What to do in Belfast while at the OAA ASM 2025

Eat

With a wealth of restaurants and street food markets offering a mix of local and international flavours, there is something for everyone in Belfast. St George’s Market is a fantastic spot to visit for fresh local produce and artisanal goods. Common Market, with a beer hall vibe, is a great spot for a wide variety of street food to suit every palate. For a Michelin-starred restaurant experience, try Ox or The Muddlers Club. Other highly recommended restaurants include Home, Howard Street, Jumon (vegetarian), Parisien (for a French feel) and Coppi (for small plates Italian). Explore more at Visit Belfast. 

Drink

Belfast has a fine array of traditional pubs, craft breweries and stylish cocktail bars. A visit to the Cathedral Quarter is a must, with bars including the iconic Duke of York Bar, The Harp Bar, The Dirty Onion and The Thirsty Goat (perfect Irish pub names!!). For a traditional pint (you must try the Guinness, of course!), look no further than The Crown Bar, Kelly’s Cellars or White’s Tavern, all in the city centre. For fancy cocktails, there's The Merchant Hotel’s cocktail bar or The Observatory at the Grand Central Hotel. Other (less pricey) cocktail bars include Margot (beside City Hall) and Angel And Two Bibles (above The Deer’s Head pub). You’ll not be disappointed, nor go thirsty!!

Shop

Whether you are looking for high-street fashion, unique boutiques or local crafts, Belfast has it all. For a high-end shopping experience, head to Victoria Square, with its glass dome offering panoramic views of the city. Here, you’ll find big name brands like Tommy Hifiger, Boss, Michael Kors, The White Company and House of Fraser. Don’t forget to check out St George’s Market, where you can pick up handmade crafts, antiques and souvenirs to remember your trip!  

Visit

Belfast is a city brimming with history and culture. One of the most iconic sites is Titanic Belfast, a modern, interactive museum dedicated to the ill-fated ship, which was built in the city’s shipyards. Another must-visit is Ulster Museum, located in the Botanic Gardens, an ideal spot for a walk after your visit. Particular favourites are a display on the Spanish Armada and an interactive section on “The Troubles”.  If this recent history is of interest to you, why not book a “Black Taxi” or “Political and Mural” tour to hear more about Belfast’s troubled past from a local guide? 

If you have time for something truly special, a visit to the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just over an hour from Belfast, offers a unique and fascinating natural landscape. While you are there, why not visit Old Bushmills Distillery, one of the world’s oldest whiskey distilleries, and join a tasting tour? Get your designated driver sorted in advance! If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, there are many locations to visit around the north coast and on official Game of Thrones tours. For more travel ideas, see the Visit Belfast website. https://visitbelfast.com/see-do/

From its rich culinary scene and lively pubs to its cultural and historical landmarks, Belfast offers a unique blend of old and new. You’ll be spoiled for choice and find plenty to explore and enjoy in this vibrant Northern Irish city.

By Dr Ashley McIlroy and Dr Damien Hughes, Ulster Hospital, Belfast