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Book a Tour or TalkVenue or Room HireVisitor InformationVolunteer With UsOur ArchiveThe History of Clifton House
[H2] Clifton House
Clifton House is an impressive Georgian building, set in tranquil landscaped gardens in the heart of Belfast. Opened in 1774 by Belfast Charitable Society, the building was the original Poor House in Belfast until the 1880s. For the next 120 years it was a hospital and a nursing home for older people. Today it still provides residential and sheltered housing for older people and continues to be the home from which the Society delivers its philanthropic work to address disadvantage.At the heart of the building is Clifton House Centre, where the past is brought to life through guided tours, talks and exhibitions, as well as augmented reality, helping to tell the stories of the Poor House and those who sought sanctuary here. Clifton House is also available to hire for private events, dinners and conferences. Despite the historic surroundings, state of the art conferencing equipment is available for all your needs.
[H3] Upcoming Events
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[H4] Mary Ann’s Poor House Tales – Self-Guided Tour
Monday 18th May 2026 @ 9:30amTourMore InfoTickets
[IMG: Mary Ann]
[H4] Mary Ann’s Poor House Tales – Self-Guided Tour
Friday 22nd May 2026 @ 9:30amTourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Clifton House Tour: Experience The Belfast Poor House
Friday 22nd May 2026 @ 1:30pmTourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Clifton House Tour: Experience The Belfast Poor House
Saturday 23rd May 2026 @ 10:00amTourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Hunger, Cholera & Plague-breath: Dealing with Famine Diseases in Belfast
Wednesday 27th May 2026 @ 7:00pmTalkMore InfoTickets
[H4] Clifton Street Cemetery Tours
Friday 29th May 2026 @ 1:30pmTourMore InfoTicketsAll EventsPrivate Event Booking
[H3] Recent News
19 Feb 2026
[H5] Clifton House commended at Embrace the Inclusive Spirit Awards
Clifton HouseNews19 Dec 2025
[H5] Belfast Charitable Society announces £47k donation to the People’s Kitchen
Belfast Charitable SocietyNews30 Oct 2025
[H5] Death by Salamander
27 Jun 2025
[H5] Bursaries in Mary Ann McCracken’s name making a huge impact on young people’s lives.
Belfast Charitable SocietyClifton HouseNews28 May 2025
[H5] Office space to rent at Clifton House – The Home of Philanthropy
Clifton HouseNews24 Mar 2025
[H5] Supporting People’s Kitchen
Belfast Charitable SocietyNews
[H2] Support Us
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[H3] Join our Mailing List

[H1] Visit
Visit Clifton House, the beautiful Georgian landmark where Belfast’s story begins. Set within tranquil landscaped gardens in the heart of the city, Clifton House is a place where over 250 years of history, heritage, and compassion come vividly to life.Step inside this impressive 18th-century building and discover the fascinating stories of the people who helped build Belfast — from reformers and revolutionaries to industrialists and inventors. Whether you’re joining one of our fully guided tours;  getting a taster of our history with our self guided tour; attending an inspiring heritage talk, or hosting your own event in our unique historic venue, Clifton House offers an experience unlike any other in the city.Easily accessible from all main routes into Belfast, our entrance is on North Queen Street, with free onsite parking available for visitors.Come and explore where the history of Belfast begins – and philanthropy continues.Find out more about all our offerings below.What's OnSelf Guided TourPlan Your VisitPrivate BookingsSchool Visits
[H2] Events, Talks & Tours
Throughout the year Clifton House offers a wide range of interesting tours, exploring Clifton Street Cemetery, learning about the hero of Belfast, Mary Ann McCracken and of course experiencing the Belfast Poor House, with our Clifton House tours. Look out for our specially themed tours a different times of the year, which include medical history tours, forgotten women tours, Halloween and Christmas tours.We also host historical talks at different times of the year, both face to face and, if required, via Zoom. These are delivered by our knowledgeable staff, and by local historians. See below for our latest talks series. Booking is available online.View all events
[H3] Upcoming events
[IMG: Mary Ann]
[H4] Mary Ann’s Poor House Tales – Self-Guided Tour
Friday 22nd May 2026 @ 9:30amTourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Clifton House Tour: Experience The Belfast Poor House
