The Place To Book For A Memorable Trip This Autumn
THE ICONIC VISITOR ATTRACTION
The tale of RMS Titanic, whose maiden voyage in 1912 left an indelible mark on history, has captivated hearts and minds across the globe for over a century. While countless retellings, including James Cameron’s iconic film, have kept the story alive in popular culture, Titanic Belfast is the true guardian of her legacy.
Located on the exact spot where RMS Titanic was designed, built and launched, the must-see Titanic Belfast visitor attraction tells the story of the world-famous ship through the eyes of those whose hard work and ambition built her. The self-guided Titanic Experience is the most authentic way to discover the story of RMS Titanic, from her conception, triumphant construction and fateful maiden voyage, providing in-depth historical context of the times in which the ship was built. At the time of its launch, Titanic – along with her sister ship, Olympic – was the largest and most opulent ship in the world.
After its £4.7m refresh last year, which introduced four exciting new themed galleries and a new collection of artefacts, visitors can now enjoy the best visitor experience to date. Highlights include original Titanic artefacts, such as the world-famous violin belonging to the ship’s hero musician Wallace Hartley; a Fosbery lifejacket and a 7.6m-long scale model of RMS Titanic, which rotates and illuminates in sync with state-of-the-art projections. Visitors can encounter the aftermath and the sensational news frenzy of the time. The experience then brings you into the modern age with the discovery of the wreck in 1985 – thought to be lost – and into the future with undersea exploration.
Meanwhile, the Ship Of Dreams allows visitors to pay tribute to those who built the liner, those who survived and those who lost their lives, hearing personal stories of how they found themselves on board the ship and their hopes for a new life in New York.
To book your experience, visit TITANICBELFAST.COM
THE STAR ATTRACTIONS
SS Nomadic
A ticket to the Titanic Experience also allows visitors to step on board SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line vessel and one of the biggest Titanic artefacts in the world. Tender to RMS Titanic, SS Nomadic has been restored to her original glory and is now a permanent fixture in Belfast’s Hamilton Dock. Visitors can step back in time, walk the decks and experience what it would have been like to be a passenger boarding the Titanic. Spread out over four decks, you can chart the history of the SS Nomadic, from her role in the maritime disaster to her wartime service. You can also experience the levels of luxury all passengers enjoyed onboard and head up to the bridge for a turn at the ship’s wheel.
Captain Rostron’s Pocket Watch
On loan to Titanic Belfast until the end of October is Captain Rostron’s pocket watch. Rostron was recognised for his heroic efforts as captain of RMS Carpathia, which arrived within hours of the Titanic’s sinking, saving the lives of more than 700 passengers. The luxury Tiffany & Co. timepiece was presented to the captain as an expression of gratitude from three of the widows of the disaster.
Discovery Tour
Many visitors are eager to learn more about the building itself. They can do just that on the award-winning Discovery Tour, an outdoor walking tour led by expert guides. Ticket holders can walk in the very footsteps of RMS Titanic shipyard workers and uncover the hidden symbolism within the iconic building, historic slipways and plaza
EXPERIENCING NORTHERN IRELAND
Titanic Belfast is just a short walk from the city centre, where you’ll find plenty of attractions to fill your weekend. The city's cultural hub, Queen’s Quarter, is home to the Ulster Museum and Botanic Gardens – both worth a visit. Make time in your plans to visit St George’s Market, one of Belfast’s oldest attractions and a hub for local artists, fresh produce, food stalls and live music.
The Linen Quarter stretches from Belfast City Hall to Shaftesbury Square and was once the headquarters of Ireland’s global linen industry. Now, in its old-style red-brick warehouses, you’ll find numerous bars, cafés and restaurants, as well as three major music venues. A must-visit is The Observatory Bar – from the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel, it offers unparalleled views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Exploring the cobbled streets and admiring the street art of the Cathedral Quarter is the perfect way to while away an afternoon. There are plenty of dining options for a pit stop along the way – from casual to fine dining. A notable mention must go to The Muddlers Club, one of Belfast’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Named after the secret society that used to meet here in the back streets of the quarter, it’s now run by chef Gareth McCaughey, who prioritises local produce.
If you want to explore beyond the city, a short drive takes you to County Down, where you’ll find the famed Mourne Mountains and Strangford Lough – the largest sea lough in Great Britain and home to a wealth of wildlife. Hiking or a game of golf is the order of the day, with plenty of trails and world-class courses throughout Northern Ireland including Royal Belfast, Ardglass and Royal Portrush, home to the 153rd Open. Or why not experience what's been called ‘one of the greatest drives on earth’ – The Causeway Coastal Route?
With quick and easy transport links from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, find out more about what Northern Ireland has to offer at IRELAND.COM
THE WHITE STAR PREMIUM PASS
If you want to make the most of your visit, Titanic Belfast offers The White Star Premium Pass, which includes self-guided tours of The Titanic Experience and the SS Nomadic, as well as the world-class guided Discovery Tour. For a memento or treat, adult tickets also include a £10 voucher to spend in their food outlets – The Galley Café and The Pantry – or the Titanic Store. The children’s pass includes a special gift. Plus, each visitor will receive an engraved souvenir to mark their visit. Adult passes are £51.50, and child passes are £28.50.
To book your experience, visit TITANICBELFAST.COM/WHITESTAR
DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at info@sheerluxe.com.