Belfast, Past, Present and Future

This guided coach outing puts Belfast’s turbulent history – and promising outlook – in clear perspective. You’ll see this Northern Ireland capital city’s most notable landmarks, feel its intense pride and deep connections to the past, even encounter graffiti expressing a cultural divide that simmers still in some quadrants. Your guide’s commentary sheds light on past maritime triumphs like the building of the RMS Titanic, as well as architectural highpoints like the building of a domed City Hall so impressive it was replicated verbatim in South Africa. You’ll walk the Quad at Queen’s University, and pass the romantic cast iron and curved glass Palm House at the Botanic Gardens, an 1840 love-letter to the Victorian ideal. Your stop to photograph Protestant wall murals along Shankill Road and Catholic ones along the Falls Road will speak volumes about Belfast’s subdued yet dogged political tensions. And a drive out to the historic Parliament Building at Stormont, where Northern affairs are now governed through power-sharing, presents an impressive symbol of growing accord.

• Wear weather-appropriate clothing; include a light raincoat or umbrella.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.