Fodor's Expert Review Titanic's Dock and Pump-House

Cleveland Marina/Pier Fodor's Choice

Editor's Note: This property is currently undergoing renovations.

The atmospheric 900-foot-long dock where the Titanic was built—in its time the biggest in the world—is open to the public and ranks as one of the great attractions in Northern Ireland. Since 2012, and the events held for the 100th anniversary, Titanic's Dock—officially known as the Thompson Dry Dock—has been accessible to visitors. Steps lead deep down 44 feet to the floor of the dock, where you can bask in the evocative spirit of this remarkable place well below sea level. In its heyday in the early 20th century, the dock could hold 21 million gallons of water. Today it is Belfast's outstanding relic of the Titanic's legacy and strikingly represents the ship's physical footprint. Built by 500 men over a period of seven years, it was the beating heart of the shipyard's operation during the construction of the great White Star Liners—Britannic, Olympic, and Titanic. But it was a tight squeeze; the Titanic barely fit in.... READ MORE

The atmospheric 900-foot-long dock where the Titanic was built—in its time the biggest in the world—is open to the public and ranks as one of the great attractions in Northern Ireland. Since 2012, and the events held for the 100th anniversary, Titanic's Dock—officially known as the Thompson Dry Dock—has been accessible to visitors. Steps lead deep down 44 feet to the floor of the dock, where you can bask in the evocative spirit of this remarkable place well below sea level. In its heyday in the early 20th century, the dock could hold 21 million gallons of water. Today it is Belfast's outstanding relic of the Titanic's legacy and strikingly represents the ship's physical footprint. Built by 500 men over a period of seven years, it was the beating heart of the shipyard's operation during the construction of the great White Star Liners—Britannic, Olympic, and Titanic. But it was a tight squeeze; the Titanic barely fit in. The original steel-casing gate (now showing some signs of rust) that enclosed the dock and kept ships watertight weighs a staggering 1,000 tons. You can access the dock via Café Bar 401. The tour, which is self-guided, costs £6. The café serves snacks, coffees, and lunches. .

The easiest way to reach the Dock and Pump House is to board the G2 Glider bus at Wellington Place, near the City Hall, and alight at the Titanic Belfast stop on Queen's Road, home to the SSE Arena and W5 science center; you can also take a train to the Titanic Quarter stop or opt for a 20-minute walk from Belfast city center.

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Marina/Pier Fodor's Choice

Quick Facts

Belfast, Co. Down  BT3 9DT, Northern Ireland

028-9040–9951

Nightlife Details:
Rate Includes: £6

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