First Presbyterian Church Rosemary Street
Belfast's oldest church, built in 1783, boasting remarkable acoustics and a welcoming, inclusive congregation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Recitals and performances
First Presbyterian Church Rosemary Street
Best Time
Recitals and performances
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Belfast's oldest church, built in 1783, boasting remarkable acoustics and a welcoming, inclusive congregation.
"A splendid, fairly intact building from 1783, unmissable with its remarkable acoustics and inclusive community."
🤫 Be Quiet During Services
Avoid using cameras or making noise during services to respect the peaceful atmosphere.
🗣️ Chat with the Historian
Raymond O'Regan is a great source of info about the church and Belfast's history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Remarkable Acoustics
Experience the exceptional sound quality, enhanced by the church's elliptical design and fine Lewis organ.
Historic Architecture
Admire the splendid, well-preserved 1783 building, Belfast's oldest church in regular use.
Inclusive Community
Discover a liberal and inclusive Christian community known for its welcoming spirit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Engage with History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Be Quiet During Services
Avoid using cameras or making noise during services to respect the peaceful atmosphere.
🗣️ Chat with the Historian
Raymond O'Regan is a great source of info about the church and Belfast's history.
🎶 Check for Performances
Summer often features lunchtime recitals and performances – check schedules!
🚶♀️ Part of a Walking Tour
Consider a walking tour for a guided experience of this historic site.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Be Quiet During Services
Avoid using cameras or making noise during services to respect the peaceful atmosphere.
🗣️ Chat with the Historian
Raymond O'Regan is a great source of info about the church and Belfast's history.
🎶 Check for Performances
Summer often features lunchtime recitals and performances – check schedules!
🚶♀️ Part of a Walking Tour
Consider a walking tour for a guided experience of this historic site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise First Presbyterian Church Rosemary Street for its historical significance as Belfast's oldest place of worship, its beautiful architecture, and remarkable acoustics. The inclusive and welcoming congregation is frequently highlighted as a positive aspect. However, some guests have experienced disruptions from photography during services and felt that certain theological speakers were more focused on online audiences than the congregation.
"Belfast’s oldest place of worship in regular use has remarkable acoustics. Built in 1783, its elliptical enhances the sound of its fine Lewis organ."
David Kerr
"We visited here as part of a walking tour with Experience Belfast - Arthur Mcgee. Amazing interior and architecture, bbeleive this is the oldest church in Belfast. Many thanks to Raymond O'Regan for allowing us to wander around the building and was a pleasure to meet you."
Rob Grassby
"A good church, service left me flawed. Great first impression. Sadly the next week was disturbed throughout service by American tourist taking photos on noisy old school camera. Preacher felt far more welcoming to the noise maker than myself. Left early as I went for peace which wasn't afforded.
Gave service one last chance the next week, theological speakers/preachers appeared more interested in preaching to the online camera than to congregation. Felt very uncomfortable, left early, was followed out by one of the unwelcoming theologians. Did not engage.
The congregation are by and large wonderful, genuine Christian folk. I wish all the preachers felt as welcoming & able to see Jesus in their fellow man as the good congregation. A liberal inclusive place of worship, certainly the congregation are fine folk by all accounts. I'm thankful to them for their kindness. As for the theological folk, I'd suggest revisiting the good book, focusing on Jesus. He is the figurehead of Christianity, the only one who's words & deeds stand up world without end."
Silent Witness
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is centrally located in Belfast, making it accessible by public transport or a short walk from many city center hotels. If driving, check local parking options as street parking can be limited.
While specific accessibility details can vary, many historic churches are working to improve access. It's advisable to contact the church directly for the most up-to-date information on wheelchair access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry to the church for visiting is free, though donations are appreciated. However, for specific events or services, there might be admission fees.
The church is often open for visitors most days, thanks to dedicated members like Raymond O'Regan. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current visiting hours.
Yes, you are welcome to attend services. The congregation is known for being inclusive and welcoming.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The church boasts a beautiful and ornate interior with remarkable acoustics, enhanced by its elliptical design and a fine Lewis organ.
Photography is generally discouraged during services to maintain a peaceful environment. Visitors should be mindful and respectful of ongoing worship.
Raymond O'Regan is an historian often present at the church who is a wealth of information about the building and Belfast's history. Engaging with him can greatly enhance your visit.
It is Belfast's oldest place of worship in regular use, built in 1783, making it a significant historical landmark in the city.
🎫 🎶 Music & Events
Yes, the church frequently hosts recitals and lunchtime performances, especially during the summer months.
The church features a fine Lewis organ, and recitals often showcase its capabilities. The acoustics are renowned for enhancing musical performances.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a time when there are no services, perhaps to catch a lunchtime recital if schedules permit. This can offer a more relaxed environment for exploration. Engaging with historian Raymond O'Regan, if he is present, could also make the visit more interactive and educational for curious young minds.
🏛️ History Buffs
Seek out historian Raymond O'Regan, who is often on-site and possesses a deep knowledge of the church's history and its role in Belfast. His insights, combined with the church's unique features like its acoustics and the Lewis organ, provide a comprehensive historical experience. The church's status as a liberal and inclusive community also adds a layer of social history to explore.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Acoustics and the Lewis Organ
This focus on sound quality means the church is a popular spot for recitals and musical events, particularly during the summer. These performances offer a chance to truly appreciate the building's acoustic properties. Whether attending a service or a dedicated concert, the sound within First Presbyterian Church is consistently praised as a highlight of the visit.
A Beacon of Inclusivity
This welcoming spirit is a core part of the church's identity, with members and theologians alike striving to embody Christian values of kindness and understanding. The community is described as being made up of 'wonderful, genuine Christian folk' who are eager to share their faith in an open and affirming manner.
The Role of Historian Raymond O'Regan
Raymond and several congregation members are dedicated to keeping the church open for visitors on most days, a commitment that has allowed thousands to experience its heritage over the years. Engaging with him offers a unique opportunity to learn firsthand about the church's architecture, its congregation's journey, and its place within Belfast's story.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit