“Bout ye?”
Visitors to Belfast will hear this phrase constantly as locals greet one another on the city’s busy streets or shout to a friend in a packed pub over the sound of traditional music and clinking glasses. Essentially, it’s a local way of asking “How are you?” or “What’s going on?”
“Bout ye” is a uniquely Northern Irish way to explore what’s been happening, what it’s all about, and where you stand. From the charming characters who’ve made the city what it is to heritage in shipbuilding and linen making, Belfast’s museums serve as one of the best ways to understand its essence.
Walk in the footsteps of former prisoners at Crumlin Road Gaol
The phrase “sent down” resonates on a new level as visitors follow the footsteps of former prisoners at Crumlin Road Gaol. This Victorian-era prison, connected to a former courthouse by a dim underground passage, was home to approximately 25,000 incarcerated individuals over 150 years. Today, the site presents an award-winning experience that brings history to life through self-guided tours with audio and visual prompts or guided visits led by knowledgeable experts. If these cold, damp walls could talk…
Deep dive into epic exhibitions at Titanic Belfast
Titanic Belfast, an exciting, world-leading museum, is a must-visit for all ages. Crafted by Belfast builders, the RMS Titanic—the largest ocean liner of its time—tragically sank during its maiden voyage in 1912. It was the pride of Belfast, leaving a legacy long after its launch from this very dock.
The nucleus of the redeveloped Titanic Quarter, this unique, star-shaped building (reflective of the logo of the White Star Line) comprises multiple levels and nine interactive galleries. These galleries detail Belfast’s emergence as a shipbuilding powerhouse, delving into the design and construction of the Titanic, its ill-fated voyage, and the 1985 discovery of its wreckage underwater. A powerful display of items, replicas, and recreations related to the liner brings visitors closer to the designers, shipyard workers, and passengers associated with this most famous of ships.
At Stormont, walk the marble halls to experience politics in real time
Many visitors to Northern Ireland will likely know a bit about the intense history and current political setup of the territory. To fully grasp how politics is passionately practiced here, head to Stormont, the seat of the Northern Ireland Assembly. Just a short 20-minute eastward journey from the city, this Greek-style building is set atop an imposing hill.
Free guided tours occur for small groups twice daily on weekdays (11am and 2pm, excluding public and bank holidays; prior reservations recommended). As you walk through the hallways, you’ll learn about the structure of government in Northern Ireland, admire intricate architectural details, and even take a seat in the legislative chamber. Before or after the tour, grab a bite in the Members’ Dining Room (12–3pm weekdays). Familiarize yourself with upcoming highlights through a 10-minute video preview.
Discover art in many forms and disciplines at the MAC
The Cathedral Quarter’s cultural hub, the MAC, offers continuously cutting-edge and evolving art, theater, and dance works through exhibitions, performances, concerts installations, and experimental presentations. Visit for a comedy show one day and an interactive art workshop the next; one month may focus on sculpture while the subsequent month could host a theater festival. The Permanent Present is the only fixed exhibit, a 400-wire kaleidoscopic metal sculpture displayed in the foyer, while the onsite Cafe Bar is a favored spot for enjoying breakfast, lunch, or a quick coffee while catching up.
The four institutions of National Museums NI spotlight treasures, transport, traditional communities, and New World travelers
Under the banner of National Museums NI, four institutions illustrate what makes Northern Ireland an extraordinary place. Located in Belfast’s Botanic Gardens, the Ulster Museum showcases Northern Ireland’s treasures of art, history, and natural sciences, taking guests on a journey from local soil to the far reaches of the globe and beyond. Follow the handy color-coded routes guiding you through each of the museum’s three curated themes.
Slightly outside the city in Cultra (near Holywood), the Ulster Folk Museum transports visitors back in time through immersive experiences exploring Ulster life in the 20th century. Wander through a rural patchwork of farms, cottages, schools, shops, mills, forges, towers, and halls, while understanding how traditional small-town communities of the time operated. Daily craft demonstrations include basket weaving and printing. Nearby, the Ulster Transport Museum showcases various modes of transport that exemplify excellence in engineering, science, and innovation. Visitors can hop on board trains and trams and view vintage motorbikes and cars up close. When you’re in the area, consider the deluxe Culloden Estate and Spa for afternoon tea, a sumptuous dinner, or an elegant overnight stay.
A little further afield in Omagh, County Tyrone, the Ulster American Folk Park addresses the theme of emigration from Northern Ireland during the 18th and 19th centuries. Exhibits dive deep into rural life in Ulster at the time before recreating the extraordinary and perilous journey across the Atlantic. Following this, explore opportunities (and challenges) of starting anew in North America. Meet local characters in each area and engage with their stories through interactive settings and recreations. Experience daily demonstrations of traditional crafts like forge work, willow weaving, and wool spinning as you navigate this expansive park.
W5 will spark curiosity in young minds
Igniting young imaginations and sparking curious minds, W5 is an award-winning science and discovery center located in the Odyssey Complex on Queen’s Quay. Following a transformative renovation, this center features 250 interactive exhibits across several floors and eight engaging zones, addressing key topics from nature and climate change to medical science, engineering, media, film, and television. Children of all ages can enjoy slides, mazes, soft play areas, optical illusions, climbing challenges, and themed zones dedicated to dinosaurs and outer space. Additionally, don’t miss the daily science shows at the purpose-built science bar.
Admire the ornate architecture of Belfast City Hall
Situated in the heart of the city on Donegall Square, you can’t miss City Hall. This impressive building was commissioned after Queen Victoria granted Belfast city status and was completed in 1906—the over-the-top Baroque Revival architecture is incredibly imposing. Much of the grounds and gardens are accessible to the public, providing an urban oasis. Free guided tours, recently resumed, are conducted by local guides displaying delightful charm while offering an extra peek inside. Attendees can capture memories on the marble grand staircase, marvel at the walls of portraits and unique stained glass windows, and even take a seat in the City Council chamber.
