Protestant Sandy Row, Belfast. What is the future of loyalist inner-city Belfast?

Today we’re going to have a quick stroll down Sandy Row, traditionally a fiercely protestant and loyalist part of south Belfast. In previous films I spoke about the changing demographics of Belfast, and this area is another example of how traditional loyalism perhaps on the wane. Immediately on turning the corner into the street we see new apartment accommodation on the site where the old Crescent bar once stood. How many of the residents of this block originally are from Sandy Row I can’t say, but I suspect that there’s now a fairly substantial immigrant population now living in this area.
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Across the street is the home of District no 5 Grand Orange lodge. The building was erected in 1910. For those viewing from outside Ireland or the UK, the Orange Order is a Conservative British Unionist and Ulster Loyalist organistion formed in 1795, to defend Protestantism.
And I think a look at the shopfront gives us an indication of how this part of Belfast is changing as enterprising new people arrive and populate the area. All these apartment blocks are quite new and, being right in the city centre, are obviously attractive to our new residents. 30 years ago Belfast was a monoculture, despite the fact that there was much talk and obviously serious sectarian violence surrounding what was perceived as the “2 cultures", nationalist and Unionist. The area now has a wonderfully diverse population and this obviously points to how Belfast more generally is changing. It’s losing its tribalism. However, a glance across the street here at the Royal bar will tell you that this is still a strong working-class protestant area. Again though, just down the Donegal road here on our right there’s a hostel, where young people from all over the world stay in when visiting Belfast.
We pass a red brick building which is the the Glasgow Rangers Supporters Club. This is another strange quirk of sectarian life in Belfast. Protestant loyalists tend to support the Scottish football club Glasgow Rangers, while Irish Rebublicans favour Glasgow Celtic. There’s fierce rivalry between there two sets of supporters, which often boils over into sectarian violence. Just wearing the wrong football shirt in certain parts of Belfast can get you into some serious trouble.
Now a look across the road here shows some of the issues faced by this community. These derelict and boarded up old shops were once thriving businesses. Before the troubles Sandy Row prided itself in being a vibrant shopping area where you could buy anything you needed. As the older residents move out of the area, there’s an new influx of people taking advantage of the available accommodation and setting up their own lives here.
On crossing the road it’s great to see some new businesses that appear to be an indication that the area’s redevelopment plan is bearing fruit. There’s the shopfront of the Harris Kilt Company and bedside it a nice new Boots Chemist. The shape of things to come perhaps?
When we glance down this street we see the social housing that replaced all the old 19th century housing stock that accommodated the mill workers who worked here when Belfast had a booming linen industry. And again on this side of the road you can see how this area has been completely redeveloped.
Then we have the community centre, an obvious hub for the residents of the area. And just behind it we see more loyalist murals and even the bollards painted red, white and blue. While the community is changing, there’s certainly a strong core of unionist support here. It is, after all, one of Belfast’s most staunchly loyalist areas, and that’s reflected here again in some posters offering information on flute bands and orange order history. `
And then we come to a hotel that’s been here for quite a while, but it really is a very poorly planned development. Quite an ugly building and not representing the kind of thought that the redevelopment of this area deserves.
We look at the mural of King Billy. King William of Orange, from whom the Orange Order takes its name, was a Dutch prince who married the English Queen Mary II. He became the British Monarch encouraged by the protestant majority in Britain who were in opposition to King James who they felt threatened a revival of Catholicism. William’s massive popularity among loyalists here is largely down to a battle fought in the Boyne valley near Drogheda (now in the Irish Republic) in 1690 in which his armies defeated King James. This is celebrated on the 12th of July every year.
And then there’s this rather beautiful statue. This commemorates the women of Sandy Row. She seems quite stylish, almost as though she’s on a Paris catwalk rather than standing in urban Belfast.

[@briankavo]

King William, King James, Orange, Green, Catholic, Protestant, when will people realise that what really matters is that everyone in society has access to education, healthcare, housing etc. History and traditional can and should be celebrated (peaceful and respectfully) but history, traditions, religion etc. do not equate to education, healthcare, housing etc.

[@nakedireland]

Well said Brian.

[@laurenceskinnerton73]

Sectarianism is not the answer!

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Lawrence.

[@holeefuk413]

Ye celebrated in a united Ireland

[@TheLastAngryMan01]

Divide and rule, rinse and repeat.

[@WelshRob1964]

Most enjoyable Greg and educational, nice one 👍

[@user-zq8ll1yl6i]

Thanks for the video - I was there with work 28 years ago just before the 12th and felt uneasy even though I am a prod myself ! I remember getting a meal from the Silver Boat Chinese take away which to my amazement is still there ! Hopefully both traditions can evolve and survive peacefully side by side.

[@sonnyirish3678]

My friend both sides are about to be screwed by traitors in London and Dublin.Just wait till they start inviting in migrants from Africa and Asia.

[@thissecondhalfadventure]

Just discovered your channel- it’s a favorite of some of our subscribers, and we can see why😊 Good video and thoughtful balanced commentary. Along with the comments from multiple perspectives it helps us understand the complicated history and political situation on your beautiful island.❤

[@nakedireland]

Many thanks, lovely to hear that and thanks so much for watching.

[@CiaranGallagher1]

I'm in Sandy Row all the time but I never really stop to look around! these are great videos

[@waynecrozier1288]

Worked in Sandy Row Band Shop (Drum Sounds) and seeing this has brought back some memories. Was always a great place to work especially coming up to the twelfth. Thanks for the video 🇬🇧

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for watching Wayne.

[@doitatit]

That was great! Once again a well balanced view of a Divided City. Getting a wee bit better as time goes on. I never walked down Sandy Row, that would have been the end of me! There was always the vision of Orange Lilly from Sandy Row, each 12th. Well , “ here’s to the wee man in the velvet jacket”. Thank you again. Just fantastic.

[@nakedireland]

Many thanks Des. I’m so glad you feel it’s well balanced and not partisan, that’s what I’m aiming for. Others can make their minds up about the politics and the rights and wrongs. A big thank you again for watching.

[@doitatit]

These presentations are a credit to you and your views on Ireland and being Irish. It's becoming an important part of my enjoyment off KZbin.

