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About
The history of Belfast begins at Clifton House. From the moment you step through our 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.
Clifton House is an impressive Georgian building, set in tranquil landscaped gardens in the heart of Belfast. It is open to the public for tours (check availability) and also for private tours on request. Find out more below:
Clifton House: Experience the Belfast Poor House Tour - Experience what life was like in the Poor House on our fully guided tour, where you will hear, see, read, experience and explore our past. Hear stories from the Poor House, and learn about the people who sought sanctuary within its walls: men, women and children. See original artefacts from the 1700s. Read the names of those who died here, in some cases the only record of their existance, as well as the names of the hundreds of children who called it hom.;
Experience our augmented reality, and immerse yourself in our past.
Clifton Street Cemetery Tour - Explore Clifton Street Cemetery, one of Belfast's oldest burial grounds, and see the final resting place of radicals including Henry Joy and Mary Ann McCracken, Thomas McCabe & William Drennan; poets and artists; an American slave; and wealthy families who were buried alongside one of the largest famine graveyards in Ireland. All this and more, under the expert guidance of our White Badge volunteers.
Hero of Belfast - Mary Ann McCracken Walking Tour - Mary Ann McCracken was a woman who held her own views on the social and political issues of her day- and wasn't afraid to voice them! A life long abolitionist she campaigned against slavery in the West Indies and continued the fight in to her later years against slavery in the United States.
This one of a kind walking tour, which departs from Clifton House, takes in the locations linked to Mary Ann McCracken's life, her endeavours and that of her family. An experienced guide will take you through the same streets she walked over 200 years before.
What's on at Clifton House - Clifton House also offer history talks throughout the year, which delve deeper into our rich archives and history. Visit our website for details.
We hope to see you soon.
Book Tickets
Facilities
Establishment Features
- Cater for Corporate events
- Conference facilities
- Event venue
- Groups accepted
- Groups catered for
- Guided Tours Available
- Online Booking
- Prior Booking Required
- Toilets
- Wi-fi available
Event Facilities
- Booking Required
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Payment Methods
- All major credit/debit cards accepted
Provider Preferences
- Of historic, literary or architectural interest
- Unique venue
Guide Prices
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Adult | Free |
Booking in advance is recommended
Events
Monday, 10th March 2025 - Wednesday, 29th October 2025
Hero of Belfast: Mary Ann McCracken Walking TourExperience Mary Ann McCracken’s Belfast, as you walk in the footsteps of this remarkable abolitionist, philanthropist and social reformer. Mary Ann McCracken, who was born over 250 years ago, is intrinsically linked to the city of Belfast. She lived her fearless life championing causes, moving…- more info
Friday, 5th September 2025 - Saturday, 6th September 2025
Clifton House Tour: Experience The Belfast Poor House (BSL Signed)This is a BSL Signed Clifton House Tour: Experience The Belfast Poor House- more info
Thursday, 11th September 2025 - Thursday, 11th September 2025
A Legion of Wollstonecrafts: Radical Women of the 1790sIn a letter written in 1799 the writer Mary Robinson wrote: 'It requires a legion of Wollstonecrafts to undermine the poisons of prejudice and malevolence'. Wollstonecraft was an outspoken advocate of the rights of women, children and men in the 1790s, but she was not the only woman of that decade…- more info
Thursday, 25th September 2025 - Thursday, 25th September 2025
Beginnings – The Opening of the PoorhouseIn 1774 the Poorhouse opened and an Act of the Irish Parliament appointed a President and eight Assistants to the Belfast Charitable Society. They represented landowners, public representatives and churches. Who were these individuals and how did they reflect the times? Join our talk to find out.- more info
Friday, 24th October 2025 - Saturday, 25th October 2025
Friday, 31st October 2025 - Saturday, 1st November 2025
Death, Tragedy & Betrayal: The Darker Side of Clifton Street Cemetery (Tour)Explore Clifton Street Cemetery this Halloween weekend and discover its darker side!- more info
