Belfast City Centre Walking Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Belfast's rich history
- Visit iconic city landmarks
- Learn about Belfast's cultural heritage
- Discover hidden historical gems
- Engage with knowledgeable local guides
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided walking tour of Belfast's city centre
- Visit to significant historical sites
- Insightful commentary on Belfast's history
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
In the grounds of Belfast City Hall your guide will introduce you to the tour and also give an introduction to the history of the Troubles. The introduction sets the scene for the rest of the tour, explaining the centuries old relationships between the British and the Irish and how and why the Troubles started in the late 1960s.
Today Belfast's main shopping street may look like any other British or Irish city, but it hides a troubled past. Your guide will explain the story behind a bomb attack on a nightclub here in 1971, the tragic events which followed and the introduction of what became known as the 'Ring Of Steel'.
Our next stop is in the heart of the pedestrian precinct. In what is now a bustling shopping street you will discover the realities of our lives at the height of the troubles, and the details of an event which still lives prominently in our minds to this day.
The Spirit of Belfast is an artwork which is intended to evoke the resilience of the people of Belfast, but we just know it as 'the Onion Rings'. As we stand in its shadow your guide will introduce you to a series of events which started in a bar nearby in 1971. These were to prove the catalyst in propelling Northern Ireland into a rapidly escalating spiral of violence.
As you walk through the newly regenerated Cathedral Quarter, at the heart of our cultural and nightlife district, your guide will introduce you to the stories of more significant events while also discussing the beginnings of the path to peace. Today the streets and alleys of the Cathedral Quarter are home to fantastic examples of street art and some of our best bars and nightspots, but through the powerful story-telling of the guide you will be transported back in time and realise how far we have come since the dark days of the 1970s.
Whilst standing beside the largest police station in Belfast you will discover how Northern Ireland was policed during the troubles, how it has changed since the peace agreement and the potential impact of Brexit on our borders!
We end the tour by the Waterfront on the banks of the river Lagan and the Beacon of Hope, our favourite piece of public art which champions our resilience and regeneration. Here we will compare Belfast today with one of the darkest days in our history, explain how we achieved our fragile peace and discuss what the future may hold.
Meeting point
Start Location
Belfast City Hall, Donegall Square North, Belfast, UK
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates rain or shine
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
- No pets allowed on the tour
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Dress appropriately for the weather
- Bring a bottle of water
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Stroller Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- A moderate amount of walking is involved (1.5 miles)
- Minimum age is 12 years
- The tour will take place regardless of the weather. Please check the forecast and dress accordingly
- A waterproof jacket is recommended just in case of showers, as is warm clothing during the winter months
- Belfast City Center is completely flat, so no hills or steps are involved. However, comfortable footwear is advised
Traveler reviews
An absolute must!
This tour was an absolute highlight of our time in Belfast We joined a tour with Mylie and it was genuinely fantastic. If she had spoken for six hours, we would have happily listened to every single minute. Mylie has an incredible amount of knowledge. It never felt like a lecture and she was, at times, quite funny even though the subject matter is grave and serious It felt like being guided through Belfast by someone who truly understands the many layers of the place. The tour gave us so much extra context and helped us understand Belfast in a much deeper way. An absolute recommendation for anyone visiting the city.
Fantastic Experience
This walking tour was fantastic. Very engaging and we learned a ton about this period of history. Coordination was simple and the tour was in the heart of the city.
Jim the guide was fabulous
Jim the tour guide was perfect. I gained a new appreciation of Belfast after his 2.5 hours tour, if it had been all day I would have stayed. I would recommend his tour to anyone with an interest in the history of this wonderful city.
Exceeded expectations!
Roisin’s walking tour of the Troubles is exceptional. She’s knowledgeable and articulate, covering an incredible amount of history in just 2.5 hours — all handled objectively and sensitively. What really set this tour apart was Roisin’s warmth and humor, and knowing she grew up here in Belfast added a depth and authenticity you can’t get from a textbook. This tour won’t disappoint — highly recommended for anyone wanting to understand this city’s history.
Belfast terror tour
Very knowledgeable guide explained in great and easy to understand details highly recommend