[@nakedireland]

Im so glad Des. And it’s great to get feedback from people like yourself.

[@bernardinglis4232]

A toast to the wee man in the velvet waist coat ,😉

[@nakedireland]

Who’s the wee man in the velvet waistcoat Bernard?

[@martinkscott]

Brilliant wee video sir 👍🏻

[@seanmaguire8250]

Great stuff NI. Not a place that I've ever been to but enjoyable all the same, I'll be sure to view further posts.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Sean, great to have you watching.

[@johnconlon2207]

My grandfather an Irish Catholic died at Gallipoli. A lot of the Unionist leaders who banged on about the Somme never served. Too rich and selfish. Working class everywhere are mugs taken in by B.S. Even in thr Troubles wealthy areas were relatively unaffected

[@nakedireland]

I agree John, so much of the problems of conflict affect only working class people.

[@user-ze8yy8jg1f]

Unionist parades were banned during ww1 due to British not wanted to see men out parading instead of serving

[@pbohearn]

Excellent naturalist style video with a commentary with a beautiful Irish lilt! I just like hearing your thoughts about every day, Belfast, and how it is in the present day and how it’s of course changing and how that can be difficult

[@nakedireland]

Thanks so much, I appreciate your praise, gives me the incentive to keep going.

[@MichaelShawcross]

The future for Loyalism and Irish nationalism is to stop hoping that either state is going to solve your problems because both states are now controlled without. Power over us is now with the WHO, the WEF, and other world bodies. It's long overdue but the answer was always to unite together to challenge this global power block and together form a society that works for ordinary people, in the interests of ordinary people.

[@michael9t]

💯

[@FritsBeutick]

Many years ago I was a regular visitor to Sandy Row. There were pubs like the Boyne Bridge Tavern and McNairds where you could easily meet the locals in a friendly atmosphere. I liked talking to them, learning about their daily lives and what made them tick. I think this video does right to the area and it’s people. Interesting to see what is changing and what is still the same.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for your comment Frits.

[@aengusryan5948]

It's mad how poor the north looks now compared to ROI. It used to be the opposite when I was a kid.

[@nakedireland]

There is certainly a difference in the two economies, but remember this film looks at Sandy Row, which is in some need of regeneration, so it’s not representative of the north. Also bear in mind that Dublin has its run down areas too. Thanks for watching and contributing.

[@ShaunNugent-bp6hl]

😂

[@maskellmaolseachlainn6347]

@@nakedireland Poor false equivalence! On multiple international measures, Ireland is one of the best countries in the world. NI is one of Europe's poorest. No spin will change that fact.

[@nakedireland]

No spin intended. Look at Dublin’s soup kitchens on a weekend. Face facts, Ireland has a strong booming economy, on that we agree. But does everyone benefit? Obviously not. My point above was that it’s unfair to take Sandy Row as a benchmark in terms of the north’s economy. In the same way that it would be unfair to consider Ballymun a benchmark of the southern economy.

[@maskellmaolseachlainn6347]

@@nakedireland And my point is, your whataboutery doesn't change the fact that NI is one of the poorest parts of Europe, while Ireland is one of the wealthiest.

[@Paul-eb4jp]

I'm English I visited Sandy Row a few years ago and I've never felt less British in my life obviously I'm British by birth but these people wore it like a badge of honour in a way I've never experienced in England, the people were lovely and warm but the divide seemed so strange, several of my mates in England are 2nd generation Irish catholics and it's never made a difference, I really hope we never go back to the past, of course both communities want to cling onto their heritage but you can celebrate your heritage without having to hate someone else's.

[@ShaunNugent-bp6hl]

They are too extra with the loyalism and used as pawns in govt elections , left out to dry and be on benefits in NI.

[@ShaunNugent-bp6hl]

I agree with you! People in England are not like this in NI.

[@studslannigan6286]

During WW2 the American Soldiers based in the 6 counties couldn't understand how tens of thousands of Orangemen were parading while an horrific war was at full tilt???? Hiding from Adolf in their Haarland and Wolfe Shipyards in Belfast and Glasgow .."loyalists"🤣😂🤣🤣😂

[@jamesdavies9918]

That is because Zionist globalists have tried to stamp out nationalism in all white countries to further their political goals. They haven’t been as successful in NI they’re trying.

[@desolateones]

Your mates are hardly Irish just because their dog is a wolfhound ffs

[@craigkirkwood4060]

Thank you for the sights and education!

[@nakedireland]

My pleasure.

[@tonycarton8054]

great work my ganny a firece catholic from sligo often talked about sandy row .she lived in durham street a catholic area she was courting a protestant man from east belfast .van morrison mentions in his song madame greorge "and you know you gotta go on a train from dublin up to sandy row" also brendan behan that great writer referred to the fact that Sandy Row had the best pub in ireland .............and he would know

[@nakedireland]

Yes, I’ve a feeling Behan drank it what became the Boyne Bridge Tavern (it’s gone now). There’s even an illustration of the pub in one of his books - can’t remember which one.

[@ShaunNugent-bp6hl]

Lived and worked in Belfast a few years around this area . The only way forward is inclusion. Unity in Ireland.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for watching Shaun.

[@Harry_84]

An independent Northern Ireland would be much better

[@johnloughran8566]

Harry ho is going to pay for it we have no oil etc

[@Harry_84]

@@johnloughran8566 the manufacturing industry is still quite strong. An independent NI could rejoin the EU as well and trade with them and receive subsidies. Ireland and Britain on doorstep. Importantly I think the country would become less sectarian if political ties to Britain were ended and potential of Unity with Ireland rejected.!

[@ShaunNugent-bp6hl]

@@Harry_84 independent from whom? Great Britain and Ireland? That would be wild .

[@kevindelivers]

Well done on another informative video. Definitely the best channel on KZbin to learn about Irish culture and history

[@nakedireland]

Aww Kevin, so great to hear that praise - cheers for watching and please spread the word.

[@eddiestaunton514]

Beautifully made videos, so informative, was in the Rangers Supporters club and NI supporters club bar, nice folk

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for that. So glad you’re enjoying all this.

