Belfast Travel Guide

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 230
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Situated at the mouth of the River Lagan on Belfast Lough, Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland, a city surrounded by low hills and with a fascinating albeit complex history which still can be seen leaving its mark down every street.

Belfast became known around the world in the three decades of The Troubles, as Irish republican terrorists targeted the city with gun and bomb attacks. In the long-running conflict between Protestants loyal to British rule in the remaining London-governed Irish counties and Catholics who wanted an independent and united Ireland, parts of Belfast became lawless, no-go areas. To this day, the city bears the scars of this complex history, and so the place has a raw character which endures and offers a unique experience for visitors.

In the centre of town however Belfast remains a stunning, raw, earthy city. The City Hall in Donegall Square lays at the heart, the focal point where the buses all come into town and where shoppers and workers get together.

The City Hall, dating back to 1906, is modelled on its counterpart all the way out in Durban in South Africa, a fine example ...
... of early twentieth century architecture from the heart of the British Empire. Today the City Hall houses the council chambers and administrative offices, however around the grounds you''ll also find a statue of Queen Victoria and a memorial to the victims of the Titanic sinking. Excellent guided tours around the City Hall are available for visitors too.

Whilst the City Hall remains Belfast''s grand centrepiece, running north from here you''ll find Donegall Place, a bustling shopping street which takes you towards the Cathedral Quarter where the stunning Saint Anne''s Cathedral and the Arts School stand proud. To the east the city centre is bordered by the River Lagan, and to the south by the area surrounding Donegall Pass.

Around and about there is so much more that you can go and explore. You can go and see regular exhibitions and workshops which are held at Place, a gallery space developed to promote architecture around Northern Ireland. The Ormeau Baths Gallery meanwhile is another top artistic venue in the city.

Belfast Exposed meanwhile is the region''s only gallery specifically hosting photographers'' work. As well as taking a look at the photography on display you can even take a look in the well-stocked library as well as make use of the dark room facilities if that should take your fancy. The Print Workshop and Gallery is one final haunt which offers a great deal to see too.

Belfast is ultimately an energetic and to this day vibrant city with a full history, and its people rightly proud of their strength to endure former challenges and come out stronger. Head to Belfast and you are sure to learn more about the Irish and the British than a guided tour around the tourist hotspots of London or Dublin. You will not regret this challenging, interesting city. Bonny Kominek is a freelance writer and travel enthusiast. They recommend Octopus Travel for Belfast hotels.