Belfast Castle, Belfast

Set on the wooded slopes of the dramatic Cave Hill is the 19th-century edifice of Belfast Castle. The castle was built in 1870 and was previously home to the Earl of Shaftesbury. Within the castle are two rather expensive restaurants and also a small heritage centre offering an insight into the area's history. There is a playground for children. The castle and its spectacular grounds afford beautiful views of the whole city and across Belfast Lough to Co. Down. If you feel like venturing beyond the grounds, there are walks which lead you up to the foot of Napoleon's Nose and to the caves that gave the Cave Hill its name.