[@skinnyrides]

I remember going to Reids Shoes and getting my feet measured for new School shoes. It was a great shopping road.

[@nakedireland]

Yes, Reid’s shoes was the place for back to school footware, wherever you were from!

[@AnonAnonAnon]

I was a British soldier, served in Belfast in 1988, hardly anytime off duty, and served 1994-97 which had a different work pattern which meant more off duty days. I drank in every single bar in Belfast City Centre including Kelly's Cellar when I was stood next to Gerry Kelly and some of his admirers. The Beehive on the Falls was one of my favourites as it had on some great bands. Below the Europa Hotel was a nightclub that opened Sunday nights, prods one half of the room, catholics the other. Drink flowed and all started to mix. Nothing that can't be overcome with a pint! I dated a girl from the Short Strand. This helped my cover story, I was her cousin from England looking for work in Belfast. I once attended the Lower Ormeau Community Festival which took place next to the bridge. I was questioned a few times cos of my accent but was accepted and had a few drinks bought for me. Also on the Lower Ormeau was the cricket club (which I believe is long gone). When the bars closed on a Sunday afternoon at 3pm, the cricket club bar would be open. A great atmosphere, some great Sunday afternoons boozing in there. Miss my time there. Seen some bad things but also witnessed the many friendly people from both sides of the divide. Sincerely hope the future for NI is good.

[@studslannigan6286]

You stood beside Gerry Kelly ..WTF ...think you are talkin pish . LOL

[@studslannigan6286]

Ahh forgive me😂😂 you are that brit that was singing Irish Rebel Songs in South Armagh with an english accent 🤣🎵🤣 Capt Robert Nairac😂😂🎵😂 no wonder the wee lads caught him😂😂 Ampleforth Brigade 😂😂

[@danbreen6946]

​@@studslannigan6286Yer Some man Studs 😅🇮🇪☘️

[@studslannigan6286]

@@danbreen6946 Yer man anon's story is some craic😂😂 Buddy Holly played that aul cricket club in da lower ormeau when he was spying for the FBI🤣🤣

[@danbreen6946]

​​@@studslannigan6286Definitely A Tall Tale Impetuous Homeric 🤣🇮🇪☘️

[@Packyboy]

I am originally from the Clonard, haven’t lived in Belfast for over 55 years I was down in SandyRow about 25 years ago.. bought two pairs of what I called Belfast Beatle boots still have them great place to shop. It’s looking very rundown today. Good video keep up the work.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Paddy and time you came back for another visit.

[@paulpayton8238]

Thanks for sharing this I lived in Northern Ireland with my x wife 20years it's sad it's divided though I understand you all over there

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for watching and commenting Paul.

[@paulpayton8238]

@@nakedireland welcome I miss living on a hill farm in the mountains of mourn

[@nakedireland]

Sounds pretty ideal Paul. Of course you’ll miss that!

[@danbreen6946]

Great Channel You Have @Naked Ireland 🇮🇪

[@nakedireland]

Thanks so much Dan, really appreciate that.

[@MrCharlesWidmore]

Quick update, the Internet cafe above ‘Boylesports’ was petrol bombed out two weeks ago! Five times now the same Indian family have been attacked like this! 😡

[@nakedireland]

Scandalous!

[@tracy8056]

I grew up on the Donegall Rd./Sandy Row. Such wonderful memories..it saddens me that a once flourishing community has come to this 😔

[@nakedireland]

Exactly Tracy, but hopefully we’ll see Sandy Row flourish again, it’ll be a changed community, but sure nothing ever stays the same. More good shops and businesses needed, and careful, sympathetic redevelopment.

[@tracy8056]

@nakedireland totally agree. Thank you for sharing.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for watching Tracy and I hope you’ll find some other Naked Ireland videos that are of interest.

[@dhss333]

Define "flourishing. "

[@nakedireland]

‘Flourishing’ Doing very well??

[@briangrant774]

you mentioned you could get in much trouble in wearing the wrong shirt in a particular section of town, would you be so kind as to elaborate? I'll assume you might be referring to the color of orange. thank you so much for your reply. cheers. respectfully. brian grant

[@markyinbelfastxx9088]

Celtic top in sandy row .....foolish Rangers top up the falls......foolish

[@oneill765]

Practice common sense in areas that have had a violent past, do some research into where you're going. Cheers.

[@jmo8934]

Murals, bollards painted red white and blue, union jacks hanging out of every other window. No insecurity there at all.

[@nakedireland]

Ha ha, many thanks for your comment.

[@lfcloyal8284]

Did you walk past the Donegall Arms pub in the video or has it been knocked down ? we visited it in the late 90s during a football ⚽️ tournament

[@nakedireland]

I don’t think the Donegal Arms is still there - others will correct me if I’m wrong.

[@lfcloyal8284]

Ok thanks

[@BT-ui6pz]

My grand parents and mother lived in Sandy Row. Although living in Alaska, we returned and stayed with grandparents on several occasions. Their house was on Lincoln place. Loved Sandy Row in the 1960, 1970s. Love the Naked Ireland videos. Thank you.

[@nakedireland]

So glad you’re enjoying Naked Ireland. From Sandy Row to Alaska! That’s some journey!

[@shane6115]

Another great video fella keep them coming, 2 things I travel to NI from Dublin is for is cheap booze and cars. 😊

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Shane, may the booze and cars stay forever cheap!

[@stevendimmock4791]

The title poses a question. The answer is: Why not try to live like other adults and agree to disagree in your religious views and get on with doing what your religions says, which is love your neighbour. In case you hadn't noticed it is the 21st century.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for watching Steven.

[@johndevoy5792]

In my mid 60's and from way way down the island, in west Cork! I very much appreciate your walk along the street, pointing out it's loyalist-unionist history, then and now. It gives guys like me a sense of the place, though I have to say, leaves me with a rather sad feeling for those you speak of...& which direction do they turn in the near future? Like most others I know in Cork, I agree with Leo Varadkar's sentiments, ie. 'a united Island in my life time.' I am not at all political but as I see it, it is the only way forward for the benefit of everyone. Short clips like yours do a lot to help us grasp that we should go slow and steady, and with the utmost respect for all communities, whatever their identities. Btw, as everyone knows (at least in the RoI) West Cork is full of great English people, who just like most everyone else, look to the day of a united ireland, in whatever form it takes. So, even the English & British see that. Oh, and finally, btw! you have a lovely listening voice...perfect to go along-with down a street. Do more streets?

