If you’re visiting the capital of the north, check out everything the beautiful Cathedral Quarter in the city centre has to offer.
One of the most thriving areas of the city, you can’t miss Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter during your visit to the north.
The area is home to some of the best restaurants and pubs the city has to offer. Equally, the history and entertainment of the area speak volumes for themselves.
If there’s one place you want to take a picture in Belfast, it’s the cobbled streets and the beautiful surrounding area of the Cathedral Quarter.
Often described as “the cultural heart” of Northern Ireland, let’s look at everything you need to know before you visit.
Ireland Before You Die’s top tips for visiting:
- Some of the best bars in Belfast are located in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, so allow plenty of time to go for a pub crawl!
- Don’t miss out on the Duke of York pub. The interior décor, artwork, and surrounding cobbled streets are famous in the area. This is also a great spot for some trad music.
- Head for a gig at the Oh Yeah Centre. Here, you can learn more about Irish music and heritage.
- Check out St Anne’s Cathedral, the jewel in the Cathedral Quarter’s crown.
- Marvel at the historical artwork that shrouds one of the prettiest streets in Ireland, Commercial Court.
- Head for a bite to eat, a boogie, and a pint at Belfast’s Common Market, a gem in Belfast’s thriving food and drink scene.
Interesting facts about the Cathedral Quarter:
- Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter was once the centre of Belfast’s trade and warehousing district.
- The area is home to some of Belfast’s oldest streets and buildings, including Hill Street and Waring Street.
- The Cathedral Quarter is home to the famous bar, the Duke of York. The Duke of York is home to over 150 different types of whiskey.
- The streets of the Cathedral Quarter come to life every year with Belfast’s Culture Night.
- Former Bond girl Jane Seymour and numerous other celebrities have learned to play Irish trad music in the area.
What’s in the area
Drink: The Duke of York, The Dark Horse, The Harp Bar, The John Hewitt, The Dirty Onion, 39 Gordon Street, The Northern Wig, The Cloth Ear, Black Box.
Hotels: The Merchant Hotel, Bullitt Hotel, Malmaison Belfast.
Attractions: the MAC, the Oh Yea Music Centre, St Anne’s Cathedral, Commercial Court, NI War Memorial.
Your questions answered about the Cathedral Quarter Belfast
What is in the Cathedral Quarter in Belfast?
The Cathedral Quarter is home to some of the best waterholes in the city, like the Duke of York and Common Market and the vast variety of restaurants in St Anne’s Square. The area is also home to one of the prettiest streets in Ireland.
What is the best quarter in Belfast?
Cathedral Quarter has to be up there with the best. With its own fantastic nightlife and proximity to the rest of the town, it’s a must-visit during any trip to the city.
What are the seven quarters of Belfast?
The seven quarters of Belfast are the Cathedral Quarter, Titanic Quarter, Queen’s Quarter, Linen Quarter, Smithfield Market and Library Quarter, Market Quarter and the Gaeltacht Quarter.
