Belfast's Untold Stories: Murals, Peace Wall & Legacy Walk

Marti was very informative and very knowledgeable about the history of the troubles from both communities. And the artworks inspiring them and how they have evolved in the year since the end of the troubles. He also adds his own insights and natural wit into the narrative. His tour was well worth the fee.

Marti started the tour with a potted history of Ireland, stretching back many centuries, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of the region's complex past. What set this tour apart was Marti's emphasis on the ongoing efforts to secure peace in Northern Ireland. He eloquently explained how communities continue to work tirelessly to maintain the “fragile” peace, highlighting the positive initiatives happening in Belfast that foster reconciliation. Marti's extensive experience and his dedication to building rapport with various communities, many still grappling with the scars of conflict, allowed him to provide a fair, balanced, and unbiased perspective on a city still healing from its traumatic history. The walking portion of the tour took us through iconic areas like the Shankill and Falls Roads, and Marti is apparently the only guide who leads tours on foot through some of these sensitive spots, which added an intimate and authentic feel. He didn’t shy away from discussing Belfast’s current challenges, including issues with drugs and racism, but always framed them within a context of progress and hope. Throughout, Marti maintained a politically neutral stance, stressing the importance of peace and reconciliation. His memorable phrase, “Two eyes on the past is to be blind,” perfectly encapsulated the tour’s message: acknowledge history, but look forward to build a better future. If you’re visiting Belfast and want an honest, engaging, and eye-opening experience, book with Marti.

Very knowledgeable guide and taken to the more troubled areas of Belfast The information about how the troubles started was very insightful

An informative, well researched and personal tour in which Marti showed just how the communities still have to keep working to secure the peace in Northern Ireland. Fascinating to see how the murals were being repurposed to remember the past whilst not letting the trauma damage another generation Highly recommend!

We were fortunate to be partnered with our tour guide Marty who has so much knowledge and passion for Belfast he made our tour really interesting- we would definitely recommend this tour if you want to hear about not only the troubles but how Belfast is leading the way with some fantastic community projects - definitely wear comfy shoes though as there is a lot of walking but well worth it!

Marti provided a very informative walking tour offering, along with a comprehensive insight into The Troubles, comments on and connections to, Northern Ireland’s long term history, international politics, Women’s Rights and climate change. Most importantly he talked of managing peace and the many things happening in Belfast that are working that. Marti also gave lots of recommendations for other things to see and do in Belfast. He is a passionate ambassador for the city. Book Marti’s tour and enjoy a fast-paced, comprehensive and insightful story of Belfast.

Marti knows much and has done a lot to build rapport with the various communities who still live in conflict. This allows him to bring a fair and balanced perspective on a city that is still living with the trauma of conflict. He took us through parts of the city that I would not be comfortable going through on my own. Highly informative and emotional tour.

The tour guide is very knowledgeable but also opinionated. Had the annoying and awkward habit of challenging the group with, “What do you know about…” acting like we were imbeciles. If I knew everything about the Troubles I wouldn’t be taking the tour!

Highly informative tour of the murals with lots of stories and recommendations. It was only meant to last 3 hours but lasted 3 hours 40. You get a good view of both sides of the argument and how they are trying to reconcile. If you want an insider view and you are happy walking I would thoroughly recommend this tour.

Absolutely fantastic tour of Belfast's past, present, and hopes for the future. Marti was so informative and passionate about the city (and Northern Ireland in general) and that shone throughout with the attention to historical detail and context provided to everything we saw. This tour brings you to the heart of the communities recovering from the Troubles, and Marti provides a balanced perspective and with respect for all those affected. The ability to walk through the Shankill Road and Falls Road and see the murals up-close is a unique aspect of this walking tour. You really get a sense of the troubled history as well as the precious efforts to manage peace. Marti also took time to recommend places to eat and listen to local trad music, which we did later in our stay! Thanks so much Marti for taking the time to share a little snippet of Belfast with us, we'll be back!