N0 1 Belfast black cab Irish and British mural 2hr private tour

Exploring Belfast with a Black Cab: An Authentic Journey Through Murals, History, and Pop Culture

If you’re looking for a way to see Belfast beyond its guidebooks, a private black cab tour offers a fascinating and personal way to understand the city’s complex history and vibrant culture. This specific tour, focused on Irish and British murals and the Troubles, also includes a sprinkle of Game of Thrones filming locations, making it a perfect blend of history, politics, and pop culture.

What really stands out about this experience is the personalized attention you get from your guide, which means you can tailor the visit to your interests — whether you’re passionate about history, murals, or TV shows. A possible drawback is that some reviews mention difficulty understanding the guide’s accent, which could be a consideration if you’re not familiar with Belfast’s local speech.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, TV fans, or anyone curious about Belfast’s layered past, offering a mix of politics, art, and scenic driving — all wrapped up in a friendly, private setting.

Key Points

• Private, Flexible Tour: Up to 2 people with the option to choose your start time.
• Deep Local Insight: Guided by knowledgeable drivers familiar with Belfast’s history and murals.
• Cultural & Political Landmarks: Including Peacewalls, Loyalist sites, and Troubles’ history.
• Game of Thrones Locations: Over 15 filming sites covered in just a day.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup and drop-off from Belfast city center included.
• Cost and Duration: Usually booked well in advance, with a 1.5 to 2-hour window providing good value for a personalized experience.

A Close Look at the Belfast Black Cab Tour: What to Expect

This 2-hour private tour is a well-paced introduction to Belfast’s layered landscape, blending political history with cultural art, all while offering the convenience of pickup from your Belfast city center accommodation. The tour is designed to give you a comprehensive look at some of the most iconic and less obvious sites, all through the lens of a knowledgeable local guide.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Belfast City Center
Your adventure begins with a pickup in the heart of Belfast, setting the stage for an immersive experience. The first stops take you through Belfast’s Peacewalls and Republican areas, including Bombay Street, known as the starting point of The Troubles in 1969. Here, burnt-out houses tell stories of decades of conflict, giving a raw, visceral introduction to Belfast’s recent past. One reviewer noted that their guide was very knowledgeable, providing context to this often emotionally charged area.

Crumlin Road Courthouse & Maze Prison
Next, you’ll visit the historic Crumlin Road Courthouse, which faces the adjacent Maze Prison — the infamous site of IRA and UVF prisoners. The tour includes glimpses of a tunnel underneath the main road, a reminder of Belfast’s underground history. The Victorian-era jail, which housed political prisoners up until the 1960s, adds a tangible sense of Belfast’s turbulent past.

Peacewall Taxi Tours
A highlight is the time spent at the Peacewall — Belfast’s version of the Berlin Wall. Here, the murals and graffiti reflect decades of division, support for peace, and community resilience. Visitors can sign their names alongside signatures of famous figures, adding a personal touch to their experience. One reviewer appreciated this stop, noting that it offers a visual narrative of Belfast’s divided communities.

Shankill Road and Loyalist Sites
The tour then moves to Shankill Road, a vibrant area rich in Loyalist history. Murals depicting loyalist groups like the UVF, UDA, and UFF adorn the walls, illustrating the area’s long-standing allegiance and conflicts. During July, the bonfire sites and specific murals become even more significant. This stop offers a chance to understand the Loyalist perspective and see murals that celebrate local identities.

Clonard Monastery & Peace Talks
You’ll visit Clonard Monastery, one of Belfast’s key sites where secret peace talks took place involving Gerry Adams and John Hume. Interestingly, reports reveal that MI5 had bugged these talks, adding a layer of intrigue. The monastery’s quiet atmosphere contrasts sharply with the nearby political murals.

International Mural Wall & Bobby Sands Murals
The tour includes stops at Divis Street’s International Murals, showcasing artwork that comments on global conflicts and issues, from the Amazon rainforest to international peace. The Bobby Sands murals, including the most famous one commemorating the IRA hunger striker, are poignant reminders of Belfast’s ongoing struggles and resilience. As one review noted, many of the Troubles’ most familiar images are on display here, especially on the Falls Road.

Game of Thrones Landmarks

Beyond history and politics, this tour also appeals to TV fans. Over 15 filming locations, it covers the key sites where Game of Thrones scenes were shot. Whether it’s the eerie Braavos Canal or the House of Greyjoy, these spots give an added layer of fun to the experience. The guide’s knowledge of filming secrets and local lore enhances this part of the tour, making it engaging even for non-fans.

The Real Value

While the cost (~$247 for two people) might seem steep, what you’re paying for is an intimate experience that covers a lot of ground quickly. The private nature means you can ask questions, steer the focus of the tour, and enjoy a comfortable, distraction-free environment. The inclusion of pickup and drop-off within Belfast city center adds to the convenience, saving you time and hassle.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer pointed out that their guide was very knowledgeable, which made the experience enjoyable despite some difficulties in understanding his accent. They appreciated the stops at key historical sites, especially the Crumlin Road Courthouse and Maze Prison, which brought Belfast’s troubled past to life.

However, another review mentioned their experience with the blue taxi rattling loudly, which made hearing the guide difficult. This highlights the importance of choosing a quieter vehicle or requesting clear communication, especially if you’re sensitive to sound or have trouble understanding accents.

The Practicalities: What to Keep in Mind

The tour is flexible, with recommended pickup times ranging from early morning (6:30 AM) to late morning (11:00 AM). This flexibility allows you to fit the experience into your Belfast itinerary comfortably. The tour duration of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours is ideal for those wanting a rundown without feeling rushed.

Since food and drink are not included, plan to eat before or after the tour. Also, the tour is suitable for children, with the possibility of providing child seats if informed in advance — making it family-friendly.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This black cab tour provides a rich, authentic look at Belfast’s divided past and cultural landscape. It’s best for travelers eager to understand the city’s history and political symbolism firsthand, especially those who appreciate detailed storytelling and personalized experiences.

Game of Thrones fans will enjoy the scenic locations, while history buffs will value the sites related to The Troubles and Loyalist communities. The private setup means you’ll get tailored attention and flexibility, making it ideal for couples, friends, or even small family groups.

However, if you’re sensitive to loud environments or have difficulty understanding accents, it’s worth noting that communication could be a challenge, as some reviews mention. Booking with a preference for a clear explanation or quieter vehicle might enhance your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for children. You can request child seats if needed, and the private nature makes it easy to tailor the experience for younger travelers.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, pickup and drop-off within Belfast city center, and restroom facilities on board.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, allowing a good balance of sightseeing and commentary.

Can I choose my start time?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility with recommended pickup times ranging from early morning to late morning to suit your schedule.

What sites will I see?
You’ll visit over 15 Game of Thrones filming locations, Belfast’s Peacewalls, Loyalist murals, Clonard Monastery, and sites related to The Troubles.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to eat before or after your tour.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private experience, with only your group participating, ensuring a personalized and intimate journey.

To sum it up, this Belfast black cab tour offers a rare glimpse into the city’s political murals, historic sites, and pop culture landmarks. Its personalized approach, combined with the depth of local knowledge, makes it an excellent choice for travelers wanting an authentic, insightful experience. Whether you’re interested in the Troubles, murals, or Game of Thrones locations, you’ll find value in this carefully curated, flexible tour.