Friday 22nd May 2026 @ 1:30pmTourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Clifton House Tour: Experience The Belfast Poor House
Saturday 23rd May 2026 @ 10:00amTourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Hunger, Cholera & Plague-breath: Dealing with Famine Diseases in Belfast
Wednesday 27th May 2026 @ 7:00pmTalkMore InfoTickets
[H4] Clifton Street Cemetery Tours
Friday 29th May 2026 @ 1:30pmTourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Clifton Street Cemetery Tours
Saturday 30th May 2026 @ 10:00amTourMore InfoTickets
[H3] Clifton House Gift Vouchers
For the history lover in your family or friend group, we now offer £10 or £20 Clifton House Gift Vouchers, which can be purchased online and printed at home. The vouchers can be redeemed against the cost of any Clifton House talk or tour, and is valid for 12 months from time of purchase.Buy here
[H2] Mary Ann’s Poor House Tales
Mary Ann McCracken (1770 – 1866) was a remarkable woman who, throughout her life, fought for the rights of the poor and disadvantaged in her hometown of Belfast and further afield. Her life is inextricably linked to the Belfast Poor House. Mary Ann was just six years old when she first visited the Belfast Poor House. From that day on she worked tirelessly to support and uplift the poor, and her influence within the house left a legacy that can still be felt today.Book
[H3] Self-Guided Audio and AR Tour Experience
Mary Ann’s Poor House Tales is a 30-minute self-guided audio and AR tour experience of Clifton House, during which you will hear all about her work and endeavours, her family, and the people who shaped her journey. You will also learn about some of the people who Mary Ann helped and supported; residents of the Poor House whose stories deserve to be told. As you listen to these stories and explore the house, you will stroll through the same hallways that Mary Ann walked every day. This tour experience includes augmented reality (AR), bringing Mary Ann’s Poor House tales to life. Glimpse into the nursery school, set up by her and the Ladies Committee; see into the basement, where Mary Ann ensured women and children learnt a skill and trade to escape poverty; and gaze out the window into 18th Century Belfast, and spot the ships masts as Mary Ann would have seen as a child. Please note: Clifton House remains a working building, hosting conferences, talks, and events in addition to tours. For this reason, availability for self-guided tours will change on a weekly basis. We recommend checking in advance to confirm available tour times and make your booking. This new experience has been funded by Belfast City Council and Belfast Charitable Society. Book
[H2] Plan Your Visit
Clifton House is open Monday to Friday for events and room hire, and at weekends (times vary) for public tours, including our Self Guided Tour. As a working building, Clifton House does not facilitate ‘drop in’ style visits. Check our What’s On page for our latest events news or to book a private tour or talk. To visit our Archive, please visit Our Archive page and use the booking form to make an appointment. For further details on how to get here, our free onsite parking, public transport access and more, see below.
[H3] By Car
Visit Clifton House, the impressive Georgian building set in tranquil landscaped gardens in the heart of Belfast. We offer tours, talks and unique venue hire facilities.The entrance to Clifton House is on North Queen Street.  It is very well connected by main arterial routes coming into the city. There is a free onsite car park available for visitors.Find out more about about what we have on offer at Clifton House, below.
[H3] By Bus
Clifton House is a short walk away from a number of local bus routes, and other main ‘stops’ including Ulster University, Belfast Library and Donegall Street.For up to date travel advice, or to plan your journey, visit translink.co.uk or contact Translink on 028 9066 6630
[H3] Hop On Hop Off
Clifton House is a short walk from Stop 19 on the Hop On Hop Off Belfast sightseeing bus. Visitors can travel with Belfast City Sightseeing or City Tours Belfast, both of which operate this route. When booking, apply promo code ‘CLIFTON’ at checkout to save 10% off the tour cost.’
[H3] Accessibility
We appreciate that not all disabilities are visible, so if you require further information or assistance on your visit to Clifton House, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Visit our Accessibility page for more details on access to Clifton House.
