Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich: Belfast’s Vibrant Irish Language and Cultural Hub
A vibrant cultural centre celebrating Irish language, arts, and heritage in Belfast’s historic Falls Road community.
Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich is a dynamic arts and cultural centre located on Belfast’s Falls Road, housed in a beautifully restored former Presbyterian church. Celebrating Irish language and culture, it offers theatre, music, visual arts, literary events, and workshops, alongside a café, gallery, and gift shop. The centre is a cornerstone of Belfast’s Gaeltacht Quarter, fostering community and heritage through immersive experiences and traditional music sessions.
A brief summary to Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich
- 216 Falls Rd, Belfast, BT12 6AH, GB
- +442890964180
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-9 pm
- Saturday 9 am-9 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Saturdays to enjoy free traditional Irish music sessions in the café from 12 to 2 pm.
- Book a ‘Gaeltacht experience’ evening for an immersive cultural night with food, music, and dance.
- Explore the Gerard Dillon art gallery to see compelling Irish art within the modern extension.
- Check accessibility details in advance to ensure a comfortable visit, as the centre is committed to inclusivity.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Metro bus services 10 or 10A from Belfast city centre to Falls Road; journey time is approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evening services. A single ticket costs around £2.50.
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Black Taxi Tour
Join a guided Black Taxi Tour from central Belfast, which includes a stop at Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich. Tours last about 2 hours and provide rich historical context. Prices typically range from £30 to £50 per person.
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Walking
From Belfast city centre, walking to Cultúrlann takes about 40-50 minutes along urban streets with some inclines. The route is accessible but urban, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich
A Living Testament to Irish Language and Culture
Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich stands proudly on the Falls Road in Belfast, occupying a former Presbyterian church that echoes the city’s complex history. Founded in 1991, the centre was named after two eminent Gaelic scholars, Robert Shipboy McAdam and Tomas Ó Fiaich, whose legacies embody the preservation and celebration of the Irish language. This cultural beacon has grown from humble beginnings into a vibrant hub for Irish language initiatives and artistic expression in one of Belfast’s most socially and economically challenged areas.Architectural and Artistic Heritage
The building itself is a striking example of adaptive reuse, combining historic ecclesiastical architecture with a modern curved extension that houses the Gerard Dillon art gallery. This gallery is a highlight for art lovers, showcasing works that reflect Irish identity and heritage. Inside, visitors find a welcoming café, a book and gift shop, and an interactive exhibition space that explores the evolution of the Irish language and its influence on English, featuring words like 'shanty' and 'kybosh' with Irish origins.A Hub for Community and Performance
Cultúrlann is much more than a gallery; it is a lively cultural centre hosting theatre productions, poetry readings, music concerts, and workshops for all ages. Traditional Irish music sessions occur regularly, especially on Saturdays, where visitors can enjoy live performances or even join in with their instruments. The centre also offers unique experiences such as the ‘Gaeltacht experience’ evenings, combining traditional meals with live music, song, dance, and céilí dancing lessons, immersing guests fully in Irish cultural traditions.Historical Significance and Social Impact
The centre’s location on the Falls Road situates it within a historically significant area known for its role during the Troubles and its ongoing cultural renaissance. Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich has been instrumental in revitalizing the Gaeltacht Quarter, fostering a thriving Irish-speaking community and serving as a symbol of cultural resilience. It bridges diverse traditions, reflecting the city’s layered history while promoting inclusivity and artistic innovation.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors to Cultúrlann can explore the art gallery, participate in workshops, attend performances, or simply relax in the café. The centre’s tourist information point provides insights into Irish language and culture, making it an educational as well as an entertaining destination. Accessibility features ensure that the centre welcomes a broad audience, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting, blending tradition with contemporary cultural vibrancy.Legacy of Its Namesakes
Robert Shipboy McAdam was a 19th-century Presbyterian businessman and linguist passionate about the Irish language, founding the Ulster Gaelic Society and compiling important Irish manuscripts. Tomas Ó Fiaich was a noted Irish language scholar and historian who served as President of St Patrick’s College, Maynooth, and played a significant role in Irish public life during the Troubles. Their dedication to Irish culture and language is deeply embedded in the centre’s mission and identity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visit West Belfast
0.1 km
Your gateway to the vibrant culture, history, and community of West Belfast on the iconic Falls Road.
