The Belfast Waterfront borders the river Lagan and consists of the area north and south of the modern Lagan Weir.
On the East side of the Lagan is County Down and on the west side County Antrim.
Originally, this area was dominated by the docks as Belfast was a global import and export hub. It was known as Donegall Quay.
It is mostly built on reclaimed land and the river Farset that empties into the Lagan on the north side of the current Lagan Weir and has been culverted over.
The area immediately south of the old dock, and that is now occupied by the Waterfront Hall, was the ‘Markets’ as it was dominated by the Belfast abattoir and animal and farm markets.
In the last 30 years the area has seen a major regeneration which has run in parallel to that of the Titanic Quarter across the river.
It is now a location of public art by the Lagan Weir, where Big Fish and Sammy the Seal are located.
In 1994, The Lagan Weir was built. Prior to its construction the River Lagan was tidal and at low tide would expose mudflats which stank in the summer months. The weir also incorporates a footbridge which allows easy access to the Titanic Quarter.
In January 1997, the Belfast Waterfront has successfully established itself as Northern Ireland’s premier conference and entertainment centre. It has a 2,200-seat auditorium and hosted acts and artists like U2, Chuck Berry and B.B. King, Westlife and Katherine Jenkins.
Surrounding area surrounding the Waterfront Hall and in the old Markets district has been developed into a business area of hotels and offices.
Do you want to learn more about the history of Belfast? We will visit the Waterfront my Titanic Quarter & Maritime Belfast tour!