
Falls Road Murals Belfast
Vibrant murals on Belfast's Falls Road, telling powerful stories of political history and identity. A must-see for understanding the city's past.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for historical context

Falls Road Murals Belfast
Best Time
Best for historical context

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vibrant murals on Belfast's Falls Road, telling powerful stories of political history and identity. A must-see for understanding the city's past.
"The Black Cab Taxi Tour was extremely interesting for the history buff I am. [^review]"

Black Cab Tour is Brilliant
Highly recommended for historical context and personal stories. Worth the investment!
Plan Your Bus Route
If not taking a tour, get a day ticket and map your bus route between the Falls and Shankill roads.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bobby Sands Mural
Falls Road
A poignant tribute to the hunger striker, recently restored. A must-see for understanding the political history.

Peace Wall & Murals
Between Falls Road and Shankill Road
Witness the physical and artistic divide, with murals on both sides telling different stories of the conflict.

Hunger Strike Murals
Falls Road
Powerful depictions of the 1981 hunger strike, offering a deep dive into the sacrifices made for political beliefs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the History First
Getting Around the Murals
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tips for visiting Belfast?
Black Cab Tour is Brilliant
Highly recommended for historical context and personal stories. Worth the investment!
Plan Your Bus Route
If not taking a tour, get a day ticket and map your bus route between the Falls and Shankill roads.
The murals
Does this mural still exist?
Respectful Visit
These are memorials, not just art. Approach with respect for the history and people they represent.
Recent Restoration
Some murals, like the Bobby Sands one, have been recently repainted and restored to their glory. [^review]
Mural tour Belfast
Tips
from all over the internet
Black Cab Tour is Brilliant
Highly recommended for historical context and personal stories. Worth the investment!
Plan Your Bus Route
If not taking a tour, get a day ticket and map your bus route between the Falls and Shankill roads.
Respectful Visit
These are memorials, not just art. Approach with respect for the history and people they represent.
Recent Restoration
Some murals, like the Bobby Sands one, have been recently repainted and restored to their glory. [^review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Falls Road Murals for their historical significance and artistic impact, especially when experienced through a Black Cab Tour. While some note the areas are primarily memorials rather than bustling attractions, the restored murals and the opportunity to learn about Belfast's past are highly valued. The historical context and the personal stories shared by guides are frequently highlighted as major positives.
"Black Cab Taxis Tour was extremely interesting for the history buff I am. It is amazing that if not for the Good Friday peace accords even being able to visit this area would not be possible. It is important for all to learn about the history and work gain as much information as possible. Our driver was amazing!"
Rob Connor
"Large mural on a wall, with a historic meaning. There were a lot of tour groups there hearing about the meaning of it, which was interesting to listen to but in terms of art, it's no where near as good as a lot of the wall murals of the city centre, and the area is quiet with not much about. Worth a look, probably a lot better on a tour though"
Simon Heffernan
"Touristattraction? Rather a memorialpainting. Fascinating histpry behind this and well worth a read and a visit."
Peter R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Falls Road Murals by public bus, with routes serving the area frequently. Many visitors opt for a Black Cab Tour, which often includes pick-up from your accommodation or a central point in Belfast.
Navigating can be easier with a guided tour. If traveling independently, plan your route using public transport or walking between key murals.
Yes, it's possible to walk between the areas, especially if you're interested in seeing the Peace Wall. However, the distances can be significant, and a tour often provides a more efficient way to cover both sides.
Taking the bus and planning your own route is the most budget-friendly option. Consider a day ticket for easy hop-on, hop-off access.
Routes like the Newtownards Road to Shankill and then over to the Falls are mentioned by visitors. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most current information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to view the murals themselves is generally free as they are public art. However, if you choose to take a guided tour, such as a Black Cab Tour, there will be a fee for the tour service.
The murals are publicly displayed and can be viewed at any time. However, for safety and context, visiting during daylight hours and ideally as part of a guided tour is recommended. [^review]
Tour prices can vary, but visitors often find them to be a worthwhile investment for the historical insights provided. It's best to check with specific tour operators for current pricing.
