Bespoke Friars Bush Ancient Graveyard Tour
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Bespoke Friars Bush Ancient Graveyard Tour

Active
(1 reviews)
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

-An Exclusive Tour for the more discerning traveller
-Experienced/Qualified Professional Guide
-All entance fees/costs covered
-Skip the line fasttrack entry
-Max of x15 per tour
-Fully wireless audio earpieces (if requested)
-Excellent for Family groups.

Belfast offers a unique blend of history & heritage & culture. The Queens University area is a bustling hub with centuries of rich history seamlessly merging with contemporary life. Explore & enjoy the Botanical Gardens to savour its beauty, its Palm House & Tropical Ravine. Then exclusive access to the 5th century 'Ancient Graveyard of Friars Bush' Enjoy the award winning Ulster Museum that tells the story of Ireland.
This tour has something for everyone with chic cafés and lively pubs for 'apres un verre' that pulse with energy. Join our award winning guides on a cultural journey in the heart of Belfast, that invites exploration, celebrates its past, embraces the future while offering the charm of a welcoming, walkable metropolis.

Available options

Friars Bush Ancient Graveyard

Friars Bush Ancient Graveyard.

What's included

Fast track no queuing and exclusive private access to sites.
Visit the Victorian splendour of The Tropical Ravine and Palm House in the Botanical Gardens
Exclusive access to protected 5th Century Ancient Graveyard Site.
Visit the fabulous Ulster Museum, that tells the story of Ireland from mythical druids to modern day
Tour is led by an experienced, qualified and professional academic and local historian tour guide.

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Queen's University Belfast is one of the leading universities of Ireland with a distinguished heritage and history. Founded in 1845 as Queen's College Belfast.
The Lanyon Building (Iconic Main Building) was designed by Sir Charles Lanyon in the mid-19th century, this Gothic Revival masterpiece is one of Belfast’s most photographed buildings. With its dramatic red brick, arched windows, and stone detailing, it's a jaw-dropper for fans of architecture and history alike. Behind the main façade, travelers will find a peaceful, open courtyard surrounded by cloisters, a quiet haven that feels like stepping back in time. Visit the Naughton Gallery a contemporary art space located within the university that features rotating exhibitions from local and international artists. Small but stylish, a creative dimension to the experience.
Visit the historic 'Great Hall' filled with portraits of former chancellors and stunning stained-glass windows. It’s a grand setting often used for many events.

2
Stop 2

Botanic Gardens in Belfast opened in 1828, is one of its most popular tourist destinations. You enter a serene, visually stunning, and culturally rich experience.
The Palm House, a Victorian Glasshouse is one of the oldest examples of a curvilinear cast-iron glasshouse in the world. Inside, you'll find exotic tropical plants, seasonal floral displays, and a warm, humid oasis that contrasts beautifully with Belfast's weather.
The Tropical Ravine is a newly restored Victorian building with a lush, jungle-like interior. Visitors can wander through raised walkways and admire rare and ancient plant species, including cinnamon and banana trees.
In spring and summer, the gardens burst into color with meticulously maintained flower beds, rose gardens, and tree-lined paths perfect for strolling or relaxing.
With historic trees Travelers can explore a wide range of native and non-native trees, some dating back over a century, adding depth and history to the walk.

3

At Friar’s Bush Ancient Graveyard in Belfast, you'll discover one of the city’s oldest and most mysterious historical Christian burial sites — a peaceful, atmospheric gem. It blends history, folklore, and a touch of the macabre in the best possible way. Dating back to 5th Century with its weathered stone crosses, moss-covered slabs, and intricately carved headstones line the paths, many with Gaelic inscriptions. See the “Friar’s Stone” said to mark the grave of a medieval monk, this stone is wrapped in legend. According to local folklore, it gave the graveyard its name — and standing before it, travelers can almost feel the weight of centuries.
There is a mass grave from the Famine era. Known as Plaguey Hill. This haunting section of the graveyard contains the remains of 1000's who died during the Great Hunger- Famine and cholera and typhoid outbreaks between 1830-50. Explore elaborately designed family plots and stories of Rebellion and the intrigue of the body-snatching in the 1800s.

4
Stop 4

Ulster Museum in Belfast, they’re in for a dynamic, all-ages experience that weaves together art, history, science, and natural wonders — all under one roof. Located in the heart of the Botanic Gardens, it’s one of the city’s top cultural attractions, making it a must-see for anyone exploring Belfast. The museum houses an impressive collection of fine art, including works by Irish masters and international artists. A powerful and thought-provoking display that walks visitors through Northern Ireland’s complex recent history. Through photographs, objects, and multimedia, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of the conflict that shaped modern Belfast. Visit the Ancient Egyptian Mummy: Takabuti, an Egyptian noblewoman who was brought to Belfast in the 1800s. See the Celtic and Viking Treasures displays and delve into the ancient as well as modern history of Ireland, The Ulster Museum has it all.

What's not included

Gratuity

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No restrictions

Meeting point

Please meet at the front entrance of the University at the metal gates to the front of the main 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.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 1-120
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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