Belfast City guide, including Belfast Hotels
21st May 2006
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Nestled in a valley and bordered to the east by the Irish Sea, the
capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast, is a vibrant and lively Celtic
city that lives up to its nickname of "The Hibernian Rio." Situated on
the River Lagan, the pedestrian-friendly city enjoys a focal point in
Donegal Square where the architecturally stunning City Hall dominates
the skyline, and elsewhere Victorian and Edwardian architecture can be
enjoyed by visitors on foot.
Places of interest:
Belfast's glorious seafaring history and place at the forefront of the
industrial revolution is evident in the greatest shipyard in Great
Britain, where the Titanic was built. The city's name is derived from
the Irish "beal feirste" which means "at the mouth of the sandpit" and
nightlife, arts, festivals, dining and shopping are all in abundance in
the city. The sea front in particular is now pedestrianised and
visitors can enjoy the best of Irish culture in street musicians and
theatre against the backdrop of the Irish Sea.
breathtaking and panoramic views of the city, bay and surrounding
areas. Belfast Castle was the ancestral home of the Chichester, later
Donegall, family who were descendants of Arthur Chichester who planted
the land that was to become the city in the 1600s. The history of the
castle, and city, are celebrated in the Cave Hill Visitor Centre in the
castle grounds.
take up a full day, so extensive and fascinating are its archaeology,
ethnography, art, history and natural sciences exhibits. The
collections portray and celebrate the history, culture, artistic,
scientific and industrial achievements: in short, the story of the
Irish people from their ancient roots up until modern day. The museum
houses both permanent and temporary collections, and regular,
creatively planned tours are offered to distil some of the wonders of
the museum into palatable chunks.
is worth a visit, and the exciting, interactive and interpretive St.
Patrick Centre tells the story of Ireland's patron saint, in his own
words.
International Rose Garden, in the southern outskirts of Belfast
features an International Rose Exhibition, as well as gardens, walks, a
children's playground and live music concerts.
collection of over 20,000 volumes of Irish literature and an enviable
Robert Burns collection.
Things to do:
Belfast will never leave tourists wondering how to entertain
themselves! Plenty of things to do and see exist in Belfast.
attractions, including the monkey park, reptile house and children's
playground.
the City Centre Walk.
range of fish and speciality foods that are unrivalled in Europe.
Titanic was built and its famous cranes, Samson and Goliath, can be
seen from all over the city.
into the history and the daily lives of Ulster people can be found.
the Belfast experience of the Second World War, and is also home to the
museum of the Royal Ulster Rifles.
and technology exploration, with activities, exhibits and
demonstrations to expand and intrigue minds of all ages.
Food & Drink:
If it is excellent food the tourist seeks, they won't have to look far
in Belfast.
Belfast's most famous pub, the Crown Liquor Saloon in the heart of the
historical district.
contemporary cuisine, serving cutting-edge Mediterranean food and
featuring an extensive wine list and speciality coffee choices.
vegetarian dining destinations. All dishes are GMO approved, and
organic wherever possible.
luxurious dining experience, featuring dishes created by one of
Ireland's top chefs.
Duke of York, Morrisons and at the docks, Pat's Bar Princes.
Belfast Hotels & Accommodation:
As befitting a major European destination, a full range of
accommodation options are available in Belfast. Visitors can chose from
cosy, family run bed and breakfast establishments, a variety of self
catering options and luxury five star hotels to suit every taste, set
of requirements and budget.
Entertainment
Nightlife is one of Belfast's main attractions, with revellers enjoying
everything from world class dance clubs to traditional pubs. The
Potthouse, opened in November 2004 was built on the site of Belfast's
first pottery factory and comprises The Potthouse Bar & Grill,
Sugar Nighclub, which plays Top 40, House and classic Disco, and the
Soap Bar guestroom. The Fly and The Grill Room and Bar are also notable
Belfast nightspots. The Movie House Cinema on the Golden Mile offers
the latest cinema releases, as well as arthouse and independent films,
and Ireland's only 3D and 2D large format cinema, the SheridanIMAX is
located on Queen's Quay. Fantastic shopping is available in the city
centre Donegall Place and the Waterfront Concert Hall hosts concerts
and music tours from all over the world.
Belfast enjoys an enviable position at the forefront of Hibernian
culture, scenery and history. With an ideal and unique combination of
Celtic culture and British industrial influence, Belfast is an ideal
seaside destination for family friendly events, educational and
historical attractions and a nightlife that is second to none
throughout Europe. In common with much of the British Isles, Belfast
experiences a temperate and often wet climate, but is protected by the
surrounding mountains of Divis Mountain, Black Mountain and Cave Hill.
Biography
Name: Maria Williams
Website: http://www.sleepuk.com
Biography: Maria writes for Sleep UK - providers of hotels in Belfast.
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