, where you can soar above the water. For karting enthusiasts, Eddie Irvine Sports is 6.8km away, offering exhilarating races. Hike the scenic Blackhead Path, situated 8.1km from the castle, for stunning views and outdoor adventure.

Nightlife

At Belfast Castle, the nightlife is vibrant and diverse. The MAC Theatre offers a cultural experience with captivating performances, while Vertigo Titanic Park invites families to enjoy thrilling arcade adventures. For a cinematic experience, Cineworld Belfast provides the perfect romantic setting with the latest films.

Find the best attractions near Belfast Castle

When visiting Belfast Castle, you'll find a variety of attractions to explore, including the Maritime Museum, urban parks, and the historic prison, catering to culture enthusiasts and families alike. For a pleasant stay, consider hotels near Belfast Castle or the beautiful Ballygally Castle. Don't miss the stunning views of Belfast Lough, which add to the charm of this delightful area.

  • Titanic Belfast: Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Titanic at this award-winning maritime museum. Situated 1.9km from Belfast Castle, it offers interactive exhibits and stunning architecture, reflecting the city's rich maritime heritage.
  • Queen's University of Belfast: A prestigious modern university located 2.5km away, Queen's University is known for its beautiful campus and vibrant atmosphere. Explore its impressive architecture and enjoy the lively city vibes that surround this educational hub.
  • Waterfront Hall: Just 1.9km from Belfast Castle, this renowned entertainment venue hosts a variety of shows and concerts. With a family-friendly atmosphere, it's the perfect place to enjoy live performances and create lasting memories.

Best time to go to Belfast Castle

The best time to visit Belfast Castle can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Belfast Castle falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Belfast Castle falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Belfast Castle

For a budget-friendly visit to Belfast Castle, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield the best rates, with Mondays often being the least expensive days to stay. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and refine your search for eco-friendly options. To save further, look into package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities. Additionally, explore free attractions in the area to enhance your experience without stretching your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Belfast Castle are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Belfast Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Belfast Castle is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Belfast Castle is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and ideal type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking at Belfast Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.