Belfast Castle

Perched 400 feet above sea level on the slopes of Cave Hill Country Park, Belfast Castle is a magnificent sandstone mansion that offers some of the most breathtaking views of the city and Belfast Lough. Built in the 1860s in the grand Scottish Baronial style, this multi-turreted landmark was inspired by the design of Balmoral Castle in Scotland. While it is called a castle, it was actually constructed as a stately home for the Marquess of Donegall. The exterior is famous for its elegant serpentine staircase and beautifully landscaped gardens. According to local legend, the castle's residents will only have good luck as long as a white cat lives there. This charming tale is celebrated in the gardens, where you can search for nine different cat-themed sculptures, mosaics, and hidden garden features.

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Alles über Belfast Castle

Was Sie erwartet

Visiting Belfast Castle is a fantastic option for holidaymakers as entry to the castle and its extensive estate is completely free. The castle is generally open to the public daily from 9:00 am, closing at 6:00 pm on Sundays and Mondays, and later at 9:00 pm from Tuesday through Saturday. Inside, you can explore the Cave Hill Visitor Centre to learn about the area's folklore and history. For dining, the Tavern Coffee Shop is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm for light bites. If you are looking for something more formal, the newly reopened Cellar Restaurant serves local Northern Irish dishes, though booking a table in advance is highly recommended. Please note that the ground floor may occasionally be closed to the public for private weddings or corporate events.

Warum diese Tour buchen

Before you set off, it is important to know that while the castle itself is a grand Victorian building, the surrounding estate is part of a rugged country park. If you plan to explore the walking trails leading up to the summit of Cave Hill, ensure you wear sturdy walking shoes or boots, as the paths can be steep and muddy. The weather on the hill can be significantly cooler and windier than in the city center, so bringing a waterproof jacket is always a smart move. For those with children, there is an adventurous playground located within the estate. While the castle's public areas and gardens are accessible, some of the higher woodland trails are not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. Also, keep your camera ready for the famous "Napoleon’s Nose" rock formation nearby.

Die richtige Tour auswählen

Belfast Castle is located in the north of the city on Antrim Road. The easiest way to get there from the city center is by taking the Metro Bus Route 1 (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, or 1E) which departs frequently from Upper Queen Street. You should get off at the Strathmore Park stop, from which the castle entrance is clearly signposted and a 10-minute walk up the driveway. If you prefer to take a taxi, the journey from the city center takes about 15 minutes and costs approximately £12 to £15. For those driving, there is plenty of free on-site parking available, which is a great benefit for visitors with a rental car. The drive follows the M2 motorway and the A6 Antrim Road, with the castle well-signposted as you approach the foot of Cave Hill.

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The best time to visit is on a clear day to take full advantage of the panoramic views from the terrace. Arriving around 10:00 am allows you to enjoy the gardens and the visitor center before the lunchtime rush at the cafe. Weekdays are typically much quieter than weekends, when the park is a favorite spot for local dog walkers and families. If you are a fan of photography, the late afternoon light provides a stunning golden hue over the sandstone walls and the city below. During the spring and summer months, the gardens are in full bloom and offer the best experience for those looking to find all nine of the famous garden cats. If you visit in the winter, the cozy Cellar Restaurant provides a warm and atmospheric retreat after a brisk walk on the hills.