Coming to the city and fearful of the weather? Don’t worry; there’s still plenty to do with our list of the ten best things to do in Belfast on a rainy day, ranked.
If you are in Ireland over the summer and the weather forecast isn’t too good (which, in all likelihood, probably won’t be), don’t throw the towel in.
While the country is best explored on a warm summer’s day, it isn’t the only time to make the most of the Emerald Isle.
The same applies to the cities, and Belfast in particular. If you find yourself in the city soon and are caught in the rain, just change the plans. This fine city still stands tall even on the bad days.
Scrap what you had before and plan a fresh itinerary with our list of the best things to do in Belfast on a rainy day.
10. Crumlin Road Gaol – tour of an historic prison
First up on our list of the best things to do in Belfast on a rainy day is a tour of the historic Crumlin Road Gaol in North Belfast.
The Gaol was a former active prison in the last couple of centuries and is filled with history in every corner. The guided tour is an excellent day out for anyone interested in the history of Belfast and is a great starting point for those interested in the history of Belfast walking tour.
Address: 53-55 Crumlin Rd, Belfast BT14 6ST
9. We Are Vertigo – for the adventurer in you
One of the most fun things to do in Belfast on a rainy day and one for the kids is We Are Vertigo.
Ireland’s only indoor skydiving centre, We Are Vertigo is filled with exhilarating activities such as indoor skydiving, an inflatable park, the Ninja master course, and adventure climbing.
More info: HERE
Address: Newtownbreda Industrial Estate, 1 Cedarhurst Rd, Belfast BT8 7RH
8. Find yourself a nice café and sit in – enjoy the city’s world-class café culture
Belfast is legitimately home to world-class café culture, and if you are stuck on a rainy day, one of the best things to do is take refuge in a café.
Belfast city is filled with excellent cafes. Chief among them are Napoleon, Established, Hatch, Canteen, and General Merchants. Take your pick and relax.
7. W5 – perfect for a family day out
Another one for the kids and families is W5. W5 is an incredible centre with a range of engaging scientific exhibitions and interactive exhibits to take part in.
A new feature is the late-night, adult-only, fun-filled exhibits!
More info: HERE
Address: The Odyssey, 2 Queens Quay, Belfast BT3 9QQ
6. Dundonald International Ice Bowl – an Olympic-size ice rink
Next on our list of the best things to do in Belfast on a rainy day is the Ice Bowl at Dundonald.
Not only is there an Olympic size ice rink but bowling and Indiana Land. Northern Ireland’s famous rink is only 20 minutes from Belfast city.
More info: HERE
Address: 111 Old Dundonald Rd, Belfast BT16 1XT
5. Belfast Titanic Museum and tour – for the history of the unsinkable ship
Titanic Belfast is a world-leading visitor attraction and undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Belfast on a rainy day.
The Titanic Tour charts the story of the famous ship, its maiden voyage and the city’s rich maritime history. It is also one of Belfast’s marque buildings. You can explore nine interactive galleries across six floors, as well as the HMS Caroline.
However, if you are willing to brave the rain, you can visit this attraction on a Belfast eclectic walking tour.
Address: 1 Olympic Way, Queen’s Road, Belfast BT3 9EP
4. Lost City Adventure Golf – one of the best things to do in Belfast on a rainy day
One of the best experiences you’ll have in Belfast is the Adventure Golf at Yorkgate. It is located close to the city centre.
Fans of Indiana Jones will love the theme as you try your best to beat your mates along the adventurous crazy golf course. It’s always busy, so get booking early!
More info: HERE
Address: Cityside Retail & Leisure Park, Belfast BT15 1JH
3. Find a pub and drink the day away – take your pick in the city centre
Like any Irish city, you will have your pick of incredible, intimate, traditional, and buzzing bars to choose from. Day drinking and night drinking alike, the city centre will have a bar for you.
The Points, Limelight, and Pug Ugly’s are worth a shout. You also have a range of options in Cathedral Quarter, while Madden’s and Kelly’s are superb traditional Irish bars.
2. Ulster Museum – delve into the secrets of the past
If its free entry wasn’t enough reason to visit, Ulster Museum is one of the city’s premier attractions, as it looks back on the secrets of the past from every corner of the globe.
It is a kaleidoscopic collection of history, art, and the natural sciences that will wonder you. For the history buffs, your day away from the rain is sorted. The Egyptian mummy is a firm favourite among visitors.
More info: HERE
Address: Botanic Gardens, Belfast BT9 5AB
1. Shop in St George’s Market on a weekend morning – a unique Belfast shopping experience
If you’ve been to the Belfast Christmas Market, you’ll love St George’s Market. Open Friday to Sunday, it is a great way to spend your weekend when in Belfast.
Friday’s markets date back to 1604 with different antiques and food. Saturday is the city food and craft market, while Sunday is more craft and antique markets. Take your time, traverse the lanes, and experience a litany of different tastes, styles, and cultures.
More info: HERE
Address: St George’s Market, East Bridge St, Belfast BT1 3NQ
Why not take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour to help you get around?
Other notable mentions
James Connolly Visitor Centre: Located in west Belfast near where Connolly lived, this is a necessary experience for those interested in the man and Irish history.
Victoria Square Dome: Reach the top of one of the stars of Belfast’s skyline for incredible views. While you’re at it, do some shopping downstairs.
C.S Lewis Square: C.S Lewis Square visitor centre in East Belfast is a great spot to enjoy a coffee while sheltering from the rain.
Game of Thrones tour: Just a half an hour’s drive from Belfast city, Game of Thrones fans will love this interactive tour in Banbridge.
FAQs about the best things to do in Belfast on a rainy day
What should you not miss in Belfast?
Any of the above. Additionally, you wouldn’t want to miss the Black Cab Tours, a stroll in the gardens of Belfast City Hall, seeing the Belfast Cathedral, or a show at the MAC Theatre. The Belfast Zoo is also worth a visit. What should you not miss in Belfast?
What else is there to do near Belfast?
Some of the best activities outside of Belfast include a visit to Rathlin Island or Dunluce Castle. You could also attend the Bushmills whiskey distillery.
Where are some of the best places to walk in Belfast?
There are a lot of parks in Belfast. Some of the best places to walk would be Cave Hill County Park, Colin Glen Forest Park, and Lady Dixon Park. Stop at Belfast Castle whilst at Cave Hill.
