Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum
A grassroots museum in West Belfast preserving Irish republican history through personal artefacts, prison craft, and powerful stories from 1798 to the Troubles.
Housed in the historic Conway Mill on Belfast’s Falls Road, this grassroots museum preserves the story of Irish republicanism from 1798 through the Troubles. Through personal artefacts, prison craft, weapons, and archival material, it offers an intimate, community-driven perspective on a complex chapter of Irish history. Open Tuesday to Saturday, it’s a quiet but powerful space for reflection and understanding.
A brief summary to Irish Republican History Museum
- 5 Conway Pl, Belfast, BT13 2DA, GB
- +442890240504
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-2 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-2 pm
- Thursday 10 am-2 pm
- Friday 10 am-2 pm
- Saturday 10 am-2 pm
Local tips
- Check opening times before visiting; the museum is only open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00–14:00, and may close for events or appointments.
- Allow time to speak with staff; many have personal or family connections to the history and can offer valuable context.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Falls Road to see political murals and other republican memorials in the area.
- Be respectful of the sensitive nature of the material; this is a space of memory and political identity for many in the community.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take Glider route G1 from Belfast city centre; get off near the Falls Road and walk a few minutes to Conway Mill. The journey takes about 20–25 minutes, and the service runs frequently during the day.
-
Walking
From Belfast City Hall, follow the Falls Road west for about 40 minutes. The route passes through the city centre and into West Belfast, offering views of political murals and the changing urban landscape along the way.
-
Taxi
A black taxi or private hire cab from the city centre takes around 10–15 minutes. Drivers familiar with the area can also provide context about the Falls Road and surrounding neighbourhoods if requested.
Irish Republican History Museum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Irish Republican History Museum
A Community’s Living Memory
Tucked inside the Conway Mill complex just off the Falls Road, the Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum is less a formal institution and more a living archive of Irish republican history. Named after Eileen Hickey, a former republican prisoner and activist whose decades of collecting formed the core of the collection, the museum is run as a community project. It focuses on the Irish republican struggle from the 1798 rebellion through the War of Independence, the Civil War, and into the Troubles, presenting history through the lens of those who lived it. The space is modest, but densely packed with photographs, newspapers, posters, and personal items that together form a powerful narrative of resistance, imprisonment, and political identity.Prison, Craft, and Resistance
One of the museum’s most striking features is its emphasis on the experience of republican prisoners. A reconstructed cell from Armagh Women’s Gaol, complete with a bed and cell door, offers a visceral sense of incarceration. Alongside it are handcrafted items made by prisoners in Long Kesh and other jails: intricately carved wooden harps, model caravans, and other objects created during long years of imprisonment. These pieces are not just souvenirs; they are acts of resilience and creativity, often made from smuggled or improvised materials. The museum also displays weapons used during the Troubles, ammunition, and items related to the Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association, placing armed struggle within a broader context of civil and political activism.Personal Stories and Political Struggle
The collection is deeply personal, filled with belongings of individual republicans, letters, and tributes to those who died in the conflict. Exhibits include a jacket worn by IRA volunteer Mairead Farrell while in prison, as well as memorials to civilians and combatants killed during the Troubles. These items are presented with a focus on human experience rather than glorification, inviting visitors to consider the cost of conflict and the motivations behind it. The museum also functions as an educational resource, with a library and interpretive centre used for research and community projects, ensuring that the stories it holds continue to be studied and discussed by new generations.A Place of Reflection and Dialogue
Visiting the museum is a quiet, contemplative experience. The atmosphere is respectful and intimate, shaped by the fact that it is run by those with direct connections to the history it presents. Staff are often happy to share context and personal insights, making the visit feel like a conversation rather than a passive viewing. Because the museum is small and community-based, it doesn’t aim for neutrality; instead, it offers a clear republican perspective, one that is essential for understanding the political and cultural landscape of West Belfast. For visitors seeking to move beyond headlines and murals, this is a place where the human dimension of the conflict comes sharply into focus.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Belfast Peace Lines
0.4 km
Where a single night in 1969 ignited decades of conflict and left scars still visible today.
Peace Wall Belfast
0.4 km
A barrier transformed into a canvas of hope—Belfast's Peace Wall tells stories of division, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Belfastlad Tours
0.9 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with personalized tours led by passionate locals at Belfastlad Tours.
Visit West Belfast
1.1 km
Your gateway to the vibrant culture, history, and community of West Belfast on the iconic Falls Road.
The Back Of Boots
1.2 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Carlisle Circus
1.3 km
A historic North Belfast traffic circus with Victorian roots and a legacy shaped by war, industry, and community life.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
1.3 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Treasure Trails
1.3 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Falls Rd
1.3 km
Political murals, peace walls, and powerful stories of resilience in West Belfast's iconic Republican heartland.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
1.3 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
1.3 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.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
1.3 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
1.4 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
1.4 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Clifton Street Graveyard
1.4 km
Two centuries of Belfast's history etched in stone—where Republicans, Unionists, and ordinary citizens rest side by side.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bobby Sands Mural
0.2 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.
