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Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden

A tranquil Belfast garden honoring local martyrs of the Troubles with poignant memorials and serene landscaping.

4.5

The Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden in Belfast is a tranquil and poignant space dedicated to commemorating the lives of local martyrs who lost their lives during the Troubles, Northern Ireland's conflict period. Nestled on Bombay Street, the garden features beautifully maintained landscaping, memorial stones inscribed with names and stories, and offers a reflective atmosphere for visitors to honor resilience and remembrance.

A brief summary to Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden

  • 39 Bombay St, Belfast, BT13 2RX, GB
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for a quieter, more reflective experience.
  • Take time to read the inscriptions on the memorial stones to appreciate the personal histories commemorated.
  • Bring a camera to capture the garden’s photogenic corners, especially during golden hour.
  • Maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor to honor the solemnity of the space.
  • Check for any memorial services or community events that may be taking place during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Belfast City Centre, take Metro bus number 10 towards West Belfast. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Alight at the 'Clonard Monastery' stop, then walk about 5 minutes to 39 Bombay Street. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £3.

  • Walking

    If you are in the Falls Road area, a walk to the garden takes around 15-20 minutes on mostly flat terrain. The route is accessible and passes through residential neighborhoods, suitable for most visitors.

  • Taxi

    A taxi ride from Belfast City Centre to the Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Taxi fares generally range from £7 to £12.

Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden

A Place of Reflection and Remembrance

The Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden stands as a solemn tribute in the heart of Belfast, dedicated to the memory of those from the local community who lost their lives during the Troubles, a period of intense conflict in Northern Ireland from the late 1960s to 1998. This garden offers a peaceful retreat away from the city's bustle, where visitors can engage in quiet contemplation amid carefully curated greenery and memorials.

Design and Memorial Features

The garden is meticulously landscaped with winding paths that invite visitors to explore and reflect. Various plaques and memorial stones are placed throughout, each inscribed with the names and stories of martyrs, including members of the IRA, ex-prisoners, political activists, and civilians affected by the conflict. Adjacent to the garden, protective wire grids and the nearby Peace Walls serve as stark reminders of the area's turbulent history.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Located on Bombay Street in the Clonard area, the garden not only commemorates individual sacrifices but also embodies the enduring spirit of the community’s resilience. It stands in the shadow of the Peace Walls, which once divided neighborhoods and symbolized sectarian divisions. The memorial garden is a testament to the hope for peace and reconciliation in a city still healing from its past.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors to the garden often find it a moving experience, with the serene environment fostering introspection. The site is popular with photographers, especially during the golden hour, capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the memorial stones and lush greenery. The atmosphere is respectful and solemn, encouraging visitors to honor the memories of those commemorated here.

Community and Events

The garden occasionally hosts memorial services and community gatherings, reinforcing its role as a living space of remembrance and connection. It is a focal point for local history and cultural heritage, offering insight into the human cost of the Troubles and the ongoing journey toward peace.

Accessibility and Surroundings

Situated at 39 Bombay Street, the garden is accessible from nearby neighborhoods and is within walking distance from public transport stops. Its location allows visitors to combine their visit with exploring other historical sites in Belfast, enriching their understanding of the city’s complex past.

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