The Big Fish Belfast – A Quirky Icon on the Waterfront
The Big Fish, also known as the Salmon of Knowledge, is one of Belfast's most recognisable landmarks. Sitting on the banks of the River Lagan near Donegall Quay, this 10-metre-long ceramic sculpture is a must-see stop for anyone exploring Belfast's city centre or waterfront area.
What Is the Big Fish in Belfast?
Created by artist John Kindness in 1999, the Big Fish is made up of hundreds of ceramic tiles, and each one tells a story.
The tiles feature texts, images, and newspaper clippings that reflect moments in Belfast’s history, both good and bad, from the early days of the city through the modern era.
It’s more than just public art, it’s a time capsule, celebrating Belfast’s rich industrial heritage, maritime history, and the people who shaped it.
If you look closely, you'll find tiles with historical documents, old maps, poems, and even children's drawings.
Where Is It & How to Visit
You’ll find the Big Fish at Donegall Quay, right beside the Lagan Weir footbridge and just a short stroll from the Cathedral Quarter, Custom House Square, and the Titanic Quarter.
If you're travelling on the Hop on Hop off Belfast tour, you’ll spot it easily, especially from the top deck, where the views across the River Lagan are hard to beat.
It’s completely free to visit and makes a great photo opportunity, especially with the River Lagan and Harland & Wolff cranes in the background. Sure take a few shots from different angles ;-)
Local Legends and Symbolism
The sculpture’s nickname, the "Salmon of Knowledge," comes from an Irish legend about Fionn mac Cumhaill, a mythical warrior who gained all the world’s wisdom by tasting a magical salmon.
It’s the same legendary figure behind the famous Giants Causeway story.
The Big Fish pays tribute to this myth while also reflecting Belfast’s own journey, symbolising wisdom, storytelling, and learning from the past.
It’s also been said that if you kiss the Big Fish, you’ll gain the gift of wisdom (locals will leave it up to you to decide if that’s true!).
Fun Facts
- It was commissioned by the Laganside Corporation to mark the regeneration of the River Lagan area.
- The Big Fish is 10 metres long (33 feet) and made from over 300 hand-painted ceramic tiles.
- Inside the sculpture is a time capsule containing images, poetry, and stories from local people and schoolchildren.
- The ceramic tiles were printed using traditional blue-and-white Delft techniques.
Nearby Belfast Attractions
*Visit The BIG Fish
You can see the Big Fish up close on our Hop on Hop off Belfast bus tour — it's one of the standout stops along the route, and always a guest favourite for selfies.
