Belfast Natural History and Philosophical Society

The Belfast Natural History & Philosophical Society (commonly known as The Belfast Society) was founded in 1821 to promote knowledge in the arts and sciences and today provides a lecture programme based at the Old Museum Building, 6 College Square North. This is one of Belfast’s finest neo-classical buildings and has connections to the Ulster Museum, where the Society’s former collections are housed.

The Society provides a forum for debate on important cultural issues, reflecting the intellectual life of Belfast and Ireland. The Society also supports research and publications about Ireland and Ulster’s cultural and material environment.

BNHPS members are entitled to attend lectures and events arranged by the Society, including outings and book launches. They are encouraged to participate in the running of the Society. The cost of membership is £30 annually payable in September.