Northern Ireland

Guided walks taking in the sights and history around south Belfast

John Bradbury, tour guide for 'Walk with Ormeau'
John Bradbury, tour guide for 'Walk with Ormeau' John Bradbury, tour guide for 'Walk with Ormeau'

FROM the Gasworks to the former Apollo Cinema and the Ormeau Baths, guided walks taking in the sights and history around south Belfast are set to be launched next week.

The 'Walk with Ormeau' tour will take participants on an educational journey of the area visiting current points of interest and former well-known landmarks, including the Albert Memorial Clock, linen storehouses, Donegall Pass and Hatfield House.

It is the first in a series of monthly walks organised by Ormeau Business Park, which is encouraging local businesses and residents to "savour a little bit of history" of the area.

John Bradbury, a history author who hosts events specialising in Belfast's past, will lead the tours, which begin on October 27.

Starting at the Gasworks the tour will move onto the Meter House, which recorded gas consumption for the city, the Albert Memorial Clock, Ormeau Baths, Linen Storehouses, and dive into the background of Francis Joy who set up the Cromac Mill.

Participants will learn about the historical events of Donegall Pass, the Klondyke building, North sports ground, Hatfield House and Sean Graham bookmakers.

The tour will also look back on the 1970s boat club dances, the former Apollo Cinema as well as the historical significance behind the Ormeau Bridge and Ormeau Park.

Patricia McNeill from Ormeau Business Park said they are looking forward to sharing the history of the Ormeau Road.

"We are really excited to be able to share the truly unique history of the Ormeau Road with our tenants and locals in south Belfast and to have a tour-guide of John Bradbury’s talent and experience onboard will make it an experience to remember," she said.

To book a place on the tour, please contact Patricia McNeill at Patricia.McNeill@ormeaubusinesspark.com or call 028 9033 9906.