Falls Road, Belfast
Political murals, peace walls, and powerful stories of resilience in West Belfast's iconic Republican heartland.
Falls Road is the main artery through West Belfast's Catholic and Republican community, stretching nearly two miles from Divis Street to Andersonstown. Famous for its powerful political murals, including the iconic Bobby Sands mural, and its role as a focal point of the Troubles conflict, the road has transformed into a significant heritage tourism destination. Visitors encounter vivid street art, memorial gardens, and the Peace Wall that once divided this neighborhood from the adjacent Loyalist Shankill Road. Guided tours led by former activists and political ex-prisoners offer deeply personal insights into this turbulent period of Irish history.
A brief summary to Falls Rd
- Belfast, GB
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book a guided walking tour led by former activists or political ex-prisoners for the most authentic and deeply personal perspective on the Troubles and the community's history. Tours typically last three hours and depart from Divis Tower.
- Visit the Bobby Sands mural on Sevastopol Street and the International Wall early in the day for the best photography light and fewer crowds, then explore the surrounding murals at your own pace.
- Show respect when visiting memorial gardens and Milltown Cemetery; these are sacred spaces of remembrance for the community. Take time to read inscriptions and reflect on the stories they tell.
- Combine your Falls Road visit with a tour of the adjacent Shankill Road and the Peace Wall to gain a more complete understanding of the sectarian divide and the ongoing peace process.
- Allow at least half a day for a meaningful visit; rushing through the murals and memorials diminishes the emotional and historical impact of the experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Walking from Belfast City Centre
From Belfast City Centre, walk west along Divis Street toward the Falls Road, a journey of approximately 1.5 kilometers taking 18–25 minutes on foot. The route is flat and well-paved, passing through the city's commercial district before transitioning into the residential Falls area. This walking route is accessible year-round and provides an orientation to the lower Falls Road and its key landmarks.
-
Public Bus Service
Multiple bus routes serve the Falls Road, including services from the city centre (Donegall Place bus station) to various points along the road and beyond to Andersonstown. Journey times range from 10–20 minutes depending on destination and traffic. Buses run frequently throughout the day; single fares cost approximately £1.50–£2.00. This is the most economical option for reaching upper Falls Road areas without walking the full distance.
-
Black Cab Taxi Tour
Black cab taxis, a Belfast tradition, offer guided tours of the Falls Road with knowledgeable local drivers who provide historical commentary. Tours typically last 1–2 hours and cost £25–£40 per person (or £60–£100 for a private cab). Cabs depart from the city centre and can be booked through hotels or tour operators. This option combines transport with guided interpretation, ideal for visitors with limited time or mobility concerns.
-
Organized Walking Tours
Dedicated Falls Road walking tours, led by former activists and political ex-prisoners, depart from Divis Tower on Divis Street (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 10:00 AM). Tours last approximately 3 hours, cost £12.00 per person, and include visits to the International Wall, memorial gardens, the Irish Republican History Museum, the Bobby Sands mural, and Milltown Cemetery, concluding with a complimentary drink at the Felons Club. Tour tickets include a hot drink and snack voucher redeemable at the James Connolly Centre.
