The Best Walking Tours in Belfast
The Best Walking Tours in Belfast – Curated by The Harrison
Looking for the best way to explore Belfast’s rich history, culture, art, and hidden gems? At The Harrison Chambers of Distinction, we believe there’s no better way to experience the city than on foot. With our central location in the heart of the Queen’s Quarter, you’re just minutes away from some of Belfast’s top walking tours.
Here’s our curated list of the best walking tours in Belfast — perfect for guests staying at The Harrison who want to experience the city’s stories, streets, and spirit firsthand.
If Buildings Could Talk – Tour with Barnie Gribben
Led by passionate local historian Barnie Gribben, this walking tour takes you on a journey through Belfast’s architectural past and present. Barnie uncovers the dramatic, humorous, and poignant stories behind the city’s most iconic buildings. A major highlight is the Europa Hotel, once known as the most bombed hotel in Europe during The Troubles. Learn how Belfast's buildings have borne witness to decades of conflict and resilience.
Duration: ~2 hours
Starts near City Centre
Ask at The Harrison front desk to book your tour!
Why we love it: Fascinating storytelling and insider knowledge that brings Belfast’s walls to life.
Political Murals & Troubles History Tour
This must-do tour explores Belfast’s turbulent past through the powerful political murals of the Falls Road and Shankill Road. Led by expert guides who lived through The Troubles, this walk offers honest, personal insight into the city's divided history and journey toward peace. Walk along the peace walls, see the murals, and hear stories that aren’t found in guidebooks.
Duration: ~2–3 hours
West Belfast
Bookable on request via The Harrison reception
Why we love it: It’s deeply moving, thought-provoking, and gives real context to modern Belfast.
Belfast Street Art Walking Tour
Explore the vibrant creativity of modern Belfast with this street art tour through the Cathedral Quarter. Guided by local artists and curators, you’ll discover stunning murals, graffiti, and installations that highlight both social commentary and visual storytelling. Belfast’s street art scene is internationally recognised, and this tour gives you a front-row seat.
Duration: ~1.5–2 hours
Cathedral Quarter
Why we love it: A fresh and inspiring look at Belfast through the lens of urban art.
Belfast Food Walking Tour
Taste your way around Belfast with a guided culinary walking tour that takes in the best of the city’s local flavours. Visit St George’s Market, artisan cafes, delis, and food producers as you sample traditional and modern Northern Irish dishes.
Duration: ~3–4 hours
City Centre and Markets Area
Why we love it: Great for foodies and a delicious way to discover Belfast’s culture.
Queen’s Quarter Historical Walking Tour
Start right outside The Harrison, and explore one of the most elegant and intellectual parts of Belfast. Learn about the history of Queen’s University, Botanic Gardens, and the Ulster Museum, and hear about literary legends like Seamus Heaney, C.S. Lewis, and Jonathan Swift, all connected to this area.
Duration: ~1.5 hours
Queen’s Quarter
Why we love it: It’s peaceful, full of culture, and perfect for a relaxed morning or afternoon walk starting from your doorstep.
Belfast City Centre Highlights Tour
Ideal for first-time visitors, this walking tour covers the best of central Belfast in under two hours. Visit landmarks like Belfast City Hall, Albert Memorial Clock, The Big Fish, and more, with insights into the city’s Victorian architecture, shipbuilding history, and modern revitalisation.
Duration: ~2 hours
City Centre
Why we love it: A great overview for anyone new to Belfast — informative and easy-going.
Stay at The Harrison Belfast – Your Perfect Walking Tour Base
The Harrison Chambers of Distinction is a boutique hotel with a difference. Inspired by art, history, literature, and bold design, our Bridgerton-style interiors and Victorian charm make us one of the most unique places to stay in Belfast.
Centrally located in Queen’s Quarter
Minutes from top walking tour starting points
Stylish rooms with historic character
Friendly staff who can help you book any of these tours
Ready to Walk Belfast?
Whether you're into history, art, food, or architecture, there’s a Belfast walking tour for you. And there’s no better place to start your journey than from The Harrison.
Ask at reception, and we’ll gladly help you plan or book the perfect tour during your stay.
Contact us today or book your stay now and discover Belfast on foot — with style, culture, and a touch of grandeur.
Creative tours music
C.S Lewis tour
Lolly Spence is an expert on the life and times of CS Lewis. You will discover where he grew up, was educated, and how his family and experiences shaped his life and philosophies.
Hidden Huntly
For something totally special allow Nikki Elliot to walk you through some stunning forest scenery and 200-year-old gardens at The Hidden Huntly Estate. Enjoy a delicious home-cooked organic lunch and be transported back in time by stories told by the estate’s owner Antonia.
If Buildings Could Talk
Barney Gribben creates a fun yet informative tour for locals and tourists alike. From the most bombed hotel in the world, to stories of bank robberies and how a whiskey family turned hoteliers yuo will enjoy a leisurely 2 hour walk with plenty of craic.
Walls and Bridges Walking Tour
Meet Arthur and his Green Umbrella at the City Hall at 10 am and walk to the peace walls to find out about Belfast's troubled past. Then find out about the bridges that brought people and communities together such as music and sport. If you ask Arthur nicely he might treat you a wee tune on his guitar
