Belfast Rebellion Walking Tour: 1798 History
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Overview
The "1798 – A Belfast Rebellion” walking tour takes you on a 2 ½ hour journey through the heart of the city, revealing Georgian Belfast and the stories of those who dreamed of a better future. This walking tour is perfect for history buffs and anyone curious about Belfast's past.
The tour begins and ends at the City Hall gates, where a guide will lead you through important historical sites, sharing the origins of the United Irishmen in Belfast and the events of the 1798 Rebellion. Expect to discover the stories behind key figures who ignited the flames of rebellion and learn about life for the Presbyterian merchants of early Belfast and visit locations like Tour Start Point, Library and Thomas Russell's History, Eighteenth-Century Chapel, United Irishmen's Secret Meeting Place, Presbyterian Church, Assembly Rooms, Site of the First Church, Joy Family's Entries, and Mary Ann McCracken Statue .
With a Vox whisper set, participants can clearly hear the guide's insights at all times during this journey. The tour does not include gratuities, which are optional for the guide.
Highlights
Discover Belfast's Hidden History: Uncover the story of the 1798 Rebellion and the United Irishmen.
Hear stories of key historical figures: Learn about the people who shaped Belfast's past.
Explore important historical sites: Walk through Georgian Belfast and see where history happened.
Listen Clearly: Use of a Vox whisper set ensures that you never miss a word the guide says.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers highly recommend the 1798 Belfast Rebellion Walking Tour. They praised the knowledgeable guide and the fascinating historical insights.

Customers loved learning about Belfast's history.
The tour guide was very knowledgeable and made the history come alive.
Many customers found the tour fascinating and would recommend it to others.
The walking pace was appropriate for all fitness levels.
No significant negative feedback was present in the provided reviews.
Some found certain parts of the tour to be too detailed, depending on their interest.
The Journey
Tour Start Point
Begin your journey with an immersive introduction to the historical context leading up to the United Irishmen Rebellion of 1798. Understand the complex factors that ignited this pivotal moment in Irish history, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of Belfast's revolutionary past. This foundational overview provides crucial context for the sites you'll encounter throughout the tour, revealing the motivations and key players behind the uprising.
Library and Thomas Russell's History
Delve into the history of Belfast's historic library and uncover the intriguing story of its most infamous librarian, Thomas Russell. Discover how Russell, a key figure in the United Irishmen movement, shaped the library's intellectual environment and left an indelible mark on the city's revolutionary narrative. Explore the library's archives and learn about its role as a hub for radical thought and revolutionary planning.
Eighteenth-Century Chapel
Explore an eighteenth-century chapel that stands as a testament to the resilience of Ireland's Catholics during the Penal Laws. Hear the stories of hardship and perseverance that led to the chapel's establishment and discover how it served as a sanctuary for the Catholic community in a time of oppression. Experience the spiritual atmosphere and architectural beauty of this historical landmark, a symbol of faith and resistance.
United Irishmen's Secret Meeting Place
Step back in time to a secret meeting place where the United Irishmen plotted their rebellion. Uncover the clandestine history hidden within the walls of this historic pub, where revolutionary strategies were forged and alliances were formed. Feel the atmosphere of intrigue and determination as you imagine the key figures of the rebellion gathering to shape the destiny of Ireland. Enjoy a pint in this unique setting, steeped in history and revolutionary spirit.
Presbyterian Church
Explore a historic Presbyterian church and discover the story of how Presbyterians rose to become wealthy merchants in Belfast. Hear about the most famous members of this church and their contributions to the city's economic and cultural development. Admire the architectural grandeur of the church and learn about the role of Presbyterianism in shaping Belfast's identity and fostering a spirit of enterprise.
Assembly Rooms
Step into the Assembly Rooms, a venue steeped in history where pivotal meetings shaped Belfast's past. Hear about the court martial of Henry Joy McCracken, a key figure in the United Irishmen Rebellion, and the controversial proposal for a Belfast slaveship company. Explore the rooms and imagine the debates and decisions that unfolded within these walls, revealing the complex and often contradictory forces that shaped the city's destiny.
Site of the First Church
Visit the site of the first church in Belfast, a location that holds the key to the city's name. Discover the origins of Belfast and its deep-rooted connection to this sacred site. Explore the historical significance of this location and imagine the early settlers who established their community around this spiritual center. Uncover the stories etched into the very ground beneath your feet, revealing the ancient roots of Belfast's identity.
Joy Family's Entries
Wander through the historic Entries in the oldest part of Belfast and discover the profound influence of the Joy family on the city's development. Explore how these narrow passageways have been transformed into an outdoor art gallery, showcasing the city's vibrant cultural scene. Admire the artwork and imagine the lives of those who once walked these streets, connecting with Belfast's rich history and artistic spirit.
Mary Ann McCracken Statue
Conclude your tour at the statue of Mary Ann McCracken, a remarkable abolitionist, educator, and United Irishwoman. Reflect on her extraordinary life and her unwavering commitment to social justice. Discover how McCracken's activism shaped Belfast's progressive values and left a lasting legacy of equality and compassion. Pay tribute to this inspiring figure and her enduring impact on the city's history and identity.
Know Before You Go
This 2 ½ hour walking tour includes a Vox whisper set so participants can clearly hear the guide. Gratuities for the guide are not included and are optional. The tour starts and finishes at the gates of City Hall.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes because the tour is a walking tour. Also, even if someone is interested in the more recent history of Belfast and Northern Ireland, they should highly recommend the 1798 tour to give them deeper context and understanding of the complex political and cultural history of the island.