In Life & Death: Clifton House & Clifton Street Cemetery Tour

The history of Belfast begins at Clifton House! From the moment you step through the door you will be transported back in time to the Belfast Poor House – opened in 1774 – which provided sanctuary to thousands of people, from the young and old, to local citizens and passing sailors, throughout the years.

With their augmented reality, visitors can now fully immerse themselves in what life was like in the late eighteenth century. The White Badge tour guides will share the history and stories 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. And much more!

Afterwards visit Clifton Street Cemetery and see the final resting place of radicals including Henry Joy and Mary Ann McCracken, Thomas McCabe & William Drennan; poets and artists; American slaves; and wealthy families buried alongside one of the largest famine graveyards in Ireland.

Set up by the philanthropic merchants of the town, the Belfast Charitable Society and its home in Clifton House, has survived rebellions and revolutions, while looking after the welfare of the people of the city. Today, over 265 years later, the Belfast Charitable Society continues to address disadvantage and support those in greatest need, through the proceeds from our tours.

Planning your visit

• Booking in advance essential
• Guided tours last approx. 2-2.5 hours
• Please arrive 10 minutes before the start of your tour
• Free car parking onsite
• Tickets £12.50pp
• Car parking is available on site
• Please advise in advance of any access requirements.
• Belfast Visitor Pass and Concession rates are £11.50. Please present your Visitor Pass on arrival. Find out more about the Belfast Visitor Pass.
• Tickets Available in the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre