Belfast: Black Taxi Cab Tour with Murals & Peace Wall

Summary

Murals, stories & the echoes of Belfast’s divided streets

You’ll ride through Belfast’s most storied neighborhoods in a classic black taxi cab with a local guide who lived through The Troubles. See famous murals along Falls Road and Shankill Road, sign your name on the Belfast Peace Wall, and hear real stories behind each landmark. Expect moments that feel heavy but honest — this tour leaves you thinking long after it ends.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect when our black taxi rolled up outside the hotel in Belfast. The driver — Tommy — greeted us like we were old friends, and before I’d even buckled my seatbelt he was already sharing bits about growing up on these streets. We headed straight for Crumlin Road Gaol, which honestly looked colder than I imagined (and not just because of the drizzle). Tommy pointed out the old stone walls and told us about escapes and attacks during The Troubles — his voice dropped a little when he mentioned the rocket attack in the 90s. It’s wild how recent all this is.

Driving down Shankill Road, you can’t miss the murals. Some are faded, some almost too bright. We stopped so I could get a photo next to one with a huge bonfire painted on it. There were kids playing nearby, laughing like any other city but somehow it felt heavier here. Tommy explained what each mural meant — sometimes pausing to let me take it in or ask questions that probably sounded naive. He talked about British history going back centuries, but also about his own childhood memories of these same narrow streets.

Then came the Peace Wall. It’s massive up close — taller than I pictured — and covered in layers of handwriting. He handed me a marker and said, “Go on then.” My hand shook a bit as I wrote something small next to signatures from people like Clinton and Lady Gaga (which made me laugh). You can still smell spray paint if you get close enough. After that we drove along Falls Road where Tommy showed us more murals — some new, some changing every month. He told stories about families displaced during The Troubles and pointed out where British soldiers once watched from above the Divis flats.

I keep thinking about how open Tommy was about everything: fear, pride, hope. Two hours went fast but it stuck with me way longer than that ride did.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Belfast's conflict history

• Pass Crumlin Road Gaol
• Visit Shankill murals and bonfires
• See monastery of secret peace talks
• Write peace quote on Peace Wall
• View Divis flats British Army base
• Tour Falls Road murals and history
• Observe republican murals supporting causes

Top questions

How long does the Belfast black taxi cab tour last?

The private black taxi cab tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, hotel or port pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Which sites will we visit during the tour?

You’ll visit Crumlin Road Gaol, Shankill Road, Falls Road Belfast, Divis flats area, and the Belfast Peace Wall.

Can I get out to take photos at the murals?

Yes, there are stops along Shankill Road and Falls Road for photos of murals and bonfires.

Do we get to write on the Belfast Peace Wall?

Yes, you’ll have a chance to sign your name or write a peace quote on the wall during your visit.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this private black taxi cab tour.

Is transport provided throughout the whole experience?

Your transport is by private vehicle (classic London black cab) for the entire duration of the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes private transport by classic black taxi cab with pickup from your hotel or port in Belfast, a professional local guide who shares personal stories throughout stops at Crumlin Road Gaol, Shankill Road, Falls Road Belfast and the Peace Wall — plus time to get out for photos and even sign your name on one of those famous walls before being dropped off again at your starting point.