Spinning Yarns – Linen Quarter Explained | Walking Tour

Come explore a vibrant and distinct quarter of Belfast, to hear entertaining ‘yarns’ or stories of people, places and events across 250 years that relate to what you’ll see.

Find out about the quarter’s heritage and links to the linen industry, that earned the city the nickname of ‘Linenopolis’. Pass restaurants and hotels, new business ventures and tech companies housed in former splendid linen warehouses. See some of our earliest entertainment venues, including the iconic Ulster Hall and Grand Opera House, as well as historic pubs like The Crown Bar and modern music clubs. View the district’s modern street art and public sculptures, enjoy stories of significant music moments, and hear what part a river under our feet played in Belfast’s development.

We’ve partnered with the Northern Ireland Tourist Guide Association to offer insightful cultural walking tours during the Festival. Led by experienced guides, these tours provide a fresh perspective on Belfast’s history and heritage. Whether you’re familiar with the city or exploring it for the first time, they offer a thoughtful way to engage with its stories and streets.