Advertisement
Ulster Aviation Society

Ulster Aviation Society

Ulster Aviation Society
5
Wednesday
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
About
WHO ARE WE? A charitable society that is a diverse group of enthusiasts, working on a voluntary basis to further public education in the history of aviation. WHAT AIRCRAFT DO WE HAVE? Our heritage collection currently includes 52+ aircraft & vehicles, ranging from vintage Second World War fighters through Cold War era fast jets, Shorts designed & built aircraft, civilian aircraft, plus military helicopters, engines, artefacts and rare aviation reference materials, all with strong links to aviation within the island of Ireland. Our aircraft are housed within an ex-Second World War hangar at Maze Long Kesh, outside Lisburn (on the site of the old prison). • Charitable association of Aviation Enthusiasts • Over 760+ members, including Europe & USA Ulster Aviation Society is a charitable association. N. Ireland. Charity No. NIC 100128. NI Charity Commission Registered. Associate member of Northern Ireland Museums’ Council
Duration: 2-3 hours
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listing
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

See what travelers are saying

  • Helen B
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great day out - hidden gem
    Highly recommend this - had an amazing family day there for husbands birthday (plane enthusiast). I was pleasantly surprised cos I loved it too. Fascinating information, history and displays - I'd never heard some of the historic facts. This truly is a hidden gem. Ray, our guide, was amazing, so much knowledge, stories and banter, could listen to his stories all day. Can't believe how good it was. These people who find, recover and restore these planes are amazing with so much history and information. Will definitely be back.
    Visited October 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written October 22, 2023
  • Peter B
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fantastic Group Visit
    We brought our Scout group to the museum for an evening visit. What a treat for all of the boys and girls and the leaders enjoyed it just as much. The guides were knowledgeable and patient and allowed us to interact with the many fascinating aircraft. After the tour a highlight was the well stocked shop with many happy scouts and leaders going home with a new model plane or badge. Very highly recommended. A*****
    Visited October 2023
    Traveled with friends
    Written October 24, 2023
  • Annette K
    14 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Flying high!!
    Visited here 28 October 2023. My husband is a collector of plane models and has an avid interest in WW2. The tour is 2 hrs, our tour guide Ray was extremely knowledgeable, pleasant and friendly. My husband was able to sit in some of the planes there and have his picture taken. If you are a history or plane enthusiast then this tour fits the bill. Bought a few souvenirs from gift shop ( very reasonably priced) . We had no qualms about making a donation ( of which Ulster Aviation rely on greatly). We will definitely be back soon, especially to see some new arrivals to add to the existing planes etc.
    Visited November 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written November 8, 2023
  • Happiness00775747753
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Scouts and Guides have a fabulous visit to UAS
    We had a fabulous experience at the Ulster Aviation Society (UAS). As a local Scout group we requested a speical visit to UAS as part of our Remembrance Day activites of what life was like in the war and the role Scouts and Guides played. UAS opened up espically for us and we were pleased to be accompinied by our local Girl Guide group. At the start of the night they allowed our Cub Scouts to renew thier promise in front of a Spitfire which was really exicting. UAS provided 4 very experienced tour guides who were able to appeal to all age groups during the tour. They were extremely knowledgeable on all the aircraft and the back stories and how the aircraft were linked or associated to Northern Ireland and about a number of new aircraft they are about to receive. The visit defintly ignited the imigination of the childern with many questions being asked. At the end of the night many of the childern and parents stayed behind to get a second look or another photo opportunity of which there are many. The fact that this is run by volunteers is truely amazing and an asset to Northern Ireland’s tourism. Thank you again for a very very enjoyable night. We will definitely be back! Thank you.
    Visited November 2023
    Traveled with friends
    Written November 15, 2023
  • Amy F
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A must - see: Ulster Aviation
    An amazing and awe inspiring collection of all things aviation. It is incredible to touch and see up close such marvels. Our tour guide, Mike Shaw, held our attention with details and stories as we wove our way through exhibits. Our children loved the simulator that allowed them to land at Belfast airport. A trip highlight indeed!
    Visited March 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written March 25, 2024
  • Tourist15406409785
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Must visit for aviation lovers
    We took my nephew,who is obsessed with planes here & had an amazing time. Our guide came in especially for us & was so knowledgeable. He was brilliant answering all my nephews questions even the silly ones! We got to sit in some of the planes, which doesn't happen much in other museums. We were taken aback by the size of the building and the amount of planes there. The members of the aviation society also take on restoration projects and encourage school children to get involved. The museum is an absolute credit to their dedication and is a fascinating place to visit, even if you aren't really into planes. I thoroughly recommend it and would encourage others to support it as it's run by volunteers & relies on donations.
    Visited March 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written March 31, 2024
  • Peter S
    Belfast, United Kingdom1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Amazing place for a good quality time with your family!
    If you are out of idea's how to get out your children from house and gadgets, this is a great place to take your family out for few hours. We have been visited Ulster Aviation Society yesterday 30.03.'24. As a plan was we will be there for might around an hour to get some excitement to our kids (8 and 13 years old). I was surprised as on our arrival, a member of Staff welcomed us and mentioned one of their guide, will coming soon and will take us over around this place. Our guide named Ray (I think), introduced himself taking inside on the entrance corridor start giving as details about some old historical representative pictures of Northern Ireland/Ireland and British aviation history. Our kids was over the moon to get the chance to see and to sit into a real helicopter, airplane, and each of them came with a story from our guide Ray back in 1st and 2nd World War, before the and they get the chance to try an aircraft simulator - I can say our kids was over the moon. All voluntary Staff are very friendly, pleasant, very knowledgeable which captures us there for 3 hours, what we didn't expected at all. Is no entrance fees, is a little stand with different souvenirs, also donation can be given. We can speak highly enough about this place and those enthusiastic people, who are working on a voluntary basis there. All of us had an amazing experience, without any regrets of our time, was really worth it, to learn and enlarge our knowledge from kids to grownups in history of Ireland and British aviation. If you are not familiar with our weather here, please have appropriate clouting as can be cold inside. Apart from that no other concerns, and Hope you will enjoy your time like we did! :) Thank you very much
    Visited March 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written March 31, 2024
  • Stuart Ball
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fantastic collection of aircraft on display right on the doorstep in Northern Ireland
    A very enjoyable visit to the Ulster Aviation Society with my parents. The range of aircraft on display is very impressive, particularly the Red Arrows Hawk, Tornado GR4, Phantom & Canberra. We had the privilege of being shown around by Ray who has such a depth of knowledge and enthusiasm around all things aviation. His insights and back stories around all of the different aircraft on display made the visit and we really appreciated it. The society is really easy to get to, just a few minutes off the M1 near Lisburn and we hope to visit again in the future. Thanks again
    Visited March 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written April 2, 2024
  • Connector57382329274
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Hidden aviation gem.
    A must do! Our tour guide Malcom showed us around and made the tour very interesting and engaging. There is a great range of aircraft and plenty of engines and equipment. Was more than happy to sign up for a membership and stay involved in this great charity.
    Visited April 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written April 4, 2024
  • PSCM
    12 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A true hidden gem!
    This is an absolute gem which surpasses other similar establishments with its authenticity. We visited today 14th April and were shown around by Norman who was excellent, friendly and clearly had a wealth of knowledge on all things aviation related. I can’t believe we have this on our doorstep and, whilst we’d heard of it, didn’t know just how outstanding and vast it is. It’s completely free (but charity run so make sure and donate via their website / PayPal.) it is totally worth a visit and world class. If you are the least bit interested in flying / aviation get booked in you will not be disappointed! Thanks Norman.
    Visited April 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written April 14, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Popular mentions

