In the heart of Donegall Square, Belfast City Hall stands as one of the city’s most important civic and architectural landmarks. Completed in 1906, this Baroque Revival masterpiece is not only the headquarters of Belfast City Council but also a cultural attraction, museum, and memorial site that draws visitors from across the world.
History & Architecture
Designed by architect Sir Alfred Brumwell Thomas, Belfast City Hall was constructed between 1898 and 1906 to reflect Belfast’s status as a flourishing industrial city.
- Exterior: Built from Portland stone with a striking 173 ft (53 m) central copper dome, visible across the city skyline.
- Interior: Features elegant marble staircases, stained glass windows, ornate woodwork, and the Great Hall, often used for formal events.
- Surroundings: The landscaped City Hall Gardens are filled with statues, monuments, and flowerbeds, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Visiting Belfast City Hall
Today, the City Hall is open to the public and offers guided tours, which showcase the building’s grand interiors and historical importance. Highlights include:
- The Great Hall: used for state banquets and official ceremonies.
- The Grand Staircase: a symbol of Edwardian grandeur.
- The Dome Interior: offering intricate architectural details.
- The Visitor Exhibition: chronicling Belfast’s industrial past, political history, and cultural evolution.
Memorials & Monuments
The grounds of City Hall are as significant as the building itself, featuring:
- The Titanic Memorial: commemorating those lost in the 1912 tragedy.
- The Cenotaph: Belfast’s main war memorial, honoring soldiers who died in World Wars I and II.
- Statues & Monuments: dedicated to monarchs, politicians, and civic leaders.
The gardens are a peaceful retreat in the city centre, often hosting seasonal markets, events, and festive celebrations like the Belfast Christmas Market.
Why Visit Belfast City Hall?
One of Belfast’s most iconic landmarks
Free guided tours showcasing Edwardian architecture
Fascinating visitor exhibition on Belfast’s history
Memorial gardens with Titanic and war tributes
Central location, ideal for exploring the city
FAQ – Belfast City Hall
1. Can you go inside Belfast City Hall?
Yes, free public tours are available (booking recommended).
2. How much does it cost to visit Belfast City Hall?
Entry and tours are free of charge.
3. What is the dome of Belfast City Hall made of?
The dome is covered in copper, giving it a striking green patina over time.
4. What memorials are located at Belfast City Hall?
The Titanic Memorial, War Memorial Cenotaph, and several statues.
5. Is Belfast City Hall lit up at night?
Yes, the building is beautifully illuminated, often in different colors for events and causes.
Practical Information
Address: Donegall Square, Belfast, United Kingdom
Website: www.belfastcity.gov.uk
Opening Hours: Mon–Fri 9am–5pm (gardens open daily)
Tours: Free, advance booking recommended