Belfast Peace Wall at Cupar Way
A barrier transformed into a canvas of hope—Belfast's Peace Wall tells stories of division, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
The Belfast Peace Wall at Cupar Way stands as one of Northern Ireland's most significant historical landmarks, a powerful symbol of division and reconciliation. Originally constructed in 1969 during The Troubles, this barrier separates predominantly Catholic and Protestant communities. Today, it serves as a canvas for vibrant murals and messages of peace, attracting visitors from around the world who come to reflect on the city's turbulent past and ongoing journey toward unity. The wall's transformation from a symbol of conflict into an artistic expression of hope makes it an essential stop for understanding Belfast's complex history.
A brief summary to Peace Wall Belfast
- 15 Cupar Way, Belfast, GB
- +447592173372
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for better lighting and fewer crowds, ideal for photography and reflection.
- Consider joining a guided walking tour or black cab tour to gain deeper historical context and hear personal stories from local guides familiar with The Troubles.
- Bring a pen or marker if you wish to leave a message of peace on the wall—a meaningful way to participate in the ongoing dialogue of reconciliation.
- Approach the wall and surrounding area with respect; this is a working-class neighbourhood with real residents, not solely a tourist attraction.
- Explore the nearby Falls Road and Shankill Road to see additional murals and gain a fuller understanding of both communities' perspectives and histories.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking from Belfast City Centre
From Belfast City Centre, walk west toward West Belfast, approximately 2.5 to 3 kilometres. The journey takes 35 to 45 minutes on foot through residential streets. Follow signs toward Falls Road or Shankill Road; local landmarks and street signs will guide you. The walk is accessible but involves urban streets with standard pavements. No parking is required for this option.
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Black Cab Tour
Black cab tours depart regularly from the city centre and include stops at the Peace Wall, typically costing between £25 and £40 per person for a 2 to 3 hour tour. Tours provide transport directly to Cupar Way, expert local commentary, and often include visits to other historical sites. Tours operate daily with flexible scheduling; advance booking is recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Drivers are experienced in navigating the area safely and respectfully.
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Guided Walking Tour
Organized walking tours depart from central Belfast and typically last 3 to 4 hours, costing between £15 and £25 per person. Local guides, some with personal connections to The Troubles, lead groups through West Belfast, explaining the history and context of the Peace Wall and surrounding murals. Tours operate most days; booking in advance is advisable. This option provides deeper historical insight and personal narratives from those familiar with the area.
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Public Transport and Walking
Take a local bus service from the city centre toward West Belfast, with routes serving the Falls Road and Shankill Road areas. Bus fares cost approximately £2 to £3 per journey. From the bus stop, walk to Cupar Way, which is clearly signposted. Journey time by bus is 15 to 25 minutes, plus 10 to 15 minutes walking. This is the most economical option and provides flexibility in timing.
Peace Wall Belfast location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Discover more about Peace Wall Belfast
Origins During The Troubles
The Peace Wall at Cupar Way emerged from one of Northern Ireland's darkest periods. In August 1969, intense sectarian violence erupted between Catholic nationalist and Protestant unionist communities, prompting British troops to construct temporary barriers from corrugated iron and barbed wire. What began as an emergency measure quickly hardened into permanent structures of brick, steel, and concrete. The Cupar Way wall became one of the most prominent examples, stretching approximately 800 metres in length and reaching heights of up to 8 metres. Over 50 years later, it remains a tangible reminder of the fear and division that gripped Belfast during the 30-year conflict known as The Troubles.A Canvas for Artistic Expression
Unlike many other peace walls that remain stark and imposing, the Cupar Way barrier has transformed into a vibrant gallery of political murals, street art, and personal messages. Local and international artists have covered its surface with powerful imagery representing both local struggles and global movements for justice and peace. Visitors leave handwritten messages of hope, solidarity, and reflection on the wall's surface, creating an ever-evolving testament to the human desire for reconciliation. The murals depict historical figures, political statements, and symbols of cultural identity from both communities, making the wall a living document of Belfast's narrative.Symbol of Resilience and Reconciliation
The Peace Wall represents far more than physical division. It embodies the resilience of communities that endured decades of violence and the complex process of moving toward peace. The wall's continued existence reflects ongoing debates about reconciliation—some view it as a necessary security measure, while others see it as a barrier to unity that should eventually be removed. In 2013, the Northern Irish Executive committed to removing all peace walls by mutual consent, yet progress has been slow, highlighting the delicate nature of healing deeply rooted divisions. The wall stands as a paradox: a symbol of conflict that has become a symbol of hope.The Interface Between Communities
Cupar Way's location in West Belfast places it at the heart of one of the city's most historically significant interfaces. The wall physically separates neighbourhoods with distinct cultural identities, religious affiliations, and political perspectives. Walking along the wall reveals the everyday reality of life in a divided city—residential streets, local businesses, and community spaces that exist in close proximity yet remain separated by concrete and steel. Gates, often closed at night, control movement between areas, creating isolated communities with their own traditions, shops, and social networks. This physical separation has shaped generations of residents' experiences and continues to influence daily life.A Major Tourist Destination
In recent years, the Peace Wall at Cupar Way has become one of Belfast's most visited attractions. Black cab tours regularly stop here, allowing visitors to explore the murals, photograph the artwork, and leave their own messages of peace. Walking tours led by local guides provide deeper context into the historical events and personal stories behind the wall's existence. The site attracts history enthusiasts, photographers, artists, and curious travellers seeking to understand Northern Ireland's complex past. The wall's transformation into a tourist destination reflects how communities can reclaim spaces of conflict and transform them into places of learning and reflection.Ongoing Significance in Modern Belfast
Despite the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, the Peace Wall remains standing, and remarkably, additional walls have been erected in the decades since. The wall continues to serve practical and symbolic functions—providing a sense of security for residents while simultaneously challenging visitors to contemplate the nature of division, conflict resolution, and the possibility of change. The vibrant murals and messages covering its surface suggest a community engaged in ongoing dialogue about its future. The wall invites reflection on how societies move beyond conflict, the role of art in healing, and the enduring human capacity for hope even in the most challenging circumstances.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Peace Wall Belfast
0.0 km
A barrier transformed into a canvas of hope—Belfast's Peace Wall tells stories of division, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Belfast Peace Lines
0.0 km
Where a single night in 1969 ignited decades of conflict and left scars still visible today.
