Walk in the footsteps of thousands of prisoners at Crumlin Road Gaol – Northern Ireland’s only remaining Victorian-era prison.
Since its opening in 1846, these foreboding walls have confined murderers, suffragettes and political rebels alike. Although Crumlin Road Gaol closed in 1996, it has since been transformed into a thought-provoking and memorable visitor attraction, as well as a unique venue for conferences, concerts and events. Inside the gaol, you’ll visit the places where prisoners endured a harsh regimen of hard labour, isolation and corporal punishment. Men, women and children were imprisoned here for crimes ranging from petty theft to murder, and 17 men were executed by hanging between 1854 and 1961.
Crumlin Road Gaol, Belfast
Courtesy of Tony Pleavin for Tourism Northern Ireland
You can explore Crumlin at your own pace on a self-guided tour, which takes you through the sprawling C-Wing, the Condemned Man’s Cell and the chilling execution cell. Video, audio and hologram elements – along with interviews with former prisoners – bring the gaol’s gripping history sharply into focus. Allow for around 60-90 minutes to enjoy the experience to the full and while pre-booking is not essential, it is advised.
For a truly immersive experience, the gaol offers its own take on movie night. At the “Solitary Screening”, you can take a seat in one of the solitary cells and watch a film. The evening kicks off at Cuff’s Bar and Grill at 7pm with a two-course dinner before you are led to your cell to enjoy popcorn, soft drinks and a film screening. While the event takes place monthly, there are limited tickets available so advanced online booking is a must.
If that sounds a little eerie, there’s a more genteel way to experience the gaol with Afternoon Tea, or keep your eye out on the website for special events, tours and concerts.
Make the most out of your visit to Belfast with these great experiences
Food and drink at Crumlin Road GaolCuffs at Crumlin Road Gaol is located within the gaol’s former kitchen and is all about locally sourced food. Alongside classics like burgers and fish and chips, you can enjoy Irish beef stew, roast of the day and loaded fries. It’s a popular spot with locals and you don’t have to be visiting the gaol to eat there.
Open daily, the Yard Café is a more casual spot at the gaol, serving a selection of hot and cold drinks and snacks.
Explore more of Belfast’s buzzing food scene
Mural, Falls Road, Belfast
Courtesy of Tony Pleavin for Tourism Northern Ireland
To discover more about Belfast’s fascinating past, pair your gaol visit with a Black Taxi Tour. You’ll travel across the city in the comfort of one of Belfast’s iconic black taxis, taking in many of the famous murals that offer a powerful insight into Northern Ireland’s history. Your guide will talk you through the stories behind each mural, bringing context and perspective to everything that you see. You’ll also have opportunities to stop, take pictures and sign your name on the Peace Wall – a memorable way to mark your visit.
At the Titanic Quarter, Belfast’s maritime history can be enjoyed in all its glory with the SS Nomadic (the world’s last surviving White Star Line ship) and HMS Caroline, a WWI light cruiser. But it’s Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience, that’s really the star of the show. Step inside this shimmering titanium giant and you’ll find state-of-the-art interactive displays and compelling exhibitions.
At the heart of Belfast’s social and cultural scene, the Cathedral Quarter is the go-to for an afternoon of galleries and an evening of socialising. Visit MAC Belfast for dynamic exhibitions, before partaking in culture of a different sort in traditional pubs such as the John Hewitt.
