EastSide Visitor Centre is a modern community hub and visitor gateway in East Belfast, making it one of the best things to do with kids in East Belfast. Operating as a cultural heritage hub and visitor information centre, it introduces families to local history, famous icons like C.S. Lewis, and scenic urban greenways.

Prices start from £0.00 as entry to the visitor centre, heritage displays, and surrounding greenway maps is completely free for all visitors. With zero entry fees and access to affordable cafes and public spaces, it serves as an accessible starting point for a family day out in Belfast.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, this welcoming venue connects you directly to the legendary C.S. Lewis Square. Children can explore bronze sculptures of Narnia characters, grab trail maps, learn about industrial Belfast history, and kick off a outdoor walking adventure.

What are the key features for families?

• Interactive Exhibits: Digital information displays, self-guided trail maps, and literary orientation boards keep curious kids engaged.
• Educational Day Out: Children learn about local legends, C.S. Lewis's inspiration for Narnia, ship building heritage, and urban nature conservation.
• Sensory Play and Nature: Open green spaces, bronze character statues to touch, and leafy greenway trails stimulate young senses.
• Outdoor Exploration: Direct pedestrian access leads families onto the Connswater Community Greenway and C.S. Lewis Square trails.

What are the main highlights kids will love?

• C.S. Lewis Square Bronze Sculptures: Walking out into the adjacent square to discover seven life-sized statues including Aslan, the White Witch, and Mr. Tumnus.
• Self-Guided Trail Maps: Picking up interactive trail maps at the desk to hunt for murals and public art around East Belfast.
• Connswater Community Greenway: Cycling or walking along linear park routes that run right past the centre's doors.
• Local Heritage Displays: Interactive wall maps showing famous shipbuilding and aviation history in a way that is easy for kids to understand.
• JACK Coffee Shop: Stopping inside for hot chocolates, pastries, and child-friendly treats named with literary nods to C.S. Lewis.

Beyond the Main Attraction

• C.S. Lewis Square: Located directly outside the centre, featuring seven iconic Narnia bronze sculptures.
• Connswater Community Greenway: A 9km linear park connecting parks, rivers, and outdoor play areas across East Belfast.
• Banana Block (Portview Trade Centre): Located a short walk away, offering creative workshops, food markets, and indoor plant displays.
• Titanic Belfast: Positioned 1.5 miles west, offering world-class interactive exhibits on maritime history.