AT THE HEART OF STUDENT LIFE
The Queen's Quarter is the most vibrant district in Belfast and the heart of our student community.
Here, you’ll find everything from cultural events and nightlife to bookshops, museums, cafés, and international cuisine.
Whether you’re living in the area or looking for something to do after lectures, everything in the Queen’s Quarter is just a short walk from campus.
Belfast is one of the UK and Ireland’s most vibrant and affordable cities, packed with energy, culture and history. Queen's majestic campus is in Queen's Quarter, with cafés, bars, restaurants, plenty of shopping and entertainment venues. (Complete University Guide 2024)
A FOODIE’S PARADISE
The Queen’s Quarter is home to a huge range of cafés and restaurants.
On Botanic Avenue, you can sample food from Japan, Vietnam, Nepal, Mexico, China, the Middle East, Italy, and of course, Northern Ireland.
The nearby Lisburn Road has a buzzing restaurant scene, as well as ice-cream shops and bakeries if you’re craving something sweet.
Blog: My Top Six Restaurants in Belfast
SHOPPING
The area offers plenty of options for some retail therapy.
Botanic Avenue has the best vintage and charity shops in Belfast, while No Alibis indie bookstore is a must-visit for great books and literary events.
On the Lisburn Road, you can browse boutique stores selling everything from high-end designer labels to interior décor.
GREEN SPACES
Right next to the McClay Library is the Botanic Gardens, a beautiful city park and the perfect spot to chill with friends.
It is home to the Palm House and the Tropical Ravine, where you can stroll through a fantastic selection of tropical plants.
It is also an important venue for summer concerts, festivals, and other events.
THE ARTS AND CULTURE HUB OF BELFAST
The University is home to many arts locations like the Naughton Gallery, the Seamus Heaney Centre, and the Brian Friel Centre for Theatre.
We even have our own boutique indie cinema right across the street from the Lanyon The Queen's Film Theatre (QFT), shows new and classic films at a discounted rate for students. It also has a fully licensed bar.
Other nearby spots include the Ulster Museum, the Crescent Arts Centre, the Accidental Theatre and the Lyric Theatre.
ENJOY A GREAT NIGHT OUT
You don’t need to venture into the city centre for a night out.
Enjoy a gig at Mandela Hall or head to the Students’ Union Bar for drink deals and nightly entertainment, from table quizzes and bingo to club nights. Both are located in our brand new One Elmwood Student Centre
The Belfast Empire on Botanic Avenue is home to Belfast’s famous comedy night and is one of the best live music venues in the city.
Find out more from our Student Guides!
See what Botanic Avenue has to offer.
