An evening tour of Friar's Bush Graveyard focusing on public health, disease and famine in Belfast in the 19th Century.

The story of Friar's Bush is the story of Belfast. We begin with haphazard burials at a tiny religious settlement beyond the small town of Belfast and progress to an organised,19th-century graveyard. You'll learn about the people of Belfast's struggles with disease, epidemics, bodysnatching and the effects of the Famine.

This is a small group tour, limited to 20 people and taken at a sedate pace. There will be an opportunity at the end to roam, explore and take pictures.

We are delighted to again offer this special tour featuring local actor Stephen Beggs portraying 12 characters who rest in the historic Balmoral Cemetery.

Amongst the stops are the final resting places of the remarkable early Belfast Feminist Isabella Tod, the newly-restored headstone of the man who introduced association football to Ireland John Mecredy McAlery, and Rev Henry Cooke as well as 9 others.

Places for this tour are highly limited, so please book early to avoid disappointment.

Meeting at Gate C, City Hospital, Donegal Road

Join historian Dr Robyn Atcheson for a historical journey through gruesome past of Belfast. Discover the little-known history of the Belfast workhouse and its role in shaping healthcare in our city.

Uncover the untold stories of medical care for the poorest in society, the illnesses that plagued the city and what happened to the bodies of the poor.

The final destination is Friar's Bush graveyard, home to one of Belfast's mass burial pits for victims of cholera and 'famine fever'.

This tour is for adults and mature teens, and includes real medical instruments and descriptions of disease and death. Parental discretion is advised.

A special East Belfast themed tour to coincide with the EastSide Arts Festival.

Here's a review from last year. -

'What a fascinating journey we had following Peter McCabe through Friar’s Bush Graveyard! Concentrating mainly on East Belfast citizens buried there, Peter enthusiastically and informatively shared their stories and wider connections. He recounted their history with humour but also with great sensitivity. The graveyard felt like a sanctuary on the cusp of the city centre . . . so peaceful and calm. Freshly-mown grassy paths made it easy to navigate. Such an excellent and interesting hour and a half.'

This tour runs only once per year - try not to miss it!