Journey Through Time at the Ulster Transport Museum
Explore the fascinating history of transportation at the Ulster Transport Museum in Holywood, featuring an incredible collection of vehicles and interactive exhibits.
The Ulster Transport Museum in Holywood is a captivating destination for tourists, showcasing a rich history of transportation in Northern Ireland. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of vehicles, from vintage steam engines to modern modes of transport, all set in a beautifully designed space that encourages discovery and learning. This museum is not just for transport enthusiasts; it offers engaging exhibits for visitors of all ages, ensuring a memorable experience.
A brief summary to Ulster Transport Museum
- 153 Bangor Rd, Holywood, BT18 0EU, GB
- +442890428428
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Check the museum's official website for any special events or exhibitions during your visit.
- Allocate at least a few hours to fully explore all the exhibits and activities available.
- Bring your camera; the displays are photo-friendly, and you'll want to capture the memories.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're traveling by car, head towards Holywood from your current location in Ulster. Use the A2 (Belfast Road) for a scenic drive along the coastline. Keep an eye out for signs directing you toward Holywood. When you reach Holywood, follow Bangor Road (A2) until you see the Ulster Transport Museum on your right at 153 Bangor Rd, BT18 0EU. There is parking available on-site, but be aware that there may be a parking fee that varies depending on the duration of your visit.
-
Public Transport - Bus
To reach the Ulster Transport Museum by bus, find a local bus stop and board a bus that goes to Holywood. Translink operates several routes from Belfast city center to Holywood. Look for buses with the destination 'Holywood' or 'Bangor'. The journey typically takes around 25-30 minutes. Once you arrive at the Holywood bus stop, it's about a 10-minute walk to the museum. Head east on High Street, then turn left onto Bangor Road (A2). The museum will be on your left. Please check the latest bus schedules and fares on the Translink website beforehand.
-
Public Transport - Train
If you prefer traveling by train, you can catch a train from Belfast Central Station to Holywood. The train journey is quick and usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day. Once you arrive at Holywood Station, exit the station, and turn left onto Bangor Road (A2). Walk for approximately 15 minutes, and you will find the Ulster Transport Museum on your left at 153 Bangor Rd. Ensure to check the train schedules on the Translink website for updated times and ticket prices.
Discover more about Ulster Transport Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stormont Estate
7.0 km
Northern Ireland's iconic seat of power set within 224 acres of historic parkland and natural beauty.
Knockagh Monument
8.1 km
Northern Ireland’s largest war memorial, standing tall on Knockagh Hill with sweeping views over Belfast Lough and the surrounding countryside.
Slipways
8.5 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
Titanic Hotel Belfast
8.6 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
8.6 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
McKee Clock
8.7 km
Historic McKee Clock in Bangor—A timeless stone landmark and beloved community gathering spot by the marina gardens.
McArt's Fort
9.4 km
Explore the ancient Iron Age McArt's Fort atop Cave Hill, where history meets panoramic views over Belfast and beyond.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
9.7 km
A 1960s road bridge over the River Lagan, connecting central Belfast with the Titanic Quarter and offering quiet riverside views from its pedestrian walkways.
Beacon of Hope
9.8 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Albert Memorial Clock
9.8 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
9.9 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Belfast Cathedral, the Cathedral Church of St Anne
9.9 km
Discover Belfast Cathedral, a stunning blend of history and architecture in Northern Ireland, where faith and culture meet in a vibrant city.
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
9.9 km
Explore Cathedral Quarter Belfast, a vibrant cultural hub filled with history, art, and culinary delights, perfect for immersing in local culture.
The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
10.0 km
Discover the essence of Belfast through unique tastings and a sensory journey at The Spirit Circle, a charming tourist attraction in the heart of the city.
Clifton House
10.0 km
Explore the historical significance and architectural elegance of Clifton House, a must-see landmark in Belfast that offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ulster Folk Museum
0.5 km
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Ireland at the Ulster Folk Museum, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and authentic experiences.
National Museums NI
0.8 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Northern Ireland at National Museums NI, a captivating museum experience for all ages.
On The Square Emporium
5.0 km
Discover Belfast’s largest antique emporium, a treasure trove of vintage furniture, collectibles, and sustainable home inspiration.
Hazelbank Park
6.5 km
A scenic waterfront park in Newtownabbey offering stunning views, accessible paths, vibrant gardens, and family-friendly outdoor activities.
Carrickfergus Castle
6.7 km
Discover Carrickfergus Castle, a historical fortress overlooking Belfast Lough, offering rich heritage and stunning views in Northern Ireland.
Shaftesbury Park
7.0 km
A peaceful, fenced urban park in Carrickfergus featuring a unique shamrock pond and abundant local wildlife.
Victoria Park - Belfast
7.5 km
A vibrant 60-acre park in East Belfast offering lakeside walks, sports, playgrounds, and unique planespotting near the city airport.
Titanic Distillers
7.8 km
Discover Belfast’s Titanic heritage and whiskey revival at the historic Thompson Dock and Pumphouse, home to Titanic Distillers.
Titanic Distillery & Pump House
7.8 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Titanic Pumphouse reborn as a vibrant whiskey distillery blending maritime heritage with award-winning spirits.
HMS Caroline
7.9 km
Step aboard HMS Caroline, Belfast’s historic WWI light cruiser, and explore a century of naval history in a fully restored floating museum.
Ulster Historical Foundation
8.1 km
Explore your Ulster and Scots-Irish roots through expert research, rich archives, and heritage events at this dedicated genealogical foundation.
The Great Light, Maritime Mile
8.1 km
Discover Belfast's maritime heritage at The Great Light, a stunning landmark celebrating the city's rich shipbuilding history along The Maritime Mile.
