Top 10 Museums in Belfast to Have Those “Wow, That’s Old!” Moments
Planning a day out in Belfast? Trust me, visiting museums is way more fun than it sounds. My friends and I decided to check out some of the top museums in Belfast, and it turned into a day filled with discoveries!
From ancient artifacts to quirky exhibits that sparked way too many inside jokes, we left each spot with more stories to tell and a newfound appreciation for Belfast’s rich history. It’s for people who are into art, science, or curious to see what life was centuries ago.
Belfast’s museums are the perfect mix of educational and fun (yes, that’s possible!). Ready to plan your next adventure? Read on to discover the top museums in Belfast that you absolutely can’t miss!
1. Ulster Museum
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Location: Botanic Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5AB
Contact: +44 28 9044 0000
Price: Free
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Website
If you’re in Belfast, the Ulster Museum is definitely worth a visit! It’s got a little bit of everything: art, history, and even natural sciences. I loved walking through the ancient Egyptian mummies exhibit, and the artefacts from the Troubles really hit home.
The museum’s layout makes it easy to explore at your own pace, with interactive displays that bring history to life. It’s the kind of place where you can wander around for hours and always find something cool.
Don’t forget to check out the Game of Thrones tapestry, it’s insane! The level of detail is jaw-dropping, capturing every iconic moment from the series. It’s a massive textile piece that tells the story of the show. Seriously, it’s a must-see if you’re not a fan.
| Pro tip: Head there early to avoid the crowds and get some time to soak in all the exhibits. Grab a coffee at the museum café afterward, their pastries are a local secret. |
2. Titanic Belfast
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Location: 1 Olympic Way, Queen’s Road, Belfast, BT3 9EP
Contact: +44 28 9076 6386
Price: £££
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Website
Titanic Belfast is such an epic experience, especially if you’re into history or just love the Titanic movie (who doesn’t?). The museum is on the site where the ship was built, so it’s packed with super cool, immersive exhibits about its creation and its fateful journey.
There’s even a ride that takes you through the shipbuilding process, so much fun! It’s one of those places where you learn a ton but don’t even realize it because everything is so interactive. Plus, it’s massive, so you’ll definitely need a few hours to take it all in.
Make sure to check out the replica of the ship’s Grand Staircase. It’s pure movie magic. The view from the top floor of the building is also worth a moment to take in. Oh, and don’t skip the gift shop ! They’ve got some awesome Titanic-inspired keepsakes.
| Pro tip: Buy your tickets online to skip the queues! You don’t want to waste any time standing around! Consider booking the first time slot of the day and downloading the museum’s app for an enhanced, guided tour experience. |
3. W5 Interactive Discovery Centre
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Location: The Odyssey, 2 Queen’s Quay, Belfast, BT3 9QQ
Contact: +44 28 9046 7700
Price: ££
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Website
If you’re in Belfast with kids or just feeling like a kid yourself, W5 is the place to be! It’s this super interactive science center that’s all about fun learning. I spent hours with the exhibits, from exploring outer space to getting hands-on with engineering challenges.
It’s seriously fun for all ages. They even have live science shows and workshops that are pretty epic if you’re into that sort of thing. It’s a great way to make science feel like a fun adventure, not just school stuff!
Don’t miss their virtual reality experiences! The climbing wall and indoor rope courses are perfect for burning off some energy too. Trust me, you’ll leave with a big smile and maybe even a few new science facts to impress your friends!
| Pro tip: Check out the schedule for seasonal events. They’ve got some really cool pop-up activities. Book your tickets in advance, especially during holidays, to secure your spot. Also, wear comfy shoes! You’ll be on your feet exploring all day. |
4. Crumlin Road Gaol
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Location: 53-55 Crumlin Road, Belfast, BT14 6ST
Contact: +44 28 9074 1500
Price: ££
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Website
For something a little spookier, Crumlin Road Gaol is a must-see. This old 19th-century prison is steeped in history, and the guided tours are incredible. The stories they tell about the inmates, escapes, and even executions are intense and kind of chilling.
If you’re into dark history, this place will totally fascinate you. They even offer paranormal tours at night, which we were too chicken to try, but I hear it’s a blast if you’re brave enough! The stories they share are sure to send a chill down your spine.
Walking through the underground tunnel that once connected the jail to the courthouse is seriously eerie. The restored execution chamber will give you goosebumps. And they do a great job of highlighting the prison’s role in Belfast’s turbulent past.
| Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes because you’ll be walking through some pretty old, narrow hallways. Bring a jacket too! Parts of the gaol can get surprisingly chilly, even in warmer months. |
5. HMS Caroline
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Location: Alexandra Dock, Queens Road, Belfast, BT3 9DT
Contact: +44 28 9045 4484
Price: ££
Operating Hours:
- Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Website
If you’re a history buff or just love being on the water, HMS Caroline is a must-see. This World War I warship has been transformed into an awesome floating museum, and it’s all about bringing naval history to life.
