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For anyone fascinated by genealogy, history, or the stories that connect us across generations, a visit to the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) is an unparalleled opportunity. PRONI houses one of the richest collections of historical records in the country—everything from birth, marriage, and death registers to estate papers, maps, newspapers, and personal archives. These records offer unique insights into Ireland’s past and the lives of those who shaped it.
Our conference programme is specially designed for those wishing to explore their ancestry, with access to expert researchers who guide you through the archives, help navigate complex records, and uncover hidden stories that bring your family history to life. Whether you are just beginning your search or looking to dig deeper into previously discovered connections, PRONI provides the tools, expertise, and inspiration to make your journey both meaningful and memorable.
This is more than research—it is a chance to connect with your roots, uncover personal histories, and leave with discoveries that resonate for generations. For anyone seeking a deeper understanding of their family story, this programme offers a rare and invaluable experience.
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Delegates will witness 6,000 years of Irish history in 6 hours as you visit the site of the Battle of the Boyne, one of the most significant events in Irish history before going on to walk through Ireland's pre-history with a visit to Brú na Bóinne and the passage tombs of Newgrange and Knowth. Newgrange is the best-known neolithic monument in Ireland (one that predates the ancient pyramids by 400 years and Stonehenge by 1000) and is considered one of the top ten visitor attractions in Ireland by National Geographic.
After the tour of Brú na Bóinne concludes, delegates will travel through the heart of Ireland's Ancient East. The abundance of historic monuments within this area testifies to it being Ireland's most sacred and mythical landscape. Some of the most important historic sites and monuments in Ireland dot the landscape here including Monasterboice, notable for its impressive round tower and spectacular high crosses; Melifont Abbey, the first Cistercian monastery built in Ireland; the Hill of Tara, a sacred site associated with the High Kings of Ireland and of course the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Brú na Bóinne.
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Step back in time and follow the extraordinary stories of Ireland’s emigrants at the Ulster American Folk Park, an open-air museum that brings the 18th- and 19th-century migration experience vividly to life. Wander through authentic streets, recreated homesteads, and historic workshops, and immerse yourself in the daily lives, challenges, and dreams of the people who left Ulster for new lives in America. This living history experience provides a unique perspective on the resilience, ingenuity, and courage of those who crossed the Atlantic in search of opportunity.
Complementing this journey is a visit to the Mellon Centre for Migration Studies, a hub of expertise and research dedicated to the study of Irish emigration. Here, visitors can access archives, personal records, and scholarly insights, offering an invaluable resource for anyone tracing their own family history or seeking to understand the wider patterns and impacts of migration.
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A tour of Barons Court is an experience unlike any other—an invitation into one of Ireland’s most distinguished private estates, home to the Duke of Abercorn and his family for centuries. Nestled in the rolling countryside of County Tyrone, the estate is renowned for its elegance, history, and tranquillity. Visitors are given rare access to the magnificent stately home, with its grand rooms, priceless collections, and fascinating stories that reflect the legacy of one of Ireland’s great aristocratic families.
But Barons Court is more than just its house—it is a living, breathing estate of lakes, woodlands, and landscaped grounds that embody centuries of careful stewardship. From its striking architecture to its exquisite interiors and sweeping vistas, every corner reveals something remarkable. To step into Barons Court is to step into a world of heritage, privilege, and beauty that few ever get to experience.
A visit here is truly special because it offers something uniquely personal and exclusive: the chance to glimpse behind the gates of an extraordinary estate, to walk in the footsteps of history, and to feel the enduring spirit of a place that has shaped Ireland’s story.
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Rising dramatically above the town of Killyleagh on the shores of Strangford Lough, Killyleagh Castle is one of the most striking and storied landmarks in Northern Ireland. With its fairy-tale turrets and imposing silhouette, the castle looks as though it has leapt from the pages of a medieval legend. Yet behind its dramatic façade lies a living piece of history—it is the oldest inhabited castle in Ireland, with origins dating back to the 12th century.
Stepping inside, visitors are transported through centuries of heritage, from Norman foundations to later grand designs, all while discovering the remarkable families who have called Killyleagh home. The castle is not only a monument of stone but also of stories—of defence and resilience, of culture and continuity, and of the ever-evolving role of castles in Irish history.
What makes a visit so special is the sense of rarity and intimacy. Killyleagh Castle remains a private residence, and opening its gates to visitors offers a privileged glimpse into a world usually hidden from view. From its soaring battlements to its beautifully maintained interiors, it is a place where legend, architecture, and living tradition converge—leaving every guest with a lasting impression of awe and wonder.