Kiltonga Nature Reserve
8.3 km
Explore Kiltonga Nature Reserve in Newtownards, a picturesque haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering serene walks and stunning landscapes.
Glass of Thrones - HMS Caroline
8.4 km
Discover the dramatic House Lannister stained glass window beside historic HMS Caroline, blending Game of Thrones lore with Belfast’s maritime heritage.
The Iron Throne - Glass of Thrones
8.4 km
Experience the iconic Iron Throne in vibrant stained glass on Belfast’s Titanic Slipways, where fantasy meets maritime history.
Essential places to dine
Noble
2.5 km
Experience warm hospitality and bold modern European flavors at Noble, Holywood’s Michelin Bib Gourmand treasure.
Members Dining Room Stormont Castle
5.8 km
Dine in historic elegance within Belfast’s iconic Stormont Parliament Buildings, surrounded by scenic gardens and political heritage.
Olivers Restaurant
7.5 km
A warm, modern European dining experience in Belfast’s Ballyhackamore with exceptional food and inviting ambiance.
The Hoose Bistro
8.3 km
East Belfast's premier intimate bistro serving contemporary British cuisine with exceptional cocktails and genuine warmth.
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
8.5 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
Drawing Office Two Bar
8.6 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
The Pantry at Titanic Belfast
8.6 km
Savor locally inspired dishes in a historic setting at The Pantry, Titanic Belfast’s welcoming restaurant celebrating Northern Ireland’s finest produce.
Hickson's Point
8.7 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant culture at Hickson's Point in Belfast - your gateway to local flavors.
Novelli at City Quays
9.5 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Coppi Restaurant
9.8 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Buba
9.8 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
OX Belfast
9.8 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
Dumpling Library
9.9 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
9.9 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Mumbai 27
9.9 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Abbey Centre Shopping
7.5 km
Discover Abbey Centre Shopping, a lively retail and entertainment hub in Newtownabbey, featuring diverse shops and dining options for all tastes.
Fiddlesticks
7.7 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and expert framing at Fiddlesticks, Belfast's gem on Belmont Road for unique souvenirs and preserved memories.
American Madness
8.4 km
East Belfast’s cult vintage shop for reworked Americana, denim, military surplus, and retro band and Harley-Davidson tees.
Storybox
8.5 km
Discover Storybox, a creative gift shop nestled in Belfast’s historic Portview Trade Centre, where heritage meets artistry and community spirit.
The Union Jack Shop
8.5 km
Explore a treasure trove of Unionist memorabilia at The Union Jack Shop in Belfast, celebrating British culture with a unique selection of gifts.
Titanic Store
8.6 km
Discover Titanic treasures in Belfast's shipyard heart: exclusive memorabilia, local crafts, and publications that sail the story of the unsinkable ship into your hands.
Dandy Lion Shop
8.6 km
Explore the Dandy Lion Shop in Belfast for unique antiques and gifts, perfect for collectors and treasure hunters alike.
Connswater Shopping Centre
8.6 km
Discover Connswater Shopping Centre: Belfast's vibrant retail hub with diverse shops, dining options, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Ards Shopping Centre
8.9 km
Experience shopping and dining at Ards Shopping Centre in Newtownards, where variety meets convenience in a friendly atmosphere.
Art Loves at The Merchant
9.9 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
10.0 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
10.0 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
10.0 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
House of Fraser
10.0 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Søstrene Grene
10.0 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ownies Bar and Bistro
7.0 km
Discover the warmth of Irish hospitality at Ownies Bar and Bistro, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere in Carrickfergus.
The Harland Bar
8.6 km
Elegant piano bar in Harland & Wolff's historic offices, serving Titanic-inspired cocktails amid shipyard artefacts and live music in Belfast's Titanic Quarter.
Pavilion One Bar
8.6 km
A convivial, shipyard‑inspired hotel bar with polished brass, hearty pub dishes and a relaxed atmosphere in the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
The Goat's Toe
8.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and live music at The Goat's Toe, Bangor's premier lounge and cocktail bar.
The Rabbit Rooms
8.7 km
A lively pub and seafood restaurant on Bangor’s waterfront, blending traditional charm with vibrant social gatherings and fresh local fare.
The Grand Social
8.8 km
A lively cocktail and sports bar in Bangor’s High Street, blending vibrant drinks with engaging entertainment and a friendly social scene.
Fealty's Bar
8.8 km
Experience authentic Irish pub culture in Bangor with expertly poured Guinness, a rich whiskey selection, and a welcoming, no-frills atmosphere.
The American Bar
9.1 km
Historic Sailortown pub pouring perfect pints, live tunes, and bargain bites in Belfast's Docklands—a raw gem for locals and music seekers.
International Bar
9.6 km
A cozy, authentic Northern Irish pub in Newtownards known for warm hospitality, affordable drinks, and a timeless local atmosphere.
The Tipsy Bird
9.8 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
39 Gordon Street
9.8 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
Ulster Sports Club
9.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
Bert's Jazz Bar
9.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
The Black Box
9.9 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Dark Horse
9.9 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Saturday Night Nightclub
8.9 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
Club Lux
9.8 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Craics Ninety
9.8 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Ollie's Belfast
9.9 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
10.0 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Kremlin
10.0 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Anthology Ni
10.0 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Shoe Factory
10.0 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
The Art Department
10.0 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Cabaret Supper Club
10.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
10.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
10.4 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Filthy McNastys
10.9 km
A lively Belfast bar known for live local music, quirky vintage décor, authentic pizza, and a buzzing nightlife atmosphere.
Alibi
11.2 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
11.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
