Belfast , United Kingdom

Across the Barricades-Women in conflict

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(23 reviews)

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About this experience

Discover Belfast’s past while exploring life during The Troubles, when conflict, fear, and resilience shaped everyday reality. Guided by two local women — one from a Republican background and one from a Loyalist community — you’ll walk the Falls and Shankill Roads, where murals, streets, and memories reveal how identity, division, and community shaped their childhoods. They share personal stories of loss, strength, everyday routines under threat, and the courage required to hold families and neighborhoods together. Though separated by politics and walls, their experiences reflect a shared determination to protect loved ones and hope for a better future. You’ll also learn how women on both sides supported dialogue, helped sustain the peace process, and continue to work toward reconciliation today. More than a sightseeing tour, this is a reflective, human encounter with lived history — an invitation to hear real voices and understand Belfast through the perspectives of its women.

Available options

Across the Barricades-Women in conflict

What's included

Two Local certified Guides

Detailed itinerary

Was the tallest building in Belfast and house a British Army observation building on its roof and was the location of the tow of the first deaths on the night the troubles broke out in August 1969

A wonderful array of murals depicting local events and international conflicts both past and present.

A garden to remember local Republicans who lost their lives in the conflict from the Lower Falls Road area. One of two gardens that we visit and can be controversial as they honour the dead of IRA members.

Stop 4

One of the most famous murals in Belfast, Booby Sand who died on hunger strike in the Maze prison in 1981

Fr, Alex Reid was the resident priest who was instrumental in the beginning of the talks that eventually led to the Good Friday Agreement being signed.

The second of the Memorial Gardens we visit, this time dedicated to the Republicans of The Clonard area and the location which is generally accepted as being the location where 'The Troubles' broke out in August 1969

Stop 7 Pass by

Gates between the Loyalist Shankill Road and the Republican Falls road that still close nightly

Stop 8

Sign the 14m high "Peace Wall that divides the two communities and leave your thoughts on peace.

A UVF Mural in remembrance of 7 members of the UVF that lost their lives in the Conflict

Stop 10

Shankill Bomb Site where 9 people lost their lives

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

21 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Tour is approximately 3 miles (4km) walking

There is a lot of standing at the local places of interest connected with the troubles

Meeting point

Meet Infront of the Gold Coloured building

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.