Titanic - unique, unmissable and unforgettable
The chances of you doing just one thing in Belfast are pretty slim. But if you were to, it would have to be a visit the birthplace of the most legendary ship in the world: RMS Titanic.
So much to do and see
In fact, you could spend a few days in and around Belfast’s Titanic Quarter exploring, as there’s so much for grown-ups and kids to do. You have Titanic’s little sister SS Nomadic or the maritime gem HMS Caroline to clamber aboard. A stroll along the famous Harland & Wolff slipways or a ride on The Wee Tram for a novelty tour of the area. You could take a short walk to the interactive science & discovery centre W5, perfect for families, rock up to the Odyssey Pavilion for a gig or to see local ice hockey team the Belfast Giants in action. A highlight during springtime is the Belfast Titanic Maritime Festival, which brings a huge buzz and lots of family friendly activities over the May bank holiday weekend. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg (forgive the pun!), there’s lots of other hidden gems we’ll tell you about later. As a Quarter, it’s not half full!
Sail back in time
Of course, the centrepiece for you is the iconic Titanic Belfast visitor attraction. As you explore its six floors of interactive galleries, you will experience the sights, sounds, smells and stories of life aboard the doomed RMS Titanic. You will also meet the people who made her and the city that made them. The story of Titanic - from her conception, construction and launch to fateful maiden voyage – will touch you. It’s an experience you will never ever forget.
Titanic facts and feats
You might miss a few little nuggets on your RMS Titanic experience. So here’s a few to keep in your back pocket. For starters, you can tell people that the ‘RMS’ stands for Royal Mail Steamer as Titanic was appointed to carry mail on its voyage. Or that Titanic was actually one of three ships planned, the others being the Olympic and Brittanic. Perhaps you’ll casually mention that Titanic’s funnels were wide enough to drive a train through. Or amaze friends and family by disclosing that there was a gym, pool, squash court and dog kennel on board - not to mention 40,000 eggs and 15,000 bottles of ale. The breadth of your knowledge on the topic will be very impressive!
Other hidden gems of the Titanic Quarter
Belfast’s Titanic Quarter is big and beautiful, like the ship that once sailed out of her famed docks. There are gems around every corner to make your trip to this part of Belfast even more memorable, including the following...
Rest your head in Titanic’s Drawing Offices
The Harland & Wolff Drawing Offices, where RMS Titanic was designed, are one of Belfast’s architectural gems. And today they stand proudly restored as a four-star deluxe boutique hotel. For a luxurious stay, which will enhance your maritime experience from the moment you walk through its doors, look no further.
Dock at Tedford’s Restaurant
Tedford’s carries the name of one of Belfast’s oldest chandlers, sail and tentmaker firms and is now housed in its former premises. Steeped in Belfast’s rich maritime history, book a table and enjoy delicious local seafood or make it part of your great city night out.
Sightsee on a Lagan boat trip
Get a river’s eye view of Titanic Quarter, the docks, the River Lagan and the famous yellow Samson and Goliath shipyard cranes on a sea safari or boat tour. You’ll get a unique perspective on the city from here.
Take afternoon tea at Titanic Belfast
Recreate some timeless Titanic elegance with afternoon tea in the Titanic Suite. Spoil yourself with five-star service with the stunning replica staircase as your backdrop. Take in the fabulous views over a delicious selection of sweet and savoury delights, and tea - all served to you in replica White Star Line crockery, of course.
Explore your ancestry at PRONI
Here is the perfect spot to spend a few hours tracing your family tree. Centuries of records relating to Northern Ireland families, including some on Titanic, are held at the Public Records Office for Northern Ireland (PRONI). You are welcome to visit our reading rooms and exhibitions – or pop in for a coffee perk-up!
Wolf down some street food
Walking around Titanic Quarter can leave you fairly famished. So, head for the Lagan Lookout where the street food vendors will satisfy your every hunger pang. Delish!
Test your honesty at the Dock Café
There’s no price list at the Dock Cafe. Instead, there’s an honesty box where you choose what to pay. You can figure that out while you’re relaxing on comfy sofas, indulging in a slice of Titanic Quarter life, and pouring over Titanic and shipyard memorabilia.
Kiss the Big Fish
You cannot leave the Titanic Quarter without kissing the famous Salmon of Knowledge sculpture, known locally as the Big Fish. Take a little time to read the text and look at the images on its scales depicting scenes from Belfast's early history to the present day.
