Clonard Monastery: Belfast’s Sanctuary of Faith, History, and Peace
A historic sanctuary in Belfast blending Gothic beauty, spiritual devotion, and a legacy of peace and reconciliation.
Clonard Monastery, founded in 1896 in West Belfast, is a striking early French Gothic Catholic church and monastery. It is renowned for its spiritual significance, intricate mosaic altar, and pivotal role in peacebuilding during Northern Ireland’s Troubles. A vibrant community hub, it hosts the annual Novena of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, drawing pilgrims and visitors seeking reflection, history, and reconciliation.
A brief summary to Clonard Monastery
- 1 Clonard Gardens, Belfast, BT13 2RL, GB
- +442890445950
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Attend the annual Novena of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour in November to experience the monastery’s spiritual heart.
- Take time to explore the intricate mosaic altar and the relic of St. Gerald Majella inside the church.
- Visit during weekdays between 9 AM and 5 PM when the monastery is open for services and quiet reflection.
- Explore the surrounding area, including the nearby Peace Wall and murals, to understand the monastery’s role in Belfast’s history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Bus
Take Metro buses serving the Falls Road corridor from Belfast city center; journey times range from 20 to 30 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, and the stop at Clonard Gardens is a short walk from the monastery. Tickets cost approximately £2.50–£3.50 one way.
-
Black Taxi Tour
Join a Black Cab tour from central Belfast, which typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours and includes Clonard Monastery along with nearby Peace Wall and murals. Prices vary around £30–£40 per person. Tours provide insightful historical context but require advance booking.
-
Walking
Walking from the city center to Clonard Monastery takes about 45 to 60 minutes along mostly flat urban terrain. The route passes through diverse neighborhoods and is accessible for most walkers, though not suitable for wheelchairs due to some uneven pavements.
Clonard Monastery location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Cold Weather
Discover more about Clonard Monastery
Origins and Architectural Grandeur
Founded in 1896 by the Redemptorist order, Clonard Monastery was established to serve Belfast's growing Catholic working-class population. Initially a modest tin church, it was replaced in 1911 by the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer, a magnificent building designed in early French Gothic style by Ludwig Oppenheimer. The monastery complex combines spiritual purpose with architectural beauty, featuring intricate stonework and a stunning mosaic altar that captivates visitors with its craftsmanship and devotional symbolism.A Pillar of Community and Spiritual Life
More than a place of worship, Clonard Monastery has long been a center for community engagement and spiritual renewal. It hosts numerous religious ceremonies including baptisms, weddings, and daily Masses. The annual Novena of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour is a major event attracting over 100,000 pilgrims from across Ireland, Catholic and Protestant alike, fostering unity through shared faith and devotion. The monastery also supports outreach programs, offering guidance and aid to the local community.Beacon of Peace Amidst Conflict
Situated on the interface between the predominantly Catholic Falls Road and Protestant Shankill Road, Clonard Monastery was profoundly affected by the Troubles. It provided sanctuary during outbreaks of violence and became a discreet venue for peace talks. Clergy such as Fathers Alec Reid and Gerry Reynolds played key roles in facilitating dialogue that contributed to the Good Friday Agreement. The monastery remains a symbol of hope, reconciliation, and interfaith cooperation in post-conflict Northern Ireland.Art, Relics, and Reflection
Inside the church, visitors can admire the exquisite mosaic altar and the relic of St. Gerald Majella, which offers a tangible link to faith and history. Throughout the monastery, peaceful spaces invite prayer, meditation, and quiet contemplation. The atmosphere is one of serene spirituality, enhanced by the harmonious blend of historic architecture and sacred art.Clonard’s Role in Belfast’s Cultural Fabric
Beyond its religious functions, Clonard Monastery is a vibrant cultural venue hosting concerts and festivals, notably Féile an Phobail. Its proximity to Belfast’s Peace Wall and murals situates it within the city’s complex historical narrative, making it a poignant stop on tours exploring the legacy of the Troubles and the ongoing journey toward peace.Visiting and Experiencing Clonard
Located at 1 Clonard Gardens, the monastery is accessible to visitors interested in history, architecture, or spiritual reflection. Its welcoming community embraces people of all backgrounds, offering a unique glimpse into Belfast’s religious heritage and peacebuilding efforts. The monastery’s tranquil ambiance provides a sanctuary from the city’s bustle, inviting guests to connect with its enduring message of faith and reconciliation.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Belfast Peace Lines
0.1 km
Where a single night in 1969 ignited decades of conflict and left scars still visible today.
