The Best family first took up residence at 16 Burren Way in 1949. They were the first to move into the new Cregagh Estate, and this is where they stayed until George’s father died in 2008, three years after George himself.
Before leaving for Manchester, George spent his childhood kicking a football around Burren Way. He returned to the family home often, and when he did it was frequently surrounded by the world’s press.
Best was proud to be from east Belfast and the people of east Belfast remain incredibly proud of him. In this hub of culture and creativity, the self-guided George Best Trail exploring the places closest to the footballer’s heart is another must do for all sports fans.
East Belfast is also full of fascinating industrial heritage, public art, community murals, cafés, restaurants and two greenways to get active on. Chronicles of Narnia author C.S. Lewis grew up in this neighbourhood, as did iconic musician Sir Van Morrison, who used many of its places and street names in his work.
A number of heritage and tourism trails will let you learn about them, and enjoy the vast history of the area.
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