The Best of Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland (for those of you from further afield) and it was put on the map some forty-odd years ago when the Provence experienced a politically turbulent time - known as 'the troubles'. Whilst I don't want to dwell on the issues of the past, I want to highlight how Belfast's dark and troubled history has made it the cultural hub it is today, and it has a lot more to offer the intrepid traveller than one would expect. This feature serves to highlight Belfast's best bits - highlighting some of the finest culinary experiences the city has to offer and showcasing my home city in all it's glory. Believe it or not - not every day is a grey day in Belfast (although I would pack a raincoat just in case)!

Wondering where to stay?

Feeling Flush? Splurge at the 5-Star Merchant Hotel in the heart of Belfast's bustling Cathedral Quarter, home to award winning city spa and rooftop gymnasium with panoramic views of the city.

Getting Spoiled at the Merchant Hotel

Mid-Range? There are number of new hotels in Belfast that have 'shot up' in the last few years including the 4-Star Grand Central Hotel and the Maldron hotel, both conveniently located in the heart of the city. If you would prefer to stay within the Titanic Quarter - head to the Titanic Hotel or the new AC by Marriott hotel which both have great views of the docklands and nearby Harland and Wolff shipyard where the original Titanic was built.

Views from the AC Marriott Hotel, Belfast

Prefer somewhere quirky? The 4-Star Bullitt Hotel is just that. The rooms are small (cosy) but the place is atmospheric with a sic rooftop bar, you may find you spend little time in your room.

Budget-ish? I recently stayed in House Belfast with some girlfriends for a night and it was perfect value for money, comfortable, and great fun! If you stay at the weekend you will be staying above a busy bar so just bear that in mind. House is a great spot for food and drinks too and is situated in the heart of Queen's Quarter.

Eat like a local

For breakfast / brunch / Lunch

AMPM Bohemian Restaurant is creeping onto my faves list. Great brunch menu and great for the cure, I love the quirky decor in this local haunt and it's a great one for the Gram (Instagram that is, for those of you thinking otherwise) Go full hog and get the Ulster Fry.

Maggie Mays, near the botanical gardens, is a no frills local fave - we used to go there in student (and school) days when we were worse for wear after our big nights out in Belfast town. Maggie Mays has you covered - anything on the menu is pretty perfect and is one of the few places I know where ordering a pint of milk for a refreshment is socially acceptable.

General Merchants is another local favorite and it is not unusual to have long queues at weekends. Clean cut and simple with an extensive and varied brunch menu.

French Village - rustic chic bakery with a great deli counter. I love their french toast but they have plenty of healthier options too.

Delicious Brunch @ French Village Belfast

The National Grande Cafe - quite the happening little spot in Belfast, they serve up a mean weekend brunch. Good vibes only.

Harlem Cafe - one for the cool kids. What's not to love about this shabby chic cafe - its interiors are laden with antique furniture and a mouth watering brunch menu - Harlem Cafe brings a little bit of New York vibe to Belfast. More of the this I say!

For Dinner

Made in Belfast - Although this is probably less of a local dining haunt, I still love this rustic diner with locally sourced ingredients. The menu is very homely and the decor is minimalist and cute.

Holohans (pantry) - for authentic Irish Cuisine and food like your Nana used to make.

Follow the locals to Ginger Bistro for a relaxed, no frills environment offering some of the best local cuisine Belfast has to offer.

Howard Street for great food - extensive wine collection - set in a converted loft with cocktails on tap - Howard Street has been ticking boxes for locals and tourists alike since 2013.

Eat like a Queen (or King)

The Great Room at the Merchant Hotel if you want to quite literally dine like royalty, in a Victorian setting, (with Ireland's largest chandelier) and an exquisite menu this is one for a special occasion.

the Great Room at the Merchant Hotel, Belfast

The Muddlers Club - Award winning fine dining made casual. Simple dishes, local cuisine made in front of diners in an open kitchen, this is fast becoming one of Belfast's best culinary offerings.

OX - Another award winning restaurant on the Belfast culinary scene, OX, with its' riverside backdrop, experienced chefs and accompanied wine parings is a real delight for visitors and locals alike.

Hadskis - Voted one of Northern Ireland's best Restaurants according to the 2019 Good food guide, Hadskis complements local produce by their evolving seasonal menus. If you are a carnivore like myself and lover of red meat try their steak or lamb (if it is in season) you are in for a real treat.

Things to do & See / Places of interest

Visit the Titanic Museum

I must have visited this museum at least 5 times now with friends visiting the city and each time I feel a little bit more knowledgeable than the last. This historic tragedy has gripped the world since 1912 and the Titanic Museum Belfast does well to depict the story via an interactive, immersive experience suitable for all ages. Don't forget the tissues as it will have you leaving teary-eyed.

Take a stroll through Commercial Street in the Cathedral Quarter -

by day or by night if you fancy a local tiple (or ten) stopping off at the Harp Bar or The Duke of York for a Guinness and possibly some live traditional Irish music. For live music seven days a week pop into The Dirty Onion or nearby The Thirsty Goat for some trad music or the cosy vibes of the Spaniard for a cocktail.

Take the infamous Belfast Black Cab Tours

Around a city that was once divided which showcase the political murals and the The Belfast Peace Wall (Yes - that's an actual thing) driven by Belfast locals that have lived through the troubles and will hopefully give you an unbiased account of historic events.

Indulge in local culinary delights at St. George’s Market

What was once a Fish market on a Friday this traditional market space has now been rejuvenated with more food and crafts stalls than ever showcasing some of the best of local cuisine and artistic talent. A must visit on your trip to Belfast, if even for a coffee.

The Belfast Food Tour by local company Taste & Tour is a great way to sample local cuisine and they city by foot and a knowledgeable local guide.

Marvel in the Historic setting of The Belfast City Hall

Situated in the heart of the city (as one might expect) you cannot miss the city hall in all its grandeur. It is open to the public or guided tours are also offered - the building remains an extraordinary beacon of success and civic pride for the city of Belfast.

Take a tour of the eerie Crumlin Road Gaol (Jail)

Where 17 men had been executed up until 1961, the prison only closed its doors in 1996 and has been given Grade A listed status due to its architectural and historical significance.

Stroll around The Botanical Gardens and the Ulster Museum located in Belfast's Queen's Quarter

The Ulster Museum has something for art lovers, history buffs, excited children, and the curious.

In town for more than a weekend?

Hike up Cave Hill for Birdseye Views across the city and Beyond and out to the Irish Sea, this is a great walk for blowing the cobwebs away or getting rid of a hangover.

Walk in the footsteps of Giants at the Giants Causeway...

Take a Scenic Trip to the Giant's Causeway - along the coast road head north of Belfast to County Antrim (approx 1 hour) for a breathtaking backdrop of the Antrim Coast and witness the Geographic marvel that has put the Provence on the map. Whilst you are in the area brave the wobbly walk across the Carrick-a-reed rope bridge and gaze into the blue waters below. The rope bridge was first erected by fishermen in 1755 and is now a preserved heritage site owned by the National Trust. Step with Caution!

Sample the local whisky at the Bushmills Distillery

At 400 years old, the Bushmills Distillery in County Antrim is the oldest licensed distillery in the world with a vast selection of blends and Malts for you to sample on the tour of your pleasing.

Take a tour around Stormont Parliament Buildings

and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Stormont Estate - dubbed the 'House on the Hill' by locals.

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