Belfast Peace Walls and Political Murals
About
The peace walls and political murals of West Belfast are a powerful, complicated, and essential part of understanding the city. The walls — some over 7 metres high — still separate predominantly loyalist and nationalist communities in parts of the city. The murals on both sides are vivid, political, and sometimes shocking — from memorials to paramilitary figures to powerful calls for peace and civil rights. The best way to see them is with a local taxi tour — black cab drivers from both communities offer tours that give personal, nuanced perspectives on the Troubles. You'll hear stories that are moving, sometimes darkly funny, and always deeply human. The drivers will take you through both communities, stopping at the most significant murals and walls, and sharing experiences that bring the recent history to life in a way that no museum can. The Falls Road (nationalist) and Shankill Road (loyalist) are the main mural areas. You can also walk between them, though the guided context of a taxi tour adds enormously. The peace wall gates are still closed at night. Signing the peace wall with a message is traditional. It's not an easy experience — the recent history is raw and the divisions are real — but it's one of the most important things you can do in Belfast. Respectful engagement is essential.
Tickets & Pricing
Murals free to view. Black cab tours: approximately £35-£40 per taxi (up to 5 people).
Opening Times
Murals visible 24 hours. Black cab tours: daily, book in advance.
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