It's highly recommended to book Black Cab Tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
Yes, you can visit independently by using public transport or walking. However, you might miss out on the in-depth historical context and personal stories that guides share. [^review]
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
These murals are powerful visual representations of the political and social history of Belfast, particularly during The Troubles. They often depict key figures, events, and symbols related to Irish nationalism and republicanism. [^review]
They are often described as both. While they are visually striking pieces of street art, their primary function is to serve as historical markers and memorials, conveying important narratives. [^review]
Expect to see vibrant, large-scale murals on buildings. You'll likely encounter other visitors and tour groups. The areas are residential, so maintaining a respectful demeanor is important. [^review]
The areas are generally safe for tourists, especially when visiting during the day and with a tour. The Good Friday Peace Accords have significantly improved safety and accessibility. [^review]
The most comprehensive way to learn is through a guided tour, where local guides share detailed explanations and personal anecdotes. Listening to tour groups can also provide insights. [^review]
📸 📸 Photography
The Bobby Sands mural is a very popular and impactful subject. Many of the large-scale murals along the Falls Road offer striking photographic opportunities due to their size and detail. [^review]
Generally, photography is permitted. However, always be mindful of residents and avoid intrusive photography, especially if you are not on a tour. [^review]
Daylight hours are best for clear, vibrant photos. Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. [^review]
Yes, the Peace Wall is a significant landmark and a popular spot for photos. Remember to be respectful of the area and any messages or locks attached to it. [^review]
A smartphone with a good camera is usually sufficient for capturing the vibrant colors and scale of the murals. If you have a DSLR, consider a wide-angle lens to get the full effect. [^review]
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If visiting independently, focus on the larger, more visually striking murals and keep explanations simple. The Peace Wall can be a powerful visual for understanding division and the desire for unity. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours and be mindful of the residential nature of the areas. [^review]
🏛️ History Buffs
Take time to explore both the Falls Road and Shankill Road murals to gain a comprehensive understanding of the different perspectives. Visiting the Peace Wall is also crucial for grasping the physical and symbolic divisions that once defined the city. Engaging with the history here is a powerful way to learn about conflict resolution and the ongoing journey towards peace. [^review]
🚶 Solo Travelers
Remember that these are active residential areas. Be respectful of the local community, avoid loud behavior, and be mindful of where you are taking photos. The murals offer a unique window into Belfast's past, and engaging with them respectfully will lead to a more rewarding experience. [^review]
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Belfast Murals
Many murals depict iconic figures from Irish republicanism and loyalism, historical events, and symbols of national identity. The Bobby Sands mural on the Falls Road, for instance, is a globally recognized image honoring the IRA volunteer who died during the 1981 hunger strike. The restoration of such murals ensures that these historical narratives remain visible and accessible to future generations. Visiting these sites offers a profound insight into the social and political landscape that shaped modern Belfast. [^review]
It's crucial to approach these murals with an understanding of their historical context. While they are visually striking, their primary purpose is to convey deep-seated historical narratives and political sentiments. A guided tour, especially a Black Cab Tour, is often recommended as guides provide invaluable context, personal stories, and historical explanations that enrich the visitor's understanding and appreciation of each piece.
Navigating the Falls Road and Shankill Road
For visitors, understanding the geography and the best way to experience both sides is key. Many visitors choose to take a Black Cab Tour, which typically covers murals on both the Falls and Shankill roads, often including a stop at the Peace Wall. These tours are highly praised for their informative nature and the personal insights provided by the drivers, who often have firsthand experience of the city's history.
Alternatively, visitors can utilize Belfast's public transport system. Day tickets for buses can be cost-effective for exploring different areas. Planning a route that takes you from the Falls Road to the Shankill Road, perhaps with a walk across or near the Peace Wall, is feasible. However, without a guide, the depth of understanding might be limited compared to a dedicated tour.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit