The Global Meaningful Travel Map

Ulster American Folk Park

Experience the rich history of Ulster emigration with original buildings, live craft demonstrations, and a migrant ship replica, all in a scenic setting.

OUR EXPERIENCES
The Ulster American Folk Park tells the story of Ulster people’s emigration to North America in the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can learn more about this history, about the lives left behind, the hardships endured on the journey and the pioneering spirit of building new lives in a new land. Our museum hosts a varied program throughout the year including bespoke workshops, curator talks, special events and tours.

ABOUT US
The Ulster American Folk Park is part of National Museums NI, an organization that cares for four unique museums across Northern Ireland. Together, we are custodians of a remarkable collection of 1.4 million objects that span art, history, and the natural sciences.
At National Museums NI, we are undertaking an ambitious program of transformation to maximize public benefit in all that we do.
Our vision is to celebrate who we are by telling the stories of our past, challenging the present, and shaping the future. We believe our museums have a vital role to play in adapting to change, sparking dialogue, promoting reconciliation, and supporting diversity and sustainability.

OUR IMPACT
The Ulster American Folk Park brings to life the story of Ulster emigration to North America in the 18th and 19th centuries. Centered around the Mellon House, birthplace of Thomas Mellon, the park features over 30 original buildings from Ulster and North America, including a full-size migrant ship replica. Live demonstrations of traditional crafts like linen weaving, blacksmithing, and open-hearth cooking immerse visitors in the journey.

The museum showcases diverse perspectives, highlighting Catholic, Protestant, Irish, and Ulster-Scots histories, as well as stories of Indigenous Peoples and enslaved Africans impacted by migration. Committed to accessibility, the museum continually expands its narratives.

Environmental efforts include pollinator habitat creation, bog restoration, and wildlife corridors. In partnership with The Conservation Volunteers, the museum is restoring the central peat bog and has earned a Silver Green Tourism Award.

DETAILS
To learn more, contact:
Ray.williams@nationalmuseumsni.org

What are your minimum and maximum group sizes?
15

Do you require visitors to pre-book?
50

Do you have group rates?
Yes

Do you pay commissions to travel advisors?
No

What languages do you offer your services in?
Maps are available in: • English • Chinese • French • German • Irish • Lithuanian • Russian • Spanish • Latvian • Polish • Ulster Scots • Dutch • Italian • Ukrainian • Arabic

When are you open?
Summer season the museum is open 10am – 5pm Tuesday – Sunday
Winter season the museum is open 10am – 4pm Tuesday – Sunday
May be open on public/bank holiday Mondays
Closed 24-27 December inclusive

What accommodations do you make for people living with disabilities?
Visitors with a registered disability can enter the museum for free and helpers accompanying someone with a disability are also offered free entry (charges may apply to certain events).
On-site mobility scooter, powered or manual wheelchairs.