Prepare to embark on a captivating adventure through the streets of Belfast, the newly designated UNESCO City of Music. Renowned for its rich musical heritage and iconic music venues, experience Belfast’s rock and roll spirit like never before.
Introducing the Belfast Music Bus Tour, organised by Oh Yeah Music Centre, a unique opportunity to explore the city’s musical legacy through the lens of a specially curated multi-genre playlist. Settle in and relax as your expert local guide unveils lesser-known facts and captivating stories that have been passed down through generations.
‘‘I have a great passion for music and I love talking about it. I’m also very proud of Belfast and I am glad to call it home. Hosting the Belfast Music Bus Tour gives me a great opportunity to share these two passions whilst informing and entertaining guests along the way.’’ – Stephen Loughins, Belfast Music Bus Tour Guide
From the birthplace of Van Morrison, Ruby Murray and David Holmes to many other notable artists such as BICEP and Kneecap who have left an indelible mark on Belfast’s music scene, this journey promises to be a celebration of musical excellence and cultural significance. As the tour unfolds, you’ll be transported through time with songs that showcase Belfast’s thriving music scene, spanning generations from past to present. Recognised as one of National Geographic’s ‘Top 10 Things to Be in Northern Ireland’, this extraordinary experience is not to be missed.
Throughout the tour, you will encounter notable stops such as the beautifully restored Ulster Hall, which witnessed Led Zeppelin’s world premiere of ‘Stairway to Heaven’ in 1971. You will also visit the site of the Maritime Hotel, where Van Morrison and Them made their debut in 1964, as well as the Belfast Waterfront, which hosted the pivotal ‘Yes’ concert in 1998 featuring Ash and U2.
Venture beyond the city centre and explore various areas of North, South, East and West Belfast to gain a true understanding of the city’s diverse musical history. Feel the magic as Van Morrison’s ‘Cyprus Avenue’ comes alive in the very location that inspired the lyrics. Along the way, you’ll have ample opportunities to capture memorable photographs of your journey.
After an enlightening ride through the city, the bus will return to Oh Yeah Music Centre, where participants can enjoy a complimentary beverage of their choice and explore the NI Music
Exhibition free of charge. The exhibition showcases legendary items such as Gary Lightbody’s guitar used to write ‘Chasing Cars’, Gary Moore’s iconic barbed wire-patterned suit from an Amnesty International show, and even a brick from the original Maritime Hotel building, among other cherished memorabilia.
‘‘Belfast is a music city with a wealth of stories to tell. We’re delighted to see the return of the music bus tour. It’s a must for music fans and an alternative and really interesting way to be taken around this beautiful city.’’ – Charlotte Dryden, CEO of Oh Yeah Music Centre
The Belfast Music Bus Tour will be running on Saturday 29th July; Saturday 26th August; Saturday 30th August; Saturday 28th October, and Saturday 18th November. The two-hour tour will commence at Oh Yeah Music Centre, located at 15-21 Gordon Street in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, at 2pm.
To book a spot on tour, visit here or telephone the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre on 028 9024 6609. For those seeking a more personalised experience, bespoke tours, including private, group, or corporate options, are available upon request. For further details, availability and pricing information, please contact rionach@ohyeahbelfast.com.
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