Walking around the ship is like stepping back in time. From the deck to the restored cabins, you’ll get a real sense of what life was like for the crew back then. The exhibits are fantastic, giving you a detailed look into the ship’s role during the war.
The on-board café is a great spot to grab a bite while enjoying views of the harbor. It’s such a cool experience that blends history with a hands-on approach. You’ll feel like you’re part of the crew as you explore all the nooks and crannies of this incredible ship.
| Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes! You’ll be walking around a lot, especially on the deck. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a live demo or special event on board! Don’t forget to bring a camera, there are plenty of amazing photo ops along the way. |
6. Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum
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Location: Market Square, Lisburn, BT28 1AG
Contact: +44 028 9244 7684
Price: Free
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Website
The Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum is the perfect place to learn about one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic industries. I had no idea just how much the region played a role in linen production until I visited this place.
They’ve got live demonstrations of traditional weaving and spinning, so you can actually see how the linen is made from start to finish. It’s such a cool hands-on way to experience history!
Beyond the displays, the museum also highlights the cultural impact of the linen industry and how it helped shape the local community. It’s a wonderful mix of education and craftsmanship, and you can really appreciate the skills involved in linen-making.
| Pro tip: Time your visit to coincide with one of their temporary exhibitions. It adds a whole new layer of learning and insight to your trip. Plus, these exhibitions often feature unique artifacts or hands-on activities you won’t find anywhere else. |
7. War Memorial Museum
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Location: 21 Talbot Street, Belfast, BT1 2LD
Contact: +44 28 9032 0392
Price: Free
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Website
The War Memorial Museum is a hidden gem that’s definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in Belfast’s wartime history. The museum is a tribute to the men and women who served and died in both World Wars.
The exhibits are packed with personal stories and wartime memorabilia. It’s a place that makes you stop and reflect, and I found it to be really moving. What I loved most was the collection of personal letters, photos, and medals from local soldiers.
It gives you a much deeper sense of the sacrifices that were made and the impact of the wars on the community. It’s a smaller museum but so rich in history, and the staff is really knowledgeable and happy to share the stories behind the exhibits.
| Pro tip: Take the time to join a guided tour if you can. It adds so much depth to the experience and makes the exhibits even more meaningful. The guides are super knowledgeable and can share fascinating stories you might miss on your own. |
8. Naughton Gallery
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Location: Lanyon Building, Queen’s University, Belfast, BT7 1NN
Contact: +44 28 9097 3580
Price: Free
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Website: Naughton Gallery
If you’re into contemporary art, the Naughton Gallery is a must-visit. Situated in the beautiful Queen’s University, this gallery hosts rotating exhibitions from both local and international artists and a wide range of mediums from photography to sculpture.
When I went, I was blown away by the creativity and innovation on display. Every exhibition feels fresh and thought-provoking, and it’s a perfect spot for anyone looking to see something different in Belfast’s art scene.
The gallery’s relaxed vibe makes it an enjoyable experience, and the setting within the university is absolutely stunning. Plus, the exhibitions often touch on social and political themes, so it’s a great place to spark conversation and ideas.
| Pro tip: After visiting the gallery, take a stroll around the university campus. It’s beautiful, and you’ll probably come across some other hidden gems in the area. Don’t forget to check out the nearby botanical gardens! |
9. Museum of Orange Heritage
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Location: 368 Cregagh Road, Belfast, BT6 9EY
Contact: +44 28 9070 1122
Price: £
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Website
The Museum of Orange Heritage offers a fascinating view into the history and cultural significance of the Orange Order. As someone who didn’t know much about it before, I found the interactive displays and historical artifacts to be very eye-opening.
The museum takes you through the origins of the Order and its role in shaping Northern Ireland’s history. I especially enjoyed how the museum presented the Order’s history through personal stories and historical items.
It’s not just about the past; it also looks at the present-day influence of the Orange Order in Northern Ireland. It’s a great place to gain a balanced perspective and understanding of the region’s cultural landscape.
| Pro tip: If you’re looking to dig deeper, check out their educational workshops for a more in-depth exploration of the history behind the exhibits. They often feature expert speakers and interactive sessions that bring the past to life in a whole new way. |
10. Belfast Exposed Gallery
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Location: 23 Donegall Street, Belfast, BT1 2FF
Contact: +44 28 9023 0965
Price: Free
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Website
Belfast Exposed Gallery is the perfect spot if you’re into contemporary photography and art. This gallery regularly features thought-provoking exhibitions that tackle social and political issues through powerful images.
It’s definitely not your typical art gallery. It’s all about exploring big ideas and sparking conversations. The exhibitions often showcase emerging photographers, so you’re likely to see fresh, cutting-edge work that you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you’re an art lover or just someone looking for something new, you’ll be inspired by what’s on display. The gallery is small but packed with impactful pieces, and the staff is always welcoming and eager to share the stories behind the work.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to pop into their bookstore. It’s full of unique photography books and prints, perfect for picking up something special to take home. Plus, the cozy atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to relax and browse after your visit. |