[H2] Private Talks & Tours
[H3] Private Talks
Are you a member of a local history society, U3A, PROBUS group or similar organisation? Then why not consider having a talk delivered by one of our expert team?Clifton House have developed a number of historical talks, based on original research from the vast archive we hold. Talks can be delivered in person or via Zoom to your group, event or organisation.See the full list of topics here. If you are interested in organising a talk, please contact us.Contact Us
[H3] Private Tours
Clifton House can cater for private tours of the building and/ or Clifton Street Cemetery for your organisation or group. Private Mary Ann McCracken walking tours can also be arranged. These can be facilitated at a time that suits you, including weekends.Tours can also be tailored to suit your group, based on the wide ranged of themes available, including our medical history tours, hidden women tours, plots and plotters 1798 tours, to name but a few. If you are interested in booking a private tour, please use the form below to provide us with some essential details. We hope to see you soon. Book a private tour
[H3] Private Tour Booking
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[H2] School Visits
At Clifton House, we believe the best way to learn history is to experience it. We offer schools the chance to explore over 250 years of real stories about people, community, and change. Our curriculum-linked tours and talks are designed to spark curiosity, support classroom learning, and encourage pupils to think about how kindness, innovation, and social responsibility have shaped our city.Every school visit helps continue our mission — supporting the charitable work of the Belfast Charitable Society that tackles disadvantage in North Belfast and beyond. By visiting Clifton House, your pupils don’t just learn about history — they become part of it.You can now also bring more of our history into your classroom via our Key Stage Two Learning Resource. Contact us for further details.
[H3] Interactive School Tours, using Augmented Reality
Bring the past to life with a school visit to Clifton House. Our interactive, curriculum-linked tours offer pupils an unforgettable opportunity to explore local history where it actually happened.Topics can include:What life was like for children in the Poor HouseFamous people linked to Clifton House, such as Mary Ann and Henry Joy McCrackenExploring family history and genealogyThe importance of archives and artefacts in understanding the pastDiscovering Clifton Street Cemetery and its storiesHow the Great Famine shaped Belfast and its peopleEach tour lasts about 1 hour. We can accommodate class sizes of up to 30 pupils, and our experienced guides can tailor their approach to suit age and ability levels.A visit to Clifton House is more than a history lesson — it’s a chance for pupils to develop empathy, curiosity, and an appreciation for how community and care have shaped Belfast through the centuries.
[H3] School Talks – We Can Come to You!
If your class can’t visit us in person, we can still bring the story of Clifton House directly to your classroom. Our online school talks provide an engaging, interactive way for pupils to connect with Belfast’s history from wherever you are.These sessions can:Enrich current school topics in History, Citizenship, or Local StudiesInclude time for pupils’ questions and discussionBe delivered via Zoom or your preferred online platformTalks typically last up to 1 hour, making them an ideal addition to your history lessons or special project weeks.
[H3] How to Book Your School Visit or Talk
Booking a visit or virtual session is easy. Simply email us at info@cliftonbelfast.org.uk with the following details:Age and size of your classPurpose of your visit or talk (e.g. to enhance a specific topic)Any relevant classroom themes or learning outcomesYour preferred days and timesOur team will then get in touch to confirm arrangements and tailor the experience to your pupils’ needs.Book a school visit

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[H1] Our Archive
Our archive material dates back to 1752, and contains a vast quantity of information on the development of the Belfast Charitable Society as well as Belfast itself, from town to city.  Our unique collection, reflecting the breadth and depth of our history, would suit a wide variety of interests, including academic and family history researchers.  CollectionsArchive AccessExhibitionsResearch & Collaboration
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[H2] Collections
[H3] Poor House Collection
Our Poor House Collections includes records relating to the fundraising, building, opening and running of the Belfast Poor House, now Clifton House. Access to these records is available on request.The information below gives brief details of the archive collections we hold for the Belfast Poor House.
[H5] Minutes MS1
The Minute Books detail the setting up of the Poor House, meetings of the Belfast Charitable Society Board, and from 1882 onwards the running of the Belfast Charitable Institution, later known as Clifton House. They give an insight into staff, residents and daily running of the charity throughout its history from 1752.
[H5] Admissions MS2
The Admissions Books record those who entered the Poor House from c.1805 to 1882, in some cases detailing particulars of next of kin, religion, previous residences and their discharge from the Poor House. Later books from 1882-1972 detail admissions to the Old Peoples Home. The archive also holds application forms and details of those seeking admission.
[H5] Deaths MS3
Civil Registration began in Ireland in 1864 and the archive contains statutory note books providing details of the deaths of residents in Clifton House from 1880-1987. The collection also includes letters from solicitors referencing the estates of individuals who died in Clifton House. There is also a series of official publications by HMSO about the recording of deaths and organising funerals.
