Explore over 150 years of history at Crumlin Road Gaol, also known as HM Prison Belfast, and embark on a captivating journey through Northern Ireland’s only remaining Victorian prison. Travel back in time with interactive displays, holograms, and immersive storytelling.
Why Visit the Crumlin Road Gaol?
- Over 150 Years of History: Explore Northern Ireland's last Victorian prison
- Interactive Tour: See audio-visual displays and holograms to guide you throughout
- Introduction Video: Learn about the prison’s history with a presentation by Judge Mathews
- Prison Tunnel: Discover the tunnel connecting the gaol to Crumlin Road Courthouse
- C-Wing & Cells: Visit recreated cells and hear stories from former inmates
- Execution Area: Optional visit to the condemned cell with an explanation of executions
- Outdoor Exhibits: Explore the gravesite and view a Westland Wessex helicopter
Full Itinerary of Your Visit
Explore over 150 years of history at Crumlin Road Gaol, also known as HM Prison Belfast, Northern Ireland’s only remaining Victorian prison. Located at 53-55 Crumlin Road, Crumlin Road Gaol welcomes you to step back in time on a self-guided tour and learn about Belfast's past through interactive audio and visual displays including holograms.
Upon arrival, your experience will begin in the introduction room with a video presentation by Judge Mathews, offering a glimpse into the rich history of Crumlin Road Gaol and key buildings in the surrounding area such as Crumlin Road Court House.
As you navigate Crumlin Road Gaol, you’ll encounter key parts of the prison’s story, including the notorious tunnel linking the gaol to the nearby courthouse. A hologram of Officer Roberts will guide you through the tunnel’s history and its significance. In the Gaol Circle, you'll meet the Governor who points out the important areas of the prison and shares fascinating stories of the past.
Next, you'll walk through the eerie C-Wing, where recreated cells and holographic prisoners offer a hauntingly real look into the lives of over 25,000 former inmates. Watch video interviews with ex-prisoners as you learn about the harsh realities of life inside the gaol.
For those curious about the prison’s darker side, a visit to the condemned man's cell and the hanging cells includes a hologram of the executioner explaining the execution process. Given the subject matter, this section is optional, take it at your own pace or bypass it completely if you find the themes troubling.
After stepping outside, you'll get to explore the grave site where many executed prisoners were buried. You'll also see the matron’s house and a display featuring a Westland Wessex helicopter.
History of the Crumlin Road Gaol
Opened in 1845, Crumlin Road Gaol, also known as HM Prison Belfast, was Northern Ireland’s most advanced prison of its time. The gaol took a leading role in the detainment of Republicans and Loyalists during the Troubles, including Éamon de Valera and Bobby Sands.
Built to hold up to 550 prisoners, the gaol operated under "The Separate System," intended to keep inmates in total isolation. Over the years, the prison housed men, women, and children, and witnessed 17 executions, with the last hanging in 1961. After closing as a working prison in 1996, Crumlin Road Gaol underwent extensive renovations and reopened in 2012 as a tourist attraction and event space.
Opening Hours
Crumlin Road Gaol is open daily from 10 am to 5:30 pm, with final admission at 4 pm.
Audioguide
If you'd like to experience Crumlin Road Gaol with the help of an audioguide, you can purchase one onsite for an extra price.
