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Experience a lively Irish heritage tour of Belfast’s most ancient cemetery pre-dating Belfast city.

Friar’s Bush enjoys a mention on Belfast’s oldest maps dating from the sixteenth century, confirming the existence of a friary and linked community at the site of this ancient graveyard. Learn about the spiritual link with Pagan Ireland and early Celtic Monasticism during the great golden age of Gaelic heritage: The Land of Saints and Scholars! There is, naturally, a tradition of St Patrick here with evidence of a church in his honour that few know about… In more recent centuries this graveyard has borne witness to epic tragedies and unfolding historic events. Few tours are ever the same. All cover different dimensions, histories and characters. Some are enhanced with traditional Irish music. Most leave wanting to come back!

Guides this autumn and winter are Dr Deirdre Nic an tSionnaigh and John Millar Bradbury. This is an outdoor experience so rainwear and sturdy walking shoes are advised. Please arrive 15 minutes before tour starts.

Friar’s Bush Ancient Graveyard Tours are brought to you by Cairde na Cille (Friends of the Churchyard), CIC, a non-profit Community Interest Company led by experienced animators, researchers, musicians and historians who are a little obsessive about ancient monuments, especially cemeteries! All tour bookings surplus will go towards restoration and regeneration of Friar’s Bush Ancient Cemetery and Gatehouse, community programmes, cultural events and volunteering. Booking these tours will make a significant difference in Belfast.