North Belfast Heritage Trail
The fascinating story of our city’s past
North Belfast’s unique built heritage is a hidden gem stretching back to the 18th Century. In just over one mile 15 such buildings and sites sit, sometimes side by side, and collectively tell a fascinating story of our city’s past. These buildings also make up the North Belfast Heritage Cluster, whose goal is to use these vital assets to help deliver heritage-led regeneration.
Through funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund’s Great Place Scheme, the Cluster have been able to run a number of initiatives to create more awareness of these amazing buildings. This new Heritage Trail is their latest.
The Trail currently takes in 14 of these historically significant buildings, presenting information on the authentic character of each and sharing their captivating stories past and present.
All you need to do is look out for the #greatplacenorthbelfast QR codes on the outside of each. Simply scan the QR code with your device to read more about the building, including a significant artefact that lies within and a story uncovered from their archives. You will also have the opportunity to listen to a special recording of someone close to the building talking about their experiences of it.
We recommend you start your tour on the steps of Belfast Cathedral (St Anne’s) (1), travel up Donegall Street where you will see Redeemer Central (2) and St Patrick’s Church and Parochial House (3). From there turn right towards Frederick Street to see the Quaker Meeting House (4), and just across the road Clifton House (5) on North Queen Street. From Clifton House, head up Clifton Street to see Clifton Street Cemetery (6), Belfast Orange Hall (7) and the Indian Community Centre (8).
Next, travel up the Crumlin Road where you will find Carnegie Old Park Library (11) and the North Belfast Working Men’s Club (12). For our last few stops, retrace your steps back down the Crumlin Road to Carlisle Circus, and travel up the Antrim Road to find Annesley Street Synagogue (9), St Malachy’s College (10), Duncairn Arts and Culture Centre (13) and finally Dunlewey (14), 34 – 36 Cliftonville Road, your last stop on the trail.
Why not share an interesting fact you have learnt on your walk, or let us know which of these old but beautiful buildings are your favourite, by tagging us in your Facebook (@GreatPlaceNorthBelfast) and Twitter (@GreatplaceB) posts. Additionally, if you arrive at a building and cannot locate the QR code please let us know, either via email info@greatplacenorthbelfast.com or our social media pages.
Happy trailing!