Belfast Black Taxi Tour of Murals and Peace Walls 2 hours

Belfast Black Taxi Tour of Murals and Peace Walls: An Honest Look

A 2-hour black taxi tour exploring Belfast’s famous murals and Peace Walls offers a compelling window into the city’s complex history. Priced at around $151.48 per person, this experience takes you through Falls Road and Shankill Road, where striking murals and divided walls tell stories of division, conflict, and hope. Led by guides who have lived through The Troubles, it’s a deeply personal journey that combines history, culture, and a little bit of Belfast’s resilience.

What we love most about this tour is the personal storytelling from guides who grew up here—these aren’t just history lessons but lived experiences. Plus, the opportunity to write on the Peace Walls and see the vibrant murals painted by local artists adds an engaging, participatory element.

On the other hand, a potential consideration is the cost—at just over $150, some might feel it’s on the higher side, especially since admission tickets at each stop are not included. It’s also worth noting that this tour runs only 2 hours, so it’s a quick but meaningful snapshot of Belfasts’s divided past.

This tour suits those who want an authentic, guided insight into Belfasts’s history—particularly travelers interested in understanding the conflict and reconciliation stories behind the murals and walls. It’s ideal for history buffs, those curious about Irish politics, or anyone wanting a personal perspective from locals who lived through the Troubles.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Guides share personal stories and lived experiences, adding depth to the history.
• Vivid Visuals: See iconic murals, including the famous Bobby Sands, and explore the scale of Peace Walls up close.
• Personalized Tour: A private, small-group experience enhances interaction and questions.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about the communities on both sides of the divide—Loyalists and Republicans.
• Convenient Logistics: Pickup and drop-off included, making it easy to focus on the experience.
• Cost & Duration: At just over two hours, it’s a compact tour that packs in a lot of history, though at a premium price.

An In-Depth Look at the Belfast Murals and Peace Walls Tour

Starting at Belfast City Hall

The tour begins at Belfast’s City Hall, a historic and central location that is easy to find. From here, you’ll be picked up in a private black taxi, an iconic symbol of Belfast’s transportation and a perfect way to navigate the city’s divided streets. This setup offers a cozy, personal environment, allowing your guide to tailor the experience to your questions and interests.

Exploring Falls Road: Murals and Bobby Sands

Your first stop is the Falls Road, home to the most photographed mural in the world—IRA hunger striker Bobby Sands. This striking image, along with various other murals, depict the nationalist community’s perspective. Your guide, who may be called Sean or David based on reviews, provides background on the political and cultural significance of these artworks.

Many reviews highlight the depth of knowledge and the friendly, approachable manner of guides like Sean, who are eager to share personal stories. For instance, one reviewer quoted their guide as being very friendly and taking the time to explain the murals’ meanings, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Visiting Shankill Road: Loyalist Perspectives

Next, the tour moves to Shankill Road, the heart of Loyalism. Here, murals often celebrate Ulster Protestant communities, the U.V.F., and the U.F.F., illustrating the contrasting narratives of the two sides. Guides share insights about the origins of Loyalism and their community’s responses to conflict. One reviewer noted that their guide provided comprehensive explanations with humor, making a difficult history easier to grasp.

The Peace Wall: A Symbol of Divided Belfast

A major highlight is the Peace Wall, which stretches five times taller than the Berlin Wall. Visitors are encouraged to write their own messages on the wall—something that many find moving. The wall’s scale and the variety of messages—ranging from celebrities like Lady Gaga to world leaders like Clinton and Morgan Freeman—show how this barrier has become a canvas for messages of hope and peace.

One reviewer called the Peace Wall a powerful reminder of Belfasts’s ongoing journey towards reconciliation, noting that seeing the scale of the walls helped them really understand the depth of division.

International Murals at Divis Street

The International Mural Wall features over 60 murals painted by local artists supporting causes around the world—Cuba, Palestine, Turkey, and more. This stop highlights Belfast’s solidarity with global struggles, a perspective many travelers find eye-opening. It also shows how art serves as a voice for issues beyond Ireland.

Clonard Monastery: Historic Peace Negotiations

Your next stop takes you to Clonard Monastery, where some of the secret talks between Gerry Adams and John Hume took place. The monastery’s significance as a site of dialogue and reconciliation is well worth understanding, especially for those interested in peace processes.

Bombay Street and the End of the Troubles

Finally, the tour visits Bombay Street, where the IRA was born after the community homes were burned in 1969. This poignant site encapsulates 800 years of shared history and provides insight into the roots of the conflict. One reviewer mentioned that their guide explained the “end game” of the peace process, offering context that helped them grasp how Belfast moved from turmoil towards peace.

The last stop also features the Hanging Jail, built in the 1800s and housing notorious prisoners from both sides, with many escapes. Its history adds a layer of understanding about the city’s turbulent past.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

Throughout the tour, guides like Danny or Brendan are praised for their personal connection, sharing stories from their own lives growing up here. The small-group or private setup allows for questions and tailored conversations, which many reviews say make the experience more meaningful.

The transportation in a private black taxi makes the experience feel intimate and authentic, not like a typical bus tour. You’ll get close-up views of murals and walls, which are impossible to appreciate fully from a bus or walking.

The Value

While the price might seem high, it reflects the personalized, private nature of the experience and the expert guides who add context and stories. Remember, admission to individual sites is not included, which keeps the cost down but also means you’re mainly paying for the guide’s knowledge and the private transport.

Many reviewers have called it “great value for money” given the depth of insight and the engaging storytelling. Others appreciated the opportunity to ask questions and get perspectives from someone who truly lived through the Troubles.

Final Thoughts

This Belfast black taxi tour offers a unique, personal look at the city’s divided landscape. It’s especially fitting for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they seek understanding, context, and a connection to people’s stories. The guides’ local knowledge and personal experiences are what make this tour stand out.

If you’re interested in Irish politics, history, or peace efforts, or simply want to understand a city that has endured great division and is now working toward reconciliation, this tour will serve you well. Just be prepared for a thought-provoking, emotionally engaging experience that might be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel or port are included, making it easier to focus on the experience without logistics worries.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours, providing a focused yet insightful overview of Belfasts’s murals and Peace Walls.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers interested in history and culture.

Can I write on the Peace Walls?
Yes, part of the experience involves writing messages on the Peace Walls, which many find meaningful.

Are the murals and walls visited included in the tour?
While admission fees are not included, you will see key murals and the Peace Walls as part of the guided tour.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it is a private experience, designed for your group, providing a personalized and flexible atmosphere.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
You can choose between morning or afternoon departures, depending on your schedule. Check the weather, as it’s a mostly outdoor experience.

This Belfast Black Taxi Tour of Murals and Peace Walls is more than just sightseeing; it’s a chance to understand the stories that shaped a city—and still influence it today. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, expect to come away with a richer understanding of Belfasts’s complex journey towards peace.