Things to do in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom: The Best Architectural Buildings

Clifton House is an impressive Georgian building, set in tranquil landscaped gardens in the heart of Belfast. Opened in 1774 by Belfast Charitable Society, it was used until 1882 as the Poor House. Today it is operated as a heritage and conference centre. Come on a tour and hear tales about Belfast's original Poor House as your guide takes you through the interesting, and at times turbulent, history of the Belfast Charitable Society as you walk in the footsteps of the famous Joy and McCracken families and the poor who sought refuge in its walls. Daily tours are at 3pm throughout August or every Friday at 3pm from September. On the last Friday of the month we also offer an extended tour to Clifton Street Cemetery. Here you will visit the graves of leading figures in the history of Belfast and see one of Ulster's largest famine graves. Tours of the House (£6.50 pp). Tours of the House & Cemetery (£9.50 pp). Free car parking on site.

Majestic, neo-Gothic Church of Ireland (Anglican) Cathedral, built between 1628 and 1633. St. Columb's is the oldest and most historic building within the walled City of Londonderry. It has recently been extensively restored. The Chapter House Museum displays artefacts from the Siege of Londonderry in 1689 and also many other interesting items.There is an audio visual display which tells the visitor the history of the Cathedral and there are guide leaflets available in 8 Languages. Admission is free - donations are welcome.

This library, founded in 1788, is the oldest library in Belfast and contains the largest collection of material on Irish studies in Northern Ireland.

Belfast's largest university is well known for its beautiful campus.

At the centre of Donegall Square proudly stands City Hall; the civic headquarters of Belfast City Council. City Hall is open to the public 7 days a week. It is a multi-purpose venue hosting a large number of events in its large functions rooms or outdoors on the beautiful lawns. Daily tours of the building allow visitors to admire the superb art collection, formal rooms such as the Council Chamber and Great Hall while its opulent interiors are lit by a stunning collection of stained glass windows. Guests can relax and refresh in the Bobbin Coffee Shop or pick up souvenirs in the Gift Shop. A 16 room visitor exhibition explores the history of the city through themed and interactive displays. City Hall grounds are the primary green space in Belfast City Centre and host continental markets and open air concerts. The grounds feature a number of statues and memorials relating to Belfast’s leading figures and historic past, including the Titanic Memorial Garden.

To find out more about the library including opening times and holidays please visit the Libraries NI website.

The Grand Opera House in Belfast is Northern Ireland's premier theatre, presenting a range of drama, dance, opera, comedy, musicals, pantomime, family and West End shows. Established in 1895, the theatre boasts the majestic Victorian main auditorium designed by renowned architect Frank Matcham. Extended in 2006, the original building has been joined by a striking addition to Belfast's skyline, The Baby Grand. The initiate studio is home to a smaller performance space with 100 seats. Northern Ireland's premier theatre delivers an outstanding programme of entertainment, playing host to some of the greatest names in theatre and music. The theatre boasts a wide array of popular shows; everything from opera and drama to pantomime, comedy and musicals. The Grand Opera House offers unrivalled corporate hospitality with tailored events packages and is the perfect venue for meetings, special events and conferences of all sizes. The historical theatre is one of the most unique conference venues in Belfast, catering for seminars, conferences, meetings and weddings for up to 130 people in the Baby Grand Studio. The Main Auditorium holds up to 1060 people and smaller meeting rooms are also available. The theatre bars stock a range of drinks including beer, wine and spirits, in addition to tea and coffee.