Exploring Belfast on a Sunny Day – 5 Free Things To Do!
Summer in Belfast is truly a magical time! The long warm days allow you to explore the hidden treasures of the city. From its lush green parks to music festivals – there is something for everyone to enjoy.
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Exploring the city centre
Start your day with a free guided tour of the city hall. This is a great way to find out more about the city’s history and you can appreciate the beautiful architecture of the building. From there make your way to the main streets of the city, take a stroll, do some window shopping and enjoy the live music. On the weekends, you can check out St. George’s Market. It is one of Belfast’s oldest markets and offers local produce, arts and crafts, and live music.
Check out Kathryn's guide to Belfast!
Enjoy the sun in Botanic Gardens with a picnic
Botanic Gardens is one of my favourite places to go and relax. It is a perfect spot for a summer picnic with friends. You can also walk through its palm house and appreciate the exotic plants it houses. The gardens are also filled with beautiful seasonal flowers that are such a serene sight.
Inside the Botanic Gardens is the Ulster Museum. It is full of immersive experiences ranging from art and history to natural sciences. The best part is, it is free admission.
Take a trip to St George's Market and Common Market
Spend a day at the beach
Summer is incomplete without a beach day! Pack up your BBQ essentials, gather your friends, and head to Helen’s Bay! It is just a short train ride away from Belfast and perfect for sunbathing, swimming and a delicious beachside BBQ. Enjoy a day full of fun in the warm sun along the water with your friends here!
Go on the Cave Hill trail
Head to Belfast Castle and sit in the lawns enjoying stunning views of the city. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, go up the Cave Hill trail. The hike is moderately challenging but the panoramic views from the top are worth it!
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Enjoy a fun evening in the Cathedral Quarter
The Cathedral Quarter is the heart of Belfast’s culture and comes alive during summer evenings. The streets are livened with performances and events. You should explore the alleyways with stunning murals and graffiti, especially in the Commercial Court. The area also has a lot of pubs and bars where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere without spending anything!
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Manya RanganathanMedicine | Undergraduate Student | IndiaI have just finished my second year of medical school at Queen’s. It has been an enjoyable two years in Belfast with lots of study sessions in the McClay, discovering new parts of the city and working together with my peers. I am an international student from Delhi, India but the wonderful people I have met and the friends I’ve made make Belfast seem like home. |
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