Belfast Museums & Exhibitions
The city of Belfast in Northern Ireland is a coastal town rich with culture and history. As the capital city of Northern Ireland since the early 1920s, Belfast is now a part of the European Union and is in many ways, more like a city you would find in England than Ireland.
As Belfast becomes more comfortable with their new identity as a major holiday destination, many more tourist attractions are being developed. Fortunately, many attractions have existed for hundreds of years.
There are several museums to enjoy and the biggest of all is the Ulster Museum. Many collections of national importance are housed here including features of archaeology, geology, history, applied and fine arts. Young and old will delight in the section of the museum where the triceratops skeleton is housed.
Located along Botanic Avenue, The Ulster Museum is not only one of the oldest museums in Belfast, but in the entire country of Ireland. The museum was originally opened in 1821 as a part of the Belfast Natural History Society. The museum closed for a period of refurbishment between the years 2006 and 2009 at a cost of close to £20 million.
The Ulster Museum hosts exhibits on zoology, the Spanish Armada, botany, local history, Irish fine art, and more. Admission is free and the museum is open each day.
The People's Museum, also known as Fernhill House, can be found within Glencairn Park in Belfast. The museum includes many legitimate recreations of the lives of people from the Shankill district. There is a large collection of military and industrial memorabilia as well as exhibits, which highlight local soccer legends.
One of the most celebrated features of Fernhill House is the "Ghostwatch" activity. Visitors can partake in the lookout for its supposed residents of a supernatural variety. The Fernhill House is full of historical information and there is even an onsite library and theatre.
Along Queen's Quay is a popular attraction called the Whowhatwherewhenwhy, or the W5. This is a family styled collection of interactive exhibits. Visitors are encouraged to engage in the hands on activities and participate in the demonstrations of science.
There are literally hundreds of activities such as making your magnets or even making your own animated movie! A café is onsite, but there are also picnic areas for your family to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. While there is a charge of admission, discounts are available.
In 1935, the Regimental Museum of Royal Ulster Rifles, or simply as the Royal Ulster Rifles Museum opened with an impressive collection of weapons. Historic journals, photographs, and even a library makes this attraction a very interesting and educational visit. Admission is free and the museum is open weekdays only.
The Royal Ulster Constabulary Museum at 65 Knock Road is quite close to the Shandon Park Golf Club. Founded in the 1920s, there are many historic exhibits to behold. Military relics such as uniforms and equipment of the Irish Constabulary and many photographs as well can be viewed during your visit. The museum is open weekdays for a charge.