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

Belfast’s Troubles on Four Wheels: A Deep Dive into the Iconic Taxi Tour

If you’re interested in understanding what life was really like during Belfast’s Troubles, this award-winning taxi tour offers a rare glimpse. Designed as a two-hour private experience, it’s a chance to see the city’s most poignant sights while learning about its complex past directly from someone who lived through it.

What we love about this tour is the personal touch—guides who share their own stories and insights help bring history to life in a way that books or museums just can’t match. Plus, the chance to see iconic murals and neighborhoods with a knowledgeable local makes the experience both educational and visually compelling.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves a fair amount of exposure to political murals and neighborhoods that can sometimes evoke strong emotions. If you’re sensitive to discussions about conflict or history, it’s good to know what to expect beforehand.

This experience is particularly well-suited for travelers who want an authentic, guided look at Belfast’s divided history—those interested in politics, history buffs, or anyone curious about Northern Ireland’s unique story.

Key Points

• Personal stories and expert insights make this a compelling way to understand the Troubles firsthand.
• Visiting both Loyalist and Republican areas offers a balanced view of Belfast’s divided past.
• The murals and neighborhoods are visually striking and rich with meaning.
• Round-trip transfers from central Belfast make logistics simple.
• The tour is private, meaning it’s tailored to your group, providing flexibility and comfort.
• With most reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and stunning murals, it’s clear the tour is well-loved but stays sensitive and respectful.

What You Can Expect from This Tour

This Belfast taxi tour isn’t just about ticking off sights; it’s about context and stories. Guided by someone who has lived through the Troubles, you’ll get an honest, personal account that helps explain the city’s scars and resilience. The itinerary is carefully curated to cover key sights and stories, making it a mix of history, culture, and current-day realities.

A Detailed Walkthrough of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Bobby Sands Mural

The tour kicks off at the Bobby Sands mural on Falls Road, a symbol recognized worldwide of the Republican cause. You’ll learn about Sands, a Provisional Irish Republican Army member and MP who became a martyr during the hunger strikes. The guide offers a detailed account from a Republican perspective, giving you a vivid understanding of Sands’ significance.

Many reviews highlight how meaningful this stop is. As one reviewer notes, “Ricky was knowledgeable, friendly, and we really enjoyed the tour—he gave us some great insights from someone who had lived through the Troubles.” The mural itself makes for a powerful photo, and standing there, you’ll start to grasp the emotional weight that murals carry in Belfast.

Stop 2: Divis Flats and Murals

Next, you’ll visit Divis Flats, a site steeped in history. The famous “Everyone is Welcome” mural welcomes visitors, but the guide will also explain the darker sides—like how the British army base operates on the top floors and how they’ve used residents as human shields, a fact many find startling.

The discussion around the burning of Falls Road in 1969 by loyalist mobs adds historical depth. This stop gives an immediate sense of how divided Belfast has been, with the guide carefully explaining the conflicts and the 800-year history of Irish resistance and British rule.

Stop 3: Clonard Monastery

A quiet, spiritual space amid the turmoil, Clonard Monastery is where secret peace talks took place between Gerry Adams and John Hume. It’s a reminder that, beneath the conflict, there have been efforts towards peace. The guide will share stories of these behind-the-scenes negotiations that played a role in shaping the city’s future.

Stop 4: Shankill Road – Loyalist Heartland

Traveling to Shankill Road, you’ll see the murals that depict the loyalist community’s pride and their loyalty to the British crown. The area’s history, dating back over 1,400 years, is explained in detail—an important context for understanding the deep-rooted identities.

This is also where the UDA and UVF originated, and the murals reflect their history and values. Many reviews praise the guide’s ability to explain both sides respectfully. As one reviewer states, “Gaining knowledge about the Troubles. The guides were professional and knowledgeable—they answered any questions we had,” which is crucial in such a sensitive setting.

Stop 5: Crumlin Road Gaol

A tour of the Crumlin Road Gaol offers a glimpse into Belfast’s justice system’s darker days. Built in the 1800s, it housed political prisoners and was a site of executions until the 1960s. The tunnel linking it to the courthouse adds an atmospheric touch.

While the jail itself doesn’t charge an admission fee for this tour, its historical significance is clear. Many visitors find walking through the corridors of this old prison both haunting and educational.

