Top Things To Do In Crumlin Road Gaol (Belfast) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Crumlin Road Gaol

1. 1. Guided Gaol Tour

   Explore the Crumlin Road Gaol with a professional guide who will take you through over 150 years of history. Journey through the corridors of the Victorian-era prison, visiting the holding cells, execution chamber, and the tunnels linking the gaol to the courthouse across the street. Learn about the daily lives of both prisoners and guards, hear tales of the gaol's notorious inmates, and discover the harrowing history of incarceration, reform, and execution that took place within these walls. The tour is a captivating experience that provides a unique glimpse into Belfast's past, demonstrating the historical significance of the justice system and its evolution over the centuries. Prepare for a hauntingly educational walk through one of the most famous prisons in Northern Ireland.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: £9 for adults, £7 for children

2. 2. Paranormal Tour

   Crumlin Road Gaol reputedly one of the most haunted sites in Belfast, offers a chilling Paranormal Tour for those brave enough to encounter the unknown. This eerie tour reveals the stories and sightings of former inmates who are believed to haunt the gaol's halls. Led by experienced guides, visitors will use ghost hunting equipment to detect supernatural activity in various parts of the prison, including the execution chamber and the condemned man's cell. The tour delves into the paranormal investigations that have taken place at the gaol, and whether or not you're a believer, you'll find yourself engrossed in the tales of unexplained occurrences that continue to intrigue and terrify both staff and visitors to this day.

   Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes · Price: £15 per person

3. 3. Escape Room Challenge

   The Crumlin Road Gaol presents an Escape Room Challenge that is not for the faint of heart. This thrilling experience locks you and your team inside one of the ominous cells of the gaol, where you must use your wits and teamwork to solve a series of puzzles and break free before time runs out. Drawing inspiration from the gaol's extensive history, the scenarios are both challenging and immersive, making for an entertaining adventure that combines problem-solving with a touch of history. Will you be able to escape the confines of the Crumlin Road Gaol, or will you find yourself behind bars for the remainder of the hour? Join the challenge to find out!

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: £60 per team (2-6 people)

4. 4. The Gaol Experience Tour

   Immerse yourself in history with The Gaol Experience Tour at Crumlin Road Gaol. This interactive tour is expertly guided and enhanced with effects that bring the gaol's past to life. Visitors will be transported back in time as they encounter characters in period costumes depicting the roles of prisoners and guards, providing insights into what life was like behind bars. With vivid storytelling and reconstructions of historical events, this interactive experience is both educational and engaging, suitable for visitors of all ages who seek a deeper understanding of Belfast's penal history. The tour culminates with a dramatic representation of an escape attempt, which is sure to leave an impression on all who witness it.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: £10 for adults, £8 for children

5. 5. History & Gallows Exhibition

   The History & Gallows Exhibition at Crumlin Road Gaol invites visitors to delve into the depths of the prison's past. Filled with informative displays and artifacts, this self-guided tour offers an in-depth look at the penal justice system and the role the gaol played throughout its operation. From the historic cells and execution sites to the tales of individual inmates and the societal implications of their sentences, the exhibition covers a broad swath of the gaol's storied existence. It's a contemplative walk through time, ideal for history enthusiasts and those interested in the darker aspects of our cultural heritage. The exhibition is both elucidating and poignant, as it addresses the grim realities faced by those who once called Crumlin Road Gaol home.

   Duration: Self-guided, typically 1 hour · Price: Included in the entry fee

6. 6. Music Events and Concerts

   Crumlin Road Gaol is not just a historical monument; it's also a unique venue for music events and concerts. Within the walls of this former prison, you can attend various performances ranging from classical to contemporary music. The acoustics within some of the prison's wings provide a hauntingly beautiful backdrop to the melodies, creating a one-of-a-kind concert experience. Past events have included performances by local and international artists, captivating audiences in the atmospheric surroundings. Each concert at the gaol is a unique fusion of history and culture, ensuring that visitors enjoy a memorable evening of entertainment unlike any other in Belfast.

   Duration: Varies per event · Price: Varies per event

7. 7. Comedy Nights

   Crumlin Road Gaol offers a lighter take on its macabre history with regular Comedy Nights, where laughter echoes through the halls of the once-dreaded institution. These events feature local and touring comedians who take to the stage in what was once the gaol's central hall. The unusual setting adds a quirky twist to the stand-up routines, making these nights a hit among locals and tourists alike. Get ready to laugh off the chill of the gaol's past and enjoy a night filled with humor and fun. It's an opportunity to see the lighter side of this historic site and create new, cheerful memories in a place that once witnessed much somber history.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: £15-£25 per person

8. 8. Christmas Market

   During the festive season, Crumlin Road Gaol transforms into a magical Christmas market, offering a seasonal experience that's both merry and bright. The Victorian architecture becomes the backdrop for twinkling lights and festive decorations, setting the scene for a delightful array of stalls. Here, visitors can shop for unique gifts, sample local artisan foods, and enjoy the warm atmosphere of holiday cheer. Santa Claus himself often makes an appearance, providing a special treat for the little ones. The Christmas Market at the gaol is a heartwarming event that brings the community together and offers a truly unique yuletide outing where history and holiday spirit converge.

   Duration: Varies per visit · Price: Free entry; prices vary for goods and activities

9. 9. Summer Family Fest

   Perfect for families looking for a day of fun and engagement, the Summer Family Fest at Crumlin Road Gaol is an annual event that offers a wealth of activities for all ages. The gaol's courtyard and grounds are transformed into a lively festival space with bounce houses, face painting, and interactive games. Performers entertain the crowds with music and magic shows, while food stalls provide tasty treats and refreshments. Kids and adults alike can learn a bit about the gaol's history through engaging with costumed characters and taking short guided tours. The fest is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the lighter side of the gaol and spend quality time with the family in a setting that's both historic and festive.

   Duration: All day event · Price: Free entry; some activities may have a fee

10. 10. After Dark Gaol Tour

    The After Dark Gaol Tour is a spine-tingling experience that invokes the haunting ambiance of Crumlin Road Gaol under the cloak of night. As the sun sets and darkness envelops the prison, visitors embark on a guided tour by the light of a lantern. The shadows cast along the walls and the eerie silence that pervades the night amplifies the chilling tales recounted by the guide. This tour is especially popular around Halloween or for those seeking an extra thrill. It's a chance to see the gaol in a different light, or lack thereof, and to be enraptured by the nocturnal mysteries that continue to fascinate visitors and ghost hunters alike.

    Duration: 1 hour · Price: £12 for adults, £10 for children