Falls Road
1 / 10

Falls Road Murals Belfast

4.6
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime tours

Best for historical context

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Falls Road

Falls Road Murals Belfast

Best Time

Daytime tours

Best for historical context

CrowdMedium
Highlights

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.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"The Black Cab Taxi Tour was extremely interesting for the history buff I am. [^review]"

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bobby Sands Mural

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

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

Hunger Strike Murals

Falls Road

Powerful depictions of the 1981 hunger strike, offering a deep dive into the sacrifices made for political beliefs.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Understand the History First

The Falls Road Murals are powerful historical markers. Visiting with a guide, especially a Black Cab Tour, offers deep context and personal stories that bring the art to life. Understanding the Troubles is key to appreciating these significant pieces.

Getting Around the Murals

While you can bus between areas like the Falls and Shankill, many visitors find a guided tour, particularly the Black Cab Tours, to be the most insightful and convenient way to navigate and understand the significance of each mural.

Best Times

When
Daytime tours
Why
Best for historical context
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Tips for visiting Belfast?

Black Cab Tour is Brilliant

Highly recommended for historical context and personal stories. Worth the investment! Reddit

Plan Your Bus Route

If not taking a tour, get a day ticket and map your bus route between the Falls and Shankill roads. Reddit

reddit.com

The murals

reddit.com

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]

reddit.com

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! Reddit

Plan Your Bus Route

If not taking a tour, get a day ticket and map your bus route between the Falls and Shankill roads. Reddit

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

4.6
(2k reviews)

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

Deep historical context
Powerful visual narratives
Insightful Black Cab Tours

What People Dislike

Primarily memorials
Areas can be quiet

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. Reddit

Navigating can be easier with a guided tour. If traveling independently, plan your route using public transport or walking between key murals. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

It's highly recommended to book Black Cab Tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred time slot. Reddit

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

Visiting the Falls Road Murals with children requires a sensitive approach. While the art is visually engaging, the historical context of The Troubles can be intense. Consider a family-friendly guided tour that can tailor explanations to a younger audience, focusing on themes of peace and reconciliation. Many tours offer a balanced perspective. Ensure children understand that these are historical memorials and not just colorful pictures. [^review]

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

For history enthusiasts, the Falls Road Murals are an essential pilgrimage. The Black Cab Tours are particularly recommended, as drivers often share personal anecdotes and deep historical context that goes beyond standard guidebooks. Reddit Focus on understanding the narratives behind the murals, the significance of figures like Bobby Sands, and the impact of the Good Friday Agreement. [^review]

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

Solo travelers will find that a Black Cab Tour is an excellent way to experience the murals, offering both safety and rich historical information. It's also a great opportunity to meet other travelers. Reddit If you prefer to explore independently, utilize Belfast's public transport and plan your route carefully. Be sure to carry a map or use a navigation app. Reddit

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

The murals of Belfast, particularly those found along the Falls Road and Shankill Road, are more than just street art; they are a visual chronicle of the city's complex and often turbulent history. These powerful images serve as memorials, political statements, and expressions of identity for the communities they represent. They emerged prominently during The Troubles, a period of ethno-nationalist conflict in Northern Ireland, acting as a way for communities to assert their presence, commemorate fallen comrades, and communicate their political aspirations and grievances.

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. Reddit

Navigating the Falls Road and Shankill Road

The Falls Road and Shankill Road represent two distinct communities in Belfast, historically associated with Irish nationalism/republicanism and Ulster loyalism/unionism, respectively. The murals on each road reflect the differing perspectives and histories of these communities. The Peace Wall, a series of barricades built to separate the two areas, stands as a stark reminder of the past conflict and is itself often adorned with messages of peace and graffiti.

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

You may also like