[H3] Clifton Street Cemetery Collection
Clifton Street Cemetery was originally opened by Belfast Charitable Society in 1797 as the New Burying Ground. Many notable citizens of Belfast are buried within its walls including the McCracken, Joy and Drennan families. Thousands of people also lie in unmarked graves. Some lived out their final days in the Poor House; others died without friends to bury them and there are those who tragically lost their lives in the 1832 cholera epidemic and the Irish Potato Famine.All human life rests in Clifton Street Cemetery.Today it is managed by Belfast City Council, however Clifton House regularly run tours and talks on the graveyard.
[H5] Register of Plots
From the opening of Clifton Street Cemetery in 1797 a register book was kept detailing the list of burial plots, who they were purchased by, the date of purchase and the price paid for the plot. The Register records those who purchased ‘Wall Plots’, the most expensive in the cemetery, and the ‘Garden Plots’ in the centre of the graveyard. Of particular interest in the purchase of Wall Plot 35 by Captain John McCracken in 1801.
[H5] Burial Register
For the first thirty-five years of the cemetery’s existence a record of interments was not kept. From 1831 each burial was recorded in the Burial Register. Information about each burial did vary but typically included the date of interment, the name of the deceased, age, profession, residence and if they are a native of Belfast. Most significantly, the details of those who were buried in the Stranger’s Plot, an area of public ground, are also recorded.
[H5] Mausoleum Keys
The mausoleums within Clifton Street Cemetery were a way in which wealth and social class could be reflected in death. These imposing monuments typically had iron doors or decorative gates which locked to protect those whose remains were laid to rest in them. Some of these wealthy families deposited the keys to their mausoleums for safe-keeping with the Belfast Charitable Society, including the Dunvilles, famous for their whiskey.
[H3] Mary Ann McCracken Collection
Mary Ann McCracken (1770-1866) was a social reformer, philanthropist and abolitionist who had family ties to the Poor House. Mary Ann was the niece of Robert and Henry Joy who designed and managed the lottery to fund its construction. Her father, Captain John McCracken, was on the Charitable Society’s Board, and Mary Ann later helped to found the Ladies Committee in the 1820s which she served on throughout its existence.As such, Clifton House still holds a number of collections and artefacts relating to Mary Ann McCracken, some of which are on permanent display within the building. Throughout the year we host dedicated talks and tours on the life of Mary Ann McCracken, and our Self-Guided audio tour provides a short history of the house from Mary Ann’s perspective. In 2022 we established the Mary Ann McCracken Foundation to continue her philanthropic work in Belfast.
[H5] Ladies Committee Book
Inspired by the social reforming Quaker, Elizabeth Fry, who visited Belfast in the 1820s, Mary Ann and a number of women formed the Belfast Charitable Society’s Ladies Committee in 1827. The minute books reflect the women’s views and activities in relation to education, welfare, cleanliness and improvements for all aspects of the lives of the women and children resident in the Poor House.
[H5] Surrender of Lease
Following the death of her brother Francis McCracken, whom she lived with in Donegall Street, there was still six years left on the lease which she could not afford to buy herself out of. Led by Rev Macartney, who had served on the Poor House Committee, her friends came together and loaned her the £200 required. This document is the official surrender of the lease to the landlord.
[H5] Register of Plots
Mary Ann McCracken’s grave remained unmarked until 1909 when bones believed to be those of her brother, the executed United Irishman, Henry Joy McCracken, were placed in the McCracken plot at Clifton Street Cemetery. The headstone was erected by Francis Joseph Bigger, a noted antiquarian and solicitor. A transcription of the inscription was inserted into the Register of Plots held by Belfast Charitable Society.
[H2] Visiting The Archive
[H3] How to visit
Access to our archive is by prior appointment only.  To gain access, please follow the steps below:Contact should be made by phone, email or by filling out the form below in order to agree a time for your visit. This allows staff to ensure there is desk space for the reader.On the day of your visit, you will need to be a registered Clifton House Visitor to access research areas and view original records. To do this, please bring with you one form of photographic identification or a letter of introduction from someone known to the researcher in a formal capacity related to their research such as an academic supervisor, archivist, employer or member of the Belfast Charitable Society.Once paperwork is complete, staff will ensure they have relevant documents ready and will bring all requested material to the researcher, thus ensuring no double booking of the same resource.
[H3] Archive opening times
The archive can be accessed during the below times, by appointment only (see above).Monday to Thursday: 9am to 4pmFriday: 9am to 2pm
[H3] Archive Visitor Request Form
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[H2] Exhibitions
At any one time, only a small fraction of our archive and artefact materials can be viewed, as part of our regular exhibitions within Clifton House. These exhibitions change regularly throughout the year, and generally help to support the theme or story we want to tell at the time. All items within the exhibitions are records or artefacts belonging to the Belfast Charitable Society, some of which are dated from the early 1700s.The exhibitions can be enjoyed by visitors to Clifton House, as part of our regular tours.
