A Dickens-Themed Victorian Christmas Break in Belfast
Charles Dickens practically invented Christmas as we know it today. With its charming Victorian architecture, festive markets, and delightful seasonal activities, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a classic holiday tale when you visit Belfast this winter.
Day 1: Arrival and Enchantment
Morning: Arrive in Belfast
Start your holiday by dropping your bags at the Harrison Hotel, a beautifully restored Victorian townhouse. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the sight of a real fir Christmas tree adorned with unusual decorations and twinkling candles. Warm up in the cozy lounge with gingerbread, mulled wine, and an assortment of festive treats. We will show you to your cosy room many with views onto the historic buildings of Malone road (TOP TIP choose a suite with a free standing bath for a real winter warmup)
Afternoon: Ice Festival at Botanic Gardens
After settling in, head down the Malone road to the Ice Festival in Botanic Gardens. Here, you can lace up your skates and glide across the ice, take a spin on the Ferris wheel, or wander through the charming food and gift stalls located near the stunning Victorian Palm House. Fun fact: the Botanic Gardens used to be a paid attraction back in the 1800s, but today you can enjoy its beauty for free!
Evening: A Magical Night at The Lyric Theatre
Award-winning playwright Marie Jones presents a reimagining of the Dickens play A Christmas Carol, inviting you on a mesmerizing journey through the sounds, music, characters, and settings of Victorian Belfast. What a way to enjoy your first night with a performance at The Lyric Theatre, just a short walk from your hotel.
Day 2: Shopping and Local Delights
Morning: Explore Local Bookstores and Boutiques
Start your day by exploring the unique local bookstores, like No Alibis and Book Paper Scissors, as well as the trendy boutiques along Lisburn Road. These shops offer a range of delightful gifts and stylish finds to take home.
Afternoon: Lunch and St. George’s Market
Catch the 8B bus into town and enjoy lunch at Stock, where you can gaze down at the historic Georgian St. George’s Market. Afterward, dive into the market's vibrant atmosphere, browsing vintage stalls filled with local art, jewelers, antiques, and vintage clothes and records .
Evening:
A Dickensian Christmas Market and More
The Belfast Christmas Market is celebrating its 20th birthday in true Dickensian fashion! From November 16th-17th and November 30th-December 1st, the market will transport you to a world of Victorian charm. Stroll through the stalls and meet iconic characters from beloved classics, enjoying enchanting storytelling and lively performances inspired by the literature that shaped our Christmas traditions.
With over 100 traders offering an array of Christmas delights, you’ll find everything from exotic burgers to warming mugs of Glühwein. Indulge in Italian chocolates and specialty cheeses from around the globe, all set against the magnificent backdrop of Belfast City Hall, complete with a massive Christmas tree and dazzling lights.
In front of the spectacular backdrop of Belfast City Hall with thousands of lights and gigantic christmas tree you can toast marshmallows on an open fire and sip beer at a German-style beer hall. With over 100 stalls you are bound to pick up a few souvenirs or gifts for family.
The Entries
Enjoy a hearty pub dinner, indulge in the warm ambiance of White's Tavern, Belfast’s oldest pub. Enjoy traditional music in front of the fire and feast your eyes on winecellar entry where there is always interesting fun decorations throughout the year
After dinner, explore all the Entries, a series of narrow lanes decorated with Christmas lights and extravagant decorations and pubs. With enchanting names like Joy's Entry, Pottingers Entry, Squeeze gut Alley, and Sugarhouse entry, these Instagrammable spots are perfect for capturing the magic of the season.
Day 3: Outside Belfast
Hillsborough Castle
If you have time, venture just 20 minutes outside Belfast to visit Hillsborough Castle, the residence of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and a favorite of the royal family. Built in the 18th century, the castle is renowned for its ornamental gardens and impressive art collection.
The illuminated gardens and art installations are a must-see, especially after 4 PM when the lights create a truly magical atmosphere.
Ulster Folk Park at Christmas
Just 10 minutes away by car or a short train ride away from Belfast you can wander the cobbled streets of old Northern Ireland. Witness crafting such as wreath making and taste Christmas delicacies such as traditional Christmas pudding and Christmas cake and cinnamon bread toasted on the turf fire. Listen to the brass band, the choir and the melodic harp.
Don’t forget to visit the donkeys make old Christmas decorations The shop is fabulous for unique gifts and cards. Stop by McCusker's pub for a Christmas story and a mulled wine, hot toddy or spiced cider. There might even be snow!
A Dickens-themed Victorian Christmas break in Belfast promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with festive cheer, rich history, and heartwarming traditions. Whether you’re skating under the stars or sipping hot chocolate in beautifully decorated lanes, this charming city will fill your holiday season with joy and wonder. Enjoy your festive adventure
Click here for our Night To remember winter break
