VISITOR ATTRACTION: what’s new and what’s cool at Belfast’s Linen Hall Library

The Linen Hall Library, founded in 1788, is Belfast’s oldest library and Ireland’s last subscribing library, located at 17 Donegall Square North, opposite Belfast City Hall. Housed in a stunning Victorian-era former linen warehouse, this accredited museum and cultural hub offers a rich experience for visitors interested in Irish history, literature, and culture. Here’s what to expect:

Unique Collections: The library is renowned for its unparalleled Irish and Local Studies Collection, featuring early Belfast and Ulster printed books, periodicals, and newspapers dating back to 1738, alongside manuscripts, maps, and Irish-language materials. The Political Collection, with over 350,000 items, is the definitive archive of the “Troubles,” including books, pamphlets, posters, and artifacts representing all perspectives. Other highlights include the Theatre and Performing Arts Archive, a C.S. Lewis collection, and rare items like a 1490 copy of Avicenna’s De Anima and a first edition of James Joyce’s Ulysses. Visitors can access these collections for free, with staff available to assist with research.
Guided Tours: The 45-minute Linen Hall Tour (£10 per person, including tea/coffee and traybakes, minimum group size required) explores the library’s history, its Victorian architecture, and key collections. Highlights include stories of notable figures like United Irishman Thomas Russell and shipyard poet Thomas Carnduff, honored by blue plaques. The Blue Plaque Tour (£10, or £15 combined with the Linenopolis Tour) extends to nearby historic sites in Belfast. Advance booking is required.
Linen Hall Café: Located on the first floor, the café offers a cozy setting inspired by Irish mythology, with views of Donegall Square. Visitors can enjoy high-quality coffee, poached eggs on toast with feta and avocado, or light lunches. Reviews praise the generous portions and local ingredients, though some note the Irish breakfast may feel light (e.g., no beans). The café can get busy, so reservations are recommended.
Cultural Events and Atmosphere: The library hosts a vibrant programme of exhibitions, readings, lectures, and language classes (e.g., Irish and Italian). The historic building, with its curved glass staircase and Troubles-era propaganda posters, exudes character. Visitors describe it as a “quirky” and “welcoming” space, ideal for bibliophiles, history enthusiasts, or those seeking a quiet retreat. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated.
Gift Shop and Charity Bookshop: The Level 2 gift shop offers items inspired by Irish literature and heritage, while the charity bookshop sells eclectic used books at great value, perfect for unique finds.
Accessibility and Practicalities: Open Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, the library is easily accessible in central Belfast (BT1 5GB). Free entry and knowledgeable staff make it welcoming for all, though the café may occasionally close, so checking hours is advised.

What’s New:

Expanded Events Programme: The library’s 2025 calendar includes new exhibitions, readings, and lectures, continuing its tradition as a cultural hub. Expect fresh displays from the Political Collection, possibly featuring digitised content from the 1990s via platforms like Divided Society, focusing on Belfast’s transformative history.
Language Classes: Following popular demand, 2025 will see continued Irish language courses for beginners and intermediate learners, led by instructor Catherine Calumarte. New short courses, such as Italian conversation classes, may also be introduced, building on 2024’s offerings.
Enhanced Digital Access: The library has been digitizing parts of its Political Collection, with projects like extraORDINARYwomen showcasing women’s roles in the Troubles., visitors can expect more interactive digital exhibits or online access to these archives, enhancing the experience for those exploring remotely or on-site.
Improved Visitor Recent Tripadvisor reviews (2023-2024) highlight the library’s responsiveness to feedback, such as addressing café service speed. For 2025, expect continued efforts to streamline café operations and enhance tour availability, possibly with more bespoke group options or themed tours focusing on Belfast’s literary and political history.
Cultural Significance: As Belfast’s tourism grows (57% international visitors in 2023), the Linen Hall remains a top cultural attraction, likely introducing new initiatives to attract global visitors, such as expanded genealogy resources or C.S. Lewis-themed events, given the dedicated collection.

Practical Information

17 Donegall Square North, Belfast, BT1 5GB.
Contact: +44 (0)28 9032 1707, info@linenhall.com, linenhall.com.
Tips: Book tours in advance via the website. Check café hours, as closures have been noted. Combine a visit with nearby attractions like Belfast City Hall or Saint George’s Market for a full day in the city center.

Visitors to the Linen Hall Library can anticipate a blend of historical immersion, unique collections, and a welcoming atmosphere, with new events and digital enhancements enriching the experience. For the latest details, check linenhall.com before visiting