Belfast Castle is a spectacular Disney like castle that has to be on your list when visiting Northern Ireland. Located in Cave Hill Country Park, 20min drive from Belfast , it offers you an impressive view of Belfast Lough and the City of Belfast.

Surrounded by stunning gardens and woodland, it’s arguably one of the most beautiful castles in Northern Ireland. Wildlife abounds in the park including sparrow-hawks and long-eared owls. So be sure to bring your camera.

The current castle was constructed for the 3rd Marquess of Donegall in the late 1860s but there had been several different versions of this castle located in different parts of Belfast throughout the centuries. The earliest one is thought to have been built in the late 12th or early 13th century by the Normans as they invaded East Ulster.

Today, you can enjoy the Victorian architecture and grounds of the Belfast Castle free of charge. There’s a small cafe on the ground floor opening onto the terrace. Where you can then head outside to admire the stunning exterior and Belfast Lough views.

You can explore the public rooms on the ground and first floor. The renovations have left many original architectural features ,including the fireplaces.

There is also an onsite Visitor Centre and a Gift Shop. The Cellar Restaurant serves Irish and British favourites within the castle building.

📽️Cave Hill Visitor Centre is on the second floor of Belfast Castle. Free to visit, it has four rooms of exhibits and an 8-minute film about Cave Hill and Belfast Castle.  Enjoy!