Belfast Travel Guide: St George's Market
St George's Market past and present
St. George’s Market, which was constructed from 1890 to 1896, has gained recognition and praise from both the local and national communities for its excellent selection of fresh, locally-sourced produce, as well as its inviting, lively ambience. Notably, it was distinguished as the UK’s Best Large Indoor Market in the year 2023 by the esteemed NABMA Great British Market Awards.
The market is open throughout the weekend, offering patrons the opportunity to indulge in its vibrant live music and energetic atmosphere, making it an ideal weekend destination of choice.
St George’s Market is a renowned attraction in Belfast that has received multiple prestigious titles and awards for its exceptional fresh produce and lively atmosphere. The market hosts weekly markets on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
The Friday market is known for its 200 stalls featuring a diverse range of products such as antiques, fruit, vegetables, clothes, and fish. The fish market section, in particular, is regarded as the foremost retail fish market on the island of Ireland.
The Saturday City Food and Craft Market showcases an array of mouth-watering specialty foods from around the world, handcrafted items, flowers, plants, local photography, pottery, glass, and metalwork.
Visitors may indulge in delicious products or take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee while listening to live music by local musicians.
The Sunday market offers a blend of both Friday and Saturday markets and places an emphasis on local arts and crafts, providing more local artisans with the opportunity to showcase their skills. It’s a vibrant mix that attracts thousands of visitors every week.
St George's Market
The original market:
The original market that existed before 1890 was relatively small compared to the new, larger structure. The design for the new market was created by JC Bretland, a talented surveyor who was responsible for the re-design of the Albert Bridge following its collapse in the 1880s.
The building itself is constructed out of red brick and features beautiful sandstone dressing. The exterior is adorned with Roman-styled arches, which are decorated with Latin and Irish inscriptions.
These inscriptions include the City’s Latin motto, “Pro Tanto Quid Retribuamus”, which translates to “what shall we give in return for so much?”, as well as the Irish phrase “Lámh Dearg na hÉireann”, meaning “Red Hand of Ireland”. The main entrance arch proudly displays the Belfast Coat of Arms. This magnificent new market opened to the public on June 20th, 1890.
Opening hours:
- Friday 08:00 – 14:00
- Saturday 09:00 – 15:00
- Sunday 10:00 – 15:00
For further information visit their website here or contact +44 (0)28 9043 5704
access and linkages
There is a complimentary bus service that operates every 20 minutes from Belfast City Hall to the market, going through the primary retail shopping area.
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Currency Used in Belfast?
Belfast is part of the United Kingdom so the pound sterling (GBP) is the legal currency. This is the same currency used throughout the rest of the United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland).
How many Days should I Spend in Belfast?
For an authentic experience in Belfast, it is suggested that at least 3 full days and 2 nights be allocated to discover the city’s offerings. The duration of the visit is dependent on the visitor’s preferences and availability; however, we highly recommend the aforementioned timeline to ensure an in-depth exploration of the city. We highly recommend this 3-day itinerary from Belfast.
Have more time why not visit Visit Belfast City Hall
Located in the heart of Belfast at Belfast City Hall. Sitting in Donegall Square, the iconic green-domed building is one of the most iconic buildings in Belfast. It dates back to 1906 and is the city’s main civic building. Visitors can take free guided tours inside City Hall (you need to register at the visitor exhibition/guided tours reception), or you can explore the monuments, memorials, and gardens outside, including the Titanic Memorial Garden.
About the City Hall
Belfast City Hall was built to commemorate the event of Belfast becoming a city, having been granted the status in 1888 by Queen Victoria in recognition of the contributions of Belfast in the industries of linen, rope, tobacco, engineering, and shipbuilding.
This imposing structure of Portland stone has a copper dome topping out at 173 feet high, as well as a statue of Queen Victoria celebrating her jubilee standing out front Many other statues and monuments can be found on the surrounding grounds, including the Thane Memorial for the victims of the Titanic sinking, which was expanded in 2012 to become the Titanic Memorial Garden.
Top Things to See and Do in Belfast, Northern Ireland A Black Cab Tour
Explore the vibrant city of Belfast with a Black Taxi Tour. Black cab tours are guided tours that offer an immersive experience, showcasing the rich history, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems of this captivating city. Book your tour today and embark on an unforgettable journey through Belfast’s storied past and vibrant present.
During the tour, expert black cab tour guides will provide you with an insightful account of the origin of the murals and their symbolism. It is through their knowledgeable narration that you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the history presented by these captivating murals. The displayed murals encompass both sides of the 40-year conflict in Belfast.
Explore the vibrant city of Belfast with a Black Taxi Tour. Black cab tours are guided tours that offer an immersive experience, showcasing the rich history, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems of this captivating city. Book your tour today and embark on an unforgettable journey through Belfast’s storied past and vibrant present.
During the tour, expert black cab tour guides will provide you with an insightful account of the origin of the murals and their symbolism. It is through their knowledgeable narration that you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the history presented by these captivating murals. The displayed murals encompass both sides of the 40-year conflict in Belfast.
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