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Belfast

Belfast is a pleasant surprise.

The name Belfast may conjure a picture of sectarian violence and industrial strife. It has had a very bad press - yet it has been rehabilitated totally in recent years by the improving security situation.

Recent times have seen Belfast's growth as a touring destination. I believe it is actually more photogenic than Dublin in the South, which has traditionally been Ireland's most popular city to visit.

With the advent of cheap flights Belfast can be reached quickly for a short break from anywhere on mainland Britain.

Belfast was a major shipbuilding town, dominated by the distinctive yellow, giant cranes in the Harland and Wolffe shipyard.

The heart of Belfast is Donegal square, where shops, buses, and people meet. Here you also find Belfast City Hall. Built out of attractive Portland stone the City Hall doesn’t have a bad angle. Wherever you point your camera it rewards with an essay in shape and form.

Stormont is a magnificent example of architecture on the Newtownards road out of East Belfast. It is the home of the Northen Ireland Assembly (parliament) and the ultimate prize for both sides in the peace process.

The River Lagan runs through the town, cutting it in two. There are many enjoyable walks and arguably no better place to see it than from the Lagan Lookout, next to the tidal barrier.

The Crown Liquor saloon is possibly the prettiest pub in Great Britain. It is an old, Victorian watering hole that is also a listed building owned by the National Trust! What makes it so interesting is the intricate tiling, marbling and mosaic that covers every surface, inside and out.

Let’s keep Belfast a secret so that we can enjoy it without the crowds!

See Also: Belfast photos