Historical Walking Tours: The Troubles in Belfast

Duration: 3 Hours - Exclusive Private Tour

Step into the darkest era of Belfast’s bloody history on this private impartial political walking tour. ‘The Troubles’ is a simple non inflammatory way to describe a period that many people would call a war. The term glosses over the gravity of the 30 year conflict here. The violence was rooted in a society divided by issues of nationality, religion and power

The date most commonly associated with the start of ‘the troubles’ is the 15th August 1969 but by the end the conflict over 3,700 people had tragically lost their lives. This tour explains why and where it started, why it lasted so long and the long and arduous hard won path to peace. Also how Belfast became divided physically, ideologically by 40 kilometers of walls and steel structures know as the ‘Peace Walls’ which remain a fixture today.

Experience some heart-breaking stories and what life was like growing up in the dark shadow of the troubles. Visit local community memorial gardens where friends and family still mourn their loved ones. Feel the hope of this transformed city after leaving our troubles behind us in 1998 and how Belfast has flourished into one of the friendliest and safest capital cities in the world. The tour highlights the peace makers and the key events on the rocky road to a wonderful peace.

A taxi option is also available with this tour. Sit back, relax and experience Belfast from the comfort of a luxury vehicle. You’ll be chauffeured around the city come rain, hail, or shine.

An alternative city centre ‘troubles’ walking tour is also an option starting at the famous Europa Hotel

GAIN A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE TROUBLES

Discover the political and historical moments which led to the formation of Northern Ireland. Gain insight into the unique heritage, culture and identity of both Unionist and Nationalist identities and their respective paramilitary groups.

VISIT KEY HISTORICAL SITES

Your tour will take you to the Falls Road and the Shankill Road – two neighbourhoods in West Belfast that were notorious during the Troubles. Although the scars of the conflict can still be felt today, both areas are safe, vibrant, and welcome visitors. You’ll also pass through some of the 500 remaining security gates that are still in place and understand what purpose they still serve.

SEE RENOWNED POLITICAL MURALS AND PEACEWALLS

This walking tour provides plenty of photo opportunities as it takes in both Protestant and Catholic communities. The murals were used to mark territory and tell the story of the conflict. Today they are an intrinsic part of our shared cultural heritage and in many way the DNA of these communities.

Important to Know

If you're booking for a group of over 18 people, please contact us to arrange your tour.

Meeting Point

Tour start location: Raidió Fáilte, 30 Divis St, Belfast BT12 4AL (Unless guide requests to meet at Europa Hotel, Great Victoria Street) End location: Back at starting point