Belfast Castle sits high above the city on Cave Hill, looking the very picture of baronial splendor (it's built in the Scottish Baronial style, like the Queen's house Balmoral). There's been a castle on this site since the 12th century, but this one dates from the 1860s.
It was built by the 3rd Marquis of Donegall. It went wildly over budget and, as the Marquis' fortunes had changed, nearly didn't get finished at all. Today it's a working castle, earning its keep with wedding receptions, conferences, an antique store and an adventure playground.
At the visitors center you can find out all about the history of the Castle Hill site. Noticed a cat motif around the place? It's all down to a legend that says all will be well with the castle's residents as long as there is a white cat in situ.
Click here for:
