About the city

To discover even more of Belfast’s unique history, heading south to the Queen’s Quarter to visit the Ulster Museum is a must, with its exhibitions dedicated to documenting the human stories of Northern Ireland as well as presenting a variety of global cultural displays. From Dale Chihuly’s Glass Sculpture for art lovers, to the ancient Egyptian mummy Takabuti for history buffs, to Peter the Polar Bear for excited children, there’s something for everyone to be found here.

The museum is ideally located at the main entrance to the beautiful Botanic Gardens, which spread an impressive 28 acres of the city and is another great spot to spend time in as a family. The park has been open to the public since 1895 and are a key feature of Belfast’s Victorian history. The Palm House conservatory is one of the world’s earliest examples of a curvilinear cast-iron glasshouse, and consists of a cool wing and a tropical wing showcasing a beautiful range of plants and flowers which bloom year-round.

The gardens’ other greenhouse, the Tropical Ravine House, is unique in its design of two raised balconies either end of a sunken ravine running the length of the building. Outside in the gardens there is also a stunning rose garden which was built more recently in 1932 and various species of tree, including the rare hornbeam-oak. This spot is perfect for a bit of rest and relaxation and a nice chance for children to have a run around away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.