Belfast Castle

Address: Off Antrim Road, Belfast
Hours: Monday to Saturday: 9am - 10:30pm , Sundays 9am - 6pm
Admission: Free

ATTRACTION Keywords:
Cultural Experience, Castle

7:38 PM Thursday, May 23
Sprinkles. Scattered clouds. Quite cool.
7 day forecast

Belfast Castle sits high above the city on Cave Hill, looking the very picture of baronial splendor (it's built in the Scottish Baronial style, like the Queen's house Balmoral).

There's been a castle on this site since the 12th century, but this one dates from the 1860s. It was built by the 3rd Marquis of Donegall. It went wildly over budget and, as the Marquis' fortunes had changed, nearly didn't get finished at all.

Today it's a working castle, earning its keep with wedding receptions, conferences, an antique store and an adventure playground. At the visitors center you can find out all about the history of the Castle Hill site.

Noticed a cat motif around the place? It's all down to a legend that says all will be well with the castle's residents as long as there is a white cat in situ.

Latest Reviews

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All Belfast Castle Reviews

Review by LBSTR, October 2012
Doing what: Northern Ireland and the North West Small Group Jeep Tour from Dublin (5 days)

I think this was the best tour that we had during our 13 day Ireland adventure. The B and B's were top-notch with hospitality and the complimentary breakfast. Paddy was our guide and took care of us every step of the way. The excursions included lunches at the most charming and some iconic restaurants. The small Land Rover tour was perfect for visiting off the beaten track places. The rain didn't dampen our itinerary one bit and the landscape will just take your breath away, but most of all, it's the Irish people's warmth and friendliness that will leave a lasting impression. I would sign up with this tour company again in a heartbeat. I give Paddy a huge credit for his professionalism, kindness and attentiveness. Manyy thanks and keep up the phenomenal work that you do.

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Review by Gary S, Belgium, January 2010
Doing what: Northern Ireland and the North West Small Group Jeep Tour from Dublin (5 days)

Was absolutely fantastic. Great time even though the weather wasn't the greatest. We were thinking of going for the cheaper tour coach but we are so glad we didn't.

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Review by Gayle T, USA, January 2010
Doing what: Northern Ireland and the North West Small Group Jeep Tour from Dublin (5 days)

This tour was like having a personal tour guide to take you around! We were allowed to choose things that we would like to do or not like to do, and go places that the big bus companies could not go. If we wanted to go to more popular places, sometimes we could time our visit accordingly to have fewer crowds. Plus, our guide was so knowledgeable and affable, I feel like I've known him for years! I wouldn't do a tour any other way!

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Practical Info

There's plenty of parking at the Castle, but if you want to take public transport, hop on buses 41-52 going west along Antrim Road from Donegall Square.

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Belfast Castle Photos