There was a time when golfers visiting Northern Ireland would have bypassed Belfast out of safety concerns. Thanks to a lasting peace and a wave of investment into the capital, that era is now a distant memory.
Many golfers visiting the great golf courses of Northern Ireland now choose to base themselves in Belfast for several days at a time. The benefits of this choice are obvious… You can play some of the best courses in Ireland, enjoy the sites and scenes of the city, and unpack the suitcase just once.
If you’re visiting Belfast during your golf trip to Northern Ireland, here are five things to see while exploring the city.
Titanic Belfast
Built on the former site of the Harland & Wolff shipyard, Titanic Belfast has quickly become one of the most popular attractions in Ireland. It was here, of course, that the HMS Titanic was constructed for the White Star Line. A fact that sparks a bit of cringey humor from locals, who are often quick to point out that “she was fine when she left here.”
The striking facade of Titanic Belfast is 126 feet tall – the same height as Titanic’s hull – and pays homage to the city’s maritime heritage. Inside, the story of the Titanic and its fateful maiden voyage plays out in extraordinary detail. Depending on how much of the story you choose to see, your visit could easily clock in longer than the runtime of the blockbuster film.
Black Cab Tour
The famous Black Cab Tours of Belfast are a fun and unique way to take in the best sites in the city. The tour begins by exploring the sites in the heart of the city, then moves through the historic shipyards, and eventually past the Peace lines and their famous murals. All in the company of a personal guide who may end up as one of the highlights of your trip to Belfast.
If you plan to enjoy a Black Cab Tour, reservations are always recommended.
Crown Liquor Saloon
The Crown Liquor Saloon is one of the best-known pubs in Northern Ireland, and will likely have a crowd to prove it. The pub is a great example of a Victorian-era gin palace, complete with private “snugs” for those who preferred to keep their exploits hidden from view. The “snugs” are often still equipped with an old metal strike plate for matches and an antique bell for alerting staff. Thankfully, both are no longer in service.
As mentioned, the crowd at Crown Liquor Saloon is usually lively and large. If you can, go early, snag a snug, and enjoy some pub grub with a little people watching.
The Observatory
After a full-day of exploration in Belfast, The Observatory at the Grand Central Hotel is an outstanding place to soak it all in over your favorite cocktail. The Observatory’s claim to fame is its place as the tallest bar in all of Ireland. The cocktails are superb. The view, as you might imagine, is spectacular. Especially as the last rays of the sunset blanket the city below.
Whether you’re capping a memorable day in Belfast, or you’re toasting the final evening of your trip, The Observatory is always a fine choice.
Photo Credit: The Grand Central Belfast
St. George’s Market
If you happen to be in Belfast over a weekend, the St. George’s Market is a must-visit experience. Located just steps from the River Lagan, a market has stood on this site since the early 17th century. Today, it’s a foodie’s paradise.
As you stroll through the market, you can sample the best produce in Belfast, enjoy delicious sweets over coffee, and take in a set or two by local musicians. Simply put… Every visit to the St. George’s Market is time well spent.
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