Top Things To Do In Ulster Museum (Belfast) In 2026 - 2027

Museum

Top 10 things to do in Ulster Museum

1. A Walk Through Time
Embark on an unforgettable journey through history at the Ulster Museum with the 'Walk Through Time' tour. This immersive experience guides visitors from the ancient times of the dinosaurs through human history, showcasing Ireland's rich heritage along the way. Marvel at the displays of Celtic treasures, including intricate metalwork and the famous Takabuti, an Egyptian Mummy who calls the museum her home. Learn about the island's Christianization, the Viking invasions, and the tumultuous years that shaped the nation we know today. With artifacts that tell fascinating stories and interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages, this trip will leave you with a deeper understanding of history's continuity and change.
Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free
2. The Art Gallery
Visit the reputable Art Gallery at the Ulster Museum where an extensive collection of fine art awaits your admiration. This riveting tour takes you through centuries of artistic works, from classical pieces by old masters to contemporary works by local and international artists. The gallery prides itself on an array of impressive Irish paintings, complimented by notable European artwork. With themes varying from landscape and portraiture to abstract and modernism, the exhibit offers something for all aesthetic preferences. The art is displayed in a series of well-curated rooms, each designed to enhance the viewer's experience and understanding of the art's context and greatness.
Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free
3. Discover Nature
Delve into the 'Discover Nature' exhibit at the Ulster Museum, a family-friendly activity that brings the wonders of the natural world to life. The exhibit features an array of displays, from a breathtaking array of taxidermy local wildlife to exotic insects, and plants from around the globe. Engage with interactive displays, learn about various ecosystems, and understand the impact of human activity on our environment. This educational and fun tour also includes the charming Butterfly House and the Living Planet display, where guests can uncover facts about biodiversity, conservation, and see firsthand the museum's efforts to preserve species and habitats.
Duration: 1-1.5 hours · Price: Free
4. Hands-On History
The 'Hands-On History' interactive exhibit at the Ulster Museum engages visitors of all ages with the tactile experience of history. This unique activity allows you to touch, hold, and examine replicas of historical artifacts, providing a physical bridge to the past. The interactive sessions could involve handling a Bronze Age axe head, spinning wool as in the time of the Vikings, or exploring the texture of a medieval chainmail. Storytelling and role-play might be part of your experience, as the museum staff bring history to life. Perfect for those looking to dive deeper into the human stories behind historical events, this hands-on approach ensures an educational experience that sticks with you long after you've left the museum.
Duration: 30 minutes - 1 hour · Price: Free
5. The Troubles and Beyond
The 'Troubles and Beyond' gallery at the Ulster Museum provides a reflective and informative view on the conflict that has significantly shaped contemporary Northern Ireland. This thought-provoking exhibit features a range of artifacts, photographs, and interactive elements that tell the stories of individuals and communities affected by this period of turmoil. The gallery does not shy away from challenging topics, presenting multiple perspectives and voices to encompass the complex nature of the conflict. It's an opportunity for visitors to gain insight into the causes, effects, and legacy of the Troubles, furthering understanding between different generations and walks of life.
Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free
6. Science at Sea
Bring science to life with the 'Science at Sea' exhibit at the Ulster Museum. This interactive space allows children and adults alike to explore the fascinating world of marine science. The exhibition highlights the museum's work in marine biology and oceanography and features touch pools where you can feel live sea creatures, computer simulations of marine environments, and informative displays about the sea life surrounding the Irish coastline. Dive into topics like climate change, overfishing, and marine pollution, fostering an appreciation for ocean conservation and the mysterious beauty of underwater worlds.
Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free
7. Fossil Stories
Get ready to travel back in time with 'Fossil Stories' at the Ulster Museum, where prehistoric life is showcased in the form of ancient fossils and geological marvels. This fascinating exhibit reveals the remnants of creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago. Children and adults can marvel at the complete skeletons and delicate imprints that each tell a unique story of a long-gone past. Understand the forces that shaped the earth and life itself, from volcanic eruptions to meteor impacts, and immerse yourself in the Earth's dynamic history as portrayed by the rich fossil record curated by the museum.
Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free
8. Documenting the Modern Age
Explore the modern age at the Ulster Museum with the 'Documenting the Modern Age' exhibit. This area highlights the evolution of human society through contemporary artifacts, art, and interactive displays. It illustrates significant global and local events shaping recent centuries, touching on aspects such as industrialization, technological progress, and the cultural revolutions that have influenced our modern world. From everyday items that define our current lifestyle to the fine art that tackles present-day issues, the exhibit prompts visitors to reflect on what the future may hold based on the trajectory of our recent past.
Duration: 1-1.5 hours · Price: Free
9. Ancient Egypt
Step into the world of the pharaohs with the 'Ancient Egypt' exhibit at the Ulster Museum. This enduringly popular gallery takes visitors on a voyage to the banks of the Nile, showcasing an impressive collection of Egyptian artifacts, including jewelry, pottery, and religious items. The centerpiece is the museum's own Egyptian mummy, Takabuti, which allows a glimpse into the funerary practices and beliefs about the afterlife in ancient Egypt. Interactive elements and detailed explanations provide context and insights into one of the world's oldest civilizations, making it a captivating educational experience for all ages.
Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free
10. The Fashion and Textile Gallery
Immerse yourself in the evolution of style with 'The Fashion and Textile Gallery' at the Ulster Museum. This stylish area celebrates fashion as an expression of culture and identity over the years. Featuring everything from historical garments to avant-garde contemporary designs, the collection highlights how clothing and textiles reflect societal changes, technological advancements, and artistic movements. This is a must-see for fashion aficionados and anyone interested in the craftsmanship, beauty, and storytelling found in the weave of fabrics and the cut of a garment. Interactive displays provide a hands-on understanding of material and design, while themed exhibits rotate to keep the content fresh and relevant.
Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free

