The Linen Hall

Founded in 1788 and run as a charity ever since, the Linen Hall is Belfast’s independent library, on Donegall Square North in the middle of the city. Anyone can walk in and read — admission is free, with a suggested donation of £3.

The collections run from a general lending library to the Northern Ireland Political Collection, the fullest printed record of the Troubles anywhere, with theatre and performing-arts archives and Irish and local studies alongside. Guided tours run on weekday mornings (£10, booked through the events page), and the building holds a café and a charity bookshop of used books.

Open Monday to Friday, half nine to half five. The library’s own access notes say wheelchair access is available throughout, with lift access through the Fountain Street door.