The 300 NI heritage spots and hidden gems you can explore for free
These landmarks will open their doors for one weekend only - September 13 and 14 - so don't miss out
For one weekend only, hundreds of heritage spots and hidden gems in Northern Ireland will open their doors for a rare chance to look inside.
This weekend, September 13 and 14, more than 300 historic buildings, cultural landmarks and hidden gems will take part in the return of the European Heritage Open Days (EHOD).
The annual festival offers free public access to heritage sites across Northern Ireland, giving visitors the chance to explore places that are normally off-limits. From historic cottages, castles and mills to gardens, museums, guided walks and workshops.
This year’s theme, Architectural Heritage: Past Structures, Future Connections, will explore how historic buildings, structures and landscapes shape our communities, preserving the past while inspiring the future.
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons, who launched this year’s programme at Belfast’s Riddel’s Warehouse, said: “European Heritage Open Days are an opportunity to visit and engage with our local heritage and try new experiences, all of which are free.
"This year’s theme focuses on bringing together the past and present through architecture, workshops, talks, hidden spaces, walks and activities, with something to interest everyone.”
Highlights this year include:
- A tour of Belfast Castle;
- See behind the scenes at the Department for Communities Historic Environment Division Conservation Works Depot in Moira;
- Tour the Primate’s Palace, Armagh, a beautiful neo-classical building dating from 18th century;
- Open Day at St. John's Point Lightkeepers' Houses in Co. Down;
- Join a walking tour of Ebrington Barracks with DfC's Principal Conservation Architect Manus Deery as he examines the development of the site and its fortifications over 162 years.
EHOD is part of a Europe wide celebration of cultural heritage that takes place in 49 countries. In Northern Ireland, it is organised by the Department for Communities with support from the Council of Europe and the European Commission.
Last year’s event attracted over 75,000 visitors to 344 events across 230 sites, with highlights including behind-the-scenes tours of the Guild Hall, medieval re-enactments at Portaferry Castle, and special access to unique venues like Origami House and NI War Rooms.
While many venues can be visited without a ticket, some require advance booking. A digital brochure including a list of venues and events can be found at European Heritage Open Days | Department for Communities or you can map out your weekend using the EHOD WebApp here: EHOD 2025
Whether you are looking for a family day out, a cultural deep dive or a chance to uncover hidden history, this is the weekend to see Northern Ireland’s heritage in a whole new light.
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