[@nakedireland]

Thanks so much for your comment John. So pleased you found the video interesting and I hope you’ll watch some more Naked Ireland.

[@zefisworld4392]

I like this video, I been In sandy row , i from far small land, I have friends live there very good people I meet, I’m living in Belfast, before I get there, some sad, they fight no good to go there, but just I go there, & finding that Belfast people are lovely and beautiful, and help anyone, god bless you Belfast people, with love from my Heart ❤️❤️

[@nakedireland]

Thank you so much for this Zefis, so glad you enjoy Belfast!

[@stephensmith4480]

I used to pass that Large Mural quite often when it was a light Blue UFF Mural when I was on my way to East Belfast visiting my missus when I first met her. Graham Norton said he has family that lived in Sandy Row just behind where it stands on the corner. In all the time I was visiting Belfast I never had a single problem with anyone.

[@nakedireland]

Belfast people are the nicest people you could meet Stephen, though I say that as a Belfast person!!

[@stephensmith4480]

@@nakedireland I couldn't agree more my friend 👍👍

[@paulherbert2168]

Used too deliver furniture from Wales all over Ireland late 80s eatly 90s..delivered to Gilpins on Sandy Row... all different now.. always had cuppa and chat with the guy in the warehouse....

[@nakedireland]

Yes, Gilpins (like Reid’s) was an institution. These are the big Sandy Row businesses that are no more.

[@robsmithadventures1537]

I am an Irish Catholic from the South and was close to the building of a bonfire in Lisburn about 8 years ago. Made feel uneasy knowing the flag of my country would be burned on it. Knuckledraggers need to move forward.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for that Robert.

[@Legionnaire7777]

And yet orange in the Irish tricolour represents them, how sad they cannot see this and end up burning it, I bet most don't even know the founding fathers of Irish Republicanism were predominantly protestant too. Peace and love to all 🤍

[@nakedireland]

@@Legionnaire7777 thanks for your comment

[@jimk140]

All depends on perception lad, I thought the republicans were the ones with the Irish flag displayed on top of the bonfire. I don't know the culture but the orange lads always indirectly associate themselves with the Irish flag which I love. Why would the republicans display their union jack at all, I wouldn't put that dirty shite anywhere near a bonfire of mine, yet I would display the Irish flag at the top of a huge fuck off bonfire.

[@SLIAFFT]

What about British flags getting burnt on Republican bonfires. See you never mentioned that

[@corkboy4523]

The foreign immigrant business people from all over the world that are opening shops there are likely far more welcome there than an Irish person from an hour down the road would be! That to me is crazy! Hopefully this nonsense is slowly coming to an end.

[@nakedireland]

Everyone’s welcome in Belfast.

[@corkboy4523]

In certain parts maybe, but a southern Irish accent on Sandy row would be treated with suspicion at the very least.

[@nakedireland]

Belfast is like everywhere, you need to be careful where you go, but you’ll find a great welcome in the city.

[@whatayear]

@@nakedireland You'll never be able to drink on the Sandy Row with an Irish accent, just as i couldn't drink in the Rock bar on Falls rd with an English accent. To say different is delusional. Sandy Row will always be Loyalist, the foreign immigrants will be aware of this. Rule Brittania.

[@nakedireland]

As I said above, people with southern accents will find a great welcome in Belfast. Should they drink in pubs in Sandy Row? No, but why should they want to? Though remember, Sandy Row is changing and perhaps in the future southerners will be welcome in Sandy Row pubs. After all, Brendan Behan drank in the Boyne Bridge Tavern!

[@reggriffiths5769]

My stepfather was one of those people who knew much about virtually every town in NI, and had his finger on the minutia of things. I had been along and through Sandy Row many times as a teenager, and although I wasn''t a pub crawler I was aware that Sandy Row had quite a few pubs. Stepdad asked me one day "How many pubs are there in Sandy Row?" I thought about it for a moment and replied "Not sure, but I think about twelve." He laughed and said , "Wrong, you lose. There's only one!" Of course, when I thought about it, he was probably quite right, for the simple reason that the postal address of every property is determined by the location of the front door, and only one pub in Sandy Row had its front door there; all the rest had their door in a side street. A good pub quiz question at the time. Yes, it's sad to see so many streets either gone or changed beyond recognition, and that goes for every quarter of the city. It has to be said that there were a great many slums in Belfast - just like cities everywhere. Belfast was different insomuch as the entire city ws subject to much bombing, which in turn destroyed some communities but curiously and conversly improved their regeneration. I can't say whether it was all to the good, but when local communities are resettled - in some case dispersed - everything changes. In spite of the many improvements , especially those in the city centre, places like Sandy Row have almost got the appearance of a slum, something which it never had been. I've never felt that tower blocks of flats did any good for society, as they create their own aura of despair and unfriendliness, and to me, that's a downgrade move. Anything higher than a two-tier apartment block is a blot on the landscape and a cheap means of improvement....what improvement I ask? When I think of an area such as around Dee Street and Mersey Street, I remember the people who knew and associated with just about every household in the area. The houses were eventually demolished, making way for smart new housing; but it dispersed and divided the community and the aura was gone. It seems that one cannot have everything in life! As for Sandy Row, I can't see it rising like some phoenix; the heart has gone, the street is little more than a thoroughfare - a way to get from one place to another, and not a place one might want to visit for any social or shopping purpose. As for the city centre....don't get me started on Belfast City Council!!!!

[@nakedireland]

Thank for your comprehensive comment - there’s much wisdom in what you say.

[@24zelock]

you live in the sixteen hundreds then this is how the area will look , a throw back in time were the people cant move forward because of a small minority of gansters who hold ther own generation of kids back , drug dealing waisters disquised as protectors of the areas , the flags , bonfires and marching or all they have left , and puting up bigger and more flags while beating ther drums isnt going to change anything , the rest of us both prods and catholics or moving on , i feel for the young people in these gettos

[@studslannigan6286]

Good vids @ Naked Ireland ..Slainte m8.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks so much. And thanks for watching.

