Ulster Museum is home to a wonderful collection of art, history and natural sciences, covering all eras from past to present. It is located in the Botanic Gardens in Belfast, in a beautiful building, a real architectural gem. It is the biggest museum in Northern Ireland and is spread out over five floors.
The museum narrates the story of the people of the north of Ireland from its early settlement times right through to current times, through static displays and interactive exhibits. The exhibits are well displayed and the museum has an excellent layout that flows well from floor to floor, with a nice open feel. Over its several floors of public display space, there are materials from collections of fine art and applied art, archaeology, ethnography, treasures from the Spanish Armada, local history, industrial archaeology, botany, zoology, geology and much more. It has an excellent collection of art by modern Irish artists, in particular by Ulster based artists.
Visitors will encounter a fascinating assortment and large variety of exhibitions from coming face to face with dinosaurs to meeting an Egyptian Mummy, ancient relics to modern art, it is all to be found here. Exhibits come from all around the world and provide a real mix of cultures. Visitors can easily spend several hours looking around.
In addition to its permanent exhibitions there are temporary and visiting exhibitions too.
Offered at the museum are free one-hour welcome tours that cover all areas. They are allocated on a first come basis so best to get there early.
During the year a wide range of events, festivals, talks and exhibitions take place, there is something for all ages and interests.
There is a nice cafe that serves local food and a good selection of options in a warm and cosy environment.
The Ulster Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday daily throughout the year. It provides both education and enjoyment whilst taking in the culture and heritage of Northern Ireland and beyond.