Peace Wall Belfast
0.1 km
A barrier transformed into a canvas of hope—Belfast's Peace Wall tells stories of division, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Visit West Belfast
0.9 km
Your gateway to the vibrant culture, history, and community of West Belfast on the iconic Falls Road.
Falls Rd
1.1 km
Political murals, peace walls, and powerful stories of resilience in West Belfast's iconic Republican heartland.
Belfastlad Tours
1.3 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with personalized tours led by passionate locals at Belfastlad Tours.
Carlisle Circus
1.6 km
A historic North Belfast traffic circus with Victorian roots and a legacy shaped by war, industry, and community life.
The Back Of Boots
1.6 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Clifton Street Graveyard
1.7 km
Two centuries of Belfast's history etched in stone—where Republicans, Unionists, and ordinary citizens rest side by side.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
1.7 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
1.7 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Treasure Trails
1.7 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
1.7 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
1.7 km
Discover the heart of Belfast with a free walking tour that unveils the city's history, culture, and hidden gems through the eyes of local guides.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
1.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich mythology of Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, through guided tours and immersive experiences.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
1.8 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden
0.1 km
A tranquil Belfast garden honoring local martyrs of the Troubles with poignant memorials and serene landscaping.
Bobby Sands Mural
0.4 km
A striking tribute on Falls Road, the Bobby Sands Mural commemorates a pivotal figure in Northern Ireland’s struggle and enduring spirit of resistance.
Irish Republican History Museum
0.4 km
Explore the profound history of Ireland at the Irish Republican History Museum, where stories of resilience and independence come to life.
Shankill Graveyard
0.7 km
Explore Belfast’s oldest cemetery, where centuries of history, stories, and community spirit rest beneath tranquil grounds on the historic Shankill Road.
St Peter's Cathedral
0.8 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Belfast, symbolizing faith, history, and community resilience with its iconic twin spires and vibrant worship life.
Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich
0.9 km
Explore Irish culture at Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich in Belfast, a vibrant center for arts, language, and community engagement.
Rise Sculpture
1.3 km
Belfast’s towering steel sculpture symbolizing hope, unity, and a new dawn for the city’s future.
Carnegie Oldpark
1.3 km
Historic Tudor-style Carnegie Library in North Belfast, now a community-led hub for education, arts, and regeneration.
Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre
1.4 km
Discover the haunting history and architectural beauty of Crumlin Road Gaol in Belfast, a must-visit for tourists seeking to understand Northern Ireland's past.
Grand Opera House
1.5 km
Belfast’s magnificent Victorian theatre with an exquisite oriental-style auditorium, hosting world-class performances since 1895.
St Mary's Church
1.5 km
Belfast’s oldest Catholic church, a symbol of faith, unity, and history with its Romanesque charm and tranquil Lourdes Grotto.
Timescape - Live Escape Games
1.6 km
Dive into immersive, themed escape rooms in Belfast where teamwork and clever puzzles unlock thrilling adventures in just 60 minutes.
Robinsons Bar
1.6 km
Discover Robinsons Bar in Belfast: a lively pub offering local brews, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Philly Pump / The Allotment
1.6 km
Innovative vegan and vegetarian bistro in Belfast offering fresh, locally sourced plant-based dishes in a welcoming, sustainable setting.
Kelly's Cellars
1.6 km
Step into Belfast’s oldest pub, Kelly’s Cellars, where history, traditional music, and hearty Irish fare blend in a timeless city-centre setting.
Essential places to dine
The Lantern Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience the best of British and modern European cuisine at The Lantern Restaurant in Belfast—where flavors meet tradition.
Bank Square Brasserie
1.6 km
French bistro elegance meets Northern Irish ingredients in Belfast's most welcoming modern European brasserie.
Howard Street
1.6 km
Elegant modern European dining in Belfast’s vibrant city center, blending Irish tradition with contemporary flair.
