St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast?
What makes it 77% Kids-Friendly: Kids enter free and the InSpire trail, sticker hunt and vivid mosaics keep 6–12s busy, yet few hands-on exhibits and the reverent setting may shorten their attention span.
Positives:
- Free entry for kids: Children under 16 explore for free on self-guided and Sunday tours.
- Interactive learning: Kids Trail and sticker booklet keep children engaged with history.
Challenges:
- No on-site café: Bring snacks and water as the cathedral has no food or drink outlet.
- Limited baby facilities: No dedicated changing table or feeding room; use nearby shopping centre baby rooms.
What is St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast?
- A Church of Ireland cathedral consecrated in 1904, serving as the episcopal seat of the Diocese of Connor
- A Gothic revival edifice constructed in local sandstone, distinguished by twin transepts and a war memorial east facade
- A fusion of historic architecture and contemporary design crowned by the 40-metre steel ’Spire of Hope’ rising above the nave
What is so special about St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast for with kids?
- Interactive kids trail with puzzles and clues
- Free entry for children under 16
- Colouring corner and sticker booklet for hands-on fun
- Photo opportunities under the Spire of Hope
- Sunday service with children’s activity sheets
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours
Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Short guided and self-guided tours let families cover key highlights without tiring young kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast
InSpire Kids Trail:
Solve fun clues to find historic symbols like the Coventry Cross of Nails and the Titanic Pall memorial.
Tip: Book at least two weeks in advance; the 45 min guided activity is free for children.
Self-guided Family Tour:
Collect stickers at six stations using a kid-friendly booklet from reception.
Tip: Pick up the £5 adult tickets and free children’s booklet on arrival.
Colouring Corner:
Colour cathedral-themed drawings on benches near the shop.
Tip: Ask for crayons at the welcome desk; take drawings home as souvenirs.
Spire of Hope Photo Spot:
Stand under the glass floor panel to photograph the 40 m steel spire rising above the choir.
Tip: Visit in morning light for the best glow through the stained glass.
Sunday Choral Eucharist:
Join the 11 am service and use free children’s activity sheets at the back.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to find pew seats near the back or side aisles.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast
- Visit on weekdays: Arrive before 11 am to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy quiet reflection.
- Combine with baby rooms: Plan breaks at CastleCourt or Victoria Square baby rooms a few minutes’ walk away.
- Pre-book kids trail: Reserve at least two weeks ahead to secure a spot on the guided children’s trail.
Reviews of St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast
Vincenzonzorro
Interesting looking church with a weird spire sticking out of it where normally a tower would be. Sadly it was closed due to the holidays surrounding New Year’s Eve. Definitely a unique church not found anywhere else!
Elena Ballesteros
Such a lovely experience and what a beautiful way to transform Fleetwood Mac songs!! The quartet was amazing and very skilled. We will definitely repeat the experience with different artists.
Don B Leask
Belfast Cathedral has such a unique interior with The Spire of Hope. Suspended from the ceiling in the centre of the church is The Spire of Hope. It hangs in the middle of a great light shaft, looking up you can see the spire reaching to the sky 250 feet above the ground. There is a beautiful display of the pipes for the organ on the wall. The interior is bright and well lit. The front of the chur...
Travel Nomad
Belfast cathedral also called as St. Anne's cathedral os at the heart of the city. Big and wonderful with many stain glass windows and memorials. There is an entrance fee.
Anıl KARADAVUT
Visiting Belfast Cathedral was a peaceful and beautiful experience. The architecture is impressive, with lovely stained glass windows and detailed stonework that made me feel connected to the city’s history. Inside, the atmosphere was calm and perfect for a quiet moment away from the busy streets. I especially enjoyed walking around the nearby gardens they were a nice surprise. Overall, it’s a cha...
When is the best time to visit St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast (Belfast, United Kingdom)?
Check the cathedral calendar for special Easter and Christmas services with festive music and decorations. In summer, arrive later to enjoy bright morning light through the stained glass.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Self-guided family tour (2 adults) | GBP 10 |
| Audio-guide upgrade (2 adults) | GBP 16 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 26 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast
Address: Donegall St, Belfast BT1 2HB, UK
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About St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 28 9032 833210 BEST nearby Activities
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