5.0
5.0 of 5 bubbles540 reviews
Excellent
531
Very good
8
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
1

Peter L
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2021
I finally managed to visit the museum during a work trip to Belfast, and it was more than I was expecting. I was shown around by Ray and he took time to explain everything about the aircraft on display.
I look forward to my next trip to Belfast and I will certainly visit again. Lots of restoration projects on the go so always something different to see, and a very extensive collection for a small charity run museum.
Well done for what you are doing.
I would certainly recommend this to any aviation enthusiast if you are ever in or near Belfast.
Peter
Written August 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Geoff W
United Kingdom7 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2021 • Family
Visited the Ulster Aviation Museum today, what a great experience it was. I was amazed at the wonderful collection of aircraft they have there. I have always had an interest in aviation, and have been to a number of museums, this one did not disappoint, with some iconic aircraft on display, and so much information from the excellent guide, would thoroughly recommend.
Written July 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Andrius V
Dublin, Ireland12 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sep 2020 • Couples
Today I've visited this little Museum,full of very nice exhibits and I was Very Pleasantly Surprised.
If You are interestrd in Aviation, it's definitelly worth a visit. This is not tge Biggest collection of Airplanes, but some of them I haven't seen elswhere and the staff is Very Professional and Helpfull.
Aviation Historian, Ernie Cromie was my Personal Tour Guide and he gave me the Very informative 3 hour Tour through this collection of Aircraft and various Airfield Equipment.
I Highly Recommend to Visit this Place for Everyone!
Written September 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

ELM
Wicklow, Ireland6 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2021
It was by chance that we found a flyer for the UAS, having never heard of it before, but we're so glad we found it now.

No matter what you're into, be it the history of aviation, the mechanics of making it work, or getting up close with planes and helicopters not normally accessible to the average Joe, this Museum has something for everyone! We had 3 generations of our family on the tour, and Ray, our guide, kept everyone entertained and included.

