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

If you’re considering a Belfast black cab tour, especially one focused on the city’s famous murals and significant historical sites, you’re in the right place. This 2-hour private tour promises a personalized experience, where you’ll get to see more than just the usual tourist spots, all while learning about Belfast’s complex past.

What we love about this experience is how flexible it is—you can choose your start time—and how it combines history, politics, and culture through more than 15 filming locations and iconic murals. Plus, having a dedicated guide means you get insights tailored to your interests, making it a more meaningful visit.

That said, a possible drawback is that some might find the sound quality in the black cab less than ideal, especially if the guide’s accent is difficult to understand or if the vehicle rumbles loudly. It’s not a high-tech tour, but it’s authentic and personal—ideal if you’re after a genuine experience rather than a polished presentation.

This tour works best for those interested in history, politics, or The Troubles, and who want an up-close look at Belfast’s murals and landmarks without the hassle of navigating on your own. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate private, flexible itineraries and detailed storytelling.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a dedicated guide
• Visit over 15 filming locations and murals in a concise timeframe
• Flexibility to choose your start time suits different schedules
• Inclusive transportation from Belfast city center
• Insightful commentary on Belfast’s history and culture
• Suitable for those interested in The Troubles, murals, or Irish history

An In-Depth Look at the Belfast Black Cab Tour

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour offers a carefully curated route through Belfast’s most significant and visually striking sites, all from the comfort of a private black cab. It’s designed to maximize your time and cover key points of Belfast’s complex past and vibrant street art scene.

Starting in Belfast: A City Divided

You’ll begin your journey by driving through the Peacewalls, the towering barriers that have symbolized the city’s sectarian divisions for over 50 years. The tour stops at Bombay Street, where houses burned during the 1969 riots, marking what many see as the start of The Troubles. This site is a stark reminder of Belfast’s fractured past and offers powerful photo opportunities.

The Crumlin Road Courthouse and the adjoining Maze Prison are next, offering glimpses into Belfast’s turbulent history. The courthouse, built in the 1800s, was a site where prisoners—many of whom fought for Irish republicanism or loyalist causes—awaited trial or were held remand.

The Peace Walls and Murals

A highlight for many visitors is visiting the Belfast Peace Wall, which stretches across the city. The guide will likely share stories about the murals painted along the walls, depicting everything from political figures to symbols of peace. You can “sign your name” alongside murals of presidents and film stars—an act of hope amid division.

You’ll stop at Shankill Road, the heart of loyalist Belfast, where murals celebrate Ulster loyalism, UDA, UVF, and the long fight against republican forces. If you’re visiting in July, you might see bonfire sites and learn about the city’s loyalist traditions.

Clonard Monastery is another key stop, notable for its role in secret peace talks involving Gerry Adams and John Hume—discussions that helped shape the peace process. The tour mentions that M15 once bugged these talks, adding a secretive thrill to the history.

Murals and Political Art

One of the most visually striking stops is the International Mural Wall on Divis Street, featuring murals that span issues from local conflicts to global causes like the Amazon rainforest. These hand-painted murals tell stories beyond Belfast, showcasing the city’s diverse political expressions.

Bobby Sands murals are a must-see, especially since Sands’ life and death during the 1981 hunger strike are central to Irish republican history. You’ll learn about his legacy and how these images have become worldwide symbols of resistance.

How the Tour Operates

This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which allows for more tailored conversations. You’ll be picked up and dropped off in Belfast city center, making it easy to include in your day.

The tour lasts roughly 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, giving enough time for meaningful stops without feeling rushed. The cost is $247.61 per group, which works out to about $124 per person if you’re traveling as a pair—an investment for a highly personalized experience.

What’s Not Included

The tour is focused on history and sights, so it doesn’t include food or drinks. Restrooms are available on board, which is practical, especially during longer stops.

What About the Reviews?

Most reviews are quite positive, praising the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. One review noted the guide was very experienced but mentioned that the sound system in the vehicle could be better—a common issue with older black cabs. So, if you’re particularly sensitive to audio clarity, it’s worth noting.

Considering the Price

At around $250 for a private experience, it’s not the cheapest way to see Belfast, but it’s a good value if you want a personalized, in-depth look at the city’s murals and history. The private format means you can ask questions freely and go at your own pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re interested in Belfast’s political history, murals, or The Troubles, this tour offers a comprehensive, engaging way to understand the city beyond typical sightseeing. It’s ideal for those who like narrative-driven explorations and want to avoid large group tours. Travelers with a keen interest in Irish history and culture will find this experience particularly meaningful.

It’s also suitable for those traveling with a partner or small group, thanks to the private format. Families with older children interested in history might also enjoy it, especially since the tour is flexible and informative.

Final Thoughts

This Belfast black cab tour offers a rich, personalized journey through some of the city’s most important—and visually compelling—sites. It’s a chance to explore Belfast’s divided past, celebrated murals, and political landmarks all from a comfortable, private vehicle with an expert guide.

The depth of insight provided makes it more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an opportunity to understand the city’s soul. While the sound quality might be an issue for some, the knowledge and flexibility compensate for that. It’s well-suited for travelers who value in-depth stories, history, and unique perspectives.

Overall, if you want to see Belfast’s murals, learn about its history, and do so in a private, tailored way, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to pick a start time that fits your schedule, and enjoy the authentic experience of Belfast’s complex story told through its walls.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for children, and child seats can be provided if you inform the provider beforehand.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get a guide, pickup and drop-off in Belfast city center, and a restroom on board.

What is not included?
Food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Can I choose the start time?
Yes, you can select a start time that works best for your schedule, with several options throughout the day.

Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private experience for your group only.

What’s the price?
It costs around $247.61 for up to 2 people, which makes it a good value for a personalized tour.

Are restroom facilities available?
Yes, there are restrooms on the vehicle.

What about the guide’s accent or sound quality?
Some reviews mention that the guide’s accent can be hard to understand, and the vehicle’s sound system might not be perfect. Keep this in mind if sound clarity is important to you.

This tour is a great choice if you want a personalized, insightful look into Belfast’s murals, history, and landscapes—all delivered with local expertise and passion.