A Short Guide On How To Visit Belfast Castle in Northern Ireland

Belfast, , 66 Comments

Last Updated on the 17th of June, 2024

The majestic Belfast Castle, a wonderful landmark, has a rich history spanning over 800 years and can be seen from across the city.

It was built in a Scottish baronial style and visiting is one of the best things to do in Belfast, especially for history enthusiasts and those wanting to appreciate the city’s best views.

The castle is close to the Belfast Zoo and Cave Hill Country Park so you could easily spend a day just in this area of north Belfast and soak up the essence of the city’s splendid beauty.

Beyond its scenic and architectural beauty, Belfast Castle has been a witness to significant events throughout history, making it an integral part of Belfast’s cultural heritage.

As the castle sits  400 feet above sea level on the crag of Cave Hill, from its elevated position it offers unobstructed views over Northern Ireland’s capital, Belfast Lough and the rolling hills beyond.

So, if you are keen to wander the castle’s well-manicured lawns, admire the romantic-looking Scottish baronial architecture, have a meal in its cellar, or explore the lush greenery of Cave Hill Park, then keep reading.

Read More: Belfast Bucket List: The 10 Best Things To Do In The City

The beautiful Belfast Castle Grounds.

Unveiling the History of Belfast Castle

Over the centuries, the castle served various purposes and changed not only hands but also location.

As we journey through the historical importance of Belfast Castle, we can learn that there have been many Belfast Castles.

Originally, the castle was first built in the 12th century by the Normans as a defensive fortification, and its location was in the city centre.

Sadly, the castle was destroyed by a devastating fire in 1708 and instead of rebuilding it on the same site, Sir Arthur Chichester chose to build a new castle on the slopes of Cave Hill in 1862 to escape the growing industrial city.

The castle and the estate were gifted to the City of Belfast in 1934 by the 9th Earl of Shaftesbury. It was used for grand events and weddings until the council started a massive restoration programme in 1978.

Today the castle is used mostly for events, weddings and private banquets. 

Read More: Your Guide To Visiting One of Belfast’s Most Popular Tourist Attractions – Titanic Belfast

Interior of the Belfast Castle.

Discovering the Story of Castle Garden Cats

One interesting story surrounding the castle is about the tradition of the castle cat.

The Donegall family, who were the owners of the castle before it was gifted to the city of Belfast, always kept a white cat.

It was said that as long as a white cat remained on the premises, good fortune would come to all who visited the castle.  

When the city of Belfast took over the care of the castle, they couldn’t maintain the tradition of keeping a white cat at the castle.

To keep the spirit of the white cat alive and the good fortune going, they came up with a clever idea to incorporate nine cats in various incarnations – topiary, quotes, sculptures and mosaics – into the garden.

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Can you spot one of the cats in the castle gardens?

Magnificent Architecture of Belfast Castle

The castle was constructed by Sir George Chichester with the help of Belfast-based architect Charles Lanyon and built in the Scottish Baronial style inspired by the royal castle at Balmoral.

The castle was completed in 1870 by far exceeding the initial estimated cost of 11,000 pounds and by then, the Donegall fortune had diminished. The castle was finished when Lord Ashby, the Marquess’s son-in-law stepped in.

The castle has an entrance portico in the Jacobean style and a square tower of six floors with corner turrets. A stunning external Italianate Renaissance spiral staircase was added to the garden terrace in 1894.

Originally, the territory around the castle was farmland, but thanks to a major planting exercise which took place in the 1880s, transformed it into attractive wooded parkland.

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Belfast Castle viewed from the gardens
Belfast Castle in 1911 – picture courtesy of Old Belfast Photographs

Facilities at The Belfast Castle

  • A few of the rooms on the upper floors are open to visitors
  • The Cellar Restaurant in the basement is cosy and styled with the flavour of the Victorian age when the castle was first built.
  • The Castle Tavern bar is open Friday and Saturday nights from 8pm to 10 pm with live music.
  • On the ground floor are an antique and bookshop, a small museum and a visitor’s centre.

Read More: Ireland Travel Guide: 8 Amazing Things To See and Do On A Trip Around Inishowen Peninsula

The beautiful Italianate Renaissance spiral staircase

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Now, over to you!

Have you been to Belfast Castle? Let us know in the comments!

Let us know if you are plotting a visit to Belfast and have travel-related questions!

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66 thoughts on “A Short Guide On How To Visit Belfast Castle in Northern Ireland”

    1. Thanks so much, Francsico. I love visiting Belfast Castle as it is one of the most iconic locations from which to view the stunning skyline of Belfast. It is particularly beautiful during the summer when the flowers are in bloom. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Belfast Castle is beautiful and well worth a visit to enjoy the stunning views across the bay and city. It’s one of the best free things to do in Belfast – I hope you get to visit one day. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  3. Almost more of a manor house than a castle, but the architecture is striking and so well maintained. I will definitely put it on the list for our next visit to Ireland. Does the orange trim symbolize the Protestant Orangeman or is that just a coincidence? Have a wonderful Monday. Allan

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    1. Yes, you are right, Allan – during the Victorian era, many buildings that called themselves ‘castles’ were really only exquisite mansions as castles in their true sense were built for defensive purposes. Nevertheless, it’s a beautiful architectural marvel set in a striking location – whenever we are in Belfast, we put aside time to visit the blooming grounds. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and the girls love looking for cat sculptures. Also – I have to find out if the orange trim symbolizes the Protestant Orangeman! Great question, Allan! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. It is a wonderful building – there are the bartizans towers perched halfway up the building, the cone-capped towers and the ‘crow-stepped gables.

      As for the maintenance cost, it depends on how large it is, what condition it is in and what the organisation that looks after it wants to do with it. In the UK, the main costs are staff, garden, energy costs, and general maintenance. Entrance fees and souvenir shops generally cover only a fraction of these costs, and the staff this kind of budget allows is the bare minimum.

      That’s why many places rely on grants, donations and volunteer workers. A popular café or restaurant can generate a substantial income that makes a significant difference to a project’s economy Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I hope you get to visit the wonderful castle to enjoy its charming Cat Garden, the grounds and the wonderful view over Belfast Lough. We were there last summer on a sunny summer’s day and had a great time exploring it. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  6. What a beautiful castle; every aspect has some charm. The history is interesting and lengthy. Too bad they couldn’t keep a cat or two, or more, in the garden. Our Neville (Flame Point Siamese) would have loved keeping watch over the garden. 😊 Looks like you picked a good day for your visit with the blue skies in the background. Lovely post and photos Aiva!

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    1. We had a wonderful and sunny day for visiting Belfast castle and it made for such a memorable day out as the sun was shining, the flowers were blooming and we had a lovely picnic within the grounds. The cat story was my favourite. While we loved exploring the castle and looking for the nine cats, I would have loved to meet the white cat too, but it is no longer there. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I love castles, too as their stones brim with history and mystery. We are fortunate to have a wealth of medieval castles to visit in Ireland for fascinating history and stunning architecture. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad you like it. Belfast Castle has borne witness to some of the country’s most significant periods of change and rebirth and is well worth a visit. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  9. What a handsome-looking castle! Despite having visited the Republic of Ireland, I’ve yet to visit Northern Ireland and see its cities and capital. Belfast Castle looks like a must-see while in the eponymous city, and I hope to head over there some day! Thanks for sharing, Aiva 🙂

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    1. I am glad you like it, Rebecca. Belfast Castle is a symbol of the city and one of the most popular free attractions in Belfast. It is a must for history enthusiasts and those who are keen to admire the romantic-looking Scottish baronial architecture. I hope you get to visit Northern Ireland one day as there’s so much to see and do. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. If you love castles, you would love a visit to the one in Belfast city as it offers panoramic views from its elevated position in Cave Hill Country Park. The castle is surrounded by gardens and woodland and it’s arguably one of the most beautiful castles in Northern Ireland. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  11. Your pictures are beautiful Aiva. Belfast Castle looks stunning and I can see why it’s one of the best things to do in the area (and why people would want to get married there)! I especially like the gardens. Thanks for sharing. Linda

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    1. Thank you kindly, Linda. We were fortunate to have a fantastic summer’s day for visiting the castle and its grounds. As we still haven’t been hiking in the adjacent Cave Hill County Park which offers stunning views of the city, we might return one day. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Hello, dear Krry, what a fantastic surprise to find your comment. It’s been a while and I missed you all this time. We loved visiting Belfast Castle and taking in the views of the city. Thanks for stopping by. I hope all is well. Aiva xx

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      1. Like others, I am ashamed to say that I didn’t know Belfast had a castle… Northern Ireland was off limits for much of my childhood so I have really only visited Portrush and surrounds. One day, perhaps.

