THEIR MAJESTIES THE KING AND QUEEN VISIT NORTHERN IRELAND
Wednesday 19th March 2025
The King and Queen have arrived in Belfast, where Their Majesties will undertake a series of engagements.
At Commercial Court, in the heart of Belfast City, the King and Queen will meet groups of people, including representatives from tourism, hospitality and the arts, with a backdrop of local music. The cobbled alleyway is considered one of the city’s most historic areas, with the famous red benches and colourful umbrellas leading it to be awarded the title of Belfast’s ‘most beautiful street’ in 2022.
The King and Queen will be hosted by Willie Jack, who has worked in Belfast’s hospitality business for over 40 years. In 2023, he was awarded an MBE for his services to Arts and Tourism in Northern Ireland. With his wife, Joanne, he has fostered a sense of collaboration with neighbouring businesses, in what was once a run-down area, building it to become a thriving and vibrant community, and a welcoming destination for locals and tourists.
Their Majesties will have the opportunity to speak to business owners, including the creator of the umbrellas, local tour guides and florists before proceeding to Sea Holly Gallery. Established in 2019, Sea Holly Gallery supports and promotes local artists from across Northern Ireland.
With traditional music playing, the King and Queen will view portraits of local people and meet some of the sitters. The portraits are a collection of cross-generational paintings of local policemen, tradesmen and community members who represent Belfast’s diverse culture and workforces.
The King will visit Newforge Sports Complex and Event Hub. The complex is home to the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s (PSNI) Athletic Association and is where many PSNI sports and social clubs are based. Both Newforge and PSNI have a long and interlinked history working to achieve the advancement of sport for all and promote community development.
The Queen will visit Atlas (Adult Training Learning and Support) Women’s Centre, a community centre that supports local women struggling with various issues, with a particular emphasis on those living with domestic abuse.
