The 10 Best Spots for Sunrise and Sunset Views in Belfast Locals Won’t Tell You About
I don’t know about you, but there’s something magical about starting the day with coffee and watching the sunrise paint the sky. On weekends, after a day of exploring with the family, winding down with a beautiful sunset is the perfect way to end things.
I’ve spent much time scouting out the best ones and am excited to share them. Ready to discover Belfast’s most picturesque viewpoints? Keep reading to find my top picks for capturing those golden hour moments.
1. Cave Hill
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Address: Newtownabbey BT36 7WH, United Kingdom
Cave Hill is a sunrise and sunset spot that will pump your heart and reward you with breathtaking views. My hike up there was strenuous, as it stands about 368 meters above sea level, but it was worth it.
During your hike, you’ll see five caves carved into the cliffs, which are remnants of iron mines. Then, you’ll also come across McArt’s Fort, which dates back to the Iron Age.
Cave Hill Country Park has earned a Green Flag Award for its natural beauty, and it deserves it. After a hike, my family and I love to lay out a blanket and picnic on its sprawling grounds.
| Pro tip: Head to McArt’s Fort. It’s slightly elevated and provides an unobstructed view of the horizon. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to set up your camera and enjoy the gradual change in light. |
2. Divis Mountain
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Website: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/divis-and-black-mountain/
Address: Divis Road Hannahstown, Belfast BT17 0NG, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890825434
Operating hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM
For all adventure seekers, I challenge you to hike Divis Mountain for the best sunset and sunrise views. At 478 meters, you’ll be on nature’s observation deck.
Up there, you’ll get breathtaking views of Belfast, Lough Neagh, and even the Mourne Mountains. Imagine all these against the backdrop of the golden sun. These views will make the long hike worth it.
You have trails to choose from. There’s the main trail, a moderate 4.8 km hike. If you want something more laid back, go for the 1.45 km circular walk. While you do that, read the lovely signs to learn about the area’s plants and wildlife.
| Pro tip: Position yourself at the summit’s edge, facing east or west, depending on the time of day. The rocky outcrops provide excellent foreground interest for your photos. |
3. Belfast Lough
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Address: Belfast BT3 9LN, United Kingdom
Belfast Lough is this beautiful stretch of water, about 20 miles long, on the northern coast of Ireland. Here, you’ll enjoy the bustling city view of Belfast against sunrise and sunset.
What draws me to this lough is its maritime history. I learned that it’s one of the most important shipping routes since the 17th century. There’s also the RSPB reserve, which is a total birdwatcher’s paradise!
I usually just wander along the park for the best valley view during sunrise and sunset. These paths have gentle curves, and I typically see some seabirds flying over the area.
| Pro tip: Try positioning yourself at Seapark during sunset. The park’s elevated areas provide an unobstructed view of the horizon. |
4. Murlough Beach
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Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/murlough-national-nature-reserve
Address: Newcastle BT33 0LW, United Kingdom
Operating hours: 8 AM–7 PM
I love watching the sun peek over the Mourne Mountains at Murlough Beach. It’s an Instagram-worthy moment every time! This beach has been around for 6,000 years and is part of the Murlough National Nature Reserve.
Since it’s part of the reserve, it’s got incredible dune systems. You get a sense of why it’s labeled an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. So after sunrise, I usually walk leisurely along its flat sands.
This hidden gem makes it a perfect place to clear your head. You can even bring a book and enjoy the stunning views of the Mourne Mountains in the background.
| Pro tip: Try positioning yourself near the water’s edge with the Mourne Mountains in the background. The reflections on the wet sand can create stunning mirror-like images during these times. |
5. Titanic Quarter
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Website: http://www.titanicquarter.com/
Address: Titanic House, 6 Queens Rd, Belfast BT3 9DT, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890766300
Operating hours: 9 AM–5 PM
Titanic Quarter is another great place to capture sunrises and sunsets. Start by standing by the waterfront and the iconic Harland and Wolff cranes. Then, wait for the silhouette against the sunset to capture that postcard-worthy moment.
While you’re there, take the time to learn about the history of the place. This is the exact spot where the MS Titanic was born. So, you can soak in the fact that the legendary ship that inspired movies was built where you’re standing!
