Discover the best things to do in Belfast this Winter! From cosy pubs and sunday lunches to ice hockey games, indoor activities and scenic winter walks, there's something for everyone.
Take a Winter Walk
Wrap up and head out for some fresh air. Wander through frosty forest parks, breathe in the sea air on coastal paths, or uncover the quiet charm of stately gardens.
Tuck Into a Cosy Sunday Lunch
Nothing says winter comfort quite like a proper Sunday roast. Whether you’re looking for a classic roast, traditional carvery or something different, Belfast and beyond has plenty of mouth-watering options!
Plan a Family Day Out
Don't let the weather stop you from leaving the house, there are plenty of indoor activities for the whole family to do in Belfast! W5 Science & Discovery Centre at the Odyssey is always a hit, packed with interactive exhibits, hands-on experiments and imaginative play zones that will keep kids (and parents) entertained for hours. Prison Island challenges you to work together as a family with fun escape-room style games and obstacle courses. For active fun, hwhy not go indoor golfing or swimming! Perfect for burning off energy while staying warm! Whether you’re exploring, learning, or simply escaping the drizzle, Belfast’s indoor attractions promise plenty of fun for all ages.
Head to the Ice Rink
A Belfast Giants home game is not to be missed. You can expect an electric atmosphere, high-energy hockey, flying subways, exciting intermission activities, great music and GIANT action every time.
Visit a Local Market
Markets across Belfast offer a lively mix of creativity, flavour and local character. Whether you’re browsing the weekly market at St George's Market, a pop-up event or craft fair, there’s always a blend of handmade pieces, artisan produce, and quirky finds. Stalls brim with everything from ceramics and textiles to small-batch chutneys, breads, and sweet treats, all made by independent producers.
Warm Up with Indoor Attractions
For days when the weather isn't playing ball, Belfast’s cultural spots come to the rescue. Step inside Titanic Belfast to explore the city’s maritime heritage, wander the galleries at The MAC, or learn something new at Ulster Museum. The city’s arts and theatre scene also buzzes in winter, check out the The Waterfront Hall, Grand Opera House or Lyric Theatre for performances.
Explore Belfast’s Traditional Pubs
Belfast’s traditional pubs offer warmth and a lively atmosphere. The Duke of York, The Crown Liquor Saloon, and The Dirty Onion are classics, each with its own unique atmosphere, from ornate Victorian interiors and snugs to roaring fires and traditional tunes. Order a pint, find a snug corner, and settle in.
Take a Day Trip Beyond Belfast
If you’re looking to stretch your legs and soak up Northern Ireland’s natural beauty, winter is a wonderful time to explore beyond Belfast. Head to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens for a crisp stroll through historic grounds, or drive out to Mount Stewart on the Ards Peninsula for peaceful woodland walks and beautiful winter landscapes.
Check out the Out to Lunch Festival
January in Belfast comes alive with the Out to Lunch Festival, one of the city’s standout winter events. Running throughout the month, this much-loved festival transforms the quieter season into a celebration of music, comedy, theatre and spoken word, with performances staged in atmospheric venues across the Cathedral Quarter. Expect an eclectic mix of local talent and international acts, from intimate gigs and lunchtime concerts to laugh-out-loud comedy and thought-provoking talks.
Take on a Challenge
For those who love a challenge, Belfast offers plenty of ways to put your problem-solving and teamwork skills to the test. Prison Island combines mental and physical challenges in fast-paced, themed cells, Airtastic Ultimate Challenges delivers high-energy games that push agility and strategy, while Timescape immerses players in cinematic escape room adventures where every clue counts.
