A History of Terror - Belfast City Centre Walking Tour

A History of Terror - Belfast City Centre Walking Tour

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About This Tour in Belfast

Over 2 hours and 30 minutes, our local expert guides will take you on a journey back in time through the city centre of Belfast. You will discover how 'the Troubles' started, visit the locations where some of the most important events occurred, and learn about the path to reconciliation and eventually peace (and the challenges the future may hold). You will discover the realities of growing up and living your life during the conflict, and how it touched everyone. The tour is factual and historically accurate to ensure it is unbiased, the guides are conflict historians, who also weave their own stories into their tours to bring history to life, transporting you back to the Belfast of the 1970s and giving you a unique understanding of the recent past. The tour starts each day at 10.30am.

Why Visit Belfast?

Belfast, Northern Ireland offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Belfast provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.

Getting to Belfast

The easiest way to reach Belfast is by flying into Belfast International Airport (BFS) or George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD). The city offers various transportation options including taxis, public transit, and private transfers to help you reach your destination. Many hotels can arrange airport transfers, and local transportation options vary by location.

What's Included

  • Headsets to hear the guide clearly
  • Local guide

What's Not Included

  • Gratuities

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • 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

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Meeting and Pickup

Meeting Point

In the grounds of Belfast City Hall

We meet at the front gates of Belfast City Hall in Donegall Square North. The tour starts every day at 10.30am. Your guide will be wearing a black jacket or t-shirt with the DC Tours logo on the left breast.

End Point

The tour ends at the Beacon of Hope on Oxford Street, from here it is just a 5 minute walk back to city hall.

Pickup Information

Pickup Option: All travelers must meet at start point

Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

In the grounds of Belfast City Hall your... 20 minutes

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... 15 minutes

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 15 minutes

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... 15 minutes

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... 20 minutes

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... 15 minutes

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... 20 minutes

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cancellation policy?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How do I book this tour?

Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.

Book Your Experience

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