Clifton House EHOD 2025

About

Now known as Clifton House, the original Poorhouse was built between 1771 and 1774 by the Belfast Charitable Society, the city’s oldest charity. Thousands of people sought sanctuary within its walls including children who were educated and apprenticed out to various industries across the country.   

Clifton House would go on to become a hub of science, social welfare and progress. It had a critical role to play in the development of Belfast’s expansion including provision for the town’s first supply of water, the earliest iteration of a police service, a pioneering burial ground, a medical dispensary, and arguably the first steps in Belfast’s industrial revolution in the form of a micro-industry for cotton spinning in the Poorhouse basement.   

Key features of the house include the iconic Board Room, described by Dr Eamon Phoenix as ‘the most historic room in Belfast’, it has been the beating heart of the Belfast Charitable Society since the building opened in 1774.   

At the forefront of all of this were a group of radicals and reformers who were instrumental in challenging 18th century beliefs on slavery and societal reform, some of whom even involved themselves in revolution and rebellion in 1798.   

The Society continued to look after the poor and infirm throughout the 19th century and latterly became on older people’s home in 1882.   

Come along to our ‘open house’ and have a look around the oldest working public building in the city. Our team of enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers will be on hand to answer any questions you may have during your visit.   

Planning your visit:   
Free car parking onsite 
Access to Clifton House is via the stone steps at the front of the building. Please contact us in advance with any access requirements 

The event is an ‘open house’ with guides available to answer questions. There will be no formal guided tours on the day 

Phone 02890 997 022 if you have any queries.