These 10 free indoor activities in Belfast will make you want to stay inside forever!
As a parent, I know the weekend struggle all too well—trying to keep the kids entertained while keeping an eye on the budget. It often feels like I’m obligated to take them out for fun activities, but those trips can leave my wallet feeling a little lighter.
I’ve found myself wishing for more creative, cost-effective options that still bring joy to our family outings. That’s why I’m excited to share some incredible free indoor activities I’ve discovered here in Belfast!
These gems are perfect for all ages and keep your little ones engaged without breaking the bank. Trust me, you won’t want to miss these fantastic options that have made our weekends so much more enjoyable!
1. Explore the Fascinating Exhibits at the Ulster Museum
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Website: https://www.ulstermuseum.org/
Address: Belfast BT9 5AB, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890440000
Operating hours: 10 AM–5 PM
Ulster Museum has welcomed visitors to the beautiful Botanic Gardens since 1929. Trust me, it hasn’t lost any charm as you wander through its vast 8,000 square meters of display space.
Where else can you go from admiring ancient Egyptian mummies to checking out dinosaur fossils in just one visit? There’s a special focus on Northern Ireland’s rich history, particularly the Troubles, which gives you insight into the region’s complex past.
If you’re visiting with kids, don’t miss out on the Discovery Zones. My kids enjoyed the Nature Zone, where you can touch fossils—the feeling of being next to a 200-million-year-old seabed was just something else!
| Pro tip: Remember to check out the temporary exhibitions before your visit. They often feature exciting collections that rotate regularly, giving you something new to discover each time! |
2. Explore Belfast’s Oldest Library, the Linen Hall Library
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Website: http://www.linenhall.com/
Address: 17 Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GB, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890321707
Operating hours: 9:30 AM–5:30 PM
The Linen Hall Library is the oldest one in the city, dating back to 1788. This place is unique because it’s also the last subscribing library in Ireland, so it has this old-world charm mixed with a vibrant cultural vibe.
The library is tucked away in a gorgeous Victorian linen warehouse on Donegall Square North. The collection is impressive—around 250,000 items! Their Northern Ireland Political Collection captures the region’s complex history.
You can even find rare gems like the first edition of James Joyce’s “Ulysses” and the oldest book in their collection, a 1490 edition of “De Anima” by Avicenna. They host all sorts of events—exhibitions, readings, and lectures celebrating Belfast’s rich culture.
| Pro tip: Make sure to grab a window seat in the café for stunning views of City Hall while you sip your coffee—it’s a delightful way to soak in the atmosphere! |
3. Walk Along Stunning Architecture at Belfast City Hall
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Website: https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/tourism-venues/cityhall/cityhall-about.aspx
Address: Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GS, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890320202
Operating hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM
Belfast City Hall offers free tours that allow visitors to learn about the history of this beautiful city while soaking in its stunning architecture. The City Hall, designed by Sir Alfred Brumwell Thomas, was completed in 1906.
This Baroque Revival gem isn’t just where the city’s council operates; it welcomes over 400,000 visitors annually. The dome is 53 meters high, and the exterior boasts lovely Portland stone with intricate carvings and stained glass windows.
There’s a little café called the Bobbin Coffee Shop where you can grab a bite. It’s ideal for recharging after wandering through the Visitor Exhibition, which spans 16 themed rooms and beautifully tells the story of Belfast’s rich history.
| Pro tip: If you plan to visit on a weekend, try to arrive early to secure a spot on a guided tour since they can fill up quickly! |
4. Shop at the Vibrant Stalls of St. George’s Market
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Website: https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/stgeorgesmarket
Address: 12 East Bridge St, Belfast BT1 3NQ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890435704
Operating hours: 8 AM–2 PM
St. George’s Markee is the oldest market in the city, dating back to 160. The building we see today was completed in the late 1800s. It’s charming and full of character!
Every weekend, this market transforms into a lively hub with over 200 stalls offering everything from fresh local produce and unique antiques to mouthwatering street food and crafty handmade goods.
On Saturdays, I like to hit up the City Food and Craft Market, where you can savor a delicious Belfast Bap while browsing stalls overflowing with colorful fruits and artisan cheeses.
| Pro tip: Arrive early on Fridays to snag the best deals at the Variety Market before the crowds arrive. This is also a great time for quieter browsing and chatting with vendors! |
5. Shop Until You Drop at Castlecourt Shopping Centre
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Website: http://www.castlecourt-uk.com/
Address: Royal Ave, Belfast BT1 1DD, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890234591
Operating hours: 9 AM–6 PM
CastleCourt Shopping Centre has over 80 stores and 15 cozy eateries under one roof. It has been around since 1990, and you can see why it’s a favorite spot for locals and tourists.
