The 10 Best Museums in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Fenderesky Gallery was established in December 1983 and has recently moved to its new location. The Gallery represents and exhibits on a regular basis one-person and theme based exhibitions of the works of living Irish artists and artists from abroad. There is also a delightful cafe, Cafe 31, on the ground floor selling delicious coffees made by expert baristas, fresh sandwiches and cakes.

Golden Thread Gallery (GTG) is a medium-scale, publicly funded, contemporary art gallery based in Belfast that is recognised as having charitable status. It provides a welcoming space for the public to engage with contemporary visual art, and has grown steadily since it was founded in 1998. GTG is recognised for its engagement with recent histories and re-imagined futures: the majority of its programme is engaged with offering the public a contextual experience of the visual art of our time. GTG is a member of the Plus Tate network, a lead partner in the Draw-Down-the Walls collaboration and is accredited by Investors in People. Golden Thread Gallery (GTG) plays an important role in the provision of contemporary visual art in Belfast and Northern Ireland: Creating a context, challenging perceptions, promoting creativity, delivering contemporary visual art for all Our purpose in doing this is to: Offer the public a contextual experience of visual art of our time Present quality and innovative artistic programs that capture the diversity of contemporary arts practice and which engage, educate, challenge and inspire. Develop, support and promote the work of contemporary Northern Irish artists and contemporary visual arts practice. Build and engage the widest possible audience for contemporary arts, extending the reach of the arts, and nurturing a deep understanding and enjoyment of current visual arts practice within the broader community The Golden Thread Gallery delivers its vision across a portfolio of three interconnected activities: Audience, Participation, and Support and Profiling. GOLDEN THREAD GALLERY IS FINANCIALLY SUPPORTED BY ARTS COUNCIL OF NORTHERN IRELAND AND BELFAST CITY COUNCIL. THE GOLDEN THREAD GALLERY LTD IS A RECOGNISED AS A CHARITY BY THE CHARITY COMMISSION FOR NORTHERN IRELAND - CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER: NIC101097 AND IS ACCEPTED AS HAVING CHARITABLE STATUS BY THE INLAND REVENUE UNDER REFERENCE XR 54731.

Much of HMS Caroline has undergone extensive restoration to her 1916 appearance from the Battle of Jutland. Visitors can discover a wide range of historic spaces, including the Captain's Cabin, Royal Marines Mess, and Seamen's Wash as well as the very important engine room, sick-bay and galley kitchen. During their visit, visitors will discover the importance of the Battle of Jutland, learning what life at sea was like the over three hundred crew who served on board HMS Caroline during 1916. Visit the Torpedo School and explore the role of naval weaponry; peruse the Virtual Access Suite a contemporary, comfortable space where all visitors can explore the ship; Grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink in the Mess Deck Cafe, and finally visit the Gift Shop, to bring home a reminder of your visit to HMS Caroline.

The Museum of Orange Heritage's Belfast site is located at the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland's Headquarters, 'Schomberg House' in East Belfast. ​ The site focuses on the history and traditions of the Orange Institution, beginning with the Glorious Revolution and travelling through to the modern day. ​ There is a strong focus on Orangeism around the World with a fascinating collection which enhances the story of the Institution. ​ The Museum features a number of interactive exhibits and includes a Café on site. ​ A replica Lodge Room includes a Memorial Backlit Window which commemorates the more than 300 Orange members who were killed during the 'Troubles' in Northern Ireland.

Occupying two floors, a monthly themed exhibition programme is scheduled for the first floor, while the ground floor is arranged Salon Style, with the intent of displaying as many amazing art works as possible. The gallery has a friendly and fuss-free atmosphere, and offers a friendly, knowledgeable service to suit every art lover.

Situated at the heart of Queen's University on the first floor of the iconic Lanyon Building, the Naughton Gallery is one of Belfast's most exciting visual arts spaces. Presenting a rolling programme of contemporary exhibitions, the gallery shows work by a range of local and internationally-renowned artists. The gallery also runs an extensive programme of talks, screenings, and special events. With free admission and open six days per week, the Naughton Gallery welcomes visitors from around the world, and has been recognised as one of the leading university galleries in the UK and Ireland, winning the Times Higher Education Award for Excellence and Innovation in the Arts in 2008.