Belfast

1. Victoria Square Shopping Centre

Overview:
Victoria Square is Belfast’s premier shopping destination, offering a mix of high-street and luxury brands, dining options, and entertainment. It’s a family-friendly spot with plenty to do for all ages.

Family-Friendly Features:

• Shopping: Stores like LEGO, Build-A-Bear Workshop, and Disney Store are perfect for kids.
• Entertainment: The Dome at Victoria Square offers panoramic views of Belfast, which is a fun and free activity for families.
• Dining: Family-friendly restaurants such as Nando’s, Pizza Express, and Five Guys are available.

Costs:

• Entry to the shopping centre and The Dome is free.
• Shopping and dining costs vary depending on your preferences.

Tips:

• Visit The Dome during daylight hours for the best views.
• Check the website for seasonal events like Santa’s Grotto during Christmas or kids’ workshops.

Local Considerations:

• The centre is stroller-friendly with elevators and wide walkways.
• Parking is available on-site, costing around £2.50 per hour.

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2. CastleCourt Shopping Centre

Overview:
CastleCourt is another popular shopping destination in Belfast, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and variety of stores.

Family-Friendly Features:

• Shopping: Stores like Smyths Toys Superstores and The Entertainer are great for kids.
• Play Area: There’s a soft play area for younger children, making it a great spot for parents to relax while kids play.
• Dining: Options like KFC, Subway, and Muffin Break cater to families.

Costs:

• Entry to the shopping centre is free.
• Soft play area costs around £3-£5 per child, depending on the session length.

Tips:

• Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
• Look out for seasonal events like face painting or craft workshops.

Local Considerations:

• Parking is available on-site, costing approximately £1.50 per hour.
• The centre is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

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3. W5 Interactive Discovery Centre (Located in the Odyssey Complex)

Overview:
W5 is a science and discovery centre that combines education and entertainment, making it one of the best family-friendly attractions in Belfast.

Family-Friendly Features:

• Interactive Exhibits: Over 250 hands-on exhibits across multiple zones, suitable for children of all ages.
• Climbit: A multi-story climbing structure for kids to explore.
• Seasonal Events: Workshops, shows, and special events are held throughout the year.

Costs:

• Tickets: £12.50 for adults, £10.50 for children (ages 3-16), and free for children under 3. Family tickets (2 adults + 2 children) are available for £42.
• Parking at the Odyssey Complex costs around £2 per hour.

Tips:

• Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
• Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here to fully enjoy the exhibits.

Local Considerations:

• The centre is stroller-friendly, and baby-changing facilities are available.
• Bring snacks or visit the on-site café for refreshments.

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4. St. George’s Market

Overview:
St. George’s Market is a historic indoor market offering a mix of local crafts, food, and live entertainment. It’s a great spot for families to experience Belfast’s culture.

Family-Friendly Features:

• Shopping: Browse stalls selling handmade toys, books, and unique souvenirs.
• Entertainment: Live music performances create a lively atmosphere.
• Food: Sample local delicacies like soda bread or enjoy international cuisine.

Costs:

• Entry is free.
• Food and crafts are reasonably priced, with meals costing around £5-£10 per person.

Tips:

• Visit on Saturdays for the largest variety of stalls.
• Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best selection of goods.

Local Considerations:

• The market can get busy, so keep an eye on younger children.
• Limited parking is available nearby, so consider using public transport.

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5. Movie House Cinemas

Overview:
Movie House Cinemas is a local cinema chain with locations across Belfast, offering family-friendly screenings and comfortable seating.

Family-Friendly Features:

• Kids’ Screenings: Special discounted screenings of family movies on weekends and school holidays.
• Snacks: Popcorn, drinks, and kid-friendly combo deals are available.

Costs:

• Tickets: Around £6-£8 for adults and £4-£6 for children. Family tickets are often available at a discount.
• Snacks: Combo deals start at £5.

Tips:

• Check the website for showtimes and book tickets online to avoid queues.
• Arrive early to grab the best seats.

Local Considerations:

• Most locations are stroller-friendly, but check in advance for specific accessibility needs.
• Parking is available at most locations, with costs varying by site.

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6. Belfast Giants Ice Hockey (The SSE Arena)

Overview:
The Belfast Giants are the city’s professional ice hockey team, and attending a game at the SSE Arena is an exciting family outing.

Family-Friendly Features:

• Live Entertainment: High-energy games with music, mascots, and crowd interaction.
• Family Tickets: Discounted family packages are available.

Costs:

• Tickets: £10-£20 per person, with family packages starting at £50.
• Parking at the SSE Arena costs around £2 per hour.

Tips:

• Book tickets online in advance, as games can sell out.
• Bring ear protection for younger children, as the arena can get loud.

Local Considerations:

• The arena is fully accessible, with family-friendly seating options.
• Food and drinks are available on-site but can be pricey.

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7. Colin Glen Forest Park (Gruffalo Trail and Black Bull Run)

Overview:
Colin Glen Forest Park offers a mix of outdoor adventure and entertainment, including the popular Gruffalo Trail and Black Bull Run zipline.

Family-Friendly Features:

• Gruffalo Trail: A themed walking trail based on the popular children’s book.
• Adventure Activities: Ziplining, laser tag, and mini-golf are available for older kids.

Costs:

• Gruffalo Trail: £3-£5 per person.
• Adventure activities: Prices vary, starting at £10 per activity.

Tips:

• Book activities online in advance to secure your spot.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing.

Local Considerations:

• The park is stroller-friendly, but some trails may be uneven.
• Free parking is available on-site.

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Final Tips for Families Visiting Belfast:

1. Public Transport: Belfast is well-connected by buses and trains. Consider purchasing a family day ticket for unlimited travel on Translink services.
2. Weather: Belfast’s weather can be unpredictable, so always carry a raincoat or umbrella.
3. Currency: Northern Ireland uses the British Pound (£). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
4. Local Etiquette: Belfast locals are friendly and welcoming. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations.

With this guide, your family is sure to have a memorable time exploring Belfast’s shopping and entertainment options!