Exterior

Built in 1859 and opened in 1862, the iconic Ulster Hall, locally called the ‘Grand Dame of Bedford Street’ was designed to provide the expanding City of Belfast with a multi-purpose venue of sufficient size for grand dances and events.  It was designed by William J. Barre, who also designed Belfast’s Albert Clock.

The Ulster Hall has hosted many cultural events of local and international significance; Charles Dickens gave readings here from A Christmas Carol in 1867 and 1869; and during World War II it was used as a dance hall to entertain American troops stationed in Northern Ireland.

But it is as a rock and music venue that the Ulster Hall is best known: The Rolling Stones, AC/DC and Pink Floyd have all played here, and it was the first venue in which Led Zeppelin performed their iconic song, "Stairway to Heaven" live, on 5 March 1971.

Owned today by Belfast City Council, it remains a centre of culture and talent, hosting everything from Chinese New Year celebrations to boxing championships. It is also the rehearsal venue and administrative offices of the Ulster Orchestra.