Belfast Castle Estate and Cave Hill Visitor Centre

(Source: Belfast Tourism Board)

Belfast Castle is located in the Cave Hill area of north Belfast. It was built in the 1860s and is one of the city's most famous landmarks.

For generations, Cave Hill has been synonymous with Belfast, with its imposing outline visible throughout the city. The landmark, named for the five caves located on the side of the cliffs, contains a wealth of natural, archaeological and historical features, including Belfast Castle.

Its most famous feature, known locally as Napoleon's Nose, is believed to have been the inspiration for Jonathan Swift's novel, Gulliver's Travels.

The park is home to the Cave Hill Adventurous Playground, archaeological sites, Visitor Information Area in Belfast Castle, ecotrails, walking and orienteering routes.

The estate contains landscaped gardens and mature mixed woodland and offers superb views of the city from a variety of vantage points. It is home to many different species of wildlife, including long-eared owls, sparrowhawks and Belfast's rarest plant.

Cave Hill Visitor Centre is located in the ment of Belfast Castle.

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Saturday: 9am - 10pm

Sunday: 9am - 5.30pm

Monday: 9am to 5.30pm

Admission is free.

The Cellar Restaurant within the castle is open every day from 11am - 5pm serving snacks, light refreshments and lunch as well as a traditional Sunday lunch. The restaurant is open for dinner until 9pm on Tuesday to Saturday evenings.