BELFAST INSIDER
Hello Belfast 👋
It is the pre Valentine’s edition.
And we have just the mix to set the mood.
The most anticipated local series of the year, How to Get to Heaven from Belfast, lands on Netflix today. Familiar streets. Sharp writing. Proper Belfast energy on screen.
Meanwhile, researchers at Queen’s University say a diet rich in flavonoids may help boost happiness and optimism over time. Think berries, apples, citrus fruits, tea, grapes, dark chocolate and even red wine.
Science says chocolate and wine can lift the mood.
We are not arguing.
We have also pulled together the 2026 Belfast Insider guide to romantic getaways across Northern Ireland, plus plenty of local updates to brighten your week. Ready?
LET’S STEP INSIDE →
THE DIGEST: Belfast in Brief
🎶Boucher Playing Fields. Saved. For Now.
Good news for gig lovers across the city. Boucher Playing Fields is not being turned into pitches just yet.
Last week, the council said the city’s biggest outdoor concert venue could be converted into GAA pitches after 2027. Cue outrage across the city. Music fans, promoters, and pretty much anyone who has ever belted out a chorus at a summer gig were not having it.
On Monday night, councillors hit pause. By a narrow 30–28 vote, the decision was delayed, with fresh reports ordered on how Boucher could work as both a sports hub and a 40,000-capacity events space, the BBC reports.
All concerts in 2026 and 2027 are safe. The speakers stay loud. For now.
The long-term future is still undecided. But the stage lights are staying on for now.
🏨The Bedford Hotel Finally Opens. May 1.
That big beauty on Donegall Street South is officially reopening.
The historic Scottish Mutual Building, first built in 1904, reopens as The Bedford Hotel on May 1 after an 18-month redevelopment that began in 2022. Once a symbol of Belfast’s confidence during a booming era, the building is now stepping into a new chapter.
The 82-bedroom hotel will create over 100 jobs and brings serious five-star energy to the city centre. The restaurant is led by Noel McMeel, the chef who cooked for world leaders at the G8 Summit, so expectations are rightly high.
Originally tipped as a George Best hotel that never happened, this feels like a proper comeback.
Rooms start at £249 per night.
Belfast does love a comeback story.
❤️Six Goals and a Big Heart
Glentoran striker Pat Hoban isn’t just scoring on the pitch, he’s scoring off it too. After a stunning double hat-trick against Carrick Rangers, Hoban donated the match ball to help raise funds for Belfast girl Edie Dorrian, bravely battling CLN2 Batten Disease. Belfast Telegraph reports.
Hoban said he was touched by Edie’s story and wanted to do something meaningful. Since joining from Derry City last summer, he’s become a fan favourite at the Oval. Six goals in one game is rare. Donating the match ball for a good cause. Even rarer.
SEE HOW LOCALS STYLE WITH PURPOSE →
🏪 LOCAL BUSINESS SCOOP
🏬A Century Ends: McKillens Closes After 100 Years
Another long-standing name is leaving the high street.
McKillens, the family-run shoe store in Ballymena, has announced it will close after a remarkable 100 years in business. Founded in 1926, the retailer cited rising overheads, the growth of online shopping, and the continued decline of town centre footfall as key reasons behind the decision.
Retail NI described the news as “extremely sad” and a blow to Ballymena, especially following the recent closure of Wyse Byse.
The McKillen family thanked generations of loyal customers and staff, many of whom spent their entire careers there. They have urged customers to redeem any outstanding vouchers before the final closing date.
A local institution. One hundred years. Now signing off.
Another reminder of how tough the high street remains across Northern Ireland.
🍺 Want your business featured? [Get in touch →]
Your Weekend Lineup
🎟️ WHAT’S HAPPENING:
Big week in the city.
Music. Theatre. Sport. Science. A bit of romance. A bit of chaos.
Pick your plan.
Thursday, February 12
Friday, February 13
Saturday, February 14 (Valentine's Day)
Sunday, February 15
Monday, February 16
Tuesday, February 17
Wednesday, February 18
Be honest.
Are you booking something from this list or pretending you are and staying in?
🎟️ I am out out
🍷 Low key plans
🛋️ Sofa wins
Your replies help us shape what we feature next.
💛 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
🚂 Downpatrick & County Down Railway
If you have ever fancied stepping back in time, this is your stop.
Downpatrick & County Down Railway is a volunteer-led heritage railway running vintage steam and diesel trains through County Down's drumlin countryside. They manage a museum, restore historic engines, and host family events year-round – St Patrick's steam rides, Halloween specials, Santa trains that feel like pure magic. The railway also connects visitors to Inch Abbey and Down Cathedral.
The numbers speak for themselves. Over 40 years, volunteers have transformed a derelict site into one of Northern Ireland's most unique visitor attractions, drawing thousands annually and supporting local tourism. They've faced flooding and Covid shutdowns but kept going. In 2025, their impact was recognised with The King's Award for Voluntary Service – the highest award for UK volunteer groups.
In a region where community heritage often depends on people showing up, this railway proves what dedication looks like. They are keeping history moving. One steam train at a time.
🍽️ Foodie Finds
Arthur’s Coffee. A Proper City Centre Gem
If you are back working in the office and hunting for a solid breakfast or lunch spot, Arthur’s Coffee on Upper Arthur Street deserves a shout.
It is one of those cosy, no fuss places that gets it right. You can sit in and take five, or grab something to go if the clock is against you. The breakfast and brunch menu has plenty of choice, whether you are in the mood for something light or something that will actually keep you going through the afternoon.
The friendly service stands out straight away. It feels local. It feels welcoming. It feels like somewhere you will return to. And that always makes a difference.
Top pick. The peppered chicken wrap. Reliable. Packed with flavour. A proper lunch option rather than a sad desk sandwich.
There is also a tidy £8 meal deal. You get a sandwich or wrap, a bag of crisps or a cookie, plus any canned drink. In the current climate, that is strong value for a city centre lunch.
Next time you head out to work and take in the buzz of town, call in and give it a try.
Call in and tell us what you think.
Arthurs Coffee
💬 YOUR VOICE
Before we head into the weekend, a quick pulse check.
This week had a bit of everything.
A venue saved.
A hotel reborn.
A footballer stepping up.
A family shop closing its doors.
So, tell us this.
What story stayed with you most?
🎶 Boucher Playing Fields
🏨 The Bedford Hotel
⚽ Pat Hoban’s gesture
🏪 McKillens closing
🚂 Downpatrick Railway
Reply with the emoji or just hit reply and say why. We read every one.
And one more thing.
👋 OUTRO
And that’s your unofficial guide to what actually matters in Belfast.
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See you next week.
O. George
For Belfast Insider Team