W5 science and discovery centre
W5 is Belfast's interactive science and discovery centre, inside the Odyssey complex at the entrance to the Titanic Quarter. Eight zones hold more than 250 hands-on exhibits, from optical illusions to film-making and medical science, with live shows and a multi-storey climbing structure that keeps children busy for hours.
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W5
What's inside
Exhibits are grouped into eight zones covering subjects such as climate change, nature, film and TV production, illusions, engineering and medical science. Nearly everything is designed to be touched, built or tested. Daily science shows take place at the purpose-built Science Bar, and seasonal exhibitions add something new through the year.
For younger children
There is a dedicated storybook-themed play area for under-eights, and on the ground floor The Lost Planet is a space and dinosaur themed maze of climbing frames and slides. Older children and adults tend to head for Climbit, an immersive climbing experience that rises several storeys through the building.
Planning the day
W5 is a strong rainy-day option and fits easily with a day in the Titanic Quarter: Titanic Belfast and SS Nomadic are a short walk along Queen's Quay, and the Lagan Lookout and Queen's Bridge lead back towards the city centre. Allow at least half a day, more if the climbing structures are on the list. Because seasonal exhibitions change through the year, it is worth checking what is on before you go, and the Odyssey complex around it has places to eat if you want to make a full day of it.
Highlights
- Eight zones with 250+ interactive exhibits
- Live shows at the Science Bar
- Climbit multi-storey climbing experience
- Storybook play area for under-8s
- Inside the Odyssey at the Titanic Quarter
Good to know
- Under-8s have their own themed play area.
- Seasonal exhibitions change through the year, so check what's on before you go.
- Titanic Belfast and SS Nomadic are within walking distance.
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: discovernorthernireland.com