Adventure Collective
Land Adventures in Ballymurphy: Irish Political Story Tour - Belfast

Land Adventures in Ballymurphy: Irish Political Story Tour

Belfasteasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Good walking fitness needed, no technical skills required

Overview

Step into Ballymurphy’s past on this immersive walking tour that highlights the neighborhood's resilience and history. Discover murals, stories, and culture in a compelling outdoor experience.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Ballymurphy Story Tour From Guerilla war to Government

For all ages! • Duration 2 hour

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 2-hour walking tour through Ballymurphy, a community rich in history and resilience against British rule. Discover personal stories from locals, explore powerful murals, and learn about the social dynamics that shaped this proud Republican neighborhood. Experience the heart of Irish culture and witness its ongoing legacy firsthand.

Duration: 2 hours

This tour provides a fascinating insight into the resistance of the people in Ballymurphy to British rule in Ireland.

Every street has its own story to tell – not just by those who were involved directly in the armed struggle to end British occupation but those who lived there and witnessed events that shaped their lives.

Come and meet some of those people as you make your way through a very proud community which produced some of today’s political leadership. This is a bespoke experience. Over 50 years have passed since the first of almost 700 houses were built in Ballymurphy.

Who were the people and families that made this ongoing march from guerrilla fighters to government ministers possible? What are the social and economic factors that have created the cohesive, dynamic and determined community that is now Ballymurphy? What makes the Ballymurphy people so proud of their Irish language and culture? During the 2 hours walking tour of this housing estate that has been at the epicentre of the Irish struggle for freedom, you may get the opportunity to hear at first hand this unique Ballymurphy story from the local people themselves as they go about their daily business.

  • View the vast range of murals that are dotted throughout the area
  • Experience at first hand this story of this proud Republican community.

This tour starts at the Ballymurphy Memorial Garden (junction of Springfield Road/Divismore Way) and visits the estate which was once home to (now Saint) Mother Theresa of Calcutta when she worked to assist the local population. The tour ends on the main Springfield Road where public transport is available for return to the city centre

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable shoes

The tour is a walking experience through urban streets; sturdy footwear is recommended.

Be prepared for weather

Bring waterproof gear or sun protection depending on the forecast for a comfortable walk.

Engage with locals

Join the conversation and listen to personal stories for a richer experience.

Start early

Morning tours tend to be less crowded and more comfortable for walking.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Pigeons
  • Urban foxes

History

Ballymurphy’s history as a site of conflict and resilience has shaped its vibrant community spirit.

Conservation

Efforts are ongoing to preserve the murals and promote respectful tourism in the area.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Belfast

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Provide support for walking through urban terrain.

Weather-appropriate clothing

Essential

Stay comfortable during outdoor walking regardless of weather.

spring;summer;fall;winter specific

Water bottle

Essential

Keep hydrated during the outdoor walking tour.

Notebook or camera

Capture memories or jot down insights from the stories.