"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are the opening hours for Belfast Castle? The castle boasts an antique shop, a restaurant and visitors centre. History of Belfast Castle [115] The grand, octagonal stone carriageway piers that once stood to one side of the Gate Lodge were demolished in the mid-twentieth century, as was the attached wall surrounding the demesne. The castle and its surrounding demesne was eventually gifted to the City of Belfast by Lord Shaftesbury in January 1934.[35][60]. [87][106], Harriet, Countess of Shaftesbury (1836-1898), the wife of The 8th Earl of Shaftesbury, later commissioned a sculpture to commemorate her brother, Lord Belfast, and her mother, Harriet, Marchioness of Donegall (1822-1860),[106] the daughter of The 1st Earl of Glengall and the first wife of The 3rd Marquess of Donegall. The fire destroyed the castle, leaving only street names, such as Castle Place, to mark the location. Dunluce Castle is an important historical marker perched high on a cliff along the causeway coast of County Antrim. As with Belfast Castle itself, there is some debate over who actually designed the Chapel of the Resurrection. The 3rd Marquess would serve at Westminster as Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard from February 1848 until February 1852 in the first government of Lord John Russell, while the Great Famine was still ravaging Ireland. [3][4][5] There have been several different structures called 'Belfast Castle' over the centuries, located on different sites. Although popularly attributed to Sir Charles Lanyon, some architectural historians believe that the castle was actually designed by either his business partner, and former apprentice, W.H. With its fascinating history and associations, its superb setting and views, and well-deserved reputation for good food, here are the top 10 facts about Belfast Castle; The first Belfast Castle is believed to have been erected at Bal Feirste, Belfast, by the 1220s. WebModern History Between 1945 and the 1970s, Belfast Castle was a popular venue for wedding receptions, dances and afternoon teas. Paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries depict the castle as completely intact with the kitchens in place. The park is named after the five caves located on the side of the cliffs. Practical Advice For Students Who Dream Of Traveling. Back at the castle youll find one of our favourite spots for coffee in Belfast. The crown used for the crowning itself is different from the one used on most other occasions. Your settings have been updated. The first Belfast Castle wasbuilt in the late 12th century by the Normansin Belfast city. 16 Things Belfast is Known and Famous For - Hey Explorer We create informative articles about castles and famous historical figures such as kings and queens. Belfast Castle was completed in 1870 but ran well over the intended 11,000 budget so the Marquis son-in-law (later 8th Earl of Shaftesbury) baled him out. Former Chapel of the Resurrection on Belfast's Antrim Road up for sale with 1.35 million price tag. [113] It has been described by the architectural historian Dixie Dean as a 'High Victorian Picturesque essay'. [57][58] It is almost certain that Chichester had his 'Plantation' castle built on the site of the Gaelic U Nill towerhouse. This turreted stone building is surrounded by gardens and woodland and its arguably one of the most beautiful castles in Northern Ireland. Top 10 Amazing Facts about Dunluce Castle - Discover Walks Blog Beyond Belfast Castle and Cave Hill, the city has lots of interesting historical sites, museums, galleries and shops. Spring Spectacular at Hillsborough Castle. [10] This medieval castle may have been built by the Normans, who invaded East Ulster in the late twelfth century. It remained in their hands throughout the fifteenth- and sixteenth-centuries, with a few brief exceptions. The castle was originally built in 1500 by the McQuillans, who came from Scotland in the 1200s as hired mercenaries and built the castle around 200 years later.