Milltown Cemetery: Belfast’s Layered History in Stone
Discover Belfast’s Milltown Cemetery, a profound site of history, memory, and community rooted in Catholic heritage and the Troubles.
Milltown Cemetery, established in 1869 on Belfast’s Falls Road, is a vast Roman Catholic burial ground rich in history and symbolism. Known for its New Republican Plot, it holds the graves of prominent IRA volunteers including Bobby Sands, alongside ordinary Catholics and war victims. The cemetery reflects Belfast’s complex past, from the Spanish flu victims to the Troubles, and remains an active, community-rooted site.
A brief summary to Milltown Cemetery
- 546 Falls Rd, Belfast, BT12 6EQ, GB
- +442890613972
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Respect the solemnity of the cemetery; photography is allowed but be mindful of visitors paying respects.
- Visit the New Republican Plot to see the graves of Bobby Sands and other IRA volunteers.
- Allow time to explore the wider cemetery grounds to appreciate its cultural and historical diversity.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the cemetery covers a large area with varied terrain.
- Check opening hours before visiting; the cemetery is generally open from 9:00 to 15:30 daily.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Metro bus services from Belfast city center to Falls Road; journey time is approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, with fares around £2.50. Note that bus stops are a short walk from the cemetery entrance.
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Taxi
A taxi from Belfast city center to Milltown Cemetery takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £8-£12. Taxis offer direct access but may be limited late at night.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking from the Falls Road area takes around 15-25 minutes over mostly flat urban terrain. Suitable for visitors with moderate mobility.
Milltown Cemetery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Milltown Cemetery
A Testament to Belfast’s Catholic Heritage
Milltown Cemetery opened in 1869 as a dedicated burial ground for Belfast’s growing Catholic population, following disputes over interdenominational burial arrangements. Spanning some 50 acres, it was established under the episcopal leadership of Bishop Patrick Dorrian of the Diocese of Down and Connor. The cemetery’s grounds include a variety of headstones and memorials reflecting the cultural fabric of Belfast’s Catholic community, including Gaelic revival motifs and memorials to the city’s Italian immigrants.The New Republican Plot and the Troubles
A defining feature of Milltown Cemetery is its New Republican Plot, inaugurated in 1972 and reserved for Irish Republican Army volunteers who died on active service, in prison, or through assassination. This plot contains graves of 77 IRA members, including hunger strikers like Bobby Sands, whose grave has become an iconic pilgrimage site. The cemetery also witnessed tragic violence during the Troubles, notably the 1988 Milltown Cemetery attack where loyalist paramilitary Michael Stone killed mourners at an IRA funeral.Historical Layers Beyond Conflict
Beyond its association with Republicanism, Milltown Cemetery holds the remains of thousands of ordinary Catholics, including over 80,000 buried in its “poor grounds,” many victims of the 1919 Spanish flu pandemic. It also contains war graves from both World Wars, representing a broad spectrum of Belfast’s history and its people. The cemetery’s memorials reflect a complex narrative, including graves of Royal Irish Constabulary men who were shot by the IRA, illustrating the intertwined and often painful histories of the city.Symbolism and Community Connection
Milltown Cemetery is rich in symbolism, with monuments such as the Proclamation of the Provisional Government of Ireland and memorials dedicated to socialist workers’ party members. The site is actively maintained, with groups like the National Graves Association caring for Republican graves. Despite its political associations, the cemetery remains a living space, still active for burials and deeply connected to the local community, embodying Belfast’s layered and multifaceted history.A Place of Reflection and Memory
Visitors to Milltown Cemetery encounter a landscape of remembrance that transcends political divides. The juxtaposition of graves from opposing sides of Northern Ireland’s conflict speaks to the complexity of its past. Walking through the grounds, one experiences a poignant reminder of the city’s struggles and resilience, with every headstone telling a story of personal and collective history.Future and Preservation Challenges
After more than 150 years of use, Milltown Cemetery is nearing capacity, with limited space for new burials. Preservation efforts focus on maintaining the historical integrity of the site while respecting its ongoing role as a community cemetery. Its significance as both a heritage site and a place of active remembrance ensures that Milltown Cemetery will continue to be a vital part of Belfast’s cultural landscape for years to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Falls Rd
1.1 km
Political murals, peace walls, and powerful stories of resilience in West Belfast's iconic Republican heartland.
Visit West Belfast
1.3 km
Your gateway to the vibrant culture, history, and community of West Belfast on the iconic Falls Road.
Belfast Peace Lines
2.3 km
Where a single night in 1969 ignited decades of conflict and left scars still visible today.
Peace Wall Belfast
2.3 km
A barrier transformed into a canvas of hope—Belfast's Peace Wall tells stories of division, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Lord Kelvin Statue
2.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s own Lord Kelvin with this striking bronze statue set in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Shaftesbury Square
2.7 km
A historic and bustling junction in Belfast where Victorian heritage meets vibrant modern city life.
The Back Of Boots
3.2 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
3.2 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
3.2 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Frederick Temple Memorial
3.2 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
3.2 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfastlad Tours
3.2 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with personalized tours led by passionate locals at Belfastlad Tours.
Belfast City Hall Tours
3.2 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
3.2 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.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
3.2 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
George Best Statue
1.1 km
A life-size bronze tribute capturing George Best’s legendary football artistry, standing proud near Belfast’s Windsor Park stadium.
Rise Sculpture
1.2 km
Belfast’s towering steel sculpture symbolizing hope, unity, and a new dawn for the city’s future.
Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich
1.3 km
Explore Irish culture at Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich in Belfast, a vibrant center for arts, language, and community engagement.
Bobby Sands Mural
2.2 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.
Clonard Monastery
2.2 km
A historic sanctuary in Belfast blending Gothic beauty, spiritual devotion, and a legacy of peace and reconciliation.
Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden
2.3 km
A tranquil Belfast garden honoring local martyrs of the Troubles with poignant memorials and serene landscaping.
Irish Republican History Museum
2.4 km
Explore the profound history of Ireland at the Irish Republican History Museum, where stories of resilience and independence come to life.
Ulster Museum
2.5 km
Explore the Ulster Museum, a stunning fusion of art, history, and natural beauty in the heart of Belfast's Botanic Gardens.
George Best Mural
2.5 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
2.5 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.
McCombs Coaches
2.5 km
Comfortable and engaging coach tours from Belfast to Northern Ireland’s iconic sights, including the Giant’s Causeway and historic castles.
The Stroud Street Murals
2.6 km
Explore Belfast’s Stroud Street Murals—an open-air gallery celebrating punk heritage, urban wildlife, and creative innovation on vibrant Victorian walls.
The Palm House
2.6 km
Explore Belfast’s iconic Victorian Palm House, a stunning glass and iron botanical marvel nestled in the historic Botanic Gardens.
St Peter's Cathedral
2.6 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Belfast, symbolizing faith, history, and community resilience with its iconic twin spires and vibrant worship life.
Botanic Gardens
2.7 km
Discover Belfast’s Victorian botanical gem with stunning glasshouses, vibrant gardens, and rich cultural heritage in a serene 28-acre urban oasis.
Essential places to dine
Shu Restaurant Belfast
1.6 km
Experience refined modern French cuisine with Irish influences in Belfast’s stylish Shu Restaurant and lively Juls Bar.
Blank Restaurant
2.3 km
Discover a rare Irish dining experience with creative dishes and exceptional service in Belfast’s charming Malone Road district.
Deanes at Queens
2.3 km
Experience modern European cuisine with Michelin-recognized quality in Belfast’s vibrant University Quarter, overlooking picturesque College Gardens.
Hunting Lodge Bar & Restaurant
2.3 km
Discover Belfast's charm at The Hunting Lodge Bar & Restaurant - where traditional pub vibes meet exquisite dining experiences.
Holohan's Pantry
2.4 km
Authentic Irish flavors with a contemporary twist in Belfast’s vibrant University Road dining scene.
Villa Italia
2.5 km
A beloved Belfast institution serving authentic Italian stone-baked pizzas and classic pasta dishes in a warm Georgian setting.
A Peculiar Tea
2.5 km
Where afternoon tea becomes a story-driven escape into imagination and culinary wonder.
Causeway Cafe
2.6 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Causeway Cafe in Belfast—your cozy retreat for delicious meals and warm hospitality.
Hendrix Restaurant| Belfast
2.6 km
Modern fusion dining with Italian-Mexican flair, creative cocktails, and theatrical open kitchen on South Belfast's cultural corridor.
Darcy's Belfast
2.6 km
A warm, family-run bistro serving hearty traditional Irish dishes with local ingredients in a cozy Belfast setting.
Scalini
2.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy ambiance at Scalini, a beloved Italian restaurant on Belfast’s vibrant Botanic Avenue.
Molly's Yard
2.7 km
Discover modern Irish cuisine in a charming 19th-century stable block with cozy indoor dining and a peaceful courtyard in Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter.
The Teal Monkey
2.7 km
A lively modern European restaurant in Belfast blending quirky decor, fresh flavors, and live music for a memorable dining experience.
The Ginger Bistro
2.8 km
Vibrant modern European bistro celebrating local produce and exceptional hospitality in Belfast's city centre.
Hope Street Restaurant Belfast
2.8 km
Fresh Northern Irish cuisine in an intimate Belfast setting, perfectly positioned for pre-theatre dining and special occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Kennedy Centre
0.3 km
A lively shopping and entertainment hub in West Belfast, blending community spirit with diverse retail and leisure options.
Emporio
1.4 km
Discover timeless elegance and bespoke designer womenswear at Emporio, Belfast’s trusted boutique for over 30 years.
Deja Vu
1.5 km
Discover Belfast’s premier boutique for exquisite pre-loved designer fashion and exceptional personal service on Lisburn Road.
Alchemy and Ashes NI
1.9 km
A west Belfast haven for crystals, tarot, alternative fashion, and esoteric gifts in a moody, intimate setting.
Noor Bazaar
2.5 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
Olive & Rose Apparels
2.6 km
Explore the latest fashion trends at Olive & Rose Apparels, a stylish boutique in the heart of Belfast, offering unique clothing for every occasion.
Great Northern Mall
2.8 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
3.2 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
3.2 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
Little Heart
3.2 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
3.3 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
The Yard Shop - Furniture & Accessories
3.3 km
Discover Belfast’s charming Yard Shop, a treasure trove of antique and rustic furniture and home accessories that bring character to any space.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
3.3 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
The Name Shops - Belfast
3.3 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
Top Gift
3.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Top Gift, Belfast's charming gift shop offering an eclectic selection for every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Woodworkers
2.6 km
Belfast's top rotating tap room: craft beers on rotation, timber warmth, board games, and platters in Queen's Quarter's lively heart.
Lavery's
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavery's, Belfast's premier pub and comedy club, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
Filthy McNastys
2.8 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
The Points
2.8 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
3.0 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Pug Uglys
3.0 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
Cutters Wharf
3.1 km
A stylish riverside bar and restaurant in Belfast blending modern European cuisine with lively entertainment and scenic river views.
The Broken shaker Belfast
3.1 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
Limelight Lounge
3.1 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
3.1 km
A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
Maddens
3.2 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
Margot
3.3 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
Hatfield House
3.3 km
Historic Irish pub on Belfast’s Ormeau Road blending vintage charm, hearty food, live music, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
3.4 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 Garrick
3.4 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Reflective
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
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
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