[@nakedireland]

So glad you’ve discovered the channel Studs, good to have you on board.

[@bapples]

Fortunate to have visited 2010,2014,2019,2023. Peace from Brooklyn

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for watching. Conversely, I’m fortunate to have visited Brooklyn. Peace from Belfast.

[@georgecrothers5618]

Love your easy going style... Bravo.

[@nakedireland]

Ma y thanks George. Thanks so much for watching.

[@Jrhynie]

I visited Sandy Row in 1984, troubles on but a quiet August while I was there. Never really interacted with the local people as I have an English accent and ebbed on the side of caution. Union Jack flags everywhere I looked, not much has changed on that front by the look of things. A few more open shops and it looked a little brighter and cleaner back then. Not sure this video would inspire me to revisit Sandy Row. Perhaps Belfast's tourist spots and city centre but hardcore areas with flags of either persuasion feels unwelcoming to me.

[@nakedireland]

Unwelcoming to everyone, except the few who put the flags up!

[@Jrhynie]

@@nakedireland Sadly that's the way I feel. Their area and we are not keen on others coming into the area. Peace and love goes a long way. Visitors spend money, before you know it shops and business want to be there.

[@aidanmcculloch9794]

stayed in the hostel twice, handy for city centre and classy pubs and restauants on Botanic Ave

[@nakedireland]

It’s very handy, as long as you walk in the right direction there’s lots of great pubs.

[@TheLastAngryMan01]

I booked into the hostel a few hundred metres from Sandy Row, am from the West of Ireland. Any precautions necessary? ;)

[@nakedireland]

None whatsoever. I would just turn right rather than left when you come out the door of the hostel. Right takes you into the city. Obviously avoid the Royal bar across the street from the hostel and the Rangers Supporters club on the other side of the crossroads. But lots of great bars and places to visit around Botanic/Queens area. You’re well situated.

[@TheLastAngryMan01]

@@nakedireland Thanks mate, appreciate it. I was also half thinking of doing the Windsor Park tour, hope it’s not a bad idea.

[@nakedireland]

No, if you’re interested in football then it’s probably interesting for you. I’ve never done it myself.

[@liamg6596]

Battle of the boyne was fought on 1st july it was only changed to the 12th due to the adoption of the gregorian calendar in 1753.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Liam.

[@bernardinglis4232]

I got lost on my way to the Beechmount,visiting family ,iam Glaswegian, iam sure it was the Sandy Row i went through ,then a place the village, was very early in the morning, but i was still a bit scared , Never been so happy to see that big golf ball ,😂😂i knew were i was

[@nakedireland]

Ah, the Balls on the Falls. The Testies in the Westies!

[@ikehelly]

Interesting video. As a boy recall going down with my mum and as you say it was a thriving shopping centre. We were Catholics but never felt threatened there. Perhaps because it was more part of the main city.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for the comment Ivan and thanks for watching.

[@darrenboland2229]

Looks like a proper kip

[@deanodog3667]

Great wee bakery in sandy row..thats it !!

[@nakedireland]

You’re right, there is a great wee bakery there.

[@edwinwan02]

6:20 An advertisement billboard for airfares 'Direct to Dublin Airport' in a loyalist area. Very ironic placement to advertise for this billboard.

[@nakedireland]

Yes, illustrates the whole change in demographic Edwin.

[@tonybroderick4808]

So Sandy Row has become as British as Bradford?

[@carpoman]

I was told by various unionists and loyalists from NI that the local UDA, UVF or whoever 'vets' any new residents. Hence, I personally suspect that there would be no 'outsiders' whatsoever in the Sandy Row such as Irish people or any other non-nationals. Maybe someone from there could tell me if that's the case.

[@nakedireland]

No, that’s not the case. In fact students from all over Ireland and beyond move into loyalist areas all the time in order to study at QUB. And, as I’ve mentioned before, there’s a sizeable immigrant population settling in places like Sandy Row and the Village because of their close proximity to places like the City Hospital, where many of them work.

[@elizaphe58]

I stayed at the Holiday Inn looking at the Murals.

[@nakedireland]

Hope you enjoyed your stay in Belfast. Visit again soon.

[@bpd1111]

Uvf flags and 'we are the people'! Bigotry still alive and well

[@richard9045]

Same as Falls, Pole glass, Divis, New Lodge, Turf Lodge, Markets etc etc.

[@jamesjones3371]

British flag in britain.not bigotry its not ireland u fenian

[@bpd1111]

@richard9045 it's not though is it. As loyalisim dies out it gets more vile. Republicanism is exactly What it is and the IRA no longer has anything to do with it. It will grow as the new border in the sea gets stronger

[@barryb90]

@@jamesjones3371 Sorry, James. It isn't Britain. Geographically, Britain is an Island consisting of England, Scotland and Wales. At the very most, you can claim it's the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Northern Ireland most definitely is on the island of Ireland.

[@ManannanmacLir69]

Did the Pope not pay King Billy to fight King James? Thanks

[@bernardinglis4232]

Aye ,but the orange men like to forget that ,

[@bernardinglis4232]

He wasn't just not keen on Catholic but also Presbyterian, both were second and third class

[@patrickporter1864]

King Billy's army was made up of both Dutch protestants and catholics who were allied to the pope. The pope had a te deum sung in St Peters to celebrate the victory against James and Louis the 14th. It was the protestant ascendancy who broke the treaty of limerick and removed civil rights from both Presbyterians and catholics. This was why many Presbyterians ended up in the USA. They left to escape economic and religious persecution. The British upper class were always good at divide an conquer.

[@tommyhassan3545]

I am visiting Belfast for 4 days in December a trip to celebrate my 50th birthday I am looking forward to it

[@nakedireland]

You’ll enjoy it Tommy. Happy birthday!

