Ulster American Folk Park — Attraction in Fermanagh and Omagh District

We must have been there on a bad day, though the weather was perfect for it! Firstly, the lady at the reception was in bad need of a personality. Secondly there are no discounts for the disabled, as there are for the elderly and children, we need all the help we can get too. Third, having arrived at the 6th exhibit we were advised, for the only time, that the next six exhibits were closed and we had to retrace our steps right back to exhibit 1, the gentleman, in fine garb, was the only pleasant member of staff we met, all others worked hardest at not noticing tourists, bowed heads and quickening steps showed this, one upon seeing us stopped at a gate and stared vacantly over it until we had passed, only his outfit giving him away as part of 'the cast'. This retracing of our steps seriously put paid to further viewing of the otherwise stunning exhibits. Upon returning to the reception we were directed in through a different door, here we were met by a collection of vehicular aids for the disabled! Why had the receptionist, when openly asked about discounts for the disabled not mentioned that such aids were available? Why were they at this door and not at the door out in to the park, we were after all there at 10:00am when the doors opened! The admittedly wonderful few exhibits which we did manage to see were worth the effort, though hardly the expense given the unadvertised closure of so many exhibits, but they are overshadowed by a VERY lack lustre staff with an all too apparent attitude that they are fronting something spectacular and that this relieves them from any exertion on any...

I have loved the folk park since I was a kid. It’s been a regular part of my life at least once a year, and now that I have a kid of my own, she can now live those memories I once had (and she loves it). I think the price is about right for entry, the live displays are at random throughout the year, but none other the less exciting, so every time you come, there is something different. The houses/shops/streets/churches/schools… (everything) are amazingly detailed, rough and rustic and period correct… nothing is perfect, and thats as it should be. Lastly, the hard working staff who act out the living and share facts, day in day out, are what brings the park to life and do not make anyone feel uncomfortable. The little food tasters also (might not be on everyday) which I think is made on site, is great. This is a little gem, and I will continue to pay my bit towards keeping it going into the future. I am so happy that places like this exist.

EDIT: Dec 24 - Another update. Family again decided to go and meet Santa… and its was simply amazing! I have to say ‘Santa’, is one of the best in the country! A truly magical experience. Once again, a big shout to all the staff. This was one of the best! And the setting of the park makes this experience all the more wonderful… really made me feel happy, the sense of a Christmas of years gone by was a great step back and time, and very thought...

It's my second year in a row venturing into the realms of the Ulster American Folk Park Halloween walk, and let me tell you, it's like a haunted house on steroids. The dedication and effort these folks put into their spooky spectacle year after year is nothing short of spine tingling.

From the moment you set foot in the entrance, the staff greets you with grins that seem just a touch too enthusiastic, almost as if they've made a deal with the spirits themselves to hand you over as an offering. They take you on a treacherous journey through history. You'll be drowning in emotions and experiences that make you question whether you're living a nightmare or a reality.

The guide, Alister, and the rest of the characters in this tale were so convincing in their roles that it's almost as if they struck a bargain with the spirits to become part of the story. Not only do they bring history to life, but they also ensure your safety, although, in this haunted world, safety might be a relative term.

Prepare to scream like you've never screamed before. I mean, these screams might just rupture your vocal cords, but hey, it's all in the spirit of Halloween. Your voice may become a ghostly whisper by the time you're done.

Can't wait to revisit next year, because who doesn't love a good scare, a dash of history, and the lingering feeling that you might not make it out of...