1) Linen Hall Library
The Linen Hall Library is a truly new venture and another must visit destination if one is visiting the Belfast City Hall. It was founded in 1788. It is supposed to be the oldest library in Belfast. It is also considered to be the last subscribing library in England. It is known for its unparalleled Irish and local collection. It has books that run back to over centuries. It also boasts of the Ireland theatre performers live that put up performances regularly.
The visitors are welcome to enter the library and sit and read any book of their choice. They are not really expected to pay any entry fee, however the visitors that do come are expected to donate to the library and help in running it. The library also has monthly exhibitions and events such as book readings.
There is a licensed coffee house within the library as well. They not only offer amazingly crisp sandwiches but also serve different types of coffee. The Coffee house is particularly popular with the people because of the different types of pudding that they serve. There is also a shop at the Linen Hall Library that houses an extensive range of books and gifts. There is also a plaque that is erected at the entrance of the library.
The plaque honours the Irish man Thomas Russell. He was a librarian from 1794- 96. By 96 he was the commander of the United Irishmen and Co. He was however eventually tried for treason and then beheaded at the goal.
The Linen hall has also set up a charity venture in the form of a shop. They have set up a shop that sells DVDs, books, posters as well as other things that would particularly interest young people. The shop welcomes donations from people. Anyone who has DVDs etc that they do not wish to use are allowed to donate it to the store. The store then sells the same items at a discount rate. The timings are different on weekdays and weekends. Tuesdays to Thursdays 10-4:30 pm. Saturdays it closes by 3:30 pm. The funds received from the library then go to charity.
2) Ballymacormick Point
This is a nice place for wildlife lovers and Birdwatchers who want to enjoy the scenery all year around. It is located Between Bally home and Groomsport.