Arrival/Check-In: A short drive from Belfast Harbour Airport brought us to the Hilton Belfast, tucked into a quiet cul-de-sac near the city center. I chose to self-park and found a space near the elevator after driving up a few levels. From there we took the elevator down to reception, where check-in was quick and friendly.
Guest Quarters: Traveling with family, we booked two rooms opposite each other on the executive floor, which includes access to the Executive Lounge. The lounge offers morning breakfast and complimentary evening cocktails and snacks. We found the main dining room provided a wider breakfast selection and also stopped by the afternoon reception before dinner.
The room featured a king-sized bed and a small seating area by the window with a view of the River Lagan. Practical elements included a comfortable work chair and a built-in desk, consistent with Hilton’s functional design. The room also had a large flat-screen TV, a stocked minibar, and cozy bedding in neutral tones. The bathroom was straightforward and functional, with a tub/shower combination and bath amenities from Peter Thomas Roth.
Services/Amenities: Adjacent to the lobby, the Sonoma Restaurant serves modern Irish cuisine and overlooks the Lagan. We enjoyed their generous breakfast buffet each morning. On the other side of the reception desk, Cables Bar provides a relaxed atmosphere with a tapas-style menu and soft jazz in oversized leather chairs. We had a light, pleasant dinner there after attending the opening ceremonies at the Titanic Belfast exhibit.
During our stay I made an unusual mistake: I checked out and left our passports and a considerable amount of cash in the in-room safe. I only noticed while playing golf at Royal Portrush the next day. A quick phone call to the hotel confirmed that staff had moved the passports, cash and a power converter into the main hotel safe for security. When we returned to collect our items en route to our next destination in Northern Ireland, the team was accommodating and helpful. The experience prompted me to add a sticky note reminder for the in-room safe in future travels.
The Experience: The Hilton Belfast is well located for exploring the city. Many attractions, including Titanic Belfast, are within walking distance, as are a variety of restaurants and traditional pubs. The hotel combines practical business-friendly amenities with comfortable public spaces and convenient access to Belfast’s highlights.
GT Checklist
- Doorman/valet
- Less than 10 minutes for check-in
- Separate tub and shower
- Large vanity
- High-quality towels
- Powerful, unattached hair dryer
- High-quality bed linens
- Large, flat-screen television
- Large desk with convenient outlets
- Large, complimentary laptop safe
- Complimentary in-room WiFi
- Complimentary bottled water
- Stocked minibar
- Ample lighting
- In-room coffeemaker
- Iron and ironing board
- On-site restaurant and bar
- 24-hour room service
- State-of-the-art fitness center
Hilton Belfast Hotel
4 Lanyon Place, Belfast BT1 3LP
Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
tel 44 28 9027 7000
hilton.com