Attractions and Places To See around Ballyhowne - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ballyhowne encompass a range of historical sites and cultural landmarks. This region presents numerous points of interest for those exploring its heritage and urban landscape. Visitors can discover more than 20 unique attractions, from significant monuments to engaging museums. The area provides opportunities for both historical exploration and leisurely discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Ballyhowne
- The most popular attractions is The Big Fish (Salmon of Knowledge), Belfast, a other man made monument that is a 10m ceramic tile mosaic sculpture. This landmark celebrates the regeneration of the River Lagan and is based on a character from the story "The Childhood Records of Fionn".
- Another must-see spot is Albert Memorial Clock, Belfast, a man-made monument built between 1865 and 1870. This Gothic-style clock tower commemorates Prince Albert and is known for its slight lean due to subsidence.
- Visitors also love Titanic Belfast, a historical site dedicated to the memory of the passenger liner Titanic. This impressive building, clad in 3,000 silver aluminium sheets, houses nine galleries and tells the story of the Titanic and its sister ships.
- Ballyhowne is known for its historical sites, man-made monuments, and cultural attractions. The area offers a variety of places to see and explore, from iconic sculptures to significant historical buildings.
- The attractions around Ballyhowne are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 110 upvotes and 50 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Albert Memorial Clock, Belfast
Highlight • Monument
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The Big Fish (Salmon of Knowledge), Belfast
Highlight • Structure
"The Childhood Records of Fionn".
The story tells of a fish that eats some hazelnuts that had fallen into the Well of Wisdom. After devouring the nuts, the salmon gained all the knowledge in the world. According to the story, the first person to eat the fish would then inherit all of its knowledge.
This sculpture of the legendary salmon was built in 1999 to celebrate the return of the fish to the River Lagan. Each of his tiles is decorated with text or images that relate in some way to an aspect of Belfast's history. According to local folklore, kissing the fish invokes wisdom.
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Hamilton Dock & SS Nomadic
Highlight • Monument
Here you can also see the SS Nomadic, which is now a museum ship.
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The Dirty Onion (Belfast's Oldest Building)
Highlight • Restaurant
The distinctive external timber structure is another original feature which, after careful restoration, frames the pub's beer garden at the front of the complex, with a new contemporary courtyard extending to Hill Street.
Inside, low ceilings supported by exposed timber beams and original brick walls throughout are a nod to the past. In addition, the building's heritage is further highlighted by a sensitive partnership with Jameson Irish Whiskey - a tribute to the tens of thousands of Jameson barrels and cases that passed through the building, which was operated by Edward Dillon Bonders (now a subsidiary of Irish Distillers and Dillon Bass) until 1991.
Live Music
The Dirty Onion is a modern take on a traditional Irish pub. The novel partnership with multi-award-winning cultural centre An Droichead ensures a varied music programme seven nights a week. From open workshops in singing and various traditional instruments to sessions with traditional musicians of the highest quality, there is something for participants and spectators every night at The Dirty Onion.(Source:visitbelfast.com/partners/dirty-onion-yardbird/)
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Holywood Esplanade and Coastal Path
Highlight • Cycleway
The route is suitable for different types of bikes.
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Tips from the Community
The restaurant is less interesting, but a visit to the pub is a must when in Belfast.
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Gate of a dry dock and feeder ship for the Titanic
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Located on the way from the center to the Titanic Museum.
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The Leaning Tower of Belfast.
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In Belfast stands a fish so large, Made of steel and art, a true castle. Its blue shines in the sunlight, Its face a marine wonder. It swims in the cityscape, proud and free, A symbol of strength and harmony. People watch, marvel, laugh, And are awakened by the work of art. A sea spirit in the middle of the city, That shows what art and courage can do. The blue fish, so beautiful and clear, Remains wonderful in our hearts.
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Due to insufficiently compacted subsoil, the tower dedicated to Prince Albert has become "leaning." Despite repeated repairs, it is still one meter out of alignment in two directions. Hence the Leaning Tower of Belfast 😎
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Ceramic fish sculpture with pictures and texts on the history of Belfast, partly made by children.
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The route runs along Strangford Lough and offers impressive views of the water and the surrounding landscape. The colourful rows of houses along the esplanade are particularly attractive and give the place a special charm. The route is suitable for different types of bikes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly attractions to visit around Ballyhowne?
