1798 A Belfast Rebellion Walking Tour
Active
2h
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
“1798 – A Belfast Rebellion” is a 2 ½ hour walking tour within the city centre, uncovering Georgian Belfast and individuals who hoped for a better future.
The tour starts and finishes at the gates of City Hall and tells the story of the origins and formation of the United Irishmen in Belfast, through to the 1798 Rebellion and its suppression. We will lead you through the important sites that remain today and introduce you to those who fanned the flames of Rebellion.
You will learn what life was like for the Presbyterian’s of early Belfast, who were successful merchants and yet excluded from political influence, and discover how and why they allied with the Irish Catholics in an attempt to establish a more equal society for everyone on the island.
Come and learn how these enlightened sparks lit a flame that set Ireland on fire.
Available options
1798 A Belfast Rebellion Walking Tour
What's included
Vox whisper set to hear your guide clearly at all times
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Our guide will begin the tour with an introduction to the history leading up to the United Irishmen Rebellion of 1798.
2
Discover the history of the library and it's most infamous librarian, the United Irishman, Thomas Russell.
3
Hear how the penal laws impacted on Ireland's Catholics, and how the chapel was established in the late eighteenth century.
4
A secret meeting place for the United Irishmen as they plotted their rebellion, and an amazing, historic pub.
5
Hear how the Presbyterians became wealthy merchants in Belfast, and the most famous members of this church.
6
Hear about the most important meetings to take place in the Assembly Rooms, from the court martial of Henry Joy McCracken to the failed proposal for a Belfast slaveship company.
7
The first church in Belfast stood on this site, which is also the location from where Belfast gets it's name.
8
Discover the influence of the Joy family on Belfast, and how these historic Entries in the oldest part of the city have now become an outdoor art gallery.
9
Stop 9
Finish your tour at the statue of Mary Ann McCracken, an abolitionist, educator, and United Irishwoman.
What's not included
Gratuities for your guide (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.9
19 reviews
5★
18
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1
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
We meet outside the front gates of City Hall, on Donegall Square North. Your guide will be wearing a blck jacket with the DC Tours logo on the left breast.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
