Visit EastSide
Description
Explore East Belfast's industrial heritage, the streets where Titanic shipyard workers lived and the childhood neighbourhood of famous faces like George Best.
An easy 10 minute Glider or bus trip from the city centre brings you to EastSide Visitor Centre. From here you can navigate the neighbourhood, book a tour or meet an ‘EastSider’. Sports fans can take a tour of the childhood home of football hero, George Best, catch a game at Ulster Rugby’s Stadium or cheer on local soccer team, 'The Glens', at The Oval. If arts and culture are more your thing, EastSiders have a way with words and music, so don’t miss the chance to explore the streets and places that where once home to and inspired C.S. Lewis and Van Morrison!
Located between Stormont Estate and Titanic Quarter, EastSide is bursting with street art, old and new. You could say the walls of EastSide actually do talk as there is a vast array of political and community murals throughout the neighbourhood which are off the usual tourist trail, but are fascinating for anyone keen to understand Belfast’s complex history and contemporary society. If you prefer your art in one place, then there is a growing number of boutique galleries, local craft studios, vintage shops and creative start-up businesses to explore.
Whatever you get up to EastSide, have a great time!
Find out more at www.visiteastside.com
The George Best (self-guided) trail
George Best was proud to be from east Belfast and the people of east Belfast remain incredibly proud of 'Our George'. Spend half a day exploring the places closest to George's heart.
Download the trail here: https://visiteastside.com/listing/george-best-trail
C.S. Lewis Square
Rediscover The Chronicles of Narnia with a walk through C.S. Lewis Square, a public space commemorating the Belfast-born author, C.S. Lewis. Featuring seven bronze sculptures from 'The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe', including Aslan, The White Witch, Mr Tumnus, The Beavers, The Robin and The Stone Table, it is a stunning display of public art.
C.S. Lewis Square is located at the intersection of the Connswater and Comber Greenways, beside the EastSide Visitor Centre, where visitors can access information on the city's attractions from interactive screens, interpretative panels and a wall map, connecting people to EastSide's famous faces, places and industries.
The Centre also includes a coffee bar, named after East Belfast's famous author C.S. Lewis, affectionately known as 'Jack' to friends and family. JACK Coffee Bar features locally sourced produce and showcases products from local artists and food producers.
C.S. Lewis Square is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are fully illuminated.
Accommodation
The Stormont Hotel, Ashfield Bed and Breakfast and George Best House are great places to stay during your visit to Belfast. They are all situated on main bus routes which make east Belfast and the rest of Belfast extremely accessible. Download the Translink (local transport provider) app for your smartphone for timetables and bus routes.
George Best House
If you fancy an immersive, authentic experience why not stay in The George Best House, the childhood home of a football legend! The home where George lived before travelling to Manchester, and where his mother and father remained, is available as a holiday rental and includes three bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen, living room and front and back gardens.
To book a tour or stay visit: https://www.georgebesthouse.com/
Top Reasons To Visit
- Sport: Ravenhill & The Oval grounds nearby
- Famous Faces: George Best, C.S. Lewis and Van Morrison
- Walking and Cycling: Connswater Community Greenway
- Public Art and Murals: explore the unique public art in east
- Yardmen statue: Plays tribute to the men who built Titanic