


Explore a historic Victorian prison turned interactive museum where families discover Belfast's compelling legal and social history through guided tours and immersive exhibits.
Venue Type
Indoor
Typical visit duration
1-3 hours
Booking
Walk-in
Recommended ages
0 months (newborn)+
I thoroughly enjoyed my brief visit to Crumlin Gaol, the self guided tour was full of interesting information and videos and the hanging cell gave me a shiver down my spine !! definitely worth a visit and yes I would recommend Crumlin Gaol to anyone
Even though it was quite pricey, we ended up here because it was freezing and pouring outside. The videos and holograms were amazing, but sadly, not all the areas were open to visitors. There was no clear parking sign, and parking in front was not allowed. The building was so cold that we spent ninety minutes there, even though the coffee shop was closed for a special event, so even could not get a hot coffee to warm up. The tour ended at a real place of executions, which was a fantastic way to wrap things up.
The history is bleak, dark and compelling. The recordings, videos and diorama really brought history to life. It was presented as a blend of serious history and a bit of a laugh. I found it jarring, but it was effective. We appreciated the details and what was presented, showing the various iterations of prison history. Women's history was included, which is so important to get a balanced picture. I think if I were from Belfast, I would never want to go inside that prison. There were video accounts of Loyalist and Republican priaoners. Our cabbie said hia Dad was incarcerated for 22 years there. A tangled and acutely personal slice of history.
Pleasantly surprised! Did the self guided tour, there wasn’t many other people there on a rainy Wednesday. It was very informative and gave haunted house vibes at times, a very immersive experience. Took around 1 1/2 hours to walk through and listen to the informative videos. Very friendly staff.
A fantastic restoration and story of a Gaol throughout Belfast's last hundred years plus. Following a well planned trail you get stories, an idea of life for a variety of prisoners, the punishments, the stories and the hardships. The building itself is a stark reminder of Victorian views of punishment, separation in cells, menial work, cleanliness, religious overlay and solid structural integrity. The cafe in the former kitchens is great the food was lovely and value for money. Service was really friendly.
Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026
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This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026
