Lyric Theatre



Located on the banks of the River Lagan, which runs through the city, the Lyric Theatre –more commonly known as the Lyric – is the foremost full-time production theatre in Belfast.

Although the latest incarnation of the theatre was officially opened in 2011, the Lyric can trace its roots back to 1951 when it was first established just off the Lisburn Road.

An artistic beacon for the community, the theatre attempts to reflect the vibrant cultural experience and diverse traditions of the city in the performances it stages.

After an extensive refurbishment, the Lyric is now three times the size of its former self and houses a 400-seat main performance area, a second performance studio capable of seating almost 200 visitors and a rehearsal room the same size as the main area.

There is also an attractive cafe-bar and river terrace as well as a range of corporate entertaining suites overlooking the meandering River Lagan and Belfast’s Botanical Gardens.

One of Northern Ireland’s most famous acting sons, Liam Neeson, is the Lyric’s patron - he first performed there in 1976.

The theatre was also the site of a historic handshake between Queen Elizabeth II and Martin McGuinness, Deputy First Minister for the Northern Ireland Assembly and a former commander of the IRA. The event was seen by many as a symbolically positive sign for the ongoing peace process in the country.

Situated on Ridgeway Street to the south of the vibrant city centre, the Lyric is within easy striking distance of all Belfast’s main attractions and is a must for any lover of the stage.

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Adventure & outdoor

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The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast

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Holiday Inn Express Belfast City by IHG

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Clayton Hotel Belfast City

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Maldron Hotel Belfast City

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lyric Theatre

At the Lyric Theatre in Belfast, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including engaging backstage tours that offer a glimpse into the theatrical world. Additionally, the area boasts scenic walking paths and opportunities for golf nearby, making it a perfect spot for both culture and leisure. Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene while exploring the beautiful surroundings.

Shopping

Visit Victoria Square Shopping Centre, just 1.6km from the Lyric Theatre, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. St. George's Market, also 1.6km away, showcases local goods in a bustling atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, Twin Villages Shopping Centre, 32.2km away, features a family-friendly shopping experience.

Recreation

At the SSE Arena, immerse yourself in energetic sports events, just 3.2km from the Lyric Theatre. Enjoy captivating performances at the Ulster Hall, located 1.6km away, offering a vibrant entertainment atmosphere. For a touch of luxury, visit the Royal Portrush Golf Club, 4.8km away, featuring stunning links courses.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Jetpack Adventures, located 3.2km from Lyric Theatre, where you can soar above the water. For karting enthusiasts, Eddie Irvine Sports offers an exhilarating ride, 17.7km away. Lastly, embark on a scenic hike along Blackhead Path, situated 25.7km from the theatre.

Nightlife

In Belfast, the Grand Opera House offers a romantic theatrical experience, while the Crown Liquor Saloon provides a vibrant pub atmosphere perfect for a night out. Close by, the Queens Film Theatre showcases engaging films, creating a delightful blend of entertainment and charm in the area.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Lyric Theatre

While visiting the Lyric Theatre in Belfast, immerse yourself in local culture by exploring the nearby Maritime Museum, enjoying the serene landscapes of an urban park, or delving into history at the historic prison. These attractions cater to those seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly activities, ensuring a well-rounded visit to this vibrant area.

  • Titanic Belfast: Discover the rich maritime history at Titanic Belfast, a stunning museum situated 3.2km from the Lyric Theatre. Explore interactive exhibits that delve into the story of the iconic ship and the city’s shipbuilding heritage, all within a striking architectural masterpiece.
  • Queen's University of Belfast: Just 966m away, Queen's University offers a vibrant atmosphere with its beautiful architecture and bustling campus life. Stroll through its grounds, soak in the city vibes, and perhaps enjoy a coffee in one of the nearby cafés.
  • Boucher Road Playing Fields: Located 3.2km from the theatre, Boucher Road Playing Fields is perfect for families. Enjoy outdoor activities and sports in this lively fairground setting, ideal for a day out with the kids.

Best time to go to Lyric Theatre

The best time to visit Lyric Theatre is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
June55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
July58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
December42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lyric Theatre

To save on your trip to the Lyric Theatre in Belfast, consider visiting between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance can help secure the best rates, particularly on Mondays, the cheapest day to stay. For budget options, explore Expedia's last-minute deals and use their search tool to filter by price and eco-friendly hotels. Don't forget to check for cancellation options and consider package deals that combine hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Enjoy exploring free local attractions to enhance your experience without overspending.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lyric Theatre are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Lyric Theatre about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lyric Theatre is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Lyric Theatre is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences based on budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel stay at the Lyric Theatre with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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