About Sydenham
Victoria Park, located in Sydenham, is one of the largest parks in Belfast and offers a range of activities for visitors, including walking and cycling trails, a BMX track, a playground, and sports facilities.
Sydenham is home to the Shorts Sports and Recreational Club, which was founded in 1903 and has a rich sporting heritage.
Things to do
Sydenham is a lively neighbourhood in Northern Ireland that offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors and residents alike. From outdoor adventures to community centres, there is something for everyone in Sydenham.
One of the top attractions in the area is the Millennium Play Park, a popular destination for families with young children. The park has a range of equipment and structures, including swings, slides, and climbing frames, and it is a great place for kids to burn off some energy. The park is well-maintained and is a safe and enjoyable place for children to play.
The Inverary Community Centre is another great option for those looking for indoor activities. The centre offers a range of classes and activities for all ages, including dance, fitness, and arts and crafts. The facility is well-equipped and has a friendly staff that is always on hand to help visitors.
For sports enthusiasts, the Shorts Sports & Recreational Club nearby Aircraft Park is a great place to go. The club offers a range of sports activities, including football, rugby, and basketball, and it is a great place for people of all ages to get active and meet new people.
If you are looking for something more relaxing, the East Belfast Yacht Club is a great place to go. The club offers a range of sailing and boating activities, and it is a great place to enjoy the beautiful coastline of Northern Ireland. The club has a friendly atmosphere and welcomes visitors from all over the world.
Victoria Park is another popular destination for locals and visitors alike. This large park has something for everyone, including a range of sports facilities, playgrounds, and walking trails. The park also has a BMX track and the Sam Thompson Bridge, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Houses
Sydenham is a popular area for those looking to buy a property in Northern Ireland. The neighbourhood offers a range of housing options at affordable prices, making it an excellent choice for first-time buyers and families looking for a spacious home.
For first-time buyers, Sydenham offers a range of terraced houses, which can be purchased for less than £100,000. These homes are an excellent option for those looking to get on the property ladder, and they offer a good investment opportunity. Most two-bedroom houses in the area come in under £120,000, making them affordable for young couples or individuals looking to purchase their first home.
For families or those who need more space, three-bedroom terraced homes are available for around £130,000. Larger semi-detached and detached homes are also available, with prices ranging from £200,000 to £300,000. These homes offer spacious accommodation and are perfect for families looking for more space or those who need additional rooms for a home office or hobbies.
Buying a property in Sydenham is an excellent investment, as the area is highly sought after and has excellent transport links to Belfast and the surrounding areas. The neighbourhood is well-connected, with easy access to schools, shops, and amenities, making it an ideal location for families and professionals alike.
Eating and Drinking
Indian Cuisine is a popular takeaway located on Holywood Road in Sydenham. The restaurant serves a range of delicious Indian dishes, including curries, kebabs, burgers, and pizzas. The food is freshly prepared, and the restaurant offers both dine-in and takeaway options. The restaurant is well-reviewed for its authentic Indian flavours, generous portions, and friendly service.
For seafood lovers, John Dory’s is a must-visit restaurant on Holywood Road. The restaurant specialises in fish and chips, and they use only the freshest fish and the finest ingredients. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Customers can choose from a range of fish options, including cod, haddock, and plaice, all served with freshly cut chips.
Slim’s Healthy Kitchen is another great option for those looking for healthy food options nearby. The restaurant is located just a short distance away from Sydenham, and they specialize in healthy salads, wraps, and smoothies. The restaurant uses fresh and locally-sourced ingredients, and they have options for vegan and gluten-free diets. The restaurant has a cosy and inviting atmosphere, making it a great place to grab a healthy meal.
Shopping
Whether you are looking for sporting goods, bridal wear, or collectables, there are several options available in Sydenham.
Freebird Paddles is a popular sporting goods store located on Denorrton Park in Sydenham. The store specialises in kayaking equipment and supplies, including paddles, life jackets, and wetsuits. They also offer kayak rentals for those who want to explore the nearby coastline. The store has knowledgeable staff who can provide advice and guidance on equipment and accessories for kayaking enthusiasts.