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[H2] Research & Collaboration
Over the years Clifton House has extensively grown its knowledge about the people and events surrounding its history. This research has been enhanced by working in collaboration with students, academics and other partners, including Ulster University, Queen’s University, PRONI and National Museums NI to name a few. This invaluable research feeds into everything we do at Clifton House, from enhancing our talks, tours and exhibitions, to supporting future planning. These valuable research projects and partnerships also allow us to raise the profile of the ongoing philanthropic work of the Belfast Charitable Society, whose home is still in Clifton House, over 250 years on.Clifton House welcome approaches in relation to possible research and collaboration projects.

[H1] About Us
[IMG: Clifton House Old Pic]
Clifton House is an impressive Georgian building, set in tranquil landscaped gardens in the heart of Belfast. Opened in 1774 by Belfast Charitable Society, the building was the original Poor House in Belfast. For over a century it was used as a nursing home and hospital for older people.Today, Clifton House is Belfast’s most historic meeting venue, offering an inspiring space for a wide range of events including seminars, conferences, strategic planning sessions and private fine dining.It is also home to a heritage centre alongside a residential home and sheltered accommodation apartments. The Heritage Centre helps to tell not only the story of Clifton House, but also the history of Belfast Charitable Society, who founded the Poor House in 1774. The building currently houses a vast archive dating back to the 1600s, telling the story of the development of Belfast, and a large collection of antiques and artefacts, some dating back to 1774 when the Poor House was first opened.Free onsite car parking makes this venue in the centre of Belfast extremely accessible.
[IMG: Foundation Stone Newspaper article]
Clifton House, one of Belfast’s most iconic historical buildings, was constructed between 1771 and 1774 as the city’s first Poor House. Allegedly conceived on the back of a napkin by newspaper publisher Robert Joy and realised by architects Thomas Cooley and Robert Mylne, the building was commissioned by the Belfast Charitable Society on land donated by the Marquis of Donegall, Arthur Chichester. More than just a shelter, it became both a home for the poor and the meeting place for the Society, whose members played a pivotal role in shaping Belfast’s civic and social development over the following centuries.Building a Symbol of Charity and Civic PrideThe site was carefully chosen for its elevated position overlooking the Georgian town and for its abundance of clay, which was used to make the red bricks on-site—truly making the building “Made of Belfast.” Dunmurry stone formed the main features such as doorways, while sand dredged from the River Lagan completed the mix of local materials.On 2 August 1771, the foundation stone was ceremonially laid, an event announced in the Belfast Newsletter. In keeping with both tradition and the charitable spirit of the institution, five guineas were placed on the stone and distributed among the workers, symbolically passing the building’s blessing to the people of Belfast rather than burying it in the foundations.Robert Joy continued to influence the design even after construction began. He proposed replacing the originally planned dome with a tall spire—a striking and unusual addition for such a building. The spire made the Poor House visible across the city, acting as a beacon for those in need and as a statement of civic virtue. Some local folklore claims the spire prompted Lord Donegall to heighten the nearby St Anne’s Parish Church tower out of rivalry, though the story is likely apocryphal.A Landmark in the Georgian LandscapeIn 18th-century Belfast, the Poor House stood out among modest buildings—a “Palace for the Poor.” Its architecture symbolised the Society’s ambitions: to elevate the welfare of the town’s most vulnerable while promoting civic improvement.A bell and clock were later added to regulate daily life for residents. In 1775, Reverend William Bristow arranged to borrow these from the Old Corporation Church on High Street, which had fallen into disrepair. The bell was hung in the spire to mark wake-up calls, mealtimes, and “lights out,” while the clock governed the day’s rhythm. The bell, now retired, still stands in the entrance hall—the oldest resident of Clifton House.The current clock above the main entrance was added in 1882, donated by Lady Johnston and crafted by local clockmaker Francis Montgomery Moore, known for the Albert Memorial clock. It remains in use today, still marking the passage of time over two centuries later.The Poor House Opens Its DoorsAfter three years of construction, the Belfast Charitable Society held its first meeting in the new boardroom on 24 October 1774, officially opening the Poor House to its first residents that Christmas Eve. For almost 250 years, the Society would continue to