[@tommyhassan3545]

@@nakedireland thanks mate I’m from cardiff and have always been interested in the history of Northern Ireland I’m gonna take a few pints down the shankhill road is it ok for strangers to go in the pubs in that area

[@nakedireland]

Im sure it’d be fine Tommy. Just be careful as you would in any tight knit community.

[@eddieaicken5687]

Tommy, we're great hosts to tourists, but awful neighbours to each other. Just be sensible, and don't have an opinion on religious or political matters unless you're very sure of the company you're in. You'll have a blast!

[@tommyhassan3545]

@@eddieaicken5687 thank you mate I’m looking forward to it I have always wanted to visit Belfast

[@newtonbrook]

I want to visit this area.

[@nakedireland]

It’s in the centre of town right beside the Great Victoria Street bus station - so it’s easy to get to.

[@alanmarkfoster1862]

As a Protestant I find it weird that these people have more respect for a long dead Dutch king than for Christ the Savior If I worship a British monarch how. can I criticize Roman Catholicism

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for your comment Alan, and thanks for watching.

[@alanmarkfoster1862]

@@nakedireland I would love to visit Ireland but I find it weird that there is such a stupid divide between people Here in my homeland in the Caribbean there is a high school run by the Presbyterians next door to a Catholic school and Catholic Church and there is no conflict because of it Also there is another Catholic Church situated almost across the street from the mission home for Presbyterian pastor

[@nakedireland]

Hi Alan, yes it’s a stupid divide, though only in the north. But the divide is more about national identity. It just so happens that those that identify at British tend to be Protestant (generally) and those that identify as Irish are Catholic.

[@alanmarkfoster1862]

@@nakedireland And yet the British have the audacity at times to say we in the Caribbean need to be more tolerant towards others Jamaica despite its problems with crime is a place where a Jewish minority has peacefully coexisted with a Lebanese/ Syrian minority for nearly 150 years

[@rolloloftbrook9558]

​@alanmarkfoster1862 in the Republic of Ireland it's like that . Protestant and Catholic churches are side by side and nobody has any sectarian issues.

[@martincunningham5815]

Interesting billboard (6:20) advertising 15 services per day to Dublin Airport.

[@nakedireland]

Yes Martin, someone else mentioned that. Funny enough the Dublin bus leaves from the bus station just at the end of Sandy Row! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@TheShiningOne_-_]

6:39 'A strong Loyalist community' as an Irish Tricolor flies past. Great craic😁

[@thomasclarke2880]

The colours of the notification on the parking ticket machine? Your timestamp is wrong or you're being an eejit.

[@TheShiningOne_-_]

@@thomasclarke2880 Probably my timing is wrong because I've NEVER been an eejit😁

[@ardfertstan2686]

I visited a few weeks ago. Typical area. But who did the Dutch translation at King Williams mural? I am Dutch and I can say that is ridiculous translation😂. Pls have it re-done.

[@nakedireland]

Ha ha, maybe you can help with their translation Maartin?

[@nakedireland]

Sorry that should be maarten.

[@ardfertstan2686]

@@nakedirelandBetter would be “ Laat ambitie uw verstand in vuur en vlam zetten” You can not just translate the words. It has to mean something, it has to make sense.

[@nakedireland]

Of course Maarten. I’ll go down tonight with my paintbrush and change it!

[@IansOddInterests]

Sadly the Rates for businesses charged by council are horrendous. There is no opportunity for new businesses in Belfast to open. … for whatever reason all you get are charity shops or Turkish barbers opening…. Every town in NI has very few new business shops opening.

[@martinbyrne6643]

The dup the party in reverse , the party that never will move forward.

[@frankmaxwell5193]

Pick any town in Ireland and Britain and you'll see derelict streets. The suburban mall outlets have taken over😢

[@nakedireland]

That's true Frank.

[@rangerista3933]

I've been to Sandy Row a few times for the 12th and the 11th night bonfire is a great spectacle. I've been in the Royal Bar and the Rangers club, made very welcome in both. The photo at the King Billy mural is obligatory 😄 And in general, Belfast city centre is really interesting, the City Hall and the Scottish Provident building are particularly imposing.

[@nakedireland]

Great Victorian architecture.

[@christopherfanelli8821]

I am a subscriber so I appreciate your videos. But the music often drowns out your narration.

[@Progamergow]

Is this where paddy and mick stay ?

[@Irishmacwoof]

Stayed in that hotel 15 years ago when it was the days hotel, taxi in taxi out. I'm not there kind

[@nakedireland]

It’s a very unimaginative looking building. Must have been designed late on a Friday afternoon!

[@barbechivo]

All that's missing is the tumbleweed.

[@nakedireland]

That’s true - thanks for taking the time to watch.

[@lawnseed1500]

History..

[@nakedireland]

Indeed…

[@tonyclifton265]

if i went there in a motley green suit and a celtic football shirt singing "come out ye black and tans" or "the men behind the wire" would I have a fun day out?

[@nakedireland]

I think you’d be asked politely to leave!!

[@jockstrap]

The commentator sounds like yer man who did "Dickson From Dungannon" kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGeulJ6Qd9WGY8k . But on a serious note, when you have to hang a flag on practically everything in sight, you are just admitting to others that you are very, very, very nervous, and by seeing those flags on every thing in sight others know that fine well.

[@nakedireland]

Had a listen there and certainly a different accent to mine. But maybe there’s a similar voice quality. I’ll take it as a compliment.

[@markharris1223]

Culture can become a ball and chain.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Mark and cheers for watching.

[@gerryguinn3175]

Love the royal bar same people every day big ronnie behind the bar big skin the main man rem my dad saying

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for commenting Gerry, good to hear from someone who knows the Royal well.

[@midnightmover2329]

I’m a Protestant from the area,I even drink in the Royal bar every Saturday night.I know now it is time for a United Ireland.

[@nakedireland]

@@midnightmover2329 thanks for your comment, though I think many here won’t believe you.

[@musikalternates2127]

Great protestant stronghold for many years to come😏

[@pauli6794]

There is not many left,give Ireland back to the Irish,🇮🇪

[@craigm9034]

When will both sides realise that to the Chinese or Islam, that it’s all Christian’s to them.

[@oneill765]

Do you think it's religious beliefs that are the issue here?

