St George’s Market is the oldest covered market on the island of Ireland, with roots stretching back to 1604. The red-brick Victorian building that still stands today opened in 1890.
On market days, the place buzzes with life, music, and the friendly energy that’s made it a favourite with locals for generations.
You’ll find it just a short stroll from stop 6 on the Hop on Hop off Belfast tour, which is a 10 minutes walk away from Belfast City Hall.
A Historic Gem
The market building you see today was commissioned by Belfast Corporation and opened in phases between 1890 and 1896.
Designed by city surveyor JC Bretland, it was built using red brick, sandstone, and iron columns.
The Latin motto above the main entrance reads Pro Tanto Quid Retribuamus, meaning “What shall we give in return for so much?”.
Inside, the architecture is light and open, with 70 cast-iron pillars supporting the glass and slate roof.
Over the years, it’s been home to traders selling butter, eggs, fish and poultry, and today it’s a hub for everything from artisan food to handmade crafts.
A Darker Chapter
During the 1941 Belfast Blitz, the market was used as an emergency mortuary.
Hundreds of bodies were brought here for identification following the bombing, and many families, Catholic & Protestant, came through the doors in search of missing loved ones.
Some of the victims were never identified, a plaque at the main entrance quietly marks this moment in the markets past.
The Weekend Markets
There are three distinct markets every weekend. Friday hosts the Variety Market, packed with nearly 250 stalls selling everything from books and clothes to antiques and fresh fruit.
Saturday is the City Food & Garden Market, focused on north Irish foods, fresh seafood, vegetables, flowers, and handmade crafts.
Sunday brings a mix of everything with more local artists, live music and a relaxed weekend crowd.
Food Highlights
Why not try some Northern Irish foods like dulse (a salty edible seaweed) or yellow man (a honeycomb-style sweet) for a snack with a twist?
There’s everything from Belfast baps and homemade breads to wild boar burgers, fresh oysters, and gourmet chocolates.
Local Crafts & Gifts
St George’s is a treasure trove for handmade goods—jewellery, candles, woodwork, glassware, and quirky Belfast-themed souvenirs.
Whether you're after a new print for your wall or a gift that’s a bit different, you’ll find it here.
Live Music & Atmosphere
The market often has live music from local performers adding to the buzz.
here are “quiet hours” on Friday (9–10am) and Sunday (10–11am) if you’d rather explore without the soundtrack.
Modern Use & Events
After major restoration in the late 90s (backed by the Heritage Lottery Fund), the market reopened in 1999. As well as the weekend stalls, the venue hosts concerts, exhibitions, food festivals and even fashion shoots.
Opening Hours / Schedules
Friday: 6am–2pm
Saturday: 9am–3pm
Sunday: 10am–4pm
Explore Belfast & St Georges
Hop off right at the doors of St George’s Market at Stop 6 on our Belfast Hop on Hop off tour. With 19 stops across the city, it’s the easiest way to explore the top things to do in Belfast in one go.
Quick Summary
St George’s Market in Belfast is one of the oldest attractions in the city, dating back to 1604. Open every weekend, the market features over 250 stalls with fresh local produce, handmade crafts, live music, and some of the best street food in Northern Ireland. It also holds a unique place in history, serving as a temporary morgue during WWII. Easily accessible from the city centre, it’s a must-visit spot full of life, colour, and Belfast charm.
