
W5 Belfast
An interactive science and discovery center in Belfast, offering hands-on fun and education for all ages with climbing and robot attractions.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

W5 Belfast
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An interactive science and discovery center in Belfast, offering hands-on fun and education for all ages with climbing and robot attractions.
"Fantastic experience with young kids. So many levels, so educational, could spend days here!"

🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Advance online booking is often required. Plan ahead to secure your entry and avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring across multiple levels. Comfortable footwear is a must!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Science Exhibits
Multiple Levels
Engage with hands-on displays covering everything from physics to biology. Fun for all ages!

The Climbing Frame
Dedicated Area
A multi-story adventure that challenges and entertains. Perfect for burning off energy!

Robot Attractions
Various Zones
Discover the fascinating world of robotics with engaging demonstrations and displays.

Coffee Lab
Ground Floor
Enjoy delicious cake and coffee in a unique, science-themed setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Booking Ahead is Key
Consider Age Appropriateness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
W5 at Night
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Advance online booking is often required. Plan ahead to secure your entry and avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring across multiple levels. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Day trip visit
What age group is W5 Belfast aimed at?
🎒 Utilize Lockers
Keep your jackets and bags secure in the handy lockers available on-site.
⏰ Full Day Ticket
Your ticket is valid all day, so feel free to leave and return if needed.
Car park W5
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Advance online booking is often required. Plan ahead to secure your entry and avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring across multiple levels. Comfortable footwear is a must!
🎒 Utilize Lockers
Keep your jackets and bags secure in the handy lockers available on-site.
⏰ Full Day Ticket
Your ticket is valid all day, so feel free to leave and return if needed.
☕ Treat Yourself
The Coffee Lab offers delicious cakes and a unique atmosphere. Don't miss it!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
W5 Belfast is overwhelmingly praised as a fantastic, educational, and fun-filled day out for families, especially those with younger children. Visitors highlight the vast number of interactive exhibits, the engaging climbing frame, and the helpful staff. Some note that it might be less captivating for older teens and that booking online is a necessary step.
"Fantastic experience with young kids. So many levels, so educational, could spend days here and not see or cover everything. Very reasonably priced, a play area and a climbing area for kids. Plenty of places to get food and snacks, a great gift shop and very friendly staff all around. Each level has its own attractions and will keep kids of all ages busy, could not recommend it more. The only downside is they could do with more lifts as they are very busy, and the fact that you have to book online is a little frustrating."
Vlad O'Neal
"I have visited many different science centres across Europe, and so far, this one in Belfast is the best for a whole day out with your kids. The ticket is valid for the whole day, so you can come back as many times as you want during your day.
Lockers where you can leave your jackets and bags is very handy.
A small, soft place for kids is handy as well.
We really enjoyed the drop-in sessions, staff very friendly and helpful, my child had a wonderful time.
Big kiss to the Snail Franklin, beautiful creature."
Krzysztof Zakowicz
"Very well organised, and enjoyable experience. Catered more for smaller children so my teens were a bit bored. The coffee lab is lovely and the cake is delicious! Gift shop downstairs is also great."
Fatima Dala
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
W5 is located in the Odyssey Complex, easily accessible by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from the city center. Parking is available at the Odyssey car park, though it can get busy on event days.
Yes, there is ample parking at the Odyssey car park adjacent to W5. Be aware that charges apply, and it can fill up quickly during peak times or when there are events at the arena.
Absolutely! Several Translink bus services stop at or near the Odyssey Complex, making it convenient to reach W5 via public transport from various parts of Belfast. Check local timetables for routes and times.
W5 is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with lifts available to access different levels. However, it's always a good idea to contact them directly if you have specific accessibility concerns.
You can walk from the city center (about 20-30 minutes), take a taxi, or use one of the many bus routes that service the Odyssey Complex. The walk offers nice views of the River Lagan.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, with separate charges for children and adults. There's also an additional fee for the soft play area. Some visitors find the pricing a bit steep, especially with add-ons.
Yes, booking tickets online in advance is often required, especially during busy periods. This helps manage visitor numbers and ensures entry.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, check their official website for any family packages or special offers. Group bookings might also be available.
Yes, your W5 ticket is typically valid for the entire day, allowing you to come and go as you please. This is great for a full day of exploration.
W5's opening hours can vary, especially on weekends and during school holidays. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
W5 is fantastic for younger children, with dedicated play areas. Older children and teens might find some exhibits less engaging, though the interactive nature appeals broadly.
Yes, W5 has food and snack options available, including the popular Coffee Lab which serves delicious cake. There are also cafes within the Odyssey Complex.
Visitors rave about the interactive science exhibits across multiple levels, the challenging climbing frame, and the engaging robot attractions. The soft play area is a hit with toddlers.
Yes, there's a great gift shop located downstairs, offering a range of souvenirs and educational toys.
W5 offers lockers where you can safely store your jackets and bags, which is very convenient for exploring.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside W5 for personal use. It's a great place to capture fun family moments and interesting exhibits.
While personal photography is fine, professional photography or filming may require prior permission. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography where it might be disruptive.
The vibrant, interactive exhibits offer endless photo opportunities. The climbing frame, the robot displays, and the colorful science experiments are particularly photogenic.
Yes, taking videos for personal use is usually permitted. It's a great way to document the interactive experiences and the kids' reactions.
Absolutely! The colorful and engaging exhibits make W5 a very Instagrammable location. Look out for unique displays and interactive elements to capture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Remember to book your tickets online in advance, as it can get busy. Utilize the lockers to keep your hands free for little ones. While older kids might enjoy the climbing frame and more complex exhibits, the younger ones will be thoroughly entertained by the colorful and interactive displays tailored for them.
🧑🏫 School Groups & Educational Visits
Teachers can leverage the diverse range of exhibits covering physics, biology, technology, and more to align with curriculum objectives. The full-day ticket allows ample time for exploration and hands-on experimentation. Booking in advance is essential for school groups to ensure availability and a smooth visit.
👩💻 Tech Enthusiasts & Curious Minds
The interactive nature of all W5's displays means you're not just observing, but actively participating in scientific discovery. Whether it's understanding complex physics through hands-on experiments or exploring the mechanics behind everyday objects, W5 caters to a curious mind eager to learn and experiment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating W5 with Young Children
While the main exhibits are broadly appealing, remember that the climbing frame and some of the more complex science demonstrations might be more suited to children who are a bit older and more adventurous. However, the sheer variety ensures that even the youngest visitors will find something to captivate them for hours. The full-day ticket is a lifesaver, allowing families to pace themselves and take breaks as needed.
Making the Most of Your Visit
For those who enjoy a treat, the Coffee Lab is a must-visit. It offers a delightful break with delicious cakes and coffee in a unique, science-themed setting. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be covering a lot of ground across multiple levels. The lockers are also a practical tip for keeping your hands free to engage with the exhibits.
W5's Educational Value
The drop-in sessions are particularly valuable, as they provide hands-on learning opportunities led by knowledgeable staff. These sessions often break down complex scientific concepts into easily digestible and exciting activities. The gift shop also complements the educational mission, offering a range of science-themed toys and books that can extend the learning experience beyond the visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit