In the Footsteps of Seamus Heaney | Private Car Tour

Belfast , United Kingdom

In the Footsteps of Seamus Heaney | Private Car Tour

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(2 reviews)

6h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

InSite Tours Ireland provides travelers with award-winning, customized experiences that highlight the finest aspects of Ireland's culture, history, and landscapes.

This unique and intimate journey offers a profound connection to the landscapes and moments that inspired Nobel Prizewinning Poet Seamus Heaney, brought to life by Fergal Kearney's personal stories and insights. Whether you're new to Heaney's work or deeply familiar with it, the tour promises an emotionally enriching experience, steeped in the poet's heritage and the beauty of his homeland.

This Seamus Heaney tour provides an exclusive, immersive journey into the poet's world, offering guests a deep, personal connection to the landscapes and inspirations behind his work.

Available options

In the Footsteps of Seamus Heaney | Private Car Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Bottled water

Live commentary on board

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The beautiful Lanyon Building at Queens is one of Belfast's landmark architectural gems, but adjacent to this is the Seamus Heaney Library, dedicated in his honour as both student and teacher.

We will take a detour to take in the panorama of Seamus Heaney's beloved South Derry, a living breathing map of the places celebrated in his work. We will stop at the ancient coaching inn at Crosskeys for some refreshments.

In his seminal poem 'The Lough Neagh Sequence' Heaney charts the astonishing journey of the Lough Neagh Eel from the Sargasso Sea, across the Atlantic and upriver on the Bann to Lough Neagh. On this visit you will see the existing Fishery which keeps the tradition of Eel Fishing alive in this community.

We will take in the local GAA grounds where the Heaney's played Gaelic Football, then pass by the Forge at Hillhead, which features in one of Seamus Heaney's earliest poems from A Door Into the Dark.

We will not be taking to the water, but we will visit The Strand at Lough Beg, Seamus Heaney's 'favourite place in the world'. Here you will listen to his poem of that name that commemorates his cousin who was murdered during the Troubles.

We will visit the award-winning Tap House Bar and Restaurant to enjoy a sumptous local lunch, prepared using locally sourced produce. Extra Cost.

When Seamus Heaney died in August 2013, he took the local community by surprise by choosing his native Bellaghy as his final resting place. He he lies, his gravestone facing westwards over his beloved Tamlaghduff with the simple epitaph 'Walk on Air Against Your Better Judgement'.

Seamus Heaney's final public act for this community in Bellaghy was the unveiling in April 2008 of The Turf Man by artist David Annand. Inspired by his seminal poem 'Digging', Seamus said of the sculpture at its unveiling, 'it is the right image, in the right place'.

Before we visit the Seamus Heaney HomePlace, we will stop for lunch at the adjacent Tap House Bar and Restaurant. The HomePlace is a purpose built museum the pays homage to the great poet and his lifetime's work. During your tour you can hear Seamus hauntingly reading his own poems as you take a journey through his life.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Minimum age is 16 years

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Meeting point

Go to the front entrance of The Guildhall. You will be met there by your driver/guide.

Important notes

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Be weather prepared. Our climate can change quite suddenly so always bring wet/cold weather clothing.

If you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier as soon as possible your Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time so that appropriate arrangements can be made

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

About Belfast

Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a vibrant city with a rich maritime, industrial, and political history. Known for its Titanic heritage, friendly locals, and dynamic cultural scene, it offers a unique blend of historical sites, modern attractions, and stunning natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Titanic Belfast

A world-class museum dedicated to the Titanic, offering interactive exhibits and a fascinating insight into Belfast's shipbuilding heritage.

Historical 2-3 hours £22-£26

Belfast Castle

A beautiful 19th-century castle set in the Cave Hill Country Park, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

St. George's Market

A historic market offering a variety of food, crafts, and entertainment. It's one of the few remaining Victorian markets in the UK.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free entry, food and crafts for purchase

Crumlin Road Gaol

A former Victorian prison that has been restored to its original condition, offering guided tours and insights into Belfast's criminal history.

Historical 1-2 hours £12-£15

Botanic Gardens

A beautiful public park featuring a variety of plants, trees, and flowers, as well as the Palm House and Tropical Ravine House.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ulster Fry

A hearty breakfast consisting of soda bread, potato bread, bacon, sausage, black and white pudding, eggs, and tomato.

Breakfast Contains meat and gluten

Irish Stew

A traditional stew made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Chippey

A traditional fish and chip shop serving battered fish, chips, and various sides.

Dinner Contains fish and gluten

Belfast Bap

A soft, white bread roll filled with a sausage, bacon, or egg.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains meat and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cave Hill Country Park Crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Kayaking on Lough Neagh Strolling through Botanic Gardens Enjoying a spa day Sipping coffee in a trendy cafe Exploring the Ulster Museum Attending a performance at the Grand Opera House

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and sunniest time of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals. However, it's also the busiest tourist season.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Irish (Gaelic)
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) in winter, BST (UTC+1) in summer

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Belfast is generally safe, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis and check the fare before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Belfast International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) northwest of the city center
George Best Belfast City Airport • 3 km (2 miles) east of the city center

By train

Belfast Central Station, Belfast Lanyon Place Station

By bus

Belfast Europa Buscentre

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Belfast, with a comprehensive network covering the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cathedral Quarter Titanic Quarter Belfast City Centre Stranmillis The Ormeau Road

Day trips

Giant's Causeway

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a unique natural formation of interlocking basalt columns.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

70 km (43 miles) • Half day

A thrilling rope bridge spanning a 23-meter (75-foot) chasm, offering stunning views of the coastline.

Dunluce Castle

80 km (50 miles) • Half day

A dramatic medieval castle perched on a cliff, offering a glimpse into Northern Ireland's past.

Festivals

Belfast International Arts Festival • October Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival • May Belfast Mela • August

Pro tips

Take a black cab tour to learn about Belfast's history and political landscape from a local perspective.
Visit the Cathedral Quarter for a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants, and cultural venues.
Explore the Titanic Quarter, home to the Titanic Belfast museum and a variety of attractions.
Stroll through Botanic Gardens and visit the nearby Ulster Museum and Palm House.
Try local delicacies like the Ulster Fry and Belfast Bap at St. George's Market.