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        1. It’s not as famous as other tourist attractions in and around Belfast, Kerry. A while ago, I was surprised to stumble upon yet another castle located just outside of Belfast City worth visiting that I haven’t heard of! So it goes to show you xx

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    1. I loved visiting Belfast Castle, looking for the cat statues and seeing Scottish baronial architecture up close. It is definitely a must when exploring Belfast City. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. In and near Belfast you can also find an abundance of historic castles and country houses and Belfast Castle is one of the best to visit! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  16. What a beautiful castle! It’s amazing that it still looks so similar to how it did in that older photo. I can only imagine the views from inside given its location on a hill!

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    1. It’s one of my favourite places to stop by whenever we visit Belfast! The location is stunning and peaceful -perfect when the hustle and bustle of the city get too much. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. You live in such a beautiful part of the city! We love exploring Belfast Castle and seeing it change through the seasons. While I love its blooming gardens, I also adore it during the autumn months when the leaves change colour. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  18. Thanks for the comprehensive explanation of Belfast Castle. I visited the gardens on one of my trips from Dublin, but not the interior, I can’t remember if visits were possible.

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    1. As the wedding took place during our visit last time, we weren’t able to venture inside to explore the castle, but all the other times it was possible to walk around and see various rooms. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Belfast Castle is a must-see if you are visiting the city as the wonderful estate contains landscaped gardens and mature, mixed woodland. It also offers superb views of the city from a variety of vantage points Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad you like the castle as it is one of my favourite places in the city. It is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy afternoon tea in the lovely outdoor café at the castle. Nearby, you can also find the famous Belfast Zoo and many hiking trails. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day. Aiva xx

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  21. What a gorgeous castle! It’s more of a palace for a princess by the look of it. I’ll add it to the list! My dad’s family is from Belfast so we visited in the 70s. Not the ideal time for a family vacation, so it’s time for a revisit. Maggie

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    1. I hope you get to visit the capital of Northern Ireland one day, Maggie as the city is no longer what it was in the 70’s. I just finished re-watching the movie Belfast – it follows a family of four in a majorly Protestant area of Belfast, with a few Catholic families living on the street – on Netflix and are eager to head back once more this summer. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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        1. It’s a brilliant movie, Maggie. If you get a chance, you have to see it! It’s hard to think about people who lived through the Troubles as so many of them were killed innocently as they walked or strayed, at sporting events, in hospitals, in prison, leaving churches and even inside places of worship. 

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  22. It’s sad to me that so much of Belfast attention focuses on the recurring political upheavals there. Thanks for showing me a more positive impression of the city.

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    1. Belfast is so much more than the Troubles. While the city has emerged from The Troubles much changed, the atrocities committed by the British in border counties like Fermanagh, and Derry and cities like Belfast still affect Irish society today; with areas separated by ‘peace walls’ between Protestant and Catholic communities to prohibit further tensions. Last year, our visit to Belfast was just a few days before the 12th of July and in West Belfast, the bonfires were stacked, the flags were a-flying and people who are loyal to the Crown were getting ready to celebrate the victory of the Protestant King William over the Catholic King James at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. There’s always very little hope the Twelfth would pass off peacefully as sectarian and offensive sentiments are often being expressed at some 12th of July bonfires. I guess, progress comes in stages. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  23. Oh my! I have to see those topiary cats one day! I love both topiaries and cats, so it’s only right. The castle is beautiful – I’ve only been to Belfast once but didn’t realise there was a castle

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    1. I loved seeing topiary cats at Belfast Castle – imagine walking through a beautifully manicured castle garden, turning a corner and seeing a gigantic, perfectly manicured cat sculpted from lush green bushes sitting between the flowerbeds! Pure bliss! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. The historical castle is one of Belfast’s main visitor attractions and easy to get to from the city centre as several buses run along the main road at regular intervals. I love the cat part of the story too – we always have heaps of fun looking out for the cat sculptures. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad you like it! This is more of an ornate estate house rather than a castle, although it does have a small circular tower that isn’t anything but incredible. There isn’t much to see inside, nevertheless, it’s worth a visit as the gardens are nice and on a clear day would offer nice views of the city. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you kindly, Luisa 🙂 With its beautiful landscaped gardens, deeply connected history, and sweeping driveway, Belfast Castle is well worth a visit. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good weekend 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you kindly 🙂 Northern Ireland and Ireland are home to some of the most stunning historical castles in the world, many of which have opened their impressive doors for couples to celebrate one of the most special days of their lives. Fairytale castle weddings are very popular on the island and are the reason couples travel from all over the world to tie the knot. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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