Belfast Murals and Peace Walls Tour

This 2.5-hour tour explores street art and political murals across Belfast's Falls Road and Shankill Road neighborhoods, examining the Peace Walls that physically divide communities. Paddy Campbell's Tours keeps groups small (typically 8-12 people), allowing detailed discussion of individual artworks and their meaning. You'll learn why murals became tools for storytelling, remembrance, and political expression in post-Troubles Belfast. Photography is encouraged and the route covers both republican and unionist perspectives. Best for art enthusiasts and social history fans. This is a easy activity lasting 2.5 hours. Group size: 2-12. You meet at Europa Hotel lobby. Key highlights: Up-close examination of major political murals on Falls and Shankill Roads, Direct access to the Peace Walls, Stories behind individual artworks and artists.

Price: £15

Duration: 2.5 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-12

Minimum age: 8+

Best for: art enthusiasts and social history fans

Best time: Late morning (10:00am-12:00pm) offers good light for photography and smaller crowds than afternoon slots.

Meeting point: Europa Hotel lobby

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

Start Meet at Europa Hotel and brief on tour structure - Guide explains the context of murals and introduces the Peace Walls concept.

First 40 min Walk through Falls Road murals - Examine republican murals depicting political history, cultural identity, and martyrdom.

40-90 min Visit the Peace Wall - Stand at the interface barrier; guide explains its purpose, history, and ongoing role.

90-140 min Cross to Shankill Road murals - View unionist/loyalist murals and discussion of how both communities use street art.

Final 10 min Return to meeting point with time for questions - Discuss reconciliation, artistic evolution, and future of divided neighborhoods.

The whole experience takes 2.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Europa Hotel lobby.

• Up-close examination of major political murals on Falls and Shankill Roads
• Direct access to the Peace Walls
• Stories behind individual artworks and artists
• Comparison of republican and unionist visual narratives
• Understanding of contemporary street art and community identity
• Accessibility: Moderate walking on city streets and some uneven ground. Not wheelchair accessible on Peace Wall sections.

What is included: 2.5-hour guided tour, Access to Falls Road and Shankill Road neighborhoods, Guide expertise on mural history and meaning, Photography opportunities.

Not included: Food or drinks, Entry to museums or buildings, Transportation beyond walking. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Camera or smartphone for photos, Comfortable walking shoes, Weather-appropriate clothing, Water bottle. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Late morning (10:00am-12:00pm) offers good light for photography and smaller crowds than afternoon slots..

Tip: Photography encouraged

Tip: Small group sizes

Accessibility: Moderate walking on city streets and some uneven ground. Not wheelchair accessible on Peace Wall sections..

Operator: Paddy Campbell's Tours | Book directly (opens in new tab)

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Peace Walls (On route walk)
• Linen Hall Library (10 min walk)

This activity is run by Paddy Campbell's Tours.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before; non-refundable within 24 hours.

Accessibility: Moderate walking on city streets and some uneven ground. Not wheelchair accessible on Peace Wall sections..

Best time to go: Late morning (10:00am-12:00pm) offers good light for photography and smaller crowds than afternoon slots..

Is it safe to visit the Peace Walls?

Yes. Tours operate in safe, designated areas. Falls Road and Shankill Road are visited by thousands of tourists annually with guides. The neighborhoods are residential and used to visitors. Tour groups stay together and guides manage the route.

Will I see murals on both sides?

Yes. This tour specifically covers both republican (Falls Road) and unionist (Shankill Road) murals. You'll see how each community uses street art to tell different historical narratives.

How long do we spend at each location?

Typically 15-20 minutes per major mural or section, allowing time to examine details and discuss meaning. The guide adapts based on group interest.