Top 5 Abandoned Places in Belfast

Belfast, a city steeped in industrial history and vibrant culture, is also home to numerous abandoned places that echo its storied past. From historic mills and hospitals to grand theatres and old shipyards, these places offer a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into Belfast’s legacy. Here are 5 of the most captivating abandoned places in Belfast for history lovers and urban explorers.


1. Crumlin Road Courthouse

Built in the 19th century, the Crumlin Road Courthouse was once a key judicial center for Belfast, processing cases from across Northern Ireland until its closure in 1998. The courthouse is connected to the infamous Crumlin Road Gaol by an underground tunnel, adding to its mystique. Now abandoned, the decaying courtrooms, empty cells, and grand Victorian architecture create an eerie atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for those interested in Belfast’s legal and social history.


2. The Floral Hall

Located within the Belfast Zoo, The Floral Hall was once a lively dance hall and social gathering spot in the 1930s, hosting big band performances and dances. Since its closure in the 1970s, the hall has fallen into decay, with broken windows, peeling paint, and overgrown surroundings. The hall’s faded Art Deco style and empty dance floor evoke a sense of nostalgia for its glamorous past, drawing photographers and urban explorers alike.


3. Belvoir Park Hospital

Belvoir Park Hospital served as a major healthcare facility, particularly known for its cancer treatment center, until it was abandoned in 2006. The hospital’s empty wards, operating theatres, and long corridors have been left largely untouched, creating a hauntingly silent atmosphere. While parts of the site are now being redeveloped, many of the abandoned buildings still stand, offering a glimpse into Belfast’s medical history.


4. Hilden Mill

Located on the outskirts of Belfast in Lisburn, Hilden Mill was once one of the world’s largest linen mills, operating from the 19th century until its closure in 2006. The sprawling complex is filled with empty spinning rooms, rusting machinery, and towering chimneys, all now overgrown with vegetation. Hilden Mill is a testament to Belfast’s role in the linen industry and serves as an atmospheric reminder of the city’s industrial past.


5. The Ormeau Baths Building

Although partially repurposed, sections of the Ormeau Baths Building still lie abandoned, reflecting its history as a public bathhouse opened in 1888. The building’s Victorian architecture, abandoned pools, and tiled rooms give it a nostalgic, eerie ambiance. The structure has been partially converted into a coworking space, but the unused sections retain their historic charm, drawing interest from those fascinated by Belfast’s architectural past.


Conclusion

Belfast’s abandoned places reveal a lesser-seen side of the city, connecting visitors to its rich industrial, cultural, and architectural history. Each site has a unique atmosphere, from the haunting courtrooms of Crumlin Road Courthouse to the forgotten grandeur of The Floral Hall. As always, ensure safety and respect property laws when exploring these sites, as many are restricted or fragile. For those who explore responsibly, Belfast’s abandoned places provide a memorable journey into the city’s hidden past.

Discover the best abandoned places with our maps !

Are you looking for the best urbex locations near you? Look no further! Whether you're a seasoned urban explorer or a curious hobbyist, our maps are full of abandoned places to explore. Discover our Maps !

Articles Récents

LES 10 MEILLEURS LIVRES SUR L'URBEX

Les 10 meilleurs livres sur l'urbex (exploration urbaine). Découvrez en images des lieux abandonnés et souvent interdits, grâce à ces beaux livres photographiques dédiés à l'urbex à travers notre sélection.

En savoir plus