Stop 6: International Mural Wall on Divis Street

Moving to the International Mural Wall, you’ll find over 40 murals supporting causes from around the world—Palestine, Kurdish struggles, Cuba—painted by the Republican community. Many find this a powerful reminder of Belfast’s solidarity with oppressed peoples worldwide.

Despite not having an admission fee, this stop is filled with emotionally charged images that depict ongoing struggles beyond Ireland’s borders, making it a thought-provoking addition.

Stop 7: Peace Wall

One of Belfast’s most famous landmarks, the Peace Wall stretches across the city with over 30 sections. Built initially in 1969, it remains a physical symbol of division. Visitors can write their names on the wall—an act that many reviews note as a meaningful gesture.

This stop underscores the ongoing need for dialogue and reconciliation, and it’s often a highlight for visitors wanting to see the real, lived division in Belfast.

Stop 8: Falls Road Library and Bobby Sands Mural

Back on Falls Road, you’ll see the mural of Bobby Sands on the side of Sinn Fein’s HQ and the historic Falls Road Library, which was linked to Sands’ story and the hunger strikes. The guide provides an in-depth account of the 1981 hunger strike, contextualizing its importance in Irish history.

Stop 9: Shankill Graveyard

Finally, the tour visits the Shankill Graveyard, where the murals depict loyalist figures and their loyalty to Britain. It’s a poignant place to see the other side of the story, with many visitors appreciating the chance to photograph the murals and get a sense of the community’s identity.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

The cost of $136.32 per person for this two-hour private experience might seem steep, but considering the depth of insight, personal stories, and the exclusive access to key sites, it’s quite reasonable. The private setting ensures you won’t be part of a large, hurried group, and the inclusion of pickup from Belfast city center makes logistics straightforward.

Most reviews emphasize how knowledgeable and professional the guides are, with some sharing personal experiences that add authenticity and impact. Guests often mention how the stories stay balanced, giving both perspectives without bias—an important factor when exploring such a sensitive subject.

The stops at murals and neighborhoods allow for stunning visuals and meaningful reflection. If you’re someone who appreciates history told with respect and nuance, this tour will resonate.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, politically curious travelers, or those wanting an honest look at Belfast’s divide. It’s especially suited for visitors who appreciate storytelling from someone with lived experience. Because it’s a private tour, it’s flexible enough for those who want to spend a little more time or ask specific questions.

While it’s not explicitly family-focused, mature teens interested in history or politics could find it valuable. Just be aware that some sites may evoke strong feelings, so it’s best for visitors who are prepared for emotional and political content.

FAQ

• Is pickup included? Yes, pickup from Belfast city center (within 1 km of Belfast City Hall) is included.
• Can I get this tour from the airport or cruise port? Not directly; pickups from airports, train stations, or cruise ports incur an extra surcharge paid in cash on the day.
• How long is the tour? Approximately 2 hours, with time allocated for each stop to see murals and hear stories.
• Is this tour suitable for children? Children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate, but the content might be more suitable for older teens or adults due to the serious nature of the sites.
• What’s included in the price? The tour includes private transportation and pickup from central Belfast. Entry fees to sites are generally not included.
• Are there any restrictions? Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Be sure to discuss any specific needs with the provider in advance.
• Are the guides biased? Guides aim to provide a balanced perspective, explaining both Loyalist and Republican viewpoints with professionalism.
• Can I write on the Peace Wall? Yes, many visitors enjoy leaving their mark on this symbolic site.
• Is it worth the price? Given the depth of storytelling, personal insights, and visual experience, many find the tour offers excellent value for those interested in Belfast’s history.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an intimate, insightful way to explore Belfast’s Troubles, this private taxi tour delivers. It’s a chance to see the city’s murals, hear personal stories, and understand the divisions that still shape Northern Ireland today. The guides’ knowledge and respectful approach make it stand out, especially if you want a nuanced picture of one of Europe’s most complex histories.

This isn’t a generic sightseeing trip—it’s an experience that invites reflection and understanding. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about Belfast’s past, this tour offers a meaningful way to connect with the city and its people.

For anyone who values honesty, authenticity, and a respectful approach to difficult histories, this Black Taxi Tour is well worth considering. Just prepare for strong stories, striking visuals, and an experience you’ll likely remember long after you leave Belfast.