Other Places to Visit in Belfast

View all places to visit in Belfast

Titanic Belfast

Belfast City Hall

George's Market

Crumlin Road Gaol

Belfast Castle

Botanic Gardens

The Cathedral Quarter

Historic Ship & Museum

SS Nomadic

Historical Landmark

Peace Walls and Political Murals

Other Suggested Reads for Ulster Museum

Top 10 things to do in Ulster Museum

1. A Walk Through Time

Embark on an unforgettable journey through history at the Ulster Museum with the 'Walk Through Time' tour. This immersive experience guides visitors from the ancient times of the dinosaurs through human history, showcasing Ireland's rich heritage along the way. Marvel at the displays of Celtic treasures, including intricate metalwork and the famous Takabuti, an Egyptian Mummy who calls the museum her home. Learn about the island's Christianization, the Viking invasions, and the tumultuous years that shaped the nation we know today. With artifacts that tell fascinating stories and interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages, this trip will leave you with a deeper understanding of history's continuity and change.

Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free

2. The Art Gallery

Visit the reputable Art Gallery at the Ulster Museum where an extensive collection of fine art awaits your admiration. This riveting tour takes you through centuries of artistic works, from classical pieces by old masters to contemporary works by local and international artists. The gallery prides itself on an array of impressive Irish paintings, complimented by notable European artwork. With themes varying from landscape and portraiture to abstract and modernism, the exhibit offers something for all aesthetic preferences. The art is displayed in a series of well-curated rooms, each designed to enhance the viewer's experience and understanding of the art's context and greatness.

Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free

3. Discover Nature

Delve into the 'Discover Nature' exhibit at the Ulster Museum, a family-friendly activity that brings the wonders of the natural world to life. The exhibit features an array of displays, from a breathtaking array of taxidermy local wildlife to exotic insects, and plants from around the globe. Engage with interactive displays, learn about various ecosystems, and understand the impact of human activity on our environment. This educational and fun tour also includes the charming Butterfly House and the Living Planet display, where guests can uncover facts about biodiversity, conservation, and see firsthand the museum's efforts to preserve species and habitats.

