Description
Experience Mary Ann McCracken’s Belfast, as you walk in the footsteps of this remarkable abolitionist, philanthropist and social reformer.
Mary Ann McCracken, who was born over 250 years ago, is intrinsically linked to the city of Belfast. She lived her fearless life championing causes, moving from place to place, always on a mission to make life better for those less fortunate than herself. Hear too about her more radical nature. Her role in the work of the United Irishmen, the 1798 rebellion and beyond. How she was devoted to her older brother Henry Joy – hanged for his leading role in the rebellion. This walking tour takes in the locations linked to her life, her endeavours and that of her family. You will be led by an experienced guide through the same streets she walked over 200 years before. This new walking tour starts at Clifton House, where Mary Ann’s thirst for philanthropic causes first began, and where her impact can still be seen today, and finishes near Belfast City Hall.
Planning your visit:
- Walking tour lasts approx. 2 hours (1 ½ hour walking / standing and 30 mins seated rest break)
- Please arrive 10 minutes in advance of the tour start time
- Tickets are £15.00pp and includes a complimentary tea and coffee
- Walking tour commences at Clifton House and finishes at the Mary Ann McCracken statue at City Hall. Distance is roughly one mile on paved ground. ·
- Booking in advance is essential due to limited spaces
About the Mary Ann McCracken Foundation
The Foundation was officially launched in 2021 to promote the life and times of this remarkable woman and to explore her legacy and relevance in the 21st century. For more information on the Foundation’s work please click here
- Admission £15
When?

Upcoming events at Clifton House Belfast
Belfast’s Heroines: Mary Ann McCracken and Martha McTier Walking Tour
Come and learn about Belfast’s heroines, Mary Ann McCracken and Martha McTier, in a brand-new walking tour.
The Medical History of Belfast Charitable Society (Cemetery Tour)
A journey through the medical history of 18th and 19th Century Belfast through the lives of pioneering surgeons…
The Hidden History of the Women of Clifton Street Cemetery
In this brand new tour, discover stories of notable women such as Mary Ann McCracken.
Plots & Plotters: Belfast Charitable Society & the 1798 Rebellion (Clifton Street Cemetery Tour)
Come and explore the stories of the reformers & rebels who made the Belfast Charitable Society a “hotbed…
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