Since the sinking of the Titanic over a century ago, people have continued to remain fascinated by every detail. The “unsinkable” Queen of the Ocean and that momentous launch in Belfast from Slipway No. 3 at the bottom of the Atlantic. Today, tourists and locals can delve deeper into the tragedy, behold a replica of a first-class cabin, and walk along the ship’s promenade deck at Titanic Belfast.
Background on Titanic Belfast
Given the striking exterior of Titanic Belfast, it comes as no surprise to learn that its star-shaped form and intricate design represent something bigger. Texan architect Eric Kuhne explained that “the architecture behind (the building) was inspired by water crystals just as they begin to freeze.” The crystals are the facades and the icebergs form the glass observatories overlooking the old slipways. It “celebrates the iconography of over 400 years of shipbuilding, innovation, and creativity in Belfast.”
What can you do at Titanic Belfast?
Self-guided tours of the Titanic Experience and Sunday afternoon tea in the Titanic Suite accompanied by live jazz music are some of the spectacular things you can do at the museum. The Shipyard Ride is also a must if you’re in the mood for a fully immersive experience. There are also several restaurants to get a bite to eat on site, including Galley Café, The Pantry and Hickson’s Point, a foodie favourite serving delicious pub grub.
This season, the wildly popular Candlelight concerts are also taking place at this dazzling Belfast gem. Talented musicians are coming to the evocative setting steeped in history to captivate audiences with classical takes on some of the greatest music of all time. From tributes to Adele and ABBA to a concert celebrating Vivaldi, there’s something for everyone.
How long does it take to visit Titanic Belfast?
As it’s a self-guided tour, it takes as long as you want to spend looking around it. On average, a visit to this Belfast museum takes around an hour and a half to two hours.
Was the Titanic ever in Belfast?
Yes, on 2 April 1912, the Titanic set sail from Belfast where it was built and left for Southampton where it would make its maiden voyage.
How much are Titanic Belfast tickets?
Admission costs £24.95 per adult and £11 per child. Tickets also include a self-guided tour of the SS Nomadic.
Located on the Maritime Mile, Titanic Belfast forms part of “one of Europe’s largest urban waterfront regeneration projects”—Titanic Quarter. Only a 25 to 30-minute walk from the city centre, getting to the museum is an easy task. Visitors arriving by car can find 520 underground paid parking spaces in the Titanic Quarter, and Translink also operates regular train and bus services bringing you pretty much to the door of Titanic Belfast.
Although enjoying a live music performance at this incredible venue is hard to beat, Candlelight also takes place at other spaces around the city. Invite your friends or family along for a memorable evening out thanks to Candlelight, the power of candles, and awe-inspiring musicians.