Museums and Visitor Attractions

Could it be our long history? Could it be our rich cultural heritage? Could it be we're obsessive collectors? Whatever the reason, Northern Ireland has a multitude of special interest msueums to intrigue and inspire!

The range and diversity of themes is enormous - from maritime history and mythology to transport and trade; Irish language and Ulster linen to militaria and music; old schools and old mills to cutting-edge art and science.

Many have a community focus providing fascinating insights into a locality's character and history. Others have specialist appeal, such as the remarkable choice devoted to regimental history, agriculture, ancient crafts and old vehicles. Where else on earth would you find exhibits devoted to; vintage bicycles; antique lace; eel-fishing; canals; Victorian education; the Plantation of Ulster; retail drapery; ancient sewers; Gulliver's Travels: even potato crisps!?

When planning your visit, bear in mind our most popular museums take a while to explore! Build your break around museums within a single area. For example the Sperrins with their archaeological and environmental riches, the City of Derry, or Armagh City… an outdoor museum in itself!

Just Some Ideas

	Giant's Causeway, Antrim, Northern Ireland, Bushmills The world famous Giant's Causeway, renowned for its polygonal columns of layered basalt, formed from a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago, is the only World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland and is a must see for visitors.
	Linen Hall Library, Belfast Founded in 1788, Linen Hall Library is a truly unique institution. As the oldest library in Belfast and the last subscribing library in Ireland, it has an impressive Irish and Local Studies Collection and houses a significant genealogy section.
	W5 Lite at The OUTLET, Banbridge W5, one of Northern Ireland's top family attractions, has brought its award-winning, interactive discovery experience to the OUTLET, Banbridge.
	Giant's Causeway Tourist Information Centre, Bushmills Take advantage of the excellent range of visitor services available at the Giant's Causeway Tourist Information Centre. An enthusiastic team of staff is on hand to offer practical help, advice and assistance to visitors to Northern Ireland.
	Armagh Planetarium, Armagh Use interactive displays to learn about the cosmos and watch the latest space news in real time.Travel to the International Space Station, and outwards to Mars in the 3D stereo room. During your visit why not design, build and launch your own rocket?
	Titanic’s Dock & Pump-House, Belfast As the last place Titanic rested on dry land, the dock is Titanic’s physical ‘footprint’ in history. Learn about Belfast’s incredible maritime heritage and shipbuilding legacy and peer into the vast dock where Titanic was fitted out.
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