The Troubles and iconic award winning taxi 2hr private cab tour

Exploring Belfast’s Troubles with the Award-Winning Taxi Tour

This private taxi tour offers a fascinating and authentic way to understand Belfast’s complex history. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll explore iconic murals, Loyalist and Republican neighborhoods, and sites that tell the story of decades of conflict. With a focus on genuine insights and respectful storytelling, this experience promises a deep dive into a pivotal chapter of Northern Ireland’s past.

What we really love about this tour is the way it blends history with personal stories — giving it a human touch. The guide’s firsthand knowledge, combined with the opportunity to see Belfast’s politically charged murals, makes for an engaging and meaningful experience. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the tour is quite packed with stops in just two hours, so expect a fast-paced overview rather than an exhaustive history lesson.

This private tour suits travelers who crave authentic, local perspectives and want to see Belfast’s most significant sites in a short time. It works well for those interested in history, politics, or street art. If you’re looking for a balanced, respectful look at the Troubles from someone who experienced it firsthand, this tour could be a perfect choice.

Key Points

• Expert Local Guides: Guides with lived experience provide authentic, personal insights.
• Comprehensive Stops: From murals to prisons, each site reveals a different aspect of Belfast’s history.
• Cultural & Political Context: Learn the stories behind murals, neighborhoods, and landmarks.
• Balanced Perspectives: Guides offer insights from both Republican and Loyalist viewpoints.
• Convenient Pickup & Transport: Includes round-trip transfers from central Belfast accommodations.
• Value for Time: The two-hour format packs in a lot of meaningful sights and stories.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting at Bobby Sands Mural on Falls Road

Our journey begins on Falls Road, the heartland of Republicanism. The Bobby Sands mural is one of the most famous in the world, and your guide will share detailed stories behind the image, linking it to the 1981 hunger strikes and the wider Republican movement. One reviewer mentions that the guide, David, “brought the tour to life” with his personal experiences, making this stop especially impactful.

While you won’t need an admission ticket — it’s a mural on a wall — you’ll definitely want your camera ready. This mural isn’t just art; it’s a symbol that embodies decades of struggle and hope.

Divis Flats and the Welcome Mural

Next, the tour stops at Divis Flats, a site that carries heavy historical weight. Your guide will explain the difficult history surrounding the British army presence, including allegations of using residents as human shields — a detail many travelers find shocking. The welcome mural here symbolizes inclusion and community amid tension.

This stop is brief—around ten minutes—but packed with context about the 1969 Falls Road burning and 800 years of Irish history. Reviewers note that guides explain the complex history clearly, helping visitors understand the deep-rooted divisions.

Clonard Monastery — A Beacon of Faith and Peace

Clonard Monastery serves as a spiritual and political hub. It hosted secret peace talks between Gerry Adams and John Hume, key figures in the peace process. The guide will highlight this as a site of hope amid conflict.

Expect about ten minutes here, but the mention of the peaceful negotiations contrasts sharply with the earlier sites, illustrating hope in difficult times. Many visitors appreciate the guide’s ability to present both the hardship and the efforts toward reconciliation.

Shankill Road — Loyalist Heartland

Moving to Shankill Road, the focus shifts to Loyalist pride and history. This area is home to murals depicting loyalty to the British crown and the UVF/UDA. The guide provides 40 minutes to explore these murals, which are often painted on family homes.

A reviewer noted that the guide explained the 455-year history of the area and Loyalist identity in detail. Seeing murals that have been part of the community for generations offers a tangible connection to the Loyalist perspective. You’ll also get to see the Shankill Graveyard, where murals align with Protestant and Loyalist heritage.

Crumlin Road Gaol — A Prison of Political History

Built in the 1800s, Crumlin Road Gaol housed many political prisoners and was a place of executions until the 1960s. The tour includes a brief stop here, emphasizing the jail’s role in Belfast’s story of conflict. You can also peek into the tunnel linking the jail to the courthouse, adding a sense of history and secrecy.

This site is free to visit, but it’s a meaningful stop that helps contextualize the harsh realities faced by prisoners during the Troubles.

The International Mural Wall on Divis Street

This vibrant mural wall features over 40 murals that change monthly, depicting conflicts and struggles from around the world. The guide will highlight murals supporting Palestine, Kurdish communities, and others, showcasing Belfast’s solidarity with global causes.

It’s a poignant reminder that Belfast’s conflicts echo worldwide struggles, adding a broader perspective to the history.