Falls Rd
0.3 km
Political murals, peace walls, and powerful stories of resilience in West Belfast's iconic Republican heartland.
Belfast Peace Lines
1.0 km
Where a single night in 1969 ignited decades of conflict and left scars still visible today.
Peace Wall Belfast
1.0 km
A barrier transformed into a canvas of hope—Belfast's Peace Wall tells stories of division, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Shaftesbury Square
1.7 km
A historic and bustling junction in Belfast where Victorian heritage meets vibrant modern city life.
Lord Kelvin Statue
1.9 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s own Lord Kelvin with this striking bronze statue set in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Belfastlad Tours
1.9 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with personalized tours led by passionate locals at Belfastlad Tours.
The Back Of Boots
2.0 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
2.0 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
2.0 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
2.0 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
2.0 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.
Frederick Temple Memorial
2.0 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Belfast City Hall Tours
2.1 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Treasure Trails
2.1 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rise Sculpture
0.4 km
Belfast’s towering steel sculpture symbolizing hope, unity, and a new dawn for the city’s future.
Bobby Sands Mural
0.8 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.
Clonard Monastery
0.9 km
A historic sanctuary in Belfast blending Gothic beauty, spiritual devotion, and a legacy of peace and reconciliation.
Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden
1.0 km
A tranquil Belfast garden honoring local martyrs of the Troubles with poignant memorials and serene landscaping.
George Best Statue
1.0 km
A life-size bronze tribute capturing George Best’s legendary football artistry, standing proud near Belfast’s Windsor Park stadium.
Irish Republican History Museum
1.1 km
Explore the profound history of Ireland at the Irish Republican History Museum, where stories of resilience and independence come to life.
St Peter's Cathedral
1.3 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Belfast, symbolizing faith, history, and community resilience with its iconic twin spires and vibrant worship life.
Milltown Cemetery
1.3 km
Discover Belfast’s Milltown Cemetery, a profound site of history, memory, and community rooted in Catholic heritage and the Troubles.
Shankill Graveyard
1.5 km
Explore Belfast’s oldest cemetery, where centuries of history, stories, and community spirit rest beneath tranquil grounds on the historic Shankill Road.
George Best Mural
1.6 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s football icon with the vibrant George Best Mural, a cultural landmark honoring local pride and sporting greatness.
Giants Causeway Tour
1.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and legendary charm of the Giant's Causeway on a guided tour from Belfast, a remarkable natural wonder not to be missed.
The Stroud Street Murals
1.6 km
Explore Belfast’s Stroud Street Murals—an open-air gallery celebrating punk heritage, urban wildlife, and creative innovation on vibrant Victorian walls.
McCombs Coaches
1.7 km
Comfortable and engaging coach tours from Belfast to Northern Ireland’s iconic sights, including the Giant’s Causeway and historic castles.
Grand Opera House
1.7 km
Belfast’s magnificent Victorian theatre with an exquisite oriental-style auditorium, hosting world-class performances since 1895.
Robinsons Bar
1.8 km
Discover Robinsons Bar in Belfast: a lively pub offering local brews, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Essential places to dine
Shu Restaurant Belfast
1.5 km
Experience refined modern French cuisine with Irish influences in Belfast’s stylish Shu Restaurant and lively Juls Bar.
Causeway Cafe
1.7 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Causeway Cafe in Belfast—your cozy retreat for delicious meals and warm hospitality.
Holohan's Pantry
1.7 km
Authentic Irish flavors with a contemporary twist in Belfast’s vibrant University Road dining scene.