Unlike a lot of traditional museums, the UAS is run by a community of volunteers, there because they love it and it shows. The enthusiasm and level of knowledge offered by Ray and the other guides on duty while we were there were second to none.

The UAS prove that not just aviation enthusiasts get excited about planes! My husband, who usually thinks planes are for getting from A to B, made sure he queued up with the kids to get his picture taken in the fighter planes and helicopters that make up just a fraction of the exhibit offered at the Ulster Aviation Society.

There was so much to take in, the history of the ejector seat, the role of Northern Ireland in WWII and aviation in general, the evolution of flying uniforms, the mechanics of flight and more, and that was before you even stepped foot on a plane!

Our 2-hour visit quickly morphed into the full afternoon, and we still didn't have enough time to look at everything in detail.
A return visit is a must!

Thank you Ray and crew for all the work you guys put in, and we can't wait to visit again soon!
Written August 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

BelfastVolta
Belfast19 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2022
Recently took our first trip to the Aviation Society with our two young children. Ray was a brilliant guide, and his enthusiasm for the subject was infectious. He spent a lot of time to talk to us and take us round the hangars. It felt very personalised. There is no entry fee - you make a donation at the end to contribute to the amazing restoration work the team undertake. There is so much to see!! Our nine-year-old son loved it. Definitely worth a visit.
Written February 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

John K
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2021
My son and I had an excellent visit to the Ulster Aviation Society on Friday morning. Our guide , Ivan , was very informative and spent plenty of time explaining the history of the old World War 2 hangers and the aircraft and exhibitions within. The aircraft, both military and civilian, are maintained in very good condition with ongoing restoration work to many of the exhibits and Ivan was great at explaining what is involved in the restoration of these old aircraft. The results are amazing. To be able to see this restoration work at close quarters sets it out from other aircraft museums I have visited. We were allowed to access some of the helicopters and even sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet and operate the controls. Put this place on your to-do list if visiting Belfast and you have even the slightest interest in aviation history or technology / restoration.
Written August 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We're really glad you both enjoyed your time visiting our Second World War hangars and our Heritage Collection. We appreciate the terrific review you've left and our Volunteers always love to hear visitor's reactions and feedback. We hope to see you again soon (our Tornado GR.4 has finally arrived as our newest 'hero' exhibit).
Written September 30, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Simon C
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Apr 2023 • Family
We visited during the Easter break and needed something that was cost-effective and would keep both our 11 year old and 4 year old sons interested, as part of my younger son's Birthday.

Both my sons enjoyed this, as did my wife and I. Entry is free (which is great for families), and you can buy some gifts or donate what you want.

It was a very lovely gesture at the end as the guide let my sons have a model plane each, and as my eldest is interested in History and War, was able to take a magazine and book also.

Whilst admittedly, I don't have a huge interest in History or Aviation, even I found it interesting, and learnt a lot, the guide that took us around was particularly entertaining whilst also being informative.

He was meant to talk for about 2 hours, and we got about a 3 hour tour in total, which was even better.

Definitely worth a visit, but my only advice would be as it is based in 2 huge hangars and there is no heat, make sure to wrap up warm.

There are also on-site toilets which is handy, if the kids need to pop to the toilet.

All in all, a great visit was had and I'd thoroughly recommend you give it a go.
Written April 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

tuskers
londonderry5 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2022 • Friends
What a great afternoon spent at the Aviation Museum. We were greeted by our host Ricky who was very informative at all times explaining to us all about the aircraft. I was with family and my daughter loved getting into the cockpits of several of the planes as was I too be fair. Would highly recommend viewing this Museum to understand the aviation history of Northern Ireland.
Written August 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Michael Sims
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2020
What a fantastic place to visit. The Ulster Aviation Society showcased fantastic planes that represent Irish aviation. We were shown around by a fantastic guide who had so much information, it was amazing. We were even allowed to get into a few of the planes, which was just superb. Definitely would recommend.
Written March 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

CliftonVA
Clifton, VA233 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2022
What an excellent way to spend an afternoon for aviation enthusiasts, young and old and for anyone who loves vintage airplanes, military history, hands on, loads to see and experience....You HAVE to come visit Ulster Aviation Society when close to Belfast, Northern Ireland. This visit would be a Fathers Day treat for any guy and be prepared to be amazed and intrigued by all the exhibits offered. Tour guides Alan Jargon and Ray Burrough are both very interesting, personable and knowledgeable and each offered us many additional stories, facts and inside info that had us on the edge of our seats. Great spot for photo ops for the airplane nuts in your family. Again, take the time to go out to visit. You can also join the Ulster Aviation Society group !
Written June 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Showing results 1-10 of 535
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing

Ulster Aviation Society - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

All things to do in Lisburn
RestaurantsFlightsVacation RentalsTravel StoriesCruisesRental Cars