The castle we visit today is not the original Belfast Castle. The first castle was built in the city center, in the 12th century, but it was burned down in 1708. The only thing that remained from the old castle is the street names, marking the site: Castle Place and Castle Street.

Instead of rebuilding another castle on the same site, the Chichester family decided to build a new one in the suburbs. It was completed in 1870, after eight years of construction. The result was a beautiful sandstone castle, in the Scottish Baronial style and with splendid views of the city.

Today, the castle is being looked after by the Belfast City Council and it's one of the city's most important attractions. Beside visiting the castle, you can talk a stroll in the gardens and in the nearby Cave Hill Country Park. You'll also find and antique shop and a restaurant for visitors.

The castle is most popular for its wedding receptions, everyone wanting a fairy-tale wedding.