The Museum of Orange Heritage, with two interpretive centres at Schomberg House in Belfast (368 Cregagh Road, Castlereagh, BT6 9EY) and Sloan’s House in Loughgall, County Armagh, is dedicated to the history, culture, and traditions of the Orange Institution, a Protestant fraternal society founded in 1795 following the Battle of the Diamond. Opened in 2015 with support from the EU’s PEACE III Programme, the museum aims to educate visitors, promote understanding, and address perceptions about Orangeism.
Schomberg House (Belfast):
- Exhibits: The Belfast site focuses on the Orange Institution’s history from the Glorious Revolution (1688–1689) to the present, with a strong emphasis on global Orangeism. Key artifacts include England’s king William III’s saddlecloth, a letter with his signature and seals, the Paymasters General’s Book of Accounts, a Cork statuette, and fraternal items. A replica Lodge Room features a memorial backlit window commemorating over 300 Orange members killed during the Troubles, adding a poignant historical layer. Interactive displays, audio-visuals, and a collection of Orange symbols, regalia, and band music (e.g., playing instruments) engage visitors.
- Facilities: The ground floor houses a reception, gift shop (selling Orange-themed merchandise like hats and books), and a café (open Monday–Saturday, 8:30 AM–4:00 PM). A lecture room hosts talks and events, and a second-floor library supports genealogical research for Orange Order family histories (booking required). The museum is fully accessible with a lift and adapted toilets.
- Self-guided tours take 60–90 minutes, with guided tours for groups of 10+ available by booking six weeks in advance (info@goli.org.uk or +4428 9070 1122). Visitors praise the clear, balanced exhibits and friendly, knowledgeable staff, noting the museum’s appeal for those interested in Unionist and protestant Irish history, though some find the perspective niche or politically sensitive.
Sloan’s House (Loughgall):
- Exhibits: Located on Main Street in the conservation village of Loughgall, this site is iconic as the birthplace of the Orange Order in 1795 motto: “preserve protestant ascendancy over Catholicism”). Sloan’s Parlour, recreated to reflect its appearance during the Order’s founding, uses graphics and audio-visuals to tell the story of the Battle of the Diamond and early Orangeism. Displays include original warrants signed in 1795, Plantation history, and stories of local families. A permanent exhibition space complements the Belfast site, focusing on Loughgall’s role in Orange history.
- Facilities: Sloan’s Coffee Shop offers a relaxing spot amidst Armagh’s apple orchards, serving modern fare. Research facilities are available for historical inquiries, and a Memorial Garden with an apple tree planted by HRH The Prince of Wales is a moving highlight. The site is accessible, with details at AccessAble.
- Guided tours, often led by volunteers like Trevor, are highly informative, lasting 60–90 minutes. Visitors appreciate the historical depth and the serene setting, with the Memorial Garden noted as particularly moving. The site complements Schomberg House, offering a rural contrast.
General Visitor Experience:
- Free Entry: Both sites offer free admission, making them budget-friendly, with donations welcomed. Open Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
- Educational Focus: The museum welcomes schools, youth, and community groups, offering resources like publications and leaflets. Interactive exhibits (e.g., drumming tutorials) engage younger visitors, while the library supports genealogical research, requiring lodge names and dates for ancestor tracing.
- Visitor Feedback: With a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice award, the museum is praised for its informative displays, approachable staff, and role in contextualizing Orangeism. Some note the perspective may feel one-sided, suggesting a visit alongside sites like the Museum of Free Derry for balance. The Belfast site’s modern building and Loughgall’s historic charm are highlights.
- Location and Access: Schomberg House is near Belfast’s Cregagh Library and Kingspan Stadium, accessible via the A55 or public transport (bus to Cregagh Road). Loughgall, 40 minutes from Belfast, is near Loughgall Country Park and Dan Winter’s House. Free parking is available at both.
Practicalities:
- Planning Tips: Book guided tours in advance for groups, especially during summer parades (e.g., July’s Battle of the Boyne commemorations).
- Pair visits with nearby attractions like Belfast’s Ulster Museum or Loughgall’s Armagh Observatory for a broader historical context. Wear comfortable shoes for Loughgall’s Memorial Garden. Ideal for what Tourism Ireland marketing department calls the “culturally curious” and those seeking to understand Ireland’s protestant heritage, the museum offers a niche but engaging perspective.
- Visiting alongside sites like the Museum of Free Derry provides a balanced view of the Troubles.
The Museum of Orange Heritage offers a unique, interactive dive into Orangeism’s history, with 2025’s heritage events and potential new exhibits adding fresh appeal. For updates, visit www.orangeheritage.co.uk or contact info@goli.org.uk.