operate from within its walls.Although the building had been completed, the rapid growth of Belfast soon brought pressure to expand. Originally not designed to house children, the Poor House nonetheless began admitting them as need grew. Two small additions were made in the 1820s, but the first major expansion came in the 1860s through the philanthropy of local mill owner John Charters.The Charters Wing: A Gift for Belfast’s ChildrenBorn in 1796, Charters made his fortune in the flax industry before selling his business interests in 1866 to focus on charitable work. He funded the construction of a new children’s wing at the Poor House—later named the Charters Wing—dedicated to providing shelter and education for destitute children. Charters was deeply committed to improving opportunities for Belfast’s youth, even funding scholarships that allowed talented boys from the Belfast Model School to attend the Royal Belfast Academical Institution.The Charters Wing reflected his belief that education and compassion could break the cycle of poverty. His generosity ensured that the Poor House could better meet the needs of Belfast’s growing population, improving both capacity and living standards.The Benn Wings and an Era of ExpansionThe 1860s and 1870s marked a period of major growth for Clifton House. Shortly after the Charters Wing was completed, the Society received an anonymous offer to fund two additional wings—on the condition that costs not exceed £3,000. The donor was later revealed to be Edward Benn, a respected industrialist, antiquarian, and philanthropist who was also redeveloping nearby Glenravel Street, where Belfast’s medical quarter would later emerge.Benn’s and Charters’s contributions transformed the Poor House, allowing more residents to be accommodated in safer, healthier conditions. Recognising their generosity, the Society in 1872 ordered an inscription to honour Charters on his wing, while Benn’s name and family crest were incorporated into the wings he funded.Both men embodied the philanthropic spirit that defined the Belfast Charitable Society during this era. While Benn, in declining health, channelled his fortune into civic projects and healthcare, Charters dedicated his wealth to education and social welfare. Their legacies—built in brick and stone—helped the institution survive challenges such as famine and disease, ensuring it continued to offer refuge to Belfast’s poor well into the modern era.Legacy of Clifton HouseBy the time both benefactors passed away in 1874, a century after the house’s founding, Clifton House had evolved from a Georgian charitable experiment into a lasting monument to civic generosity. Its spire, bell, and clock remain symbols of an enduring mission: to serve the people of Belfast. Though overshadowed today by the glass and steel skyline of the modern city, Clifton House still stands as a testament to the compassion, ingenuity, and philanthropy that built it.This Grade A Listed building is one of the finest surviving pieces of Georgian architecture in Belfast, and is the city’s oldest working building, still owned by Belfast Charitable Society.It was used as a nursing home and hospital for older people and is now also a unique event venue and Heritage Centre.
[IMG: North Belfast Youth Choir]
[H4] Clifton House Heritage Centre
The Heritage Centre at Clifton House operates as a social enterprise, helping to sustain the charitable work of the Belfast Charitable Society. Our mission is to “make the past our future”—using the rich history of Clifton House to inspire continued philanthropy and community care across Belfast and beyond.Through guided and self-guided tours, talks, and events, visitors can discover over 250 years of local history, from the founding of Belfast’s first Poor House to the stories of the people who shaped the city’s social and industrial development. All profits generated by our heritage activities are reinvested to support the Society’s original purpose: tackling disadvantage and promoting equality of opportunity in North Belfast and across Northern Ireland.You can find out more about our latest grants, donations, and community partnerships here.
[H4] Key Stage Two Education Resource
In 2025 a Key Stage Two learning resource was developed as part of a legacy project celebrating 250 years of Clifton House.Through the resource, the teacher and children will step back in time to discover how the philanthropy of a group of concerned men and their families, in particular, the Joys and the McCrackens, sought to help and support the poor of the growing town of Belfast. They will, through interactive learning activities, explore what life was like in the Poor House over 200 years ago.The teacher and children will also meet one of Belfast’s most inspiring women, Mary Ann McCracken. A tireless campaigner for social justice, Mary Ann worked to improve the lives of children and adults in the Poor House. She fought against slavery, promoted education and believed that everyone, no matter their background, deserved kindness and opportunity.For further information, please contact us for details.