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Step into the heart of County Armagh, with a visit to a city steeped in history and spiritual significance, often called the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland. For centuries, Armagh has been the heart of Irish Christianity, a place where faith, scholarship, and culture intertwine to create a unique and captivating atmosphere. Walking through its streets, visitors sense the weight of centuries—where ancient traditions meet the vibrant life of a modern city.
A highlight of any visit is the Armagh Robinson Library, one of the oldest libraries in Ireland and a treasure trove of rare books, manuscripts, and historic artifacts. Its stunning architecture, elegant reading rooms, and remarkable collections offer a rare glimpse into the intellectual and cultural life of the 18th century, making it a haven for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
No visit to Armagh would be complete without experiencing St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a majestic landmark that dominates the city’s skyline. The cathedral is a testament to Ireland’s rich ecclesiastical heritage, with its striking Gothic Revival architecture, intricate stonework, and inspiring interior spaces. It has been a center of worship, learning, and community life for centuries, and walking through its doors is to step into a living history of faith and devotion.
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Venture to the rugged beauty of the Cooley Peninsula, a landscape where rolling hills meet the sparkling waters of Carlingford Lough and ancient legends linger in every glen. This region is steeped in history and mythology, famously associated with the epic tales of Cú Chulainn, Ireland’s legendary hero, whose feats are said to echo across these hills. The combination of dramatic scenery, windswept mountains, and tranquil loughs makes the Cooley Peninsula a truly unforgettable destination.
At the heart of the peninsula lies the charming medieval town of Carlingford, a place where history and hospitality meet. Wander its cobbled streets lined with historic buildings, explore centuries-old ruins, and feel the character of a town that has welcomed visitors for generations. From the imposing King John’s Castle to the bustling harbour and quaint artisan shops, Carlingford offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty.
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Embark on a scenic adventure through the Sperrin Mountains, one of Northern Ireland’s most unspoiled and captivating landscapes. As you travel over the Glenshane Pass, be swept away by panoramic vistas of rolling hills, verdant valleys, and mist-kissed peaks that seem to stretch endlessly toward the horizon. This journey through nature’s grandeur offers moments of reflection, wonder, and awe at the raw beauty of the Irish countryside.
Your route leads to the historic and vibrant Derry~Londonderry, a city where centuries of history and culture converge. Begin a walking tour through the heart of the city, exploring iconic sites such as St. Columb’s Cathedral, a beacon of spiritual and architectural heritage, and the famous 17th-century Derry Walls, offering stunning views and a tangible connection to the city’s storied past. The experience continues with an extended coach tour, revealing the city’s rich tapestry of neighbourhoods, landmarks, and hidden gems.
This journey perfectly blends natural beauty with urban heritage, offering a day of discovery that captures the essence of Northern Ireland—from sweeping mountain landscapes to the charm and character of one of its most remarkable cities.
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Step into the world of the Titanic, one of history’s most famous ships, at Titanic Belfast, an iconic museum located on the very slipways where the vessel was built. This striking, award-winning building is as impressive as the story it tells, with its gleaming architecture evoking the ship’s bow and Belfast’s maritime heritage.
Inside, the museum brings the Titanic’s story vividly to life through immersive galleries, interactive exhibits, and captivating storytelling. Discover the ambitious vision behind its construction, the engineering feats that made it possible, and the dramatic events of its ill-fated maiden voyage. Beyond the ship itself, explore Belfast’s role as a global centre of shipbuilding and the lives of the people who made the Titanic a reality.
A visit to Titanic Belfast is more than a museum tour—it is an emotional journey through history, innovation, and human endeavour. It offers a rare opportunity to connect with the legacy of a world-famous ship, in the very city where it all began.
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Before the Tracing your Irish Ancestors conference formally begins we are also offering an online Irish Genealogy Essentials course. This course will see delegates be able to view 21 pre-recorded lectures on essential topics relating to Irish genealogical research (over 28 hours of content).
If you decide to include the online genealogy course as part of your registration, you will have special access to our online classroom. The classroom will "go live" on 01 April 2026 and you will have unrestricted access to the various lectures until the end of the conference on 10 September 2026.
Before the online classroom goes live, you will be given account information and links to the classroom so that you can start watching right away on 01 April 2026.
Email Conleth (conleth.mullan@uhf.org.uk) if you would like to add this to your booking