A Tour of Belfast’s Victorian Architectural Landmarks
Belfast’s architectural heritage ranges from mock-Gothic to neo-classical to cutting-edge modern architecture, and its buildings are one of the best things about the city. Its Victorian architecture, however, just might be the most beautiful. If you want to know the best of the best, here’s our list of the most beautiful Victorian buildings in Belfast.
1. Lanyon Building, Queen's University Belfast (1849)
Building, University
City Hall (1906)
City Hall only just edges into this list, opening its doors in 1906, four years after Queen Victoria’s death. However, its building was a result of the Queen’s granting Belfast its city status, and construction of the hall began in 1888. The building features the Baroque Revival style, and it cost a monumental £369,000 to build. Adjusted for inflation, this works out to a whopping £128 million. It’s paid off, though, as City Hall is truly the centre of the city.
Belfast City Hall, Donegall Square, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK, +44 28 9032 0202
2. Botanic Gardens Palm House (1852)
Botanical Garden, Park
3. Crown Liquor Saloon (1885)
The Crown Liquor Saloon is notable for many things, including the fact it is the only pub owned by the National Trust. Although the pub had previously operated as The Railway Tavern, it was renovated and renamed in 1885. The bar features unique multicoloured tiles, stained glass, and decorative carved ceilings, which is distinctively uncommon for Belfast. Owner Felix O’Hanlon persuaded Italian craftsmen (who were working on churches around the city) to work on the renovations, leading to The Crown’s characteristic grandiosity.
The Crown Liquor Saloon, 46 Great Victoria St, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK, +44 28 9024 3187
4. St George’s Market (1896)
Market
5. Albert Memorial Clock (1869)
Memorial
6. Grand Opera House (1895)
Building, Opera House, Theatre
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