And for families, they get it. There’s a Kids Club to keep the little ones entertained, plus Shop Mobility for anyone needing extra help. It truly feels like a place where everyone can find something to enjoy.
One of the best things about CastleCourt is how easy it is to get there. They’ve more than 1,600 parking spaces, so you can just roll in without the usual parking stress of city trips.
| Pro tip: If you plan to visit on a Thursday, take advantage of the late-night shopping hours until 9 PM—perfect for extra shopping after work! |
6. Check Out the Art Galleries at the MAC
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Website: http://themaclive.com/
Address: 10 Exchange St, West, Belfast BT1 2NJ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890235053
Operating hours: 9 AM–5 PM
The Metropolitan Arts Centre, or the MAC, opened its doors in 201,2. Since then, over 1.5 million visitors have visited, and it was even shortlisted for the Museum of the Year prize in 2015.
The design is stunning, with intersecting brick volumes and a cool basalt tower that practically screams, ‘Look at me!’ Once you enter, you’ll find two theaters, three art galleries, and many workshop spaces.
We got to dive into some hands-on art projects, and I was lost in the experience—completely inspiring! Plus, after all that creativity, we hit up the café NATIVE by Yellow Door, which serves some delicious local bites.
| Pro tip: Consider checking their schedule for free exhibitions or special events; these can enhance your experience and provide unique insights into the artworks on display. |
7. Play and Learn at W5’s Discovery Zones
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Website: https://w5online.co.uk/
Address: The Odyssey, 2 Queens Quay, Belfast BT3 9QQ, United Kingdom
Operating hours: 10 AM–6 PM
W5 is a science and discovery center that has been charming visitors since its opening in 2001. Imagine walking into a place with over 250 interactive exhibits spread across eight zones!
One of my favorite spots is the Climbit area—seriously, you can climb to new heights there! And then there’s the Marvellous Machine zone, where you dive into some hands-on activities.
If you’re into dinosaurs and space, The Lost Planet will blow your mind! The Science Bar even hosts daily science shows, and there’s a cozy area just for kids under eight that brings storybooks to life through imaginative role-play.
| Pro tip: Arrive early or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds; this way, you can fully immerse yourself in all the exhibits without feeling rushed! |
8. Visit the Golden Thread Gallery
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Website: http://www.goldenthreadgallery.co.uk/
Address: 23-29 Queen St, Belfast BT1 6EA, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890330920
Operating hours: 11 AM–5 PM
Since 2001, the Golden Thread Gallery has been showcasing contemporary visual art. It’s like a whirlwind tour of modern art and culture, and the best part? Every exhibition and event is free!
They even offer guided tours if you want to learn more about the art. Their little gift shop is a must-see, with art books and unique gifts that make perfect souvenirs—or maybe just a treat for yourself!
The gallery is fully accessible for visitors with little ones. It has baby-changing facilities and a family area to ensure everyone feels comfortable.
| Pro tip: If you plan to visit during the week, try to catch one of their artist talks or workshops; they provide deeper insights into the art and are often interactive, enhancing your overall experience! |
9. Explore the World of Creativity at the Crescent Arts Centre
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Website: http://www.crescentarts.org/
Address: 2-4 University Rd, Belfast BT7 1NH, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890242338
Operating hours: 9 AM–5 PM
The Crescent Arts Centre hosts free art exhibitions regularly, which means you can soak up some incredible creativity without spending a dime. And if you’re into hands-on experiences, they offer over 200 weekly classes and workshops!
One highlight for me was attending a creative writing workshop there. Being surrounded by fellow enthusiasts and having talented instructors guide us was incredibly inspirational. And after diving into creativity, you can unwind at their café.
I also appreciate the welcoming atmosphere. The place feels warm and inviting, perfect for families, art lovers, or anyone looking to connect with their creative spirit.
| Pro tip: Book your tickets in advance if you plan to visit during one of their festivals or special events, as they often sell out quickly! |
10. Join the Irish FA Tours
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Website: https://www.irishfa.com/national-football-stadium-at-windsor-park/irish-fa-tours
Address: National Football Stadium, Donegall Ave, Belfast BT12 6LU, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890029497
Operating hours: 1–3 PM
Have you ever wondered about the incredible journey of football in Northern Ireland? The Irish FA Tours is a living museum that brings to life the beautiful game from 1880 to today.
The Education and Heritage Centre features interactive displays and key artifacts that showcase the passion and pride surrounding football in Northern Ireland.
One of the coolest parts of the tour is getting to walk pitch-side.
Just imagine standing where the legends have played—it gives you chills! The self-guided exhibition area is also a great way to kick things off. You can even test your penalty kick skills against virtual Northern Ireland legends.
| Pro tip: If you plan to visit, check the schedule to avoid match days when public tours are unavailable. This will ensure you get the full experience without interruptions! |