Belfast Churches and Cathedrals

(Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK)

Belfast is a city known for its strong religious beliefs and past conflict between the communities of Protestant and Roman Catholic worshippers. Various historic churches are spread around Belfast, adding character to the city and providing religious havens.

In an attempt to increase tourism, Belfast City Council decided to develop a series of cultural quarters in the new millennium, and it was at this time that the Cathedral Quarter was born, which is named after the magnificent St. Anne's Cathedral and known for its annual festival of the performing arts. St. Anne's was built between the years of 1899 and 1904 and enjoys a central setting on Donegall Street, next to the University of Ulster campus and the Northern Ireland War Memorial.

St. Anne's Cathedral

Address: Donegall Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
St. Anne's Cathedral is located in Belfast city centre and is full of interesting features. Highlights include large historic mosaics, marble statues, important tombs, stunning architecture, regular classical music concerts and choir performances. St. Anne's holds regular services and visitors are always welcome.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

St. Malachy's Church

Address: Alfred Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
St. Malachy's Church can be found in the heart of central Belfast, where it is one of the city's most unusual religious buildings. This impressive Roman Catholic church features eye-catching terracotta-pink turrets and was constructed in the mid-19th century. Notable attractions include a Tudor-style studded door, the largest bell tower in the city, numerous paintings and impressive architecture, which features tremendous attention to detail.
Open hours: daily, Sunday services - 09:00, 10:30, 12:00, 17:00 and 18:00
Admission: free

Down Cathedral

Address: English Street, Downpatrick, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK
Down Cathedral is situated in the nearby town of Downpatrick and belongs to the Church of Ireland. This is a particularly important Irish church, since it is home to St. Patrick's grave, the patron saint of Ireland. Built on a religious site, where a church once stood over 800 years ago, Down Cathedral dates back to the late 18th century and boasts spectacular stained-glass windows and detailed stone carvings.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

St. Joseph's Catholic Church

Address: Princes Dock Street, Corporation Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
St. Joseph's Catholic Church has recently been restored and features a tall spire, which at 78 metres / 250 feet, towers over the surrounding area of Belfast. Built in the late 19th century, St. Joseph's can be found in the Waterfront area, being close to the docklands.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free