St Peter's Cathedral
0.4 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Belfast, symbolizing faith, history, and community resilience with its iconic twin spires and vibrant worship life.
Clonard Monastery
0.4 km
A historic sanctuary in Belfast blending Gothic beauty, spiritual devotion, and a legacy of peace and reconciliation.
Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden
0.5 km
A tranquil Belfast garden honoring local martyrs of the Troubles with poignant memorials and serene landscaping.
Shankill Graveyard
0.9 km
Explore Belfast’s oldest cemetery, where centuries of history, stories, and community spirit rest beneath tranquil grounds on the historic Shankill Road.
Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich
1.1 km
Explore Irish culture at Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich in Belfast, a vibrant center for arts, language, and community engagement.
Grand Opera House
1.1 km
Belfast’s magnificent Victorian theatre with an exquisite oriental-style auditorium, hosting world-class performances since 1895.
St Mary's Church
1.1 km
Belfast’s oldest Catholic church, a symbol of faith, unity, and history with its Romanesque charm and tranquil Lourdes Grotto.
Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre
1.2 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.
Timescape - Live Escape Games
1.2 km
Dive into immersive, themed escape rooms in Belfast where teamwork and clever puzzles unlock thrilling adventures in just 60 minutes.
Philly Pump / The Allotment
1.2 km
Innovative vegan and vegetarian bistro in Belfast offering fresh, locally sourced plant-based dishes in a welcoming, sustainable setting.
Kelly's Cellars
1.2 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.
Robinsons Bar
1.2 km
Discover Robinsons Bar in Belfast: a lively pub offering local brews, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Fibber Magee
1.2 km
Experience the heart of Belfast at Fibber Magee, a traditional Irish pub offering delicious food, local brews, and vibrant entertainment.
The Linen Hall
1.2 km
Belfast's independent cultural sanctuary housing rare collections, world-class exhibitions, and mythology-inspired café.
Essential places to dine
The Lantern Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience the best of British and modern European cuisine at The Lantern Restaurant in Belfast—where flavors meet tradition.
Bank Square Brasserie
1.1 km
French bistro elegance meets Northern Irish ingredients in Belfast's most welcoming modern European brasserie.
EDO Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
Howard Street
1.2 km
Elegant modern European dining in Belfast’s vibrant city center, blending Irish tradition with contemporary flair.
Stix and Stones City Centre
1.2 km
Interactive steakhouse where you cook premium beef on heated stones at your table in vibrant Belfast.
Mourne Seafood Bar
1.2 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a lively, rustic setting in Belfast’s city centre with a welcoming atmosphere.
Home Restaurant
1.2 km
A modern European dining spot in Belfast offering fresh, local flavors with vegan and gluten-free options in a cozy, lively atmosphere.
Yügo
1.2 km
Discover Yügo’s vibrant pan-Asian small plates in Belfast’s stylish industrial setting, perfect for sharing bold, creative flavors.
Jumon
1.2 km
Vibrant South Asian vegetarian cuisine with bold flavours and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Belfast.
JAMES ST
1.2 km
Experience Belfast’s finest chargrilled steaks and warm hospitality in a stylish yet relaxed setting at James St.
City Picnic
1.2 km
Savor award-winning burgers and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at City Picnic.
Deanes EIPIC
1.2 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s city centre, blending innovation, local ingredients, and elegant atmosphere.
Actons restaurant
1.2 km
Belfast's premier gluten-free dining destination with exceptional Irish cuisine and dedicated celiac protocols.
The Rusty Saddle
1.3 km
Experience the best grilled dishes at The Rusty Saddle in Belfast - where flavor meets atmosphere in a delightful dining experience.
The Ginger Bistro
1.3 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
0.5 km
A west Belfast haven for crystals, tarot, alternative fashion, and esoteric gifts in a moody, intimate setting.
The Name Shops - Belfast
1.1 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
The Holy Shop
1.1 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
Great Northern Mall
1.2 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
Top Gift
1.2 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
1.3 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
1.3 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
1.3 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
Fuzz Vintage
1.3 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.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
1.3 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Forsight Belfast
1.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
1.4 km
Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
1.4 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.
Noor Bazaar
1.4 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
White Stuff Belfast
1.5 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
1.1 km
A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
Maddens
1.1 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
1.2 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.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
1.3 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
1.3 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
The Reporter. Bar
1.3 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Monico Bars
1.4 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
Pug Uglys
1.4 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
Filthy McNastys
1.4 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
The Points
1.5 km
A warm, old-school Dublin Road pub with regular live music, a glowing log fire and an unpretentious atmosphere for evening sessions.
Margot
1.5 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
The Dark Horse
1.5 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The Black Box
1.5 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
Henry's
1.5 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Honey
1.0 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Voodoo
1.2 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
1.3 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Shoe Factory
1.3 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Anthology Ni
1.3 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Kremlin
1.4 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
1.4 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Thompsons Garage
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Alibi
1.6 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Craics Ninety
1.6 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
1.6 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
1.6 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Scratch Nightclub
1.7 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Saturday Night Nightclub
15.6 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
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
