About Belfast

Belfast is a vibrant cultural hub that has a rich history of shipbuilding and is the birthplace of the Titanic. Known as a city that upholds Irish hospitality, Belfast offers plenty of opportunities for socialising and exploring; from visiting castles, scaling mountains, experiencing the buzzing nightlife or sightseeing its iconic buildings, Belfast offers the perfect blend of traditional and modern culture.

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Places to visit

Giant’s Causeway is one of Northern Ireland’s most emblematic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

According to the myth, this formation of 40,000 of basalt columns that descend into the sea were formed by giant Finn McCool in his attempt to build a bridge to cross to Scotland.

Formerly a prison, Crumlin Road Gaol is now a visitor attraction and conference centre. Here you will learn about the history of the place as well as exploring the hidden tunnels that run across the prison.

Titanic Belfast offers the world’s largest visitor experience for those who would like to learn all the history behind the Titanic. This experience will take you through nine interactive galleries, which explore the sights, sounds, smells and stories of RMS Titanic, as well as the city and people who made her.

Social events and food

For some of the best bars and pubs visit The Cathedral Quarter, which is also home to many arts organisations, or head to Botanic Avenue to enjoy a taste of international cuisine including Italian, French, Japanese and more.

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If you feel like the fun is not over yet, enjoy Belfast’s buzzing nightlife and visit its trendy bars, clubs and traditional pubs to try mouth-watering cocktails, taste local and international drinks and listen to plenty of good music!

Events such as Culture Night are a celebration of culture, creativity and the arts in which you will find an array of events and workshops taking place all throughout the island of Ireland. Arts and cultural organisations and venues of all shapes and sizes, from independent studios and art spaces to national cultural institutions, extend their opening hours to allow increased access for the public.

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Shopping

Belfast offers shopping experiences to suit all tastes. Head to St. George’s Market every Friday to find the best local produce.

Hosted in a gorgeous Victorian building, this is Northern Ireland’s largest indoor market!

For those who want to cover all their shopping needs, Victoria Square is located right in the heart of the city and is home to big brands and many designer names. With over 70 stores, a cinema and plenty of restaurants, Victoria Square is Northern Ireland’s premier shopping and leisure destination.

Transport

One of the great things about Belfast is that almost everything is within walking distance. However, if you want to take public transport, there are plenty of buses and taxis, or you can choose to cycle wherever you need to.

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Did you know…

You can progress from an NCUK qualification to study for a degree in Belfast. Queen’s University Belfast accepts students who have completed an NCUK qualification.
Start your journey with NCUK today and click the button below to apply now!