CS Lewis Square

Updated December 1, 2025

Description

CS Lewis Square is one of those places that quietly surprises you. You think you’re just popping by a small public plaza in East Belfast, and then suddenly you’re face-to-face with Aslan, frozen mid-roar in bronze. The square celebrates the imagination of C.S. Lewis, the Belfast-born author of “The Chronicles of Narnia,” and it’s packed with larger-than-life sculptures inspired by his beloved stories. It’s not just a tourist stop—it feels like a little pocket of storytelling come alive right in the middle of the city.

The atmosphere here is both reflective and playful. You’ll see kids running between the statues, pretending to battle the White Witch, while adults quietly admire the craftsmanship and the symbolism behind each piece. It’s a curious blend of nostalgia and discovery. And even if you haven’t read the books (though honestly, you should—at least once), the artistry alone is worth the visit. The sculptures, created by local artist Maurice Harron, have this raw, almost tactile quality that makes you want to reach out and feel the story in metal and stone.

I remember my first visit on a cold, drizzly afternoon. The rain had just started, and the bronze figures glistened under the streetlights. There was something hauntingly beautiful about it—like stepping into another world, which, of course, is exactly what Narnia is all about. It’s not a massive attraction, but it’s deeply personal, and that’s what makes it special. You can wander through in fifteen minutes or linger for an hour, soaking up the details and the quiet energy of the place.

Key Features

• Seven striking bronze sculptures representing characters from “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” including Aslan, Mr. Tumnus, and the White Witch.
• Open public space designed for reflection, community events, and storytelling sessions.
• Visitor centre nearby offering information, restrooms, and a cozy café for a quick warm-up after exploring.
• Fully wheelchair accessible, with smooth pathways and accessible parking areas.
• Family-friendly environment with open areas for children to play safely.
• Regular community events, art installations, and seasonal displays celebrating local culture and literature.
• Beautiful lighting installations in the evening, giving the sculptures an almost magical glow after dark.

What really stands out is how thoughtfully the space is designed. It’s not cluttered or commercialized. You get a sense that the people behind it genuinely wanted to honor Lewis’s imagination rather than just build a tourist spot. The square feels open and honest, much like the author’s writing itself.

Best Time to Visit

Honestly, there’s no bad time to visit CS Lewis Square—it just depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you want the best lighting for photos, go in the late afternoon when the sun hits the sculptures at an angle that makes them gleam. The golden hour here is pure magic, especially in autumn when the surrounding trees start to show off their colors.

Winter visits have their own charm too. There’s something about the chill in the air, the quiet streets, and the soft glow of the lamps that makes the place feel even more like Narnia. Bring a warm drink, wrap up in a scarf, and take your time wandering. In summer, it’s livelier—families, cyclists, and tourists fill the square, and sometimes you’ll catch live performances or local events in the plaza space.

If you prefer a more peaceful experience, try early mornings or weekday afternoons. That’s when you can really take in the details without the crowd noise. And if you’re lucky, you might catch one of those moody Belfast skies that make everything look cinematic. I swear, the light here has its own personality.

How to Get There

Getting to CS Lewis Square is pretty straightforward. It’s located in the heart of East Belfast and is easily reachable by bus, car, or even on foot if you’re exploring the city. Public transport runs frequently from the city centre, and the routes are well-marked. If you’re cycling, there are dedicated bike paths leading right up to the square, which makes it a great stop for anyone doing a scenic ride through the area.

For drivers, there’s nearby parking that’s free or low-cost, depending on the time of day. And yes, it’s accessible for everyone—wheelchair users, families with strollers, or anyone who just wants a comfortable stroll. The area around the square is also dotted with cafes, small shops, and murals, so it’s worth wandering a bit beyond the main plaza. You’ll find plenty of local flavor tucked into the side streets.

If you’re coming from further afield, taking a taxi or rideshare from the city centre only takes about ten minutes, depending on traffic. The route itself is scenic in its own quiet, urban way—lots of street art, bits of history, and glimpses of everyday Belfast life. It’s one of those journeys where the getting there is part of the fun.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s the thing: CS Lewis Square isn’t a place you rush through. It’s best enjoyed slowly, with a bit of curiosity and imagination. So here are a few personal tips to make the most of your visit:

• Take your time with the sculptures. Each one tells a story, and you’ll notice new details the longer you look. The expressions, the textures, even the way they’re positioned—all intentional.
• Visit the café nearby. It’s cozy, local, and a nice spot to warm up after exploring. Plus, the coffee’s pretty good (and I’m picky about coffee).
• Bring kids or your inner child. This place was made for imagination. Let them interact, ask questions, and maybe even act out a scene or two.
• Go at dusk if you can. The lighting transforms the square completely. It’s quieter, a bit mysterious, and perfect for reflection or photography.
• Check for local events. Sometimes there are storytelling nights, small concerts, or art showcases that bring the square to life in unexpected ways.
• Dress for the weather. Belfast can be unpredictable—sunshine one minute, drizzle the next. Bring a jacket, just in case.
• Respect the space. It’s a public area but also a tribute to one of Belfast’s most beloved writers. Treat it with the same reverence you’d give a good story.

If you’re a fan of literature, art, or just good old-fashioned storytelling, CS Lewis Square will hit you right in the heart. It’s not flashy or overdone—it’s quietly profound. You don’t need to be a diehard Narnia fan to appreciate it, though if you are, you’ll probably feel a little emotional standing in front of Aslan. I did. There’s something deeply moving about seeing a childhood story made real in such a humble, thoughtful way.

And here’s a small piece of advice—don’t just take pictures. Put your phone down for a minute and really look. The square has this way of reminding you what imagination feels like. It’s a rare thing to find in a city, that sense of wonder. So take it in, breathe it in, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll catch a bit of that Narnian magic yourself.

Key Highlights

• Seven striking bronze sculptures representing characters from “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” including Aslan, Mr. Tumnus, and the White Witch.
• Open public space designed for reflection, community events, and storytelling sessions.
• Visitor centre nearby offering information, restrooms, and a cozy café for a quick warm-up after exploring.
• Fully wheelchair accessible, with smooth pathways and accessible parking areas.
• Family-friendly environment with open areas for children to play safely.
• Regular community events, art installations, and seasonal displays celebrating local culture and literature.
• Beautiful lighting installations in the evening, giving the sculptures an almost magical glow after dark.

Location

Places to Stay Near CS Lewis Square

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