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Belfast Castle Estate & Cave Hill Visitor Centre
Description
Belfast Castle is located in the Cave Hill area of north Belfast. It was built in the 1860s and is one of the city's most famous landmarks to visit.
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, including Belfast Castle.
Its most famous feature, known locally as Napoleon's Nose, is believed to have been the inspiration for Jonathan Swift's novel, Gulliver's Travels.
The park is home to the Cave Hill Adventurous Playground (Closed until Mid-October for refurb works), archaeological sites, a Visitor Information Centre in Belfast Castle (Open to 5.30pm 7 days per week), beautiful gardens, ecotrails, walking and orienteering routes.
The estate contains landscaped gardens and mature mixed woodland and offers superb views of the city from a variety of vantage points. It is home to many different species of wildlife, including long-eared owls, sparrowhawks and Belfast's rarest plant; the town hall clock.
Belfast Castle has a fantastic newly opened café with a range of hot and cold snacks and drinks.
The Ability café operated by USEL is open 5 days per week, Thursday through to Monday 9am-4pm (Hot food served til 3pm). The Café is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
Its most famous feature, known locally as Napoleon's Nose, is believed to have been the inspiration for Jonathan Swift's novel, Gulliver's Travels.
The park is home to the Cave Hill Adventurous Playground (Closed until Mid-October for refurb works), archaeological sites, a Visitor Information Centre in Belfast Castle (Open to 5.30pm 7 days per week), beautiful gardens, ecotrails, walking and orienteering routes.
The estate contains landscaped gardens and mature mixed woodland and offers superb views of the city from a variety of vantage points. It is home to many different species of wildlife, including long-eared owls, sparrowhawks and Belfast's rarest plant; the town hall clock.
Belfast Castle has a fantastic newly opened café with a range of hot and cold snacks and drinks.
The Ability café operated by USEL is open 5 days per week, Thursday through to Monday 9am-4pm (Hot food served til 3pm). The Café is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
Top Reasons To Visit
- Belfast Castle is one of the city's most famous landmarks
- Breathtaking views of the city from Cave Hill Country Park
- The award-winning Cave Hill Adventurous Playground
- Learn about the history at Cave Hill Visitor Centre
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Cave Hill Visitor Centre
Cave Hill Visitor Centre is located in the basement of Belfast Castle. This fascinating and intriguing museum offers a self-guided tour and is open:
- Monday to Sunday: 9am – 5.30pm
Admission is free.
The Castle Tavern Ability Cafe is open for snacks and hot drinks and is open:
- Monday to Sunday: 9am – 4pm
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Cellar Restaurant
The Cellar Restaurant is currently closed to the public.
Contact Details
Gallery
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