Armagh County Museum

What You'll Find

Armagh County Museum is a lovely little free museum right in the heart of Armagh City, and a handy one to know about when you're looking for something indoors with the kids.

It's actually Ireland's oldest county museum, opening back in 1937, and inside you'll find all sorts of interesting things from years gone by. There's everything from old wedding dresses and military uniforms to prehistoric tools, pottery and railway memorabilia.

One of the things younger children might enjoy is the natural history collection, where they can see different animals and discover a little more about the wildlife found around County Armagh. Older children might enjoy looking at the ancient objects and imagining what life was like hundreds of years ago.

There's also a lovely collection of paintings and artwork, along with changing exhibitions throughout the year, so you might find something different each time you visit.

It's not a huge museum, and there isn't a big interactive play area, but that's part of what makes it a handy little stop. You can spend an hour having a look around without the kids getting too tired, especially if you're already spending the day in Armagh.

The museum sits right beside The Mall, so you can easily combine your visit with a little walk afterwards or pop into the city centre for a coffee and a treat.

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Looking at the old-fashioned clothes and beautiful wedding dresses
• ✓Discovering animals and wildlife in the natural history displays
• ✓Spotting old trains and railway memorabilia
• ✓Seeing prehistoric tools and objects from long ago
• ✓Exploring the changing exhibitions and finding their favourite displays

Before You Visit

This is a traditional museum rather than an interactive children's attraction, so it's best suited to little ones who enjoy looking at interesting objects and exploring.

The exhibitions change throughout the year, so it's worth checking what's currently on before visiting.

The museum is generally closed on Sundays, so bear that in mind if you're planning a weekend visit.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐Make a little game of finding the most unusual object in the museum. The kids might surprise you with what catches their eye!
• ⭐Allow around an hour for a relaxed look around, although older children who enjoy history might want longer.
• ⭐Take a walk around The Mall afterwards if the weather is nice.
• ⭐Keep an eye out for occasional family activities and workshops, particularly during school holidays.