The UK offers art enthusiasts a myriad of opportunities to appreciate classic or contemporary art. However, it’s far from merely a London-based perk. Cities like Edinburgh, Manchester, and Belfast all have notable art scenes that are well worth traveling for. Belfast, in particular, has a fascinating mix of old and new art and music that you can enjoy.
Belfast’s murals are perhaps its most famous feature. These can be considered “elevated street art” as they often pertain to the complex history of the city and country. There are also contemporary street artists making street art around the city’s many neighborhoods and waterfront. The live music scene offers a little bit of everything: independent venues for local bands, larger theaters for touring acts, nightclubs for dance culture, and pubs showcasing traditional Irish music, also known as “sessions.”
There are also plenty of art galleries dotted throughout the city, which make for the perfect setting for a night out in a trendy neighborhood. Naturally, there are a few museums showcasing a wide array of art. From the stately Ulster Museum to the modern Metropolitan Arts Center, you’ll have a few choices for where to appreciate the full spectrum of artistic expression. And since luggage locker availability can be unreliable at these attractions, it’s best to drop off any unneeded bags at a Bounce luggage storage facility in Belfast first.
Here’s everything you need to know for exploring the vibrant arts scene in Belfast:
The Cathedral Quarter
Historically a rough area impacted by the political violence surrounding The Troubles, The Cathedral Quarter has been completely revitalized into one of Belfast’s best areas to visit. This neighborhood is lined with art galleries, music venues, and studios where Belfast’s students, yuppies, and creatives have rebuilt the neighborhood to reflect the current culture.
Its historical bones still exist, with cobbled streets and older buildings giving the Quarter its iconic appearance, but you’ll find modern design aesthetics and art installations have turned it into one of the UK’s coolest neighborhoods.
The Ulster Museum
One of the most renowned public places in Belfast, the Ulster Museum is a must-visit for appreciating a wide range of art, history, and science-based exhibits. Art, in particular, is a focal point, with countless classic works from Irish and international artists. It’s by no means strictly an art museum. The Ulster Museum offers a comprehensive collection of historical artifacts and exhibits detailing the long and complicated history of Northern Ireland. From its time as a Viking hangout to the shipbuilding capital of the world, you can immerse yourself in Belfast history as well as other topics like natural sciences. The traveling exhibitions are particularly appealing, as temporary displays and workshops showcase a wide range of topics.
Street art and murals
One of the most culturally significant facets of Belfast, its numerous murals highlight the complicated history of Ireland, particularly the political violence surrounding The Troubles. These murals, mostly situated along Falls Road and Shankill Road in West Belfast or North Street in the Cathedral Quarter, tell the story of this tragedy and contain poignant messaging about losses inflicted on both sides of the civil strife that’s plagued the city and country. On a lighter note, you’ll also find contemporary street art (sometimes political) throughout the city center and Cathedral Quarter that’s worth appreciating.
The Metropolitan Arts Centre
For art enthusiasts, the MAC will likely be your first stop during a trip to Belfast. This arts venue showcases contemporary art from local and international artists and frequently programs premier traveling exhibitions from renowned artists. The building’s striking modern architecture and glass facade make it one of Belfast’s most distinct buildings, and its place in the Cathedral Quarter makes it a must-visit.
Golden Thread Gallery
The premier art gallery in Belfast is massively popular among hip locals, students, and trendy travelers. It hosts frequent local artist showcases from across Ireland and has a contemporary approach that fits the youthful area. It’s also surprisingly massive for a venue with such a local focus, with room for over a dozen exhibitions within its main hall and different project spaces. With a rotating program, you’ll want to check ahead of time to see what exhibits will be there during your visit.
Live music in Belfast
Belfast has a vibrant and diverse music scene. From traditional pub performances to international touring acts playing stadiums, you’ll find every type of concert imaginable. Here are a few venues to check out:
- The SSE Arena: Belfast’s largest indoor arena hosts massive global stars touring through the UK and Ireland. This is where you’ll see performers. The SSE Arena also hosts sports, comedy, and professional wrestling.
- Oh Yeah Music Centre: This venue and arts space programs mostly local artists along with community events, art showcases, comedy, and other grassroots events.
- Limelight: One of the most popular rock clubs for touring and local acts, Limelight is where you’ll find indie-rock bands, heavy metal, and R&B performers. Limelight is about as trendy as it gets!
- Duke of York: One thing everyone should do while they’re in Ireland is head to a pub to watch traditional Irish music. Called “sessions,” these are sometimes informal gatherings of musicians who pop into their local pubs to play a few songs. Sometimes, there are more organized events based around notable performers. In Belfast, the most popular place to enjoy a pint and a session is the Duke of York. Fair warning: get here early to ensure you’ll have a table or seat at the bar.
- Black Box: If you’re looking to dance, then head to this nightclub and music venue for buzzy DJ sets and late-night dance parties.
- Ulster Hall: This historic venue hosts many of Belfast’s most prominent classical concerts (fitting, with a stunning Victorian setting), along with touring contemporary artists, comedy, and other events.
Closing thoughts
If you’re trying to do some sightseeing on travel days, you’ll want a place to store your luggage so you won’t waste time by heading to the hotel. Bounce has plenty of luggage storage locations across Belfast, so it’s easy to drop the bags off in the city center and go on a tour of the city’s murals, hit one of its superb art galleries, or visit a museum.
