Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland, situated on the banks of the River Lagan. It is a vibrant and modern city, known for its friendly people, great nightlife and historical monuments. Belfast is also home to world-class museums, galleries and theatres, making it a great destination for a romantic and memorable first date.
1. Parks and places for a walk
For a relaxing outdoor date in Belfast, there are plenty of parks and places to explore. The Cave Hill Country Park offers stunning views of Belfast, as well as plenty of walking paths for couples to stroll and have a romantic picnic. The Botanic Gardens is also a great spot for a leisurely stroll, with a variety of plants and trees on display. Ulster Avenue Gardens is a tranquil spot for a romantic stroll, and Ormeau Park is full of greenery, with a large lake that's perfect for a pleasant evening walk.
2. Places for a coffee date in Belfast
Belfast has plenty of independent coffee shops and cafés that make for a great first date setting. The Blending Room is a great spot for speciality coffees, while Grind Coffee offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for a casual chat. Little Wing Pizzeria is a cool café that serves great coffee and tasty food, while Caffè Nero is a classic, popular spot.
3. Galleries, museums and exhibitions
Belfast is bursting with culture and has a wide range of galleries and museums to explore. The Ulster Museum offers a great insight into the history of Belfast, and the MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre) is a creative hub that regularly hosts exhibitions and events. Titanic Belfast is a great way to learn about the famous ship, and for a unique first date experience, a visit to the Museum of Free Derry provides an interesting view of the city's turbulent past.
4. Live Music and Entertainment
Belfast is renowned for its live music scene, and is home to some of the best venues in the country. The Limelight is a popular spot for music lovers, and the noisy but fun atmosphere makes it a great place to invite your date for a night of music and dancing. The Odessey arena is also ideal for live music, with regular concerts from some of the biggest names in music.
5. Pubs, bars or restaurants
Belfast is full of great places to go for a first date drink or food. Bullitt is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat and enjoy a cocktail in the vibrant atmosphere. The National Grande Café is a great local spot to share a coffee and a slice of cake, while the Northern Whig pub is a traditional pub that serves up a great selection of drinks. The Duke of York pub has a more relaxed atmosphere that's great for a cosy chat with your date.
6. Other date ideas
If you’re looking for something a bit different, Belfast offers plenty of other date ideas. The Belfast Barge is a floating restaurant and bar that offers drinks and a range of tasty dishes. For a fun day out, visit W5, an interactive science and discovery centre where you can explore and learn together. The Belfast Zoo is also a great option for animal lovers, with over 140 species of animals to observe. Finally, why not go for a boat ride on the Lagan River, where you can spend some quality time together and take in the beautiful views of the city.