Duration: 1-1.5 hours · Price: Free

4. Hands-On History

The 'Hands-On History' interactive exhibit at the Ulster Museum engages visitors of all ages with the tactile experience of history. This unique activity allows you to touch, hold, and examine replicas of historical artifacts, providing a physical bridge to the past. The interactive sessions could involve handling a Bronze Age axe head, spinning wool as in the time of the Vikings, or exploring the texture of a medieval chainmail. Storytelling and role-play might be part of your experience, as the museum staff bring history to life. Perfect for those looking to dive deeper into the human stories behind historical events, this hands-on approach ensures an educational experience that sticks with you long after you've left the museum.

Duration: 30 minutes - 1 hour · Price: Free

5. The Troubles and Beyond

The 'Troubles and Beyond' gallery at the Ulster Museum provides a reflective and informative view on the conflict that has significantly shaped contemporary Northern Ireland. This thought-provoking exhibit features a range of artifacts, photographs, and interactive elements that tell the stories of individuals and communities affected by this period of turmoil. The gallery does not shy away from challenging topics, presenting multiple perspectives and voices to encompass the complex nature of the conflict. It's an opportunity for visitors to gain insight into the causes, effects, and legacy of the Troubles, furthering understanding between different generations and walks of life.

Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free

6. Science at Sea

Bring science to life with the 'Science at Sea' exhibit at the Ulster Museum. This interactive space allows children and adults alike to explore the fascinating world of marine science. The exhibition highlights the museum's work in marine biology and oceanography and features touch pools where you can feel live sea creatures, computer simulations of marine environments, and informative displays about the sea life surrounding the Irish coastline. Dive into topics like climate change, overfishing, and marine pollution, fostering an appreciation for ocean conservation and the mysterious beauty of underwater worlds.

Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free

7. Fossil Stories

Get ready to travel back in time with 'Fossil Stories' at the Ulster Museum, where prehistoric life is showcased in the form of ancient fossils and geological marvels. This fascinating exhibit reveals the remnants of creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago. Children and adults can marvel at the complete skeletons and delicate imprints that each tell a unique story of a long-gone past. Understand the forces that shaped the earth and life itself, from volcanic eruptions to meteor impacts, and immerse yourself in the Earth's dynamic history as portrayed by the rich fossil record curated by the museum.

Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free

8. Documenting the Modern Age

Explore the modern age at the Ulster Museum with the 'Documenting the Modern Age' exhibit. This area highlights the evolution of human society through contemporary artifacts, art, and interactive displays. It illustrates significant global and local events shaping recent centuries, touching on aspects such as industrialization, technological progress, and the cultural revolutions that have influenced our modern world. From everyday items that define our current lifestyle to the fine art that tackles present-day issues, the exhibit prompts visitors to reflect on what the future may hold based on the trajectory of our recent past.

Duration: 1-1.5 hours · Price: Free

9. Ancient Egypt

Step into the world of the pharaohs with the 'Ancient Egypt' exhibit at the Ulster Museum. This enduringly popular gallery takes visitors on a voyage to the banks of the Nile, showcasing an impressive collection of Egyptian artifacts, including jewelry, pottery, and religious items. The centerpiece is the museum's own Egyptian mummy, Takabuti, which allows a glimpse into the funerary practices and beliefs about the afterlife in ancient Egypt. Interactive elements and detailed explanations provide context and insights into one of the world's oldest civilizations, making it a captivating educational experience for all ages.

Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free

10. The Fashion and Textile Gallery

Immerse yourself in the evolution of style with 'The Fashion and Textile Gallery' at the Ulster Museum. This stylish area celebrates fashion as an expression of culture and identity over the years. Featuring everything from historical garments to avant-garde contemporary designs, the collection highlights how clothing and textiles reflect societal changes, technological advancements, and artistic movements. This is a must-see for fashion aficionados and anyone interested in the craftsmanship, beauty, and storytelling found in the weave of fabrics and the cut of a garment. Interactive displays provide a hands-on understanding of material and design, while themed exhibits rotate to keep the content fresh and relevant.

Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free