Ballymoney Museum is delighted to announce a new exhibition celebrating the history and heritage of one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, the Giant’s Causeway, marking 40 years since its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Opening to the public this Friday, September 11, the exhibition explores the Giant’s Causeway’s geological history, its development as a visitor attraction and the people who have helped shape its story.

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Dawn Huggins said: “The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most recognisable and treasured landmarks not only within our Borough, but right across Northern Ireland, and it is fitting that we mark the 40th anniversary of its UNESCO World Heritage Site designation with this special exhibition at Ballymoney Museum.

“This exhibition offers a wonderful opportunity to explore that rich history through photographs, documents, maps and objects, providing a fascinating insight into how the Giant’s Causeway has evolved from a natural wonder into one of the world’s most renowned visitor destinations

From the formation of its distinctive basalt columns around 50–60 million years ago, to the artists, scientists and visitors who brought the Causeway to worldwide attention, visitors can discover key moments in its history, including the arrival of the railway, changing ownership and management, the development of visitor facilities and its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

Historic photographs, documents, maps and objects provide an insight into both the Causeway and the people who visited, worked at and enjoyed this remarkable place.

Family Fun Day

To coincide with the opening, Ballymoney Museum will host a Family Fun Day on Saturday 12 September, from 1pm–3pm.

Activities will include making pocket rocks, clay giants, badges and more, providing a fun way for families to discover the exhibition and learn about the natural and cultural heritage of the Causeway.

Programme of Events

A programme of events will accompany the exhibition, with activities celebrating the 40th anniversary of UNESCO recognition and exploring the stories and memories connected with the Causeway Coast.