Ulster Museum, Belfast

The clean, crisp interior of Ulster Museum is contained within an elegant building close to Belfast’s city center. Highlights of the extensive collection here include relics from the Spanish Armada, nearly three dozen Sir John Lavery paintings that the famed Irish portraitist donated himself, and works from maritime painter Kenneth Shoesmith. You'll also find archaeological items dating to the Stone Age, militaria, and items from world cultures across the globe such as samurai armor and war canoes from the Solomon Islands. Check out the exhibits telling the natural history of the island of Ireland through taxidermied mammals, wildlife, and 100,000 preserved plants and fungi including mosses, ferns, and lichens. In addition to free admission, the museum offers a free daily welcome tour (except Saturdays). Check the website for a schedule. Plan a Belfast trip in moments using our itinerary builder.