Villa Italia
1.7 km
A beloved Belfast institution serving authentic Italian stone-baked pizzas and classic pasta dishes in a warm Georgian setting.
The Ginger Bistro
1.7 km
Vibrant modern European bistro celebrating local produce and exceptional hospitality in Belfast's city centre.
Darcy's Belfast
1.7 km
A warm, family-run bistro serving hearty traditional Irish dishes with local ingredients in a cozy Belfast setting.
Hope Street Restaurant Belfast
1.8 km
Fresh Northern Irish cuisine in an intimate Belfast setting, perfectly positioned for pre-theatre dining and special occasions.
The Teal Monkey
1.8 km
A lively modern European restaurant in Belfast blending quirky decor, fresh flavors, and live music for a memorable dining experience.
A Peculiar Tea
1.8 km
Where afternoon tea becomes a story-driven escape into imagination and culinary wonder.
Deanes at Queens
1.8 km
Experience modern European cuisine with Michelin-recognized quality in Belfast’s vibrant University Quarter, overlooking picturesque College Gardens.
Howard Street
1.8 km
Elegant modern European dining in Belfast’s vibrant city center, blending Irish tradition with contemporary flair.
The Lantern Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience the best of British and modern European cuisine at The Lantern Restaurant in Belfast—where flavors meet tradition.
Actons restaurant
1.8 km
Belfast's premier gluten-free dining destination with exceptional Irish cuisine and dedicated celiac protocols.
EDO Restaurant
1.8 km
Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
JAMES ST
1.9 km
Experience Belfast’s finest chargrilled steaks and warm hospitality in a stylish yet relaxed setting at James St.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Alchemy and Ashes NI
0.5 km
A west Belfast haven for crystals, tarot, alternative fashion, and esoteric gifts in a moody, intimate setting.
Noor Bazaar
1.6 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
The Kennedy Centre
1.6 km
A lively shopping and entertainment hub in West Belfast, blending community spirit with diverse retail and leisure options.
Deja Vu
1.7 km
Discover Belfast’s premier boutique for exquisite pre-loved designer fashion and exceptional personal service on Lisburn Road.
Great Northern Mall
1.7 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
Olive & Rose Apparels
1.8 km
Explore the latest fashion trends at Olive & Rose Apparels, a stylish boutique in the heart of Belfast, offering unique clothing for every occasion.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
2.0 km
Explore the heart of Irish culture at Norn Irish Gift Shop in Belfast, where unique souvenirs and artisan crafts await every traveler.
The Holy Shop
2.0 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
The Name Shops - Belfast
2.0 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
Little Heart
2.0 km
Discover heartfelt wire art and whimsical keepsakes in Belfast's sole Victorian arcade—a boutique gem blending heritage charm with personal creativity.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
2.1 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
2.1 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
Top Gift
2.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Top Gift, Belfast's charming gift shop offering an eclectic selection for every traveler.
Fuzz Vintage
2.2 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.
Emporio
2.2 km
Discover timeless elegance and bespoke designer womenswear at Emporio, Belfast’s trusted boutique for over 30 years.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lavery's
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavery's, Belfast's premier pub and comedy club, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
The Woodworkers
1.8 km
Belfast's top rotating tap room: craft beers on rotation, timber warmth, board games, and platters in Queen's Quarter's lively heart.
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.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
1.9 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
1.9 km
A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
Pug Uglys
1.9 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
The Broken shaker Belfast
1.9 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
Maddens
2.0 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
Limelight Lounge
2.1 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
Margot
2.1 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
Sunflower Public House
2.2 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.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Monico Bars
2.2 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
The Garrick
2.3 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Honey
0.1 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Alibi
1.7 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
1.8 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Voodoo
2.0 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Thompsons Garage
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
2.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
The Art Department
2.3 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Shoe Factory
2.3 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Anthology Ni
2.3 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Kremlin
2.3 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
2.3 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Ollie's Belfast
2.5 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Craics Ninety
2.5 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Club Lux
2.5 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
16.3 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
- Cultural Heritage
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
