A weekend in BELFAST

Fizzing with culture and conviviality, Northern Ireland's capital is ideal for a minibreak

- CHRIS MORLEY

Cradled by mountains and wrapped around the deep waters of Belfast Lough, Belfast is a small city with heaps to do. It's split into colourful neighbourhoods awash with history and charm, from the cultural buzz of the Cathedral Quarter to the industrial heritage of the Titanic Quarter. So pull on your walking shoes and get exploring.

Historic streets

Find your bearings on a free, guided walk that runs daily from Belfast City Hall, a 19th-century landmark constructed during the city's golden age - when shipbuilding and linen production (it was known as 'Linenopolis') filled the city's coffers. The streets are peppered with period gems, like St Anne's Cathedral and glass-roofed St George's Market, where you can tuck into local dishes like soda bread or an Ulster Fry.

For more recent history, hop on a Black Cab tour around the west of the city, the focus of The Troubles. This area is full of commemorating murals events on both sides of the conflict, and the Peace Wall is a kaleidoscope of street art and messages to inspire hope.

Great galleries