You can also visit Titanic Belfast, which is nearby. It has exhibits about the Titanic saga, especially its maiden voyage. It was an enriching experience to learn about the ship’s journey and the lives it affected.
| Pro tip: Head to The Great Light along the Titanic Walkway to capture the perfect sunrise or sunset shot. This 7-meter-tall lighthouse is an interesting focal point and offers unobstructed views across Belfast Lough. |
6. Botanic Gardens
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Address: College Park Ave, Botanic Ave, Belfast BT7 1LP, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890314762
Operating hours: 7:30 AM–5 PM
The Botanic Gardens were established in the early 19th century. They are one of the few places where you can see gardens that capture the true Victorian charm. Imagine all this greenery and blooms against the sunrise or sunset. Now, that’s picture-perfect!
The garden is home to exotic plants and trees. Most hail from the southern hemisphere, so you can have a tropical retreat here without leaving the city. Then, there’s the Palm House, one of the earliest glasshouses made from iron and glass.
Finally, a highlight of my visit is the Tropical Ravine. I was so amazed at the ancient seed plants that they have here. I only saw these in textbooks, but I could see massive cycles that have been around for millions of years.
| Pro tip: Head to the Tropical Ravine just before dawn or dusk to capture those perfect sunrise or sunset photos. Position yourself near the entrance for an unobstructed view. |
7. Ormeau Park
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Address: Ormeau Rd, Belfast BT7 3GG, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890320202
Operating hours: 7:30 AM–6 PM
Ormeau Park is 100 acres of lush greenery amid the hustle and bustle of Belfast. It opened in 1871 and is one of the oldest municipal parks in the city. What I love about this park is all the winding paths that are remnants of a Victorian Estate.
It’s no wonder Ormeau Park has earned a Green Flag Award for over a decade. The park is dedicated to caring for and maintaining this space. It runs along the River Lagan, so the greenery and river offer breathtaking views at sunset and sunrise!
After soaking in all that scenery, my friends and I go to the park to play football, tennis, or even BMX. It’s always fun to try these adrenaline-pumping activities and relax in this park.
| Pro tip: Head towards the riverbank near the old stone bridge to capture stunning sunrise or sunset photos at Ormeau Park. |
8. Stormont Estate
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Address: Stormont Ct, Belfast BT4 3LP, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442890378103
Operating hours: 9 AM–5 PM
Stormont Estate is a 300-acre public park perfect for family outings or casual strolls. But it’s also the best place to get views of the iconic Parliament Buildings, especially at sunset.
I’m also fascinated by its history. I learned that Reverend John Cleland created this space in the early 19th century as a green space in Belfast. Today, it’s an outdoor escape for picnics on the lawns, jogging, or playing with kids in the play park.
Mo Mowlam Play Park also has received the Green Flag Award. Its owners have preserved the place without sacrificing its fun. My kids love it. They spend all afternoon climbing frames and swinging here.
| Pro tip: Head to the top of the hill near the Parliament Buildings to capture breathtaking sunrise or sunset photos at Stormont Estate. |
9. Carrickfergus Castle
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Address: Marine Hwy, Carrickfergus BT38 7BG, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442893351273
Operating hours: 9 AM–4 PM
Carrickfergus Castle dates back to 1177. John de Courcy built it during the Norman invasion of Ireland, and it has remained strong for over 800 years. You’ll be in awe of its towering walls, and I can only imagine what it was like to live in this castle.
During my visit, I was lucky enough to catch the sunset. I watched how the sunlight shone over the castle walls; it was magical. I found myself standing there, and honestly, the pictures didn’t do justice to the scene. You have to be there for yourself.
You can also go inside the castle and learn about medieval life. I walked through the rooms and dungeons. It was scary to descend into dark and narrow spaces, but the history experience came alive for a visitor like me.
| Pro tip: To capture that perfect sunrise or sunset photo from Carrickfergus Castle, head to the ramparts about 30 minutes before dawn or dusk. Position yourself on the eastern side, where the sun rises over Belfast Lough. |
10. Ballyholme Park and Beach
Address: Bank’s Lane, Groomsport Rd, Bangor BT20 5EG, United Kingdom
Operating hours: 24/7
Ballyholme Park and Beach stretches 1.3 kilometers with rocky shores on both ends. Locals refer to Ballyholme as one of the “Seven Wonders of North Down.”
I love strolling its promenade to get a front-row seat for sunrise and sunset. You can see Belfast Lough and the sun setting behind the Antrim Coast from here. It’s a postcard moment every time.
After soaking in all those magical views, you can swim, go windsurfing, or even play frisbee with your dogs. There are even two play areas for kids. So, it’s a great place to spend a fun day with your family.
| Pro tip: Head to the far eastern end of the beach near Ballymacormick Point. This area provides an unobstructed view of the horizon and allows you to capture reflections in the water during low tide. |