To Let East Belfast: Your 2025 Guide to Renting in One of Belfast’s Most Desirable Locations

Are you searching “to let East Belfast”? You’re not alone. East Belfast is one of the most dynamic and popular areas to rent in Northern Ireland’s capital. Known for its rich history, excellent schools, thriving arts scene, and convenient transport links, East Belfast is an ideal place for professionals, students, and families looking to rent a property in a safe, accessible, and vibrant part of the city.

This comprehensive 2025 rental guide breaks down everything you need to know: property types, rental prices, top neighbourhoods, local amenities, and expert tips for finding your ideal home to let in East Belfast.


Why Rent in East Belfast?

East Belfast stretches from the River Lagan in the city centre all the way to the Castlereagh Hills. It’s a diverse and growing area that offers a range of lifestyle options — from urban living to quiet residential suburbs.

Key Benefits:

  • Close to Belfast City Centre (10–15 minutes by car or bus)

  • Excellent public transport (Glider, Metro Bus, and rail links)

  • Great for families with top-rated schools

  • Home to CS Lewis Square, Connswater Greenway & Victoria Park

  • Affordable alternatives to South Belfast rentals


Popular Areas in East Belfast

1. Ballyhackamore

  • One of the trendiest parts of Belfast, filled with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops.

  • Excellent Glider access to city centre.

  • Popular with professionals and young families.

2. Belmont

  • A quieter residential area with tree-lined streets.

  • Ideal for families and retirees.

  • Home to grammar schools like Campbell College and Strathearn School.

3. Holywood Road & Sydenham

  • Great for renters looking for affordability and proximity to the city centre.

  • Close to George Best Belfast City Airport and Victoria Park.

4. Castlereagh & Orangefield

  • Offers spacious homes and green spaces like the Greenway.

  • Perfect balance of suburban calm and city access.


Types of Properties To Let in East Belfast

Whether you're a student, a couple, or a growing family, East Belfast has something for every renter.

✅ Apartments & Flats

  • 1–2 bedroom units in converted houses or modern developments.

  • Found mostly in Ballyhackamore, Holywood Arches, and Castlereagh Road.

✅ Terraced Houses

  • 2–3 bedroom traditional red-brick homes, common throughout East Belfast.

  • Ideal for small families or house shares.

✅ Semi-Detached & Detached Homes

  • 3–5 bedroom homes in family-friendly neighbourhoods like Belmont and Orangefield.

  • Often feature driveways, gardens, and spacious interiors.

✅ Student Accommodation

  • Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs) for students attending Queen's or Ulster University campuses.


Average Rental Prices in East Belfast (2025)

Here’s a guide to current average monthly rent in the area:

Property Type Monthly Rent (GBP)
1-Bedroom Apartment £525 – £750
2-Bedroom Flat/House £650 – £950
3-Bedroom House £850 – £1,100
4–5 Bedroom Home £1,100 – £1,400+
HMO (Shared Housing) £300 – £450 (per room)

Note: Prices depend on property condition, location, and whether bills are included.


Top Letting Agencies in East Belfast

Work with trusted local agencies to find verified listings:

  • UPS (Ulster Property Sales) – East Belfast Branch

  • Simon Brien Residential

  • Fetherston Clements

  • Reeds Rains Belfast

  • Templeton Robinson

Many agencies offer virtual viewings and online applications.


Transport Links

East Belfast offers some of the best transport connectivity in Belfast:

  • Glider Route G1 – Frequent, fast travel from East Belfast to City Centre and West Belfast.

  • Metro Buses – Regular routes across all main roads.

  • Train Stations – Sydenham and Titanic Quarter stations offer service to Bangor, City Centre, and beyond.

  • Airport Access – Less than 10 minutes to George Best Belfast City Airport.


Local Schools & Education

Families renting in East Belfast benefit from access to top-tier schools:

Primary & Grammar Schools:

  • Strandtown Primary

  • Victoria College Prep

  • Campbell College

  • Bloomfield Collegiate

  • Strathearn School

Higher Education Nearby:

  • Queen’s University Belfast

  • Ulster University (Belfast Campus)


Amenities & Lifestyle

Shopping & Groceries:

  • Connswater Shopping Centre & Retail Park

  • Tesco Extra at Knocknagoney

  • Boutique shops in Ballyhackamore & Belmont

Leisure & Recreation:

  • Victoria Park – Great for jogging, sports, and dog walking

  • Connswater Greenway – Scenic path linking parks and playgrounds

  • The EastSide Visitor Centre – Cultural hub and gateway to CS Lewis Square

Dining & Nightlife:

  • Ballyhackamore’s “restaurant mile” is packed with food options

  • Local pubs like Horatio Todd’s and The Errigle Inn

  • Live music and theatre at The MAC and SSE Arena (just across the river)


How to Find Properties "To Let East Belfast"

1. Property Portals

Search “To Let East Belfast” on:

  • PropertyPal.com

  • PropertyNews.com

  • RentalsNI.com

Set filters for price, bedrooms, pets, and garden access.

2. Agency Websites

Check direct listings from local estate agents — sometimes they list properties before uploading them to portals.

3. Facebook Groups & Community Boards

Search groups like:

  • “Belfast Rentals”

  • “East Belfast Property to Let”

  • “Northern Ireland Property Market”

4. Word of Mouth

East Belfast has a strong community network — ask around or keep an eye on local noticeboards and church halls.


Tips for Renters in East Belfast

Apply Quickly – Good rentals go fast, especially in Ballyhackamore or Belmont.

Have Documentation Ready
Landlords often require:

  • Proof of income or employment

  • References (personal and/or previous landlord)

  • Credit check

  • Security deposit (usually 1 month’s rent)

Ask About Heating Costs
Many homes are older — ask about insulation and boiler age to estimate winter bills.

Check for Parking
Some homes, especially terraces, may only have on-street parking.

Consider Bills Included Options
Some rentals include gas/electricity/internet — handy for budgeting.


What Locals Say

“We love living in Ballyhackamore. You can walk to everything, and the Glider gets me into the city in 10 minutes.”
Liam K., IT Consultant

“As a young family, East Belfast gives us schools, parks, and a real sense of community. We rented first and now plan to buy.”
Emma H., Mother of Two

“I rent a flat near Victoria Park. It’s perfect — peaceful but still connected.”
Jason D., Remote Worker


Final Thoughts

Renting in East Belfast offers a fantastic balance between city convenience and community living. Whether you’re after a one-bedroom flat, a student-friendly HMO, or a spacious family home, there are a wide range of “to let” properties available to suit your lifestyle and budget.

With rental demand rising in 2025, it pays to be proactive. Know your budget, prepare your paperwork, and work with reputable agents to secure your ideal rental in this sought-after area of Belfast.

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