[H4] Conference and Event Hire
Clifton House is also one of Belfast’s most distinctive venues for conferences, meetings, and special events. Steeped in history yet fully equipped for modern needs, our elegant Board Room and McCracken Suite provide a unique setting for corporate gatherings, training sessions, or private celebrations.By hosting your event at Clifton House, you’re not just choosing a memorable venue—you’re also directly supporting the ongoing charitable and community work of the Belfast Charitable Society. Every booking contributes to projects that make a real difference in people’s lives.For further information, please visit our Venue Hire page.
[H4] Continuing a Legacy of Care
For more than two centuries, Clifton House has provided care and shelter to those most in need—and that tradition continues today. Around 90% of the building remains dedicated to its original purpose: caring for vulnerable members of society.Today, this mission focuses on supporting older people. The property is leased to Radius Housing, who manage a range of high-quality services including sheltered accommodation and a residential dementia care home.This partnership ensures that Clifton House remains a place of compassion and dignity—a living legacy of the vision that first inspired the Belfast Charitable Society in 1752.
[H4] Our Board
[H5] Colin Graham
DirectorColin is a documentary film maker, the Chair of Digital Art Studios Belfast and a Main Board Director of GRAHAM Holdings Ltd. Colin became involved with the Belfast Charitable Society to help the Society protect its philanthropic heritage and to ensure it remained relevant in today’s difficult social and economic environment. He also wanted to help and encourage a new era of philanthropic generosity.
[H5] Erskine Holmes
DirectorErskine Holmes OBEBelfast City Councillor from 1973 to 1977. Erskine is the Founding Director of NI Federation of Housing Associations. He is also a Trustee of the Somme Association and a Trustee of Ulster Garden Villages. He joined the board of Clifton House Centre in 2020.
[H5] Matt Higgins
DirectorMatt Higgins is a founding principal of HHD solicitors. Matt’s work was predominantly in Criminal Law, Judicial Review and human rights. He was chairman of the Belfast Solicitors Association 2008/2009, Treasurer of N.I. Criminal Bar Association and is a lead member of the Law Society of Northern Ireland’s Criminal Rules Negotiating Team. Matt is also a Director of the Metropolitan Arts Centre in Belfast, Chair of The Friends of St Malachy’s, committee member North Belfast Harriers and committee member of Jog Belfast.
[H5] Paul Carlin
DirectorPaul has operated a thriving small business in North Belfast for 33 years. He has worked in Community Development for the last 13 years, having resurrected the Antrim Road Business Association in 2010, helped establish Cavehill Community Choir in 2013 and developed and constituted the Cavehill Business Association in the last six months.He is also a Director in North City Business Centre.
[H5] Philip Hall
DirectorPhilip had a career of over 40 years within the Northern Ireland Civil Service. He held posts in a number of departments that covered diverse areas of work, including Benefit Security, Social Housing, Project Management and Information Security.Between 1999 and 2001 Philip was seconded to the Society to manage the ‘Home From Home Charitable Appeal, which raised £1.2m. This money completed the package of funding required to build Clifton Nursing Home at Carlisle Circus.Later, after his return to the NICS, Philip worked in Social Housing and worked with BIH on the project to restore Clifton House and the surrounding residential facilities. He was invited to join the Society’s Board and held a position there for ten years, as Chair of the Buildings Committee. Philip maintains his links with the Society, as he continues to value its rich history, its many achievements and its continuing major contribution to providing for the social and economic well being of the people of Belfast on an entirely cross community basis.
[H5] Siobhan Brown
DirectorSiobhan Brown is a Chartered Architect specialising in Conservation. She has over 35 years experience in the building industry and worked within social housing for over 15 years. Siobhan is currently Director of Operations at Flamma Ltd, who specialise in passive fire protection.
[H4] Our Team
[H5] Paula Reynolds
Chief ExecutivePaula Reynolds is Chief Executive for Belfast Charitable Society, one of Ireland’s oldest charitable institutions and oversees the running of the charity and its entities, including Clifton House Centre, the social enterprise of the Charity. Paula was previously Director of Business Development for Sector Matters and prior to this held the position of Director of Member Services at the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA)
[H5] Lucy Fraser
Head of Corporate ServicesLucy is responsible for the ongoing corporate and business governance of the Society including financial management, facilities and estate management, health and safety, HR and membership. Contact lucy@cliftonbelfast.org.uk
[H5] Gerard Hogg
Facilities AssistantSupporting the Head of Operations, Gerard looks after the practical elements of Clifton House’s building management, including event set up and break down and cleaning and maintenance. Gerard is also a trained White Badge Volunteer, and supports the story telling of Clifton House.