The Peace Wall — A Lasting Symbol

One of Belfast’s most recognizable landmarks, the Peace Wall was built in 1969 to prevent violence. Today, over 30 sections remain, and visitors are encouraged to write their names or messages of peace. Many reviewers mention that this site feels both historic and hopeful.

It’s a quick stop but offers a moment of reflection and a tangible symbol of ongoing peace efforts.

Falls Road Library and Bobby Sands Mural

Opposite the former Black Tans base, this library features a mural of Bobby Sands as an MP, representing the ongoing political significance of his story. The guide discusses the 1981 hunger strike and its impact.

The library, along with the mural, offers a quiet but powerful reminder of the sacrifices made. Many find it a moving stop that deepens their understanding of the conflict’s lasting legacy.

Shankill Graveyard — Loyalist Murals

The tour wraps up with visits to murals depicting Loyalist loyalty, with opportunities for photos. These murals have been part of the landscape for generations, reinforcing community identity.

The guide’s explanations help decode the symbols and stories behind each piece, giving visitors a clearer picture of Loyalist culture.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

This tour lasts approximately two hours, with pickup included from central Belfast. The private nature of the experience means it’s tailored to your group, which allows for a more personal, flexible exploration. The guides are seasoned storytellers — many of whom have lived through the Troubles themselves — adding credibility and emotional depth to their commentary.

The stops are well-paced, with the guide providing context at each site, helping you understand the historical and emotional significance. The murals, walls, and neighborhoods are accessible, with most stops lasting around 10 to 40 minutes depending on the site.

While the price is around $136 per person, reviews suggest that the value lies in the authentic insights and the opportunity to see Belfast through local eyes. The inclusion of round-trip transfers from central accommodations makes it convenient, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local transport options.

One potential consideration is the limited duration; two hours is enough to get an impactful overview, but it doesn’t cover the entire history in depth. For more detailed exploration, you might combine this with longer visits or other tours.

Authenticity and Guide Expertise

Multiple reviewers praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and balanced perspectives. David, Sean, Gerard, and other guides are noted for their storytelling ability, often sharing personal experiences that bring the sites to life. One reviewer said, “Davids personal experiences and storytelling brought the tour to life,” highlighting the benefit of guides with real familiarity.

This tour’s strength is its honest portrayal of a divided city, with guides explaining the history without glorification or bias — which many travelers value. The inclusion of both Loyalist and Republican viewpoints helps visitors understand the city’s dual narratives.

Practical Details & Value

The tour is priced at just over $136, which might seem high for a two-hour experience, but considering the depth of insights and the private, personalized format, many find it to be a worthwhile investment. The round-trip pickup from Belfast city center is included, making it easy to access without hassle.

Most travelers can participate, as children are welcome with an adult, and service animals are permitted. The tour operates with a minimum number of travelers, so it’s best to book in advance, especially since it’s often booked around 42 days ahead on average.

While the tour doesn’t include admission fees for certain sites like the murals or Crumlin Gaol, the primary focus is on storytelling and observation, which adds value beyond just entry costs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re interested in history, politics, or street art, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those who want an honest, local perspective — whether you’re visiting Belfast for the first time or are a history buff craving a deeper understanding.

Travelers who appreciate storytelling that balances multiple viewpoints will find this tour enlightening. It’s ideal for those who prefer a private, flexible experience over large group excursions, as the guides tailor their commentary to your interests.

Finally, if you’re looking for a meaningful way to explore Belfast’s Troubles beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour offers a respectful and visually impactful experience.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Belfast city center accommodations within a 1 km radius of Belfast City Hall are included.

Can I book this tour if I’m arriving by plane or train?
While pickup from airports or train stations requires a surcharge payable in cash on the day, the standard pickup is from central Belfast accommodations.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, with timed stops at key sites and murals.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusively for your group, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult.

What sites are included in the tour?
Stops include murals of Bobby Sands, Divis Flats, Clonard Monastery, Shankill Road murals, Crumlin Road Gaol, the International Mural Wall, Peace Wall, Falls Road Library, and Shankill Graveyard.

What if I want to cancel?
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations will forfeit the amount paid.

To sum it up, this Belfast black taxi tour offers a respectful, insightful, and visually compelling way to learn about the Troubles from those who lived through them. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, politically curious travelers, and anyone eager to see Belfast’s murals and neighborhoods beyond the usual tourist spots. While two hours isn’t enough for an exhaustive history, the carefully curated stops and expert guides make it a powerful snapshot of a city still shaped by its past. If you want to understand Belfast’s divided history in a personal, authentic setting, this tour should be high on your list.