Several attractions in the Ballyhowne area are suitable for families. You can explore the history of the famous ship at Titanic Belfast, which features nine galleries. The Albert Memorial Clock, Belfast, a leaning Gothic clock tower, and Hamilton Dock & SS Nomadic, home to a historic museum ship, also welcome families. Additionally, The Dirty Onion (Belfast's Oldest Building) offers a family-friendly pub atmosphere.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in the Ballyhowne area?
Yes, several key attractions around Ballyhowne are wheelchair accessible. These include the iconic The Big Fish (Salmon of Knowledge), Belfast, a 10m ceramic tile mosaic sculpture. The historic Albert Memorial Clock, Belfast and the impressive Titanic Belfast museum are also accessible.
What historical sites can I explore around Ballyhowne?
Ballyhowne is rich in historical sites. You can visit Titanic Belfast, dedicated to the memory of the passenger liner, located on the premises of its builder. The Albert Memorial Clock, Belfast, a Gothic-style clock tower from 1865, and Hamilton Dock & SS Nomadic, the oldest graving dock in the area, offer insights into maritime history. Even The Dirty Onion (Belfast's Oldest Building), dating back to 1780, holds historical significance.
Where can I find unique man-made monuments in Ballyhowne?
For unique man-made monuments, don't miss The Big Fish (Salmon of Knowledge), Belfast, a 10m ceramic tile mosaic sculpture celebrating the River Lagan's regeneration. The Albert Memorial Clock, Belfast is another distinctive landmark, known for its slight lean. Titanic Belfast, with its facade clad in 3,000 silver aluminium sheets, is also an impressive modern monument.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Ballyhowne?
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and unique design. For instance, the Albert Memorial Clock is noted for its distinctive lean and Gothic architecture. The Big Fish is loved for its artistic representation of local folklore and its connection to Belfast's history. The Titanic Belfast building itself is often praised for its striking architecture and immersive experience.
Are there any easy walking or hiking trails near Ballyhowne's attractions?
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails nearby. You can explore the Cave Hill Country Park loop (5.3 km) or the Causeway Coast and Glens - 7 - Woodburn Forest (6 km). Another option is the Cave Hill – Belfast Castle loop from Belfast Castle (6.1 km). For more options, check the Hiking around Ballyhowne guide.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Ballyhowne's attractions?
Beyond visiting attractions, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. For hiking, explore trails like the Cave Hill Country Park loop. Mountain biking enthusiasts can find trails such as the Woodburn Reservoir – Woodburn Forest loop. Road cyclists have options like the Carmoney Hill – The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour loop. More routes are available in the respective hiking, MTB, and road cycling guides for Ballyhowne.
Are there any places to eat or drink with historical significance near the attractions?
Yes, The Dirty Onion (Belfast's Oldest Building) is a notable spot. Dating back to 1780, it was once a bonded liquor warehouse and now operates as a pub with a beer garden and live music, offering a unique historical atmosphere.
Can I learn about Belfast's maritime history through these attractions?
Absolutely. Titanic Belfast is a primary destination for learning about the Titanic and its sister ships, located where they were built. Nearby, Hamilton Dock & SS Nomadic provides insight into the workings of an old graving dock and hosts the historic SS Nomadic museum ship.
What is the story behind The Big Fish sculpture in Belfast?
The Big Fish (Salmon of Knowledge) is a 10m ceramic tile mosaic sculpture built in 1999 to celebrate the regeneration of the River Lagan. It's based on a character from the story 'The Childhood Records of Fionn', where a fish gained all the world's knowledge. Each tile on the sculpture depicts aspects of Belfast's history, and local folklore suggests kissing it brings wisdom.
What is the significance of the Albert Memorial Clock?
The Albert Memorial Clock, Belfast is a Gothic-style clock tower built between 1865 and 1870 to commemorate Prince Albert. It's famous for its slight lean, earning it the nickname 'Belfast's Leaning Tower of Pisa', due to its construction on reclaimed land from the River Lagan.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking near Ballyhowne?
Yes, mountain biking is an option. You can find trails like the Woodburn Reservoir – Woodburn Forest loop from Greenisland, which is an easy 15.9 km ride. Another easy route is the Woodburn Forest – Woodburn Reservoir loop from Lough Mourne Reservoir, spanning 26.1 km. More details are available in the MTB Trails around Ballyhowne guide.
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