[@IrishPride7]

Inbred area the hills have eyes hey you guys

[@brooksy1961]

i was in sandy row a numger of years ago. went into the rangers club for a few pints, then went into a shop i think was called drum sounds to buy some badges. W.A.T.P God Bless Ulster

[@nakedireland]

Would that be the full 9 counties of Ulster God would be blessing, or just 6 of them John? Thanks for watching. Btw what does W.A.T.P mean? Excuse my ignorance, I’m sure it’s something obvious.

[@rangerista3933]

We Are The People (Psalm 95, V7). And entirely accurate!

[@nakedireland]

I’m familiar with the scripture, but what do YOU mean specifically by ‘we are the people’? I’d love to know.

[@rangerista3933]

@@nakedireland As it implies, we are chosen. I'm sure that'll rattle a few predictable cages, but it is what it is.

[@nakedireland]

ha ha, I think you'll have people laughing their asses off!

[@BG-oj6zt]

Why do they want to be part of the uk when its on the verge of being a Muslim majority country England in particular I dont get it 🤔 wouldn't they be better off being part of a Christian Ireland I believe they are represented in the Irish tri colour.

[@user-ze8yy8jg1f]

No Protestants are represented in our flag for Protestant and catholic Irish not England

[@roadend78]

The WHO and WEF thinking this is so easy ?

[@geraldnesbitt2123]

Ahh dear looks like Truffels home bakery is gone pity

[@matto5527]

So the immigrants in the area are outnumbering the loyalists over time, a common theme throughout Belfast and nice to see

[@NoddyOLeary2010]

Exactly hope we breath them out ASAP 🇮🇪

[@whatayear]

@@NoddyOLeary2010 Not a chance.

[@matto5527]

@@NoddyOLeary2010 that will slowly happen 🇮🇪🇮🇪

[@paulkenneally789]

One of the most depressing and deprived streets l have ever walked along. The political classes need to sort it out.

[@nakedireland]

The political classes DO need to sort it out Paul.

[@gregj7916]

There will always be the mob who live in the past, eventually they die out…

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for your comment Greg.

[@gerryleonard6291]

In another 30 years all will realise that we are all world citizens and all this sectarian soup will be forgotten

[@nakedireland]

I’d really love to believe that Gerry.

[@TheSVgregor]

I have been to Sandy Row, Belfast. Sept 2019. Stayed at the Holiday Inn. Thoroughly enjoyed myself. Belfast has under gone similar changes as Pittsburgh, PA USA in regards to losing industry about 50 years ago. Belfast appeared pleasantly clean and the people friendly. I had a photo taken in front of the William of Orange mural. I would like to Thank the woman who appeared to be on her way home from work just outside the train station who tapped me on the back and pointed to the ground on the street; unwittingly I had dropped my cash, she observed and picked it up before I could and gave it to me. God Bless her! I was very tired and had my wits been about me I would have given her a few pounds in gratitude to her kindness and honesty; at least take her for a coffee,tea or pint but she was off in a instant before I could make the offer. I hope to return to Belfast/Northern Ireland and when I returned home I immediately started research for a return visit. Then the governmental COVID suppression began and I did learn that Mican ? Kelly had arranged for Hillary Clinton to get her hooks into Queens College. Very sad for Ireland-the Clintons are opportunistic globalists, they Do Not have any of the Irish/Northern Irish interests at heart. I don’t care what your politicians/media communicates to your people. Good luck to Northern Ireland and Belfast! Great Video.

[@nakedireland]

Many thanks for your comment and anecdote. I hope you will find your way back and you’ll have a great welcome when you do.

[@arthurgoodness7865]

The Clintons were very hands on during the Peace Process and I think you will find that both Mr & Mrs Clinton are very welcome in Ireland.

[@TheSVgregor]

@@arthurgoodness7865 I would expect such a polite reply from certain segments of northern Irish population. But if you like truth, you need to do a lot of digging in to the Clintons and it’s not difficult at all wherever they go they bring trouble they are not peacemakers they work for themselves to benefit themselves start with the Declan Kelly Clinton relationship. Hillary Clinton created a job for him out of the thin, blue air at US tax payer expense. Part of his pay back was to get her hooks inside Queens College. if you recall (time relative) she lost. The election was denied, which she thought was her birthright, and had the very real fears that President Trump was going to start the prosecution‘s against her and whatever ones could still be brought up against her husband now in Northern Ireland as we both know it’s part of the European Union, the European Union had one law which some of your newspapers were speculating. The Clintons wanted to take advantage of, and that was they would not return the Clintons to the US for trial because they would be considered political prisoners or at least that would be the Clintons claim to the European Union Bill Clinton at the end of his last term became involved with a national international educational group, turned out to be a boon fall that he associated with them if you’ll notice about the time of 2017-2019 colleges and universities throughout. Britain and Ireland were falling all over themselves to bequeath honorary degrees on the Clintons. I would need a book of which there are quite a few written about the Clintons to tie all this in. Suffice it to say the Clintons are stink. They are not good for Ireland and they are certainly not good for the Irish people, northern or southern you need to think on why Hillary Laurie Clinton was not voted in even though she feels she was entitled to it the American people no stink when they smell it the sins of the Clintons are many and deep. This Declan Kelly also arranged for Chelsea Clinton to receive $6 million in advisory fees for a technology group that he was involved with Chelsea Clinton has no experience whatsoever in that field. The same stink is Hunter Biden, which we know is a criminal. Should you require a list of books in which the authors have done research on the Clintons I would be happy to provide it to you so that your eyes are opened and you can protect yourself from them, and those who benefit financially from being around the Clintons they are not good people, unless she listens to the globalist billionaire owned legacy media from the US that is a very open fact. another little tidbit, which is one of many many bits of information is think on and research the Bill Clinton Jeffrey Epstein relationship. There is much written and researched on the Clintons but it’s not promoted by corporate owned Legacy media. Again the Clintons are not good people.

[@nakedireland]

The Clinton’s certainly left a legacy here.

