The Queen’s University is a public research university located in Belfast and one of the largest employers in Northern Ireland. It was opened in 1849 and still continues to teach over 23,000 students today. Queen’s is ranked #202 in the 2018 QS World University Rankings. Research investigations take place here of sustainability, cancer, creative writing, wireless technology, pharmaceuticals and sonic arts. The university was ranked 36th in the UK according to the Complete University guide in 2016.
There is plenty to see and do here, even if you are not a student at Queen’s. The university successfully runs Northern Ireland’s leading independent cinema, Queen’s Film Theatre, the Brian Fiel Theatre and the Naughton Art Gallery at Queen’s. There are also squash courts, climbing walls and 17 pitches dedicated to basketball, rugby, football, Gaelic, hockey, hurling, camogie and cricket. There are 9 tennis courts and an athletics arena. Popular TED talks also take place in the university.
Due to its great location, the Queen’s University Belfast is best explored on foot. Most places in the city are within short walking distance or are well connected by buses and trains that are frequent with discounts widely available. There is also the option of using Belfast’s bikes system where you can rent a bike on the public bicycle rental scheme and travel flexibly around the city.
