About

Looking for an authentic living history experience in Northern Ireland? Welcome to the President Arthur Homestead. Situated in Cullybackey, just outside Ballymena, this beautifully restored 18th-century thatched cottage is the official ancestral home of Chester Alan Arthur, who went on to become the 21st President of the United States. Recently awarded professional museum status, this unique local cottage offers a captivating bridge between rural Ulster life and the American presidency.

Whether you are plotting a day out along the Causeway Coastal Route, tracking down your Ulster-Scots roots, or just searching for the best family-friendly things to do near Ballymena, the President Arthur Homestead provides an unforgettable look into the past. Step under the iconic thatched roof to enjoy the glowing warmth of a real peat turf fire, watch traditional baking and spinning demonstrations, and stroll through an old-world apple orchard watched over by a unique willow sculpture.

Planning Your Visit: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the opening hours for the President Arthur Homestead?

The homestead is open to the public all year round from Wednesday to Sunday, between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. The site is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. If you are looking to book a larger school group, community group, or tour bus outside of these standard operating hours, you can easily arrange prior access by calling the team on +44 (0) 7867 136220 or emailing Arthur.cottage@midandeastantrim.gov.uk.

How much does it cost to visit President Arthur Homestead?

Admission to the President Arthur Homestead is entirely free for individual visitors, families, and community groups. This makes it one of the absolute best budget-friendly and educational days out in Mid and East Antrim.

Is there parking at President Arthur Homestead?

Yes, there is dedicated on-site car parking, including designated accessible parking spaces near the entrance. If you are arriving by car, look out for the “Arthur Cottage” signposts on the Dreen Road in Cullybackey. We recommend using this Google Maps link, which will help you find your way!

What is the experience like inside the President Arthur Homestead?

Your journey back in time is completely immersive. The homestead is split into distinct historical zones overseen by passionate, period-costumed tour guides who bring the 1700s to life.

The Traditional Hearth, Family Room and Bedroom: Gather around a real, crackling turf fire inside the original cottage to watch open-fire griddle demonstrations. You will get to sample fresh, warm Irish soda bread cooked right in front of you on the griddle. This space dives deep into what 18th and 19th-century rural life was really like in County Antrim, highlighting traditional crafts like flax spinning, quilting, and weaving.

The Interpretation Centre: Follow the epic transatlantic migration story of the Arthur family in the dedicated interactive Interpretation Centre. Learn how William Arthur left Cullybackey in 1815, eventually raising a son who would champion civil service reform and oversee landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge as US President.

What are the accessibility facilities at the site?

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is dedicated to making our heritage accessible to everyone. The modern interpretive centre features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, step-free pathways, and fully equipped accessible toilets. There is dedicated accessible parking right outside the cottage. Fully trained guide dogs and assistance dogs are permitted across the entire site. Given the authentic preservation of the 18th-century cottage, some internal doorways and floor surfaces are traditional and uneven, but the on-site guides are incredibly accommodating and always on hand to assist.

How do I get to the homestead from Ballymena or Belfast?

• By Car: The homestead is located just 4 miles from Ballymena town centre. From Belfast, take the M2 / A26 northbound towards Ballymena, then follow the B62 Cullybackey Road. Once in Cullybackey village, follow the signs onto the Dreen Road.

• By Public Transport: Translink NI operates a regular direct train service from Belfast Great Victoria Street and Belfast Lanyon Place to Cullybackey Railway Station. From the station, the homestead is just a short, flat local walk or a quick 3-minute taxi ride away.

Another reminder to use the Google Maps link here!

Where is the best place to get coffee or lunch near President Arthur Homestead?

Fancy a coffee or some lunch after your visit, try The Ticket Bakehouse inside the old ticket office of Cullybackey Train Station, or take a leisurely walk along the riverside to Galgorm, where you’ll find Creative Gardens with its excellent café.

Can you host weddings at President Arthur Homestead?

Yes! You can have your small, intimate wedding ceremony at President Arthur Homestead. The cosy interior makes for a unique and romantic venue, for a you and a small group of guests. If you want more information on weddings at the cottage, click here.

What other American Presidential links can I visit in Mid & East Antrim?

Mid & East Antrim has a second presidential cottage just 45 minutes’ drive away, in the coastal town of Carrickfergus! Here you’ll find the Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Museum, which is also well worth a visit. If you’re interested in exploring more ancestral cottages in Norther Ireland, be sure to check out the Ancestral Cottages Trail NI website, which will guide you on a 2-day immersive itinerary through Ulster’s ancestral cottages.