Quite a change from visiting Belfast’s Botanic Gardens Palm House and Giant’s Causeway, my first time in jail was a fun one. The Crumlin Road Gaol tour is fantastic is definitely worth booking while you’re in Belfast. It was eerie seeing the conditions and stepping into the cells. The hanging room chilled me to the bone.
My photos of Crumlin Road Gaol
History of Crumlin Road Gaol
Opened in 1846, Crumlin Road Gaol is the last remaining Victorian prison in Northern Ireland. Designed by Sir Charles Lanyon and inspired by London’s Pentonville Prison, it replaced the outdated County Gaol in Carrickfergus. Its radial design featured four wings fanning from a central hub known as The Circle, enforcing the “Separate System” of solitary confinement.
Over its 150-year history, the Gaol housed over 25,000 inmates, including men, women, and children — some as young as six. It witnessed 17 executions, political imprisonments during The Troubles, and dramatic escapes. The prison closed in 1996, and after restoration, reopened in 2012 as a museum and cultural venue, offering visitors a powerful glimpse into Belfast’s turbulent past.
10 Interesting Facts About Crumlin Road Gaol
- The first 106 prisoners walked in chains from Carrickfergus — a four-hour journey.
- Executions were public spectacles until 1901, drawing crowds of up to 20,000.
- The underground tunnel links the Gaol to the courthouse across the road.
- Éamon de Valera, Ian Paisley, and Martin McGuinness were all held here.
- The Condemned Man’s Cell and Execution Chamber remain intact.
- The Gaol was nicknamed “Europe’s Alcatraz” for its high security.
- In 1971, nine IRA prisoners escaped using rope ladders — dubbed the “Crumlin Kangaroos.”
- The Gaol is said to be haunted, with sightings of the “Grey Lady” and phantom footsteps.
- It hosted suffragettes in 1914 and endured WWII bomb damage in 1941.
- Today, it’s a venue for concerts, paranormal tours, and weddings.
Things to See and Do at Crumlin Road Gaol
- Walk the Tunnel to the Courthouse
Descend into the 84-metre passage once used to escort prisoners to trial — a chilling, atmospheric experience. - Explore C-Wing and Historic Cells
Visit preserved cells with holographic displays, audio stories, and reconstructions of prison life. - Stand in the Condemned Man’s Cell
See where prisoners spent their final hours before execution — complete with original furnishings. - Visit the Execution Chamber and Graveyard
Learn about the 17 men hanged here and view the unmarked graves within the grounds. - Tour the Governor’s Office and Hospital Wing
Discover administrative life and medical practices inside the prison. - Join a Paranormal or After-Dark Tour
Experience ghost stories and unexplained phenomena in one of Belfast’s most haunted sites. - Attend Events and Exhibitions
Enjoy concerts, comedy nights, seasonal markets, and immersive history experiences. - Try the Escape Room Challenge
Solve puzzles in a real cell to “break out” — a thrilling, history-themed activity. - Relax at Cuffs Bar & Grill
Enjoy locally sourced meals and drinks in the former prison kitchen. - Browse the Gift Shop
Find branded merchandise, books, and artisan crafts linked to Belfast’s heritage.
Practical Information for Visiting Crumlin Road Gaol
- Location: 53–55 Crumlin Road, Belfast BT14 6ST
- Opening Times:
- Daily: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (last entry 3:00 pm)
- Entry:
- Adults: £15.00 / £14.50 online
- Children (5–15): £8.50 / £8.00 online
- Concessions: £13.00
- Family (2 adults + 2 children): £45.00
- Booking: Crumlin Road Gaol – Official Site
- Accessibility:
- Wheelchair-friendly (except tunnel)
- Accessible toilets and seating
- Transport:
- Metro Bus #57 and #12B (Mon–Sat); #12A (Sun)
- Yorkgate Station: 20-minute walk
- Parking: Free on-site via Summer Street entrance
- Nearby: Clifton House, Peace Wall, Ulster Museum, Cathedral Quarter
- Food & Drink: Cuffs Bar & Grill; seasonal kiosks
- Toilets: Available, including accessible and baby-changing facilities
- Events: Paranormal tours, concerts, seasonal festivals, escape rooms
