Belfast Castle
Belfast Castle
The first Belfast Castle was built by the Normans in Belfast city centre in the late 12th century. A second castle, made of stone and timber, was later constructed by Sir Arthur Chichester, Baron of Belfast, on the same site in 1611.
Sadly, the castle burned down almost 100 years later, leaving only street names, such as Castle Place, to mark its location.
In 1862, the third Marquis of Donegall, a descendant of the Chichester family, decided to build a new castle within his deer park, situated on the side of Cave Hill in what is now north Belfast. The castle remained with the family for many years, before they eventually presented it and the surrounding estate to the City of Belfast in 1934.
Between 1945 and the 1970s Belfast Castle was a popular venue for wedding receptions, dances and afternoon teas.
In 1978 the castle closed as part of a £2 million refurbishment programme, overseen by Hewitt and Haslam Partnership architects. It reopened on 11 November 1988 and is now a popular venue for weddings, conferences and other events.
Attractions include:
Cave Hill Country Park
Enjoy breathtaking views and stand, quite literally, on top of Belfast during a visit to Cave Hill Country Park.
Explore one of Belfast’s most famous landmarks, Napoleon's Nose, which is believed to have been the inspiration for Jonathan Swift's novel, Gulliver's Travels.
Cave Hill Country Park is also a popular walking and cycling spot.
Orienteering courses
Challenge your mind and body with our orienteering courses at Cave Hill Country Park. Call into Belfast Castle reception to pick up your free map.
Orienteering is suitable for all ages and abilities. Follow the route of your choice at your own pace, which could be walking, jogging or racing. Our courses are ideal for families, schools and community groups.
Cave Hill Adventurous Playground
Bring the family and enjoy a fun filled day at this award winning park, which is located in the grounds of Belfast Castle Estate.
The park is suitable for children aged three to 14 and includes cradle swings, slides, spring rockers, a sand play unit and a bicycle roundabout. For older children, there's a spectacular space net and aerial runway.
Cave Hill Visitor Centre
Find out more about the history of the Cave Hill area at our visitor centre inside Belfast Castle. It's open:
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Monday - 9am to 6pm
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Tuesday to Saturday - 9am to 10pm
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Sunday - 9am - 5.30pm.
For generations, Cave Hill has been synonymous with Belfast, with its imposing outline visible throughout the city. The landmark, named for the five caves located on the side of the cliffs, contains a wealth of natural, archaeological and historical features.