[@charlesburgoyne-probyn6044]

Lots of Africans and Asians as per NWO government policy has helped Northern Ireland to move on from the Protestant Catholic unionist and nationalist issues

[@732daven]

a few union jacks flags in a street brings down the value of the property by 20% minimum.... LoL

[@nakedireland]

Tbh, a few flags of any description will devalue the area, but not just in terms of money, more importantly in terms of ethos.

[@732daven]

true...but the union jack is prevalent...I was around Collinsbridge recently, it is 70%+ Catholic and yet they don't have the irrepressible urge to put a flag on every posts. Even in Catholics working class area you have 20 times less flags than in Unionist area@@nakedireland ..and don't get me going with Folks staring at my southerner car's registration. If my children starred at a NI car or any car from Spain/Italy because they look different, I would ask them to stop immediately...but in Belfast adults do that routinely...as if we came from Mars. it is rude.

[@nakedireland]

⁠yes, there’s certainly more flags in unionist areas, that’s something I pointed out recently in my films on slower Ormeau and Short Strand.

[@batcollins3714]

Loyalist, DUP, Unionism means dereliction

[@musikalternates2127]

Dereliction Upon Protestants 😏

[@andrewheaney6858]

That’s brilliant the Harris Kilt Company, amazing to see, when reading the history of the Plantation of Ulster the big thing was that it was Scots “families”from the Scottish borders that were mainly recruited because they were not like Scottish Gaelic “Clans” from the highlands who would have been more sympathetic to their fellow Gael across the water as they had been for Centuries with the Gallowglass, it’s so heartening to think that “ the garb of the Gael”is being embraced across Northern island today on both sides along with gaelic traditions like kilts and bagpipes, the other thing that jumps out is the use of the Scottish Nationalist Flag “the Saltire” been flown in unionist areas and there seems to be a lot of use of the term “Ulster Scot” rather than Briton these days, looking in from the outside there seems to be a gradual change, good luck to the Northern Irish on both sides in the future anyway!

[@MICHAELCAMPBELL69]

Now king Mohammad land . Progress😂

[@nakedireland]

No racism here please Michael.

[@jamesjones3371]

Truth is not racist u nug only racist is you its ireland v uk many catholics want to be british

[@Teh_Goat]

You don't see any tour buses down Sandy Row, apart from Allen's and they have no choice LOL

[@nakedireland]

Not sure if your busses feature Sandy Row? I reckon they should.

[@Teh_Goat]

@@nakedireland Even the taxi tours don't touch the area.

[@joeduffy3309]

Loyalism has no future in Ireland. It never had. Plantation is a failed policy. They need not worry though, when Ireland is united and Scotland go independent the English government will offer them all homes (like they did with 1 million chinese from Hong Kong) in the slums of northern england where they'll feel right at home.

[@SeosamhMacUaid]

we drive around Belfast regularly and are surprised how many immigrants there actually are, the Irish regardless of religion WILL be a minority in Belfast within 15 years time. Having lived in England for 20 years the speed at which the change has happened in NI is breath-taking. Been Irish having an Asian wife and mixed kids myself the ethic side of it doesn't bother me so much but culture will be destroyed and so will safety and communities. We see the marching as well, the numbers attending are declining and I'm sure they will stop once the older generation drop away. Immigration, free porn, computer games, rubbish food, low testosterone, trans movement, anti racism, curruption etc , is ruining the Ireland and the west. *The only people calling it for what it is are the African nations, it is cultural colonialism by the American government*

[@ShaneWest-wd8jo]

You're only too right mate!

[@user-iy8ie2yn9s]

Looks like a kip

[@nakedireland]

Well, Patrick we’re born where we’re born and we grow up where we grow up - sometimes the choices open to some in life are not open to others. Maybe think about that before passing judgement.

[@user-iy8ie2yn9s]

@nakedireland well othe areas do not look great either Belfast City centre is grand

[@nakedireland]

⁠the city has come on in leaps and bounds since I was young, but yeah, some areas still have their problems - like everywhere I guess?

[@constantius4654]

All the while the dreaded secular Catholics of the Irish Republic grow ever more wealthy, while Northern Ireland remains poor and heavily subsidised by the largely indifferent English taxpayer. A united Ireland would bring a surge of desperately needed wealth and likely even optimism into these embittered holdouts of a futile and soon to be forgotten religious war.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for your comment Constantius. However, the differences are more political (national identity) than religious.

[@nakedireland]

@@bfc3057 a lot of factors to consider perhaps.

[@samuelmcfadden3528]

Subsidised by the English tax payer , the last I looked at my pay slip , there was a hefty chunk taken from HMRC you 🤡

[@eddieaicken5687]

Where would that "surge of desperately needed wealth" come from? Northern Ireland is in an enviable position if we can take advantage of it. Easy access to GB and European markets, and that access to the GB market is significant, but that would change, negatively, as part of a United Ireland. Nobody has negotiated what a United Ireland would look like. And... is it even affordable if Northern Ireland isn't subsidised? Would living standards across the whole of the island have to go down? Would people in Cork, Kilkenny and Dublin vote for higher taxes to fund a United Ireland? And if you think that a United Ireland would lead to a "soon to be forgotten religious war", you've obviously not lived in our world.

[@nakedireland]

Many thanks Eddie, for this well considered comment. I’m not sure you’re right, but there’s lots of food for thought there and I’m sure others will want to comment on this.

[@jdariusz7760]

Northern Ireland is not losing it"s tribalism, but replacing one tribalism for another ! The tribalism of the " immigrants "will be much harder to get rid of however.

[@SharonBoland-ui3ns]

The buildings of Sandy Row are unimaginative, unattractive, and banal. A redevelopment of the area should include classical architecture in place of brutalist. Beauty, proportion, scale, and symmetry in local architecture will attract more businesses and residents. I don’t believe many people in Holland or even England recall who King William of Orange was. Let go of the time warp in favor of modernity.

[@nakedireland]

Hi Sharon, I’m afraid I’d favour a more vernacular style of architecture. It’s important that Sandy Row’s community be preserved. It the new architecture there that’s horrible. The old shops are quaint (if badly run down) and in my view should be renovated to a high standard. It’s these shops that in my memory constitute the Sandy Row of the past, the bustling shopping street. Alas, many of these are already bulldozed.