Belfast cab /taxi private 90 mins Terror and conflict- peace tour

Travel through Belfast’s complex history and politics with this private 90-minute black taxi tour, offered by Belfast famous black taxi tours. Priced at $178.59 per person, this tour provides an intimate, personalized experience that covers important sites linked to The Troubles and peace process. Unlike crowded bus tours, this private excursion allows you to sit back and listen to the personal stories of guides who are well-versed in Belfast’s turbulent past.

The itinerary takes you to significant landmarks, including murals, the Peace Wall, and historic locations like Divis Flats and Shankill Road. With pickup included within a 1 km radius of Belfast city hall, booking is typically made around 18 days in advance, making it a convenient choice for those eager to understand Belfast’s intricate history in a compact time.

While the tour offers expert commentary and a rich selection of stops, it’s important to note that the duration is approximately 2 hours, making it a quick yet rundown of Belfast’s conflict zones. This tour appeals most to visitors interested in history, politics, and murals, seeking an engaging, private experience rather than a generic sightseeing bus.

Key Points

• Private 90-minute tour in Belfast focusing on The Troubles and peace movement sites
• Cost is $178.59 per person with pickup from the city center included
• Visit key locations such as Divis Flats, the Peace Wall, and Shankill Road
• Expert guides provide personal insights and detailed commentary on Belfast’s political history
• Includes visits to murals, the Falls Road Library, and Clonard Monastery
• Bookings are usually made around 18 days in advance

Belfast’s Conflict Sites: From Divis Flats to the Peace Wall

The tour begins at Divis Flats, a site with a haunting history linked to the 1966 riots that ignited the Troubles. This location remained under British Army occupation until 2007, and visitors can see how this area was central to Belfast’s conflict. The guide shares stories about the riots and the long-standing tensions rooted here, helping visitors grasp the scale of unrest that shaped the city.

Next, the taxi heads to International Mural Wall on Divis Street, where over 60 murals depict current global issues such as Nelson Mandela, Ukraine, and Palestine. These murals, which frequently change, reflect Belfast’s ongoing conversation about conflict, justice, and resistance, highlighting that Belfast’s mural art is a living, evolving testament.

The Significance of Bombay Street and Irish Republican Roots

A visit to Bombay Street reveals the birthplace of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA). This area was heavily impacted in 1969 when thousands of residents were displaced by police and loyalist forces, with homes burned and communities shattered. The guide details how this violence sparked deeper divisions and contributed to the Troubles, making Bombay Street a poignant stop for understanding the roots of conflict.

The Falls Road Library and Bobby Sands’ Murals

The Falls Road Library, once a RIC and blackened tans station, is famous for its Bobby Sands mural facing the building. Sands, a IRA volunteer and MP, is a symbol of resistance, and the mural commemorates his role in the 1981 hunger strike. The guide discusses Sands’ significance and the impact of the hunger strike on Irish politics, providing context for the ongoing tensions between communities.

Clonard Monastery and Secret Peace Talks

Clonard Monastery stands as a historical site where secret peace negotiations between figures like Gerry Adams and John Hume took place. Built over 100 years ago, the monastery’s altar is uniquely crafted from local women’s wedding rings. The guide explains its importance in Belfast’s peace process and shares stories about the monitored peace talks, illustrating how dialogue helped ease decades of conflict.

The Peace Wall: Belfast’s Symbol of Division

Standing as one of the most recognizable features, the Peace Wall was first erected in 1969 by the British army to separate communities. Today, these walls are adorned with quotes for peace from presidents, celebrities, and travelers alike. The guide discusses how the walls, though symbolic of division, also serve as canvases for messages of hope, making this a compelling stop that encapsulates Belfast’s ongoing journey toward peace.

Crumlin Road Gaol and Historical Conflict Sites

Crumlin Road Gaol, built in the 1800s, features prominently in Belfast’s troubled history, including successful IRA escapes and attacks during the Troubles. The hanging jail remained operational until the 1960s, and its history offers a stark reminder of Belfast’s past violence and struggles with justice. Although not part of the guided commentary, the site’s presence adds depth to understanding Belfast’s conflict landscape.

Shankill Road’s Loyalist Heritage and William of Orange

Shankill Road, one of Belfast’s oldest streets, dates back to 445 AD and is known as the birthplace of loyalist groups like the UVF and UFF. The guide explains the connection to William of Orange and the founding of loyalist communities. If the timing is right, visitors might also witness notorious bonfires during July, illustrating ongoing loyalist traditions.

Loyalist Murals and Shankill Graveyard

A walk through Shankill Graveyard offers photo opportunities of loyalist murals depicting historical figures and events rooted in British heritage. These murals emphasize the pride of the loyalist community and their historical narratives. The guide provides explanations of the murals’ significance, enriching the understanding of Belfast’s divided landscape.

Logistics and Practicalities of the Private Tour

This private tour starts with pickup within a 1 km radius of Belfast City Hall and lasts approximately 2 hours. The focus on personalized commentary ensures a tailored experience, free from the crowds typical of bus tours. Travelers should note that children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with easy access near public transportation.

Booking and Considerations

Most bookings are made about 18 days in advance, reflecting the tour’s popularity. The tour is a full private experience, meaning only your group participates, which enhances the intimacy and opportunity for detailed questions. It’s important to remember that the tour does not include pickup from airports, train stations, or cruise ports, which may incur extra charges if needed.

Exploring Belfast’s Past with an Expert Guide

The highlights of this 90-minute private black taxi tour lie in its expert guides who are well-versed in Belfast’s history. From the murals to the peace walls, each stop is explained in detail, providing a nuanced appreciation of Belfast’s ongoing story of division and reconciliation. This tour offers a personalized narrative that can’t be matched by larger group excursions.

Who Will Find This Tour Most Valuable?

This tour best suits visitors who have an interest in history, politics, and conflict resolution, especially those eager to understand Belfast’s Troubles from a personal perspective. Its private format and in-depth commentary make it ideal for groups or individuals seeking a meaningful, insightful exploration without the rush of larger tours.

Final Thoughts on the Belfast Peace and Conflict Tour

This private black taxi tour delivers a focused, informative experience of Belfast’s conflict zones and peace efforts. The expert storytelling and carefully curated stops provide a compelling look at the city’s divided past and hopeful future. While the tour is relatively short at 2 hours, it covers a broad spectrum of significant sites, making it an efficient way to grasp Belfast’s complex history.

This tour is most suitable for those interested in political history and murals, aiming for an intimate, personalized exploration of Belfast’s troubled and resilient spirit. The friendly, knowledgeable guides make every stop meaningful, fostering understanding and reflection about Belfast’s journey toward peace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from Belfast city center within a 1 km radius of Belfast City Hall is included, making logistics simple for most visitors.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is approximately 2 hours, offering a quick yet thorough overview of Belfast’s conflict sites.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made around 18 days in advance, ensuring availability for most travelers.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for families with older kids interested in history.

What sites will I visit?
Stops include Divis Flats, International Mural Wall, Bombay Street, Falls Road Library, Clonard Monastery, Peace Wall, Crumlin Road Gaol, Shankill Road, and Shankill Graveyard.