Immerse yourself in the heritage and rhythms of traditional Ulster farm life
Suitable for: FITs & Small Groups | Duration: 1 day
Immerse yourself in the heritage and rhythms of traditional Ulster farm life with a day at Orlock Farm and the Ulster Folk Museum. This hands-on itinerary combines regenerative farming practices, skills-based learning, and local food traditions—all set within the scenic landscapes overlooking the Irish Sea. Perfect for those eager to reconnect with nature, food heritage, and artisan skills in a genuine countryside setting.
Prices available on request – This itinerary can tailored to suit your requirement, quotes available depending on group numbers and chosen experiences.
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Ulster Folk Museum, National Museums Northern Ireland
Cultra near Holywood, BT18 0EU
Step back in time and explore life in Ulster from the 1800s onward in this living history experience. Wander through traditional thatched cottages, working farms, and a recreated historic town, meeting costumed guides and experiencing authentic crafts, stories, rural traditions and heritage farming in a beautiful open-air setting.
Find out more about the Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra
Orlock Farm, Ballyboley Dexters
Orlock (near Groomsport), BT19 6LW
Welcome and Farm Tour
Kick off your experience with a guided tour of Orlock Farm, home to the Pedigree Dexter Cattle and a committed regenerative farm. Learn first-hand about the unique “Pasture For Life” certification, methods to enhance biodiversity, and sustainable practices that underpin both land and livestock welfare.
During your walk, you’ll meet the cows, explore working hives of native Irish honeybees, and hear engaging stories about Orlock’s farming heritage and its award-winning Dexter beef.
Milk a Cow and Make Butter
Step into the boots of a traditional farmer with an opportunity to milk a cow and make your own farmhouse butter. Guided by Orlock’s experienced hosts, you’ll learn the secrets of transforming fresh milk into creamy, hand-churned butter—connecting you to the authentic crafts of the countryside.
Picnic Lunch and Soda Bread
With Christine of Kiri Cottage Crafts
After your farm adventures, gather for a picnic lunch in the open air. Local food champion Christine will demonstrate the art of making traditional Irish soda bread, sharing folklore and time-honoured techniques. Savour the fruits of your labour by pairing freshly baked soda bread with the homemade butter you created earlier. A generous Wild Dining spread will also be provided.
Find out more about Ballyboley Dexters and Orlock Farm, and about Chrisine's business Kiri Cottage Crafts
Optional Add-On
Stone Walling Workshop with Clive from Welig Heritage Crafts
Round off your day by joining Clive from Welig Heritage Crafts for a traditional stone walling workshop. Discover the skills behind Ulster’s iconic dry stone walls, from selecting and shaping stones to mastering the stable, mortar-free construction that’s lasted through generations. You’ll leave not only with new skills, but also with a direct connection to the landscape’s living heritage.
Find out more about Welig Heritage Crafts
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