Curvy Chic Bridal is another popular store in the area, located on Holywood Road. The store specialises in bridal wear for plus-size women, with a range of gowns available in various sizes and styles. They also offer a range of accessories, such as shoes and jewellery, to complete the bridal look. The store has friendly and helpful staff who are dedicated to helping brides find the perfect dress for their special day.
For collectors and enthusiasts of memorabilia, Seventh Dimension is a must-visit shop on Belmont Road in Sydenham. The store specializes in collectables such as action figures, comics, and other pop culture items. They have a vast selection of items from popular franchises such as Star Wars, Marvel, and DC Comics. The store is well-stocked, and the staff is knowledgeable about their products.
Photos of Sydenham
Living in Sydenham
Travel
Travelling to Sydenham from Belfast is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. The most convenient way to reach Sydenham is by car, which takes around 15 minutes depending on traffic. From Belfast city centre, take the A2 towards Sydenham, and you will reach the neighbourhood in no time.
If you prefer to walk, the journey from Belfast to Sydenham takes less than an hour, depending on your pace. Walking is a great way to explore the area, and you can stop along the way to take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant neighbourhood. Cycling is also a popular option, with a dedicated cycle lane along the Sydenham Bypass. The journey takes around 15 minutes, and you can enjoy the fresh air and exercise while exploring the area.
The quickest and most convenient way to reach Sydenham from Belfast is by train. The journey takes only six minutes from Lanyon Place station to Sydenham station, making it an ideal option for commuters or visitors looking to explore the area. The train runs frequently throughout the day, and the station is located in the heart of Sydenham.
Local Amenities
Sydenham is a residential area in Northern Ireland that offers a variety of local amenities for its residents. Among these amenities, there are several places of worship and local shops.
One of the most prominent religious landmarks in Sydenham is the Sydenham Methodist Church, located on Station Road. This church is a well-established institution in the community, providing spiritual guidance and support to its members. The church is known for its welcoming atmosphere, and its services are open to people of all ages and backgrounds. The church offers regular Sunday services, as well as mid-week events and community activities.
Another religious institution in the area is St. Brendan’s, located on Larkfield Road. The church has a long history of serving the local community and has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The services are held in both English and Irish, and there are several social events and clubs available for members.
For those who prefer to attend a Presbyterian church, the Strand Presbyterian Church on Connsbrook Avenue is another option. This church has been serving the Sydenham community for over 100 years, and it offers a range of services and events for members. The church is known for its inclusive and friendly atmosphere, and it welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds.
In terms of local shops, Sydenham has several options, including the Co-Op and SPAR. The Co-Op is a popular chain of grocery stores that offers a range of fresh produce, meat, dairy, and household items. The store is well-stocked and has a helpful staff that is always willing to assist customers. SPAR is another local convenience store that provides a range of groceries, snacks, and household essentials. Both stores are conveniently located in the heart of the community and are easily accessible to local residents.
Schools
Victoria Park Primary School is a popular primary school located on Connsbrook Avenue in Sydenham. The school provides a safe and nurturing environment for children aged 4-11, with a focus on academic excellence, creativity, and personal development. The school has friendly and dedicated staff who are committed to helping students reach their full potential.
Sandbrook Nursery School is another great option for young children in the area. The school is located on Wellwood Avenue in Sydenham and offers a safe and stimulating environment for children aged 3-4. The school has a child-centred approach to learning and encourages children to develop their skills and interests through play and exploration.
For secondary education, Ashfield Boys High School is a popular option for boys aged 11-18. The school is located on Holywood Road and offers a range of academic and extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama. The school has a supportive and welcoming environment and aims to help students achieve their full potential.
Penrhyn Preparatory School is a co-educational preparatory school located on Belmont Church Road. The school provides high-quality education for children aged 3-11, with a focus on academic excellence, creativity, and personal development. The school has a nurturing and supportive environment, and the staff is dedicated to helping children reach their full potential.
Strathearn School is another excellent option for secondary education, located on Belmont Road. The school is a girls-only grammar school and has a reputation for academic excellence, with a focus on developing the whole person. The school provides a broad range of extracurricular activities, including music, sports, and drama, and has a welcoming and supportive environment.