EDO Restaurant
1.6 km
Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
Stix and Stones City Centre
1.6 km
Interactive steakhouse where you cook premium beef on heated stones at your table in vibrant Belfast.
Mourne Seafood Bar
1.6 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a lively, rustic setting in Belfast’s city centre with a welcoming atmosphere.
Home Restaurant
1.6 km
A modern European dining spot in Belfast offering fresh, local flavors with vegan and gluten-free options in a cozy, lively atmosphere.
Yügo
1.6 km
Discover Yügo’s vibrant pan-Asian small plates in Belfast’s stylish industrial setting, perfect for sharing bold, creative flavors.
JAMES ST
1.6 km
Experience Belfast’s finest chargrilled steaks and warm hospitality in a stylish yet relaxed setting at James St.
Actons restaurant
1.6 km
Belfast's premier gluten-free dining destination with exceptional Irish cuisine and dedicated celiac protocols.
Deanes EIPIC
1.6 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s city centre, blending innovation, local ingredients, and elegant atmosphere.
Jumon
1.7 km
Vibrant South Asian vegetarian cuisine with bold flavours and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Belfast.
The Rusty Saddle
1.7 km
Experience the best grilled dishes at The Rusty Saddle in Belfast - where flavor meets atmosphere in a delightful dining experience.
City Picnic
1.7 km
Savor award-winning burgers and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at City Picnic.
The Ginger Bistro
1.7 km
Vibrant modern European bistro celebrating local produce and exceptional hospitality in Belfast's city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Alchemy and Ashes NI
0.4 km
A west Belfast haven for crystals, tarot, alternative fashion, and esoteric gifts in a moody, intimate setting.
Great Northern Mall
1.6 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
The Name Shops - Belfast
1.6 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
The Holy Shop
1.6 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
Top Gift
1.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Top Gift, Belfast's charming gift shop offering an eclectic selection for every traveler.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
1.7 km
Explore the heart of Irish culture at Norn Irish Gift Shop in Belfast, where unique souvenirs and artisan crafts await every traveler.
Little Heart
1.7 km
Discover heartfelt wire art and whimsical keepsakes in Belfast's sole Victorian arcade—a boutique gem blending heritage charm with personal creativity.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
1.7 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
Fuzz Vintage
1.7 km
Unearth timeless retro treasures at Fuzz Vintage, where Belfast's Rosemary Street hides eclectic clothing from decades past in a shopper's paradise of sustainable style.
Noor Bazaar
1.7 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
1.7 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Forsight Belfast
1.8 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
1.8 km
Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
1.8 km
Discover authentic Irish treasures at Carrolls Irish Gifts in Belfast's bustling Castle Place—a shopper's haven for Claddagh rings, Aran knits, Guinness gear, and gourmet hampers evoking the Emerald Isle's timeless charm.
White Stuff Belfast
1.9 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
1.5 km
A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
Maddens
1.5 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
Sunflower Public House
1.6 km
Belfast's authentic corner pub with Troubles-era charm, live music nightly, wood-fired pizzas, and a buzzing garden—where history meets hearty ales and eclectic vibes.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
1.7 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Broken shaker Belfast
1.7 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
The Reporter. Bar
1.7 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Pug Uglys
1.8 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
Monico Bars
1.8 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
Filthy McNastys
1.8 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
The Points
1.8 km
A warm, old-school Dublin Road pub with regular live music, a glowing log fire and an unpretentious atmosphere for evening sessions.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Margot
1.9 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
Lavery's
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavery's, Belfast's premier pub and comedy club, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
The Woodworkers
1.9 km
Belfast's top rotating tap room: craft beers on rotation, timber warmth, board games, and platters in Queen's Quarter's lively heart.
The Dark Horse
1.9 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Honey
0.8 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Voodoo
1.6 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The Art Department
1.7 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Shoe Factory
1.7 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Anthology Ni
1.7 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
1.7 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Kremlin
1.7 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Alibi
1.9 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Thompsons Garage
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
1.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Scratch Nightclub
2.0 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Craics Ninety
2.0 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Ollie's Belfast
2.0 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
2.0 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Saturday Night Nightclub
16.0 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly