Victoria Square in Belfast has been named Retail Destination of the Year 2026 at the Sceptre Awards, after being shortlisted alongside seven other shopping destinations. The centre is home to more than 70 stores, alongside restaurants and an Odeon cinema.
Award-Winning Shopping Destination
The centre has welcomed a string of big names in recent years, including Bershka, Krispy Kreme, Levi's and jewellery brand Astrid & Miyu, with the latter opening its first Northern Ireland store there. Space NK has opened a larger store at Victoria Square, while Sephora has chosen the centre for its first shop on the island of Ireland.
Victoria Square opened in March 2008 following a major regeneration project involving around £400 million in investment. Its most unusual and now famous feature is the enormous glass dome that sits above the development. Visitors can head up to a free viewing platform beneath the dome for 360-degree views across Belfast, taking in landmarks including Belfast City Hall, Stormont, Cave Hill and the famous Harland & Wolff cranes.
Festive Attractions and Events
Things will get even more festive as Christmas gets closer. A special Santa experience called The Victoria Square Express is returning for 2026, with children taking a festive train on their journey to meet Father Christmas. The experience includes stops at areas such as the Reindeer Stables, Wrapping Room and Snowglobe Snug before families eventually reach Santa's Grotto.
Quiet sessions will also run every Sunday from November 8 to December 20 between 10am and 11am for families who may prefer a calmer experience. Shoppers will have more than the big-name stores to browse, too. Time Out reports there will also be a seasonal fair filled with independent makers, while shoppers can even get their presents gift-wrapped before heading home.
Recovery and Recognition
The award comes after a difficult period for Victoria Square, which saw it lose some big retailers. But the centre has since bounced back, with new shops arriving. As a result, the judges have called it a "very worthy winner of Retail Destination of the Year 2026".
