Clifton House Tour: Experience The Belfast Poor House

From the moment you step through their doors, you will be transported back in time to the Belfast Poor House. Opened in 1774 this majestic building provided sanctuary to thousands of people, from the young and old, to local citizens and passing sailors, throughout the years.

With augmented reality, visitors can now fully immerse themselves in what life was like in the late eighteenth century. Staff and volunteers from Clifton House will share the history of this fantastic building and its people, while they come to life right before your eyes. See how the children learned in the nursery school, experience the ‘Black Hole’ – the punishment room for those who misbehaved. Feel and hear how it was to work in the first cotton mill of the town and how Belfast influenced the rest of the world.

Set up by the philanthropic merchants of the town, the Belfast Charitable Society and its home, Clifton House, has survived rebellions and revolutions, while looking after the welfare of the people of the city. Today, 270 years later, the Belfast Charitable Society continues to address disadvantage and support those in greatest need, through the proceeds from these tours.

Planning your visit:

• Booking in advance essential
• Guided tours last approx. 1 hour
• Please arrive 10 minutes before the start of your tour
• Free car parking onsite at Clifton House
• Please advise in advance (min 2 days prior to your visit) of any accessibility requirements. They have steps and stairs coming into the building and to the first floor, but they can make alternative arrangements with advanced notice.

Find out more>>