Visit West Belfast
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Your gateway to the vibrant culture, history, and community of West Belfast on the iconic Falls Road.
Falls Rd
1.2 km
Political murals, peace walls, and powerful stories of resilience in West Belfast's iconic Republican heartland.
Belfastlad Tours
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Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with personalized tours led by passionate locals at Belfastlad Tours.
Carlisle Circus
1.5 km
A historic North Belfast traffic circus with Victorian roots and a legacy shaped by war, industry, and community life.
Clifton Street Graveyard
1.6 km
Two centuries of Belfast's history etched in stone—where Republicans, Unionists, and ordinary citizens rest side by side.
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.
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.
Treasure Trails
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Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
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Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
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.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
1.7 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
1.7 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
1.7 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 Monastery
0.1 km
A historic sanctuary in Belfast blending Gothic beauty, spiritual devotion, and a legacy of peace and reconciliation.
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.
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.
Shankill Graveyard
0.6 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
1.0 km
Explore Irish culture at Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich in Belfast, a vibrant center for arts, language, and community engagement.
Carnegie Oldpark
1.2 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
1.3 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.
Rise Sculpture
1.4 km
Belfast’s towering steel sculpture symbolizing hope, unity, and a new dawn for the city’s future.
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
1.5 km
Dive into immersive, themed escape rooms in Belfast where teamwork and clever puzzles unlock thrilling adventures in just 60 minutes.
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.
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.
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.
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
1.5 km
French bistro elegance meets Northern Irish ingredients in Belfast's most welcoming modern European brasserie.
EDO Restaurant
1.5 km
Discover the best of modern European tapas at EDO Restaurant in Belfast - where flavor meets creativity.
Howard Street
1.6 km
Elegant modern European dining in Belfast’s vibrant city center, blending Irish tradition with contemporary flair.
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.
Stix and Stones City Centre
1.6 km
Interactive steakhouse where you cook premium beef on heated stones at your table in vibrant Belfast.
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.
Jumon
1.6 km
Vibrant South Asian vegetarian cuisine with bold flavours and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Belfast.
Yügo
1.6 km
Discover Yügo’s vibrant pan-Asian small plates in Belfast’s stylish industrial setting, perfect for sharing bold, creative flavors.
City Picnic
1.6 km
Savor award-winning burgers and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at City Picnic.
JAMES ST
1.6 km
Experience Belfast’s finest chargrilled steaks and warm hospitality in a stylish yet relaxed setting at James St.
Deanes EIPIC
1.6 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s city centre, blending innovation, local ingredients, and elegant atmosphere.
Actons restaurant
1.6 km
Belfast's premier gluten-free dining destination with exceptional Irish cuisine and dedicated celiac protocols.
The Rusty Saddle
1.6 km
Experience the best grilled dishes at The Rusty Saddle in Belfast - where flavor meets atmosphere in a delightful dining experience.
The Ginger Bistro
1.7 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
0.5 km
A west Belfast haven for crystals, tarot, alternative fashion, and esoteric gifts in a moody, intimate setting.
The Name Shops - Belfast
1.5 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
The Holy Shop
1.5 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
1.6 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
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.
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.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
1.7 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
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
1.7 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.
Noor Bazaar
1.8 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
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
1.4 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
1.5 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.
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.
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.
Monico Bars
1.8 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
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.
Filthy McNastys
1.8 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
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.
The Points
1.9 km
A warm, old-school Dublin Road pub with regular live music, a glowing log fire and an unpretentious atmosphere for evening sessions.
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.
Margot
1.9 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
The Black Box
1.9 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
Henry's
1.9 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
0.9 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
1.6 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Shoe Factory
1.6 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Anthology Ni
1.6 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.
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.
Alibi
1.9 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
- Reflective
- Scenic
- Unique
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Street Art
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Street Art
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
