Crumlin Road Gaol
Dating back to the 19th century, this working prison has closed its doors and re-opened as a visitor attraction and conference centre only in 2012. It is the only prison left from the Victorian era in Northern Ireland and, therefore, considered a listed building due to its architectural and historical importance. Notwithstanding its external beauty, it should not be forgotten that this was once known as Europe’s Alcatraz with many prisoners executed, right up to 1961. Unfortunately, not all of the prisoners are hardcore criminals as children as young as 13 years old were also incarcerated here for minor offences like stealing food or clothing, as well as women activists like suffragists Dorothy Evans and Madge Muir.
Take the guided tour of this Belfast attraction to see within the walls of this prison house, once holding political prisoners from both republican and loyalist side. Famous prisoners included Eamon De Valera, Ian Paisley, Martin McGuinness, Michael Stone and Bobby Sands. The guide will take you through the tunnel that used to connect the gaol to Crumlin Road Courthouse and will show you the condemned men cells prior to their execution. For those who want a more eerie experience, they can join the Paranormal Tour which will take you to places within the Gaol where paranormal activities have been experienced. These places include the condemned man’s cell, execution chamber, the tunnel and the flogging room. You will have the chance to use ghost-hunting equipment used by experts during the tour – definitely not for the faint-hearted!
Crumlin Road Gaol Opening Hours
7 days a week – first tour: 10am/last tour 4pm
Day tour price: £7.50 per adult / £5.50 per child
Day tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Paranormal tours lasts approximately 4 hours and runs on limited dates and times only.
*Times and prices may change so please check their website directly for updated information.
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Opening Times
Open seven days per week
First Tour – 10am
Last Tour – 4:30pm
Tour Duration: 1 hr 15 mins (approx.)
How To Get There
Crumlin Road Gaol is located in North Belfast, just a 10-minute drive or taxi ride from Clayton Hotel Belfast. See our Belfast Hotel Deals.