[H5] Dr Lauren Smyth
HistorianLauren is responsible for researching and telling

[H1] What's On
[H4] Events Filter
Mary Ann McCracken(12)Talk(3)Tour(50)
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[H4] Interested in a Private Tour?
We can also facilitate private tours for groups, organisations or schools.Book Private Tour
[H4] Clifton House Gift Vouchers
Purchase online and print at home, these voucher can be redeemed against the cost of any Clifton House talk or tour.Buy Gift Voucher
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[H4] Mary Ann’s Poor House Tales – Self-Guided Tour
Friday 22nd May 2026 @ 9:30amTourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Clifton House Tour: Experience The Belfast Poor House
Friday 22nd May 2026 @ 1:30pmTourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Clifton House Tour: Experience The Belfast Poor House
Saturday 23rd May 2026 @ 10:00amTourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Hunger, Cholera & Plague-breath: Dealing with Famine Diseases in Belfast
Wednesday 27th May 2026 @ 7:00pmTalkMore InfoTickets
[H4] Clifton Street Cemetery Tours
Friday 29th May 2026 @ 1:30pmTourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Clifton Street Cemetery Tours
Saturday 30th May 2026 @ 10:00amTourMore InfoTickets
[IMG: Mary Ann]
[H4] Mary Ann’s Poor House Tales – Self-Guided Tour
Sunday 31st May 2026 @ 10:00amTourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Hero of Belfast: Mary Ann McCracken Walking Tour
Friday 5th Jun 2026 @ 1:30pmMary Ann McCracken, TourMore InfoTickets
[H4] Hero of Belfast: Mary Ann McCracken Walking Tour
Saturday 6th Jun 2026 @ 10:00amMary Ann McCracken, TourMore InfoTickets
[IMG: Mary Ann]
[H4] Mary Ann’s Poor House Tales – Self-Guided Tour
Sunday 7th Jun 2026 @ 10:00amTourMore InfoTickets

[H1] Support Us
Clifton House is still the home of Belfast Charitable Society who fundraised and built it over 250 years ago.It is the home of philanthropy in Belfast, and a place where the Society can continue to challenge and innovate in order to address disadvantage. If you would like to support our work, please see below for the ways you can support us.MembershipVolunteerDonateSubscribe
[H2] Membership
Belfast Charitable Society who fundraised and built Clifton House in 1774 has been dedicated to addressing disadvantage and helping the most vulnerable and marginalised since 1752. By joining as a member or ‘Friend of’ the Society or any of its entities, including Clifton House, you are not only supporting our ongoing work by following in the footsteps of Mary Ann McCracken, Dr William Drennan and the Joy, but you will also be able to avail of a number of benefits.Member Benefits include:– Free attendance at the AGM Lecture and the annual Founding Fathers’ Day event (Full Members only)– 20% discount of other events, including tours and lectures, archive services and merchandise (Full Members & Friends of).– Priority booking for public events. (Full Members & Friends of).Please visit the Belfast Charitable Society site to register as a member.Become a Member
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[H2] Volunteer
Volunteers are vital for the delivery of our many tours and talks throughout the year. Many of our volunteers are White Badge Accredited. This has allowed us to offer a culturally rich and informative experience for those visiting Clifton House, putting us on a power with some famous London landmarks like Tower Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral.Volunteers themselves have learnt a great deal about the history and heritage of North Belfast, and have grown in confidence in being a tour guide for the city’s oldest working building.Our volunteers also help us deliver our ongoing projects, including supporting the events of the North Belfast Heritage Cluster and Great Place North Belfast project.We are currently seeking Event Volunteers to support a new visitor experience. If interested, please email info@cliftonbelfast.org.uk for further details. Become a Volunteer
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[H2] Donate
Clifton House, where the history of Belfast begins – and philanthropy continues. As a social enterprise of the Belfast Charitable Society, profits and donations from our tours, talks and events support the ongoing work of the Society in tackling disadvantage. Belfast Charitable Society continues to benefit the people of Belfast by supporting various charities and philanthropic causes. The Society regularly considers how best it can utilise its limited resources and currently has committed its funds in three broad ways – through grants and donations; by promoting our heritage through Clifton House activities and finally by promoting and encouraging philanthropy in others. Be a part of our next chapter by supporting our ongoing work. Donate
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[H2] Subscribe
Be kept up to date with all our latest events, talks and tours by signing up to our newsletter.