The Ulster Aviation Society ('UAS') is a volunteer-run charitable organisation based in two historic World War II hangars at the former Maze prison site near Lisburn, Northern Ireland. Established in 1968, the Society is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Northern Ireland’s rich aviation heritage, and today houses a remarkable collection of over 54 aircraft and vehicles-ranging from vintage civilian planes to military jets and helicopters-alongside a wealth of aviation artefacts, themed displays, and a specialist library. The Society is managed entirely by a dedicated team of volunteer enthusiasts. All activities, including restoration, maintenance, and guided tours, are carried out by volunteers, and visits are available by prior arrangement only to ensure a personalised and informative experience for groups and families. Education and community engagement are central to the UAS mission. The Society actively partners with schools and industry leaders through initiatives like the "Build a Plane NI" project, where students from across Northern Ireland collaborate to construct a real aircraft under the mentorship of UAS volunteers and aerospace professionals. These programmes aim to inspire the next generation of engineers, pilots, and innovators by providing hands-on STEM experiences that foster teamwork, leadership, and technical skills. Recognised as the top tourist destination in its area, the No.1 Destination in Northern Ireland during "European Heritage Open Days" ('EHOD') weekend in September, and one of the top ten tourist attractions within Northern Ireland. The UAS continues to expand its collection and outreach, playing a vital role in connecting the public with the history and future of aviation in Northern Ireland.
History & Anthropology Science & Technology Automotive Aviation Local War
#18 Free museums in Northern Ireland #38 History & Anthropology in Northern Ireland #9 Science & Technology in Northern Ireland #2 Automotive museums in Northern Ireland #3 Local museums in Northern Ireland #13 War museums in Northern Ireland #54 Automotive museums in United Kingdom #62 Aviation museums in United Kingdom #155 Local museums in United Kingdom #153 Aviation museums in Europe
Monday | 10:30 – 17:30 |
Tuesday | 10:30 – 17:30 |
Wednesday | 10:30 – 17:30 |
Thursday | 10:30 – 17:30 |
Friday | 10:30 – 17:30 |
Saturday | 10:30 – 17:30 |
Sunday | 10:30 – 17:30 |
Please book your 2025 tour in through E-mail. Walk-ins are not permitted. Volunteer Tour Guides generously offer their time to show you around and tell you stories about the aircraft collection. To guarantee a Guide for your visit, please book your tour slot in advance via E-mail.
Tours are ideal for families or small groups up to 10 people. For larger groups of 11 to 40 people, please contact us for special arrangements.
Hangar Tours are FREE OF CHARGE, yes FREE, however the UAS relies on Donations to support our 100% Volunteer-run charity.
Gate 3 - Maze Long Kesh, Lisburn
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The Ulster Aviation Society, located near Lisburn in Northern Ireland, offers an interesting experience for aviation enthusiasts. The museum houses a collection of aircraft and aviation-related exhibits, focusing on the history of aviation in Northern Ireland. Visitors can see a variety of restored aircraft, from military planes to civilian models. The volunteer staff are often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, providing informative tours and sharing detailed information about the exhibits. The hands-on nature of the museum, allowing visitors to sit in some of the cockpits, is appreciated by many. However, some visitors note that the museum's location can be a bit tricky to find, and the facilities are basic. The museum's opening hours are limited, which can be inconvenient for some visitors. Overall, the Ulster Aviation Society provides a good experience for those interested in aviation history, particularly with its focus on Northern Ireland's contributions to the field.
Discover museums near Ulster Aviation Society in or around Lisburn.