Falls Rd location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Falls Rd
A Road Shaped by Industrial Growth and Community Identity
The Falls Road derives its name from the Irish *túath na bhFál*, meaning "territory of the enclosures," referring to an ancient Irish petty kingdom. Originally a country lane leading from Belfast's city centre, the road's character transformed dramatically during the Industrial Revolution of the 19th century. As large linen mills proliferated across West Belfast, the area became a magnet for workers seeking employment. The Catholic population, swelled by refugees from rural poverty and those displaced by the Irish Potato Famine, established themselves around the mills and formed a tightly knit community. Housing expanded rapidly into networks of narrow streets lined with small terraced houses, creating the densely populated residential neighborhoods that define the area today.The Troubles and Sectarian Violence
The Falls Road's proximity to the Loyalist Shankill Road made it a flashpoint during the Troubles, the period of violent conflict that gripped Northern Ireland from the late 1960s onward. The infamous riots of August 1969 marked the beginning of the worst violence in West Belfast, with six Catholics killed and several streets burned out near the Falls Road. The British Army's arrival, intended to protect Catholics, instead alienated the community through heavy-handed tactics. The notorious Falls Curfew of 1970 became one of the conflict's most infamous incidents. Over the following three decades, the Falls Road witnessed some of the most intense fighting of the entire conflict, with bullet holes still visible on buildings and the scars of violence embedded in the streetscape. The Peace Wall, erected along Cupar Way and between the Falls and Shankill Roads, physically divided the two communities and remains a stark reminder of the sectarian divide.Murals, Memory, and Political Expression
Today, the Falls Road is renowned as the primary focal point for Troubles tourism in Belfast, distinguished by its extraordinary collection of political murals and street art. The most iconic is the Bobby Sands mural, erected in 1998 on the corner of Sevastopol Street, depicting the smiling face of the IRA hunger striker who died in 1981. The International Wall stretches along the road, featuring dozens of murals painted to show solidarity with people engaged in struggles worldwide, while also commemorating those who died during the conflict. These vivid artworks transform the street into an open-air gallery of political expression, pride, and remembrance, attracting thousands of visitors annually who come to understand the community's resilience and identity through its visual narrative.Memorial Spaces and Sites of Remembrance
The Falls Road is dotted with solemn memorial spaces dedicated to those who lost their lives during the Troubles. The Garden of Remembrance, officially opened in 2001 and commissioned by the Falls Cultural Society, honors members of the IRA's D Company and civilians from the Falls Road community who died in the conflict, as well as hunger strikers from 1981. The Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden, located on Bombay Street where some of the worst violence occurred in August 1969, features a black marble Celtic cross and inscribed slabs bearing the names of all those from the Clonard area who perished. Milltown Cemetery, which opened in 1869, serves as the final resting place of Bobby Sands and other hunger strikers, making it a pilgrimage site for many visitors seeking to pay respects to those who died for their political beliefs.Guided Tours and Living History
The most authentic way to experience the Falls Road is through guided walking tours led by former activists and political ex-prisoners who weave their own personal stories into the narrative of the conflict. These tours, typically lasting three hours, begin at Divis Tower and traverse the Lower Falls, visiting the International Wall, Republican Memorial gardens, the Irish Republican History Museum, and the Bobby Sands mural before concluding at Milltown Cemetery. Guides provide in-depth insights into both local and wider Irish history, offering perspectives that cannot be found in conventional guidebooks. Many tours include a complimentary drink at the nearby Felons Club, creating a space for dialogue and reflection. The authenticity of these guides—people who lived through the Troubles and often spent time as political prisoners—gives visitors an unparalleled understanding of the community's experiences and the ongoing peace process.Contemporary Culture and Community Hub
Beyond its historical significance, the Falls Road remains a vibrant cultural and social center for West Belfast. The Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich, an Irish language cultural centre opened in 1991, anchors the Gaeltacht Quarter on the Falls Road and serves as a hub for Irish language learning and cultural events. Local businesses, restaurants, and community organizations line the street, demonstrating that the Falls Road is not merely a museum of the past but a living, breathing neighborhood where residents continue to build their futures. The area's transformation from a zone of conflict to a destination for heritage tourism and cultural engagement reflects the broader peace process and the community's determination to reclaim their narrative and identity on their own terms.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Falls Rd
0.0 km
Political murals, peace walls, and powerful stories of resilience in West Belfast's iconic Republican heartland.
Visit West Belfast
0.2 km
Your gateway to the vibrant culture, history, and community of West Belfast on the iconic Falls Road.
Belfast Peace Lines
1.2 km
Where a single night in 1969 ignited decades of conflict and left scars still visible today.
Peace Wall Belfast
1.2 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
2.0 km
A historic and bustling junction in Belfast where Victorian heritage meets vibrant modern city life.
Lord Kelvin Statue
2.1 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s own Lord Kelvin with this striking bronze statue set in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Belfastlad Tours
2.2 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with personalized tours led by passionate locals at Belfastlad Tours.
The Back Of Boots
2.3 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
2.3 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
2.3 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
2.3 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
2.3 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.
Frederick Temple Memorial
2.3 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
2.3 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Treasure Trails
2.3 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
0.5 km
Belfast’s towering steel sculpture symbolizing hope, unity, and a new dawn for the city’s future.
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.
Bobby Sands Mural
1.1 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
1.1 km
A historic sanctuary in Belfast blending Gothic beauty, spiritual devotion, and a legacy of peace and reconciliation.
Milltown Cemetery
1.1 km
Discover Belfast’s Milltown Cemetery, a profound site of history, memory, and community rooted in Catholic heritage and the Troubles.
Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden
1.2 km
A tranquil Belfast garden honoring local martyrs of the Troubles with poignant memorials and serene landscaping.
Irish Republican History Museum
1.3 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
1.6 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Belfast, symbolizing faith, history, and community resilience with its iconic twin spires and vibrant worship life.
Shankill Graveyard
1.7 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
1.8 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
1.9 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
1.9 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
1.9 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
2.0 km
Belfast’s magnificent Victorian theatre with an exquisite oriental-style auditorium, hosting world-class performances since 1895.
Robinsons Bar
2.0 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
1.6 km
Experience refined modern French cuisine with Irish influences in Belfast’s stylish Shu Restaurant and lively Juls Bar.
Causeway Cafe
1.9 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Causeway Cafe in Belfast—your cozy retreat for delicious meals and warm hospitality.
Holohan's Pantry
1.9 km
Authentic Irish flavors with a contemporary twist in Belfast’s vibrant University Road dining scene.
Villa Italia
1.9 km
A beloved Belfast institution serving authentic Italian stone-baked pizzas and classic pasta dishes in a warm Georgian setting.
Deanes at Queens
2.0 km
Experience modern European cuisine with Michelin-recognized quality in Belfast’s vibrant University Quarter, overlooking picturesque College Gardens.
A Peculiar Tea
2.0 km
Where afternoon tea becomes a story-driven escape into imagination and culinary wonder.
Darcy's Belfast
2.0 km
A warm, family-run bistro serving hearty traditional Irish dishes with local ingredients in a cozy Belfast setting.
The Ginger Bistro
2.0 km
Vibrant modern European bistro celebrating local produce and exceptional hospitality in Belfast's city centre.
The Teal Monkey
2.0 km
A lively modern European restaurant in Belfast blending quirky decor, fresh flavors, and live music for a memorable dining experience.
Hope Street Restaurant Belfast
2.0 km
Fresh Northern Irish cuisine in an intimate Belfast setting, perfectly positioned for pre-theatre dining and special occasions.
Howard Street
2.0 km
Elegant modern European dining in Belfast’s vibrant city center, blending Irish tradition with contemporary flair.
The Lantern Restaurant
2.1 km
Experience the best of British and modern European cuisine at The Lantern Restaurant in Belfast—where flavors meet tradition.
Blank Restaurant
2.1 km
Discover a rare Irish dining experience with creative dishes and exceptional service in Belfast’s charming Malone Road district.
Actons restaurant
2.1 km
Belfast's premier gluten-free dining destination with exceptional Irish cuisine and dedicated celiac protocols.
EDO Restaurant
2.1 km
Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Alchemy and Ashes NI
0.8 km
A west Belfast haven for crystals, tarot, alternative fashion, and esoteric gifts in a moody, intimate setting.
The Kennedy Centre
1.4 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.
Noor Bazaar
1.8 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
Great Northern Mall
2.0 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
Olive & Rose Apparels
2.1 km
Explore the latest fashion trends at Olive & Rose Apparels, a stylish boutique in the heart of Belfast, offering unique clothing for every occasion.
Emporio
2.1 km
Discover timeless elegance and bespoke designer womenswear at Emporio, Belfast’s trusted boutique for over 30 years.
The Holy Shop
2.3 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
2.3 km
Explore the heart of Irish culture at Norn Irish Gift Shop in Belfast, where unique souvenirs and artisan crafts await every traveler.
The Name Shops - Belfast
2.3 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
Little Heart
2.3 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
2.3 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
2.3 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
Top Gift
2.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Top Gift, Belfast's charming gift shop offering an eclectic selection for every traveler.
Fuzz Vintage
2.4 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lavery's
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavery's, Belfast's premier pub and comedy club, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
The Woodworkers
2.0 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
2.1 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
The Points
2.1 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
2.1 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
2.2 km
A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
Pug Uglys
2.2 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
2.2 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
Maddens
2.2 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
Limelight Lounge
2.4 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
Margot
2.4 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
Sunflower Public House
2.5 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
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Monico Bars
2.5 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
The Garrick
2.6 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Honey
0.3 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Alibi
2.0 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
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.
Voodoo
2.3 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Thompsons Garage
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
The Art Department
2.5 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Shoe Factory
2.6 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Anthology Ni
2.6 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Kremlin
2.6 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
2.6 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
2.8 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Craics Ninety
2.8 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
2.8 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
16.5 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
- Unique
- Scenic
- Lively
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Street Art
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Street Art
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
