Have you ever dreamt of having an entire used bookshop to yourself? Well now you can, as Belfast Books offers the Belfast most unique literary experience with our revolutionary #BookTheBookshop service - book our entire independent bookstore for your exclusive VIP use.
What Makes #BookTheBookshop Special?
Located in the heart of Belfast's historic York Road district, Belfast Books isn't just Northern Ireland's premier destination for new, used, second-hand, and out-of-print books - we're also home to the Belfast’s only tourist friendly bookable bookshop experience. Our #BookTheBookshop service allows visitors to book our entire store for private browsing, creating an intimate literary sanctuary that's perfect for book lovers, couples, families, or small groups exploring Belfast.
As Belfast's #1 bookshop specialising in Northern Ireland 'Troubles' literature, politics, war histories, science fiction, classics and horror, we offer tourists an authentic cultural experience that larger stores simply cannot match. When you book our shop, you'll have exclusive access to our tiny and messy book shack.
Perfect for Belfast Tourists and Book Lovers
Planning your Belfast itinerary? #BookTheBookshop fits perfectly into any tourist's Belfast experience, whether you're exploring the city's literary heritage, seeking unique gifts, or looking for books about Northern Ireland's fascinating history. Our location on historic York Road puts you in the heart of Belfast's cultural quarter, with easy access to major attractions like Belfast Castle
International visitors particularly love our extensive collection of books about the Northern Ireland 'Troubles' - providing context and deeper understanding of Belfast's complex history that you won't find anywhere else. Our VIP service ensures you can browse these important historical works in a private setting.
How to Reach Belfast Books by Public Transport
Getting to Belfast Books is easy and convenient for tourists using Belfast's excellent public transport system.
From Belfast City Centre
By Bus (Fastest Option): Take any of the frequent Metro bus services that stop virtually at our door:
· Routes 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2J and 2H run regularly from Belfast City Centre to York Road area
· Journey time: 10-15 minutes from Donegall Place/City Hall
· Frequency: Buses run every 10-15 minutes during peak hours[10][8]
· Cost: Approximately £2.50 with contactless payment accepted
Nearest Stop Countrybound: Translink Metro Grove Place stop- just 1 minute walk to Belfast Books at 112 York Road. The stop is practically outside our front door, making this the most convenient option for visitors carrying shopping bags or those with mobility concerns.[8]
Alternative nearby stops include:
· Mountcollyer (4-minute walk)
· York Street Railway Station area (8-10 minute walk)
From Belfast International Airport
· Take Airport Express 300 to city centre, then connect to Route 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2J and 2H
· Total journey time: 45-60 minutes
· Alternatively, taxi journeys take 20-25 minutes
From George Best Belfast City Airport
· Take Airport Express 600 to city centre, then Metro Route 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2J and 2H
· Total journey time: 30-40 minutes
Walking Directions for History Enthusiasts
For tourists who enjoy exploring Belfast on foot, York Road offers a fascinating walk through Belfast's maritime and industrial heritage.
From Belfast City Centre (20-minute walk):
1. Start at Belfast City Hall on Donegall Square
2. Walk north up Donegall Place toward Royal Avenue
3. Continue north on Royal Avenue, until it becomes York Street
4. Continue straight - York Street becomes York Road
5. Belfast Books is located at 112 York Road on your left
Historical Points of Interest Along the Way:
· Pass the modern Ulster University Belfast campus
· Walk through the area where the famous Midland Railway Hotel once stood
· See remnants of Belfast's Victorian-era commercial district
Nearby Belfast Tourist Attractions
Make Belfast Books part of your Belfast sightseeing day:
Within 15 minutes:
· Belfast Castle and Cave Hill - Panoramic views over Belfast Lough
· Belfast Zoo - Award-winning zoo with spectacular wildlife
· Crumlin Road Gaol - Historic Victorian prison and tourist attraction
Within 25 minutes:
· Titanic Belfast - World's largest Titanic experience
· SS Nomadic - Last remaining White Star Line ship
· Belfast Cathedral (St. Anne's Cathedral) - Stunning architecture
· St. George's Market - Historic Victorian market
Why Choose Belfast Books for Your Belfast Visit?
Authentic Belfast Experience: As one of fewer than 30 independent bookshops in the hole of Northern Ireland, Belfast Books offers tourists a genuine local experience that supports the community with the owners living close to the shop.
Flexible Payment Options: We accept cash, all major payment methods including Amazon Pay, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and all credit/debit cards - convenient for international visitors.
Expert Local Knowledge: Our staff can recommend Belfast-specific books, guide you to other local attractions, and provide insider tips for your Belfast visit.
Booking Your #BookTheBookshop Experience
Ready to experience Belfast's most unique literary adventure? Contact Belfast Books to book your exclusive bookshop session. Whether you're planning a romantic literary date, researching Northern Ireland history, or simply want to browse our extensive collection in peace, #BookTheBookshop offers an unforgettable Belfast experience.
Perfect for:
· Couples seeking unique Belfast date ideas
· History enthusiasts researching the Troubles
· Tourists wanting authentic local experiences
· Book clubs visiting Belfast
· Writers researching Northern Ireland topics
· Families with book-loving children
Belfast Books - Where every visitor becomes our most important customer, and every book tells Belfast's story.
Visit us at 112 York Road, Belfast BT15 3HF. Follow @belfastbooks on Twitter/X for updates and book recommendations.
Cash, Card and Contactless payments accepted. If its new books for worldwide delivery you’re looking for check out www.belfastbooks.co.uk
P.S. Belfast Books is also home to the famous Tayto balaclava