Seamus Heaney Home

Exhibition

Our exhibition takes you on an inspiring exploration of Seamus Heaney’s life and literature.

A carefully curated collection of poetry, photographs and stories guide you from his formative years in the Bellaghy area to becoming one of Ireland’s greatest writers.

Explore our interactive exhibition

Let Seamus Heaney’s distinctive voice guide you through the exhibition as you get to know the people and places that inspired him. Atmospheric video projections and touchscreen displays sit alongside precious items donated by the Heaney family.

Heaney’s ink-stained wooden desk from Anahorish Primary School, a recreation of his study in Dublin and the fax machine that delivered the news when he won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1995 are among the artefacts that transport you to each momentous moment in time.

Be moved, be inspired

While much of Seamus Heaney’s writing is inspired by words and ways of life specific to this area, his human relationships and household objects, which we bring to the fore in our exhibition, are familiar to many. This creates a deeply personal visitor experience.

Time and again, our visitors  — including those who may not have been aware of Heaney’s work beforehand  — tell us that their journey through HomePlace stirred unexpectedly strong emotions. This is a special place. Come and feel it for yourself.

Plan your Visit

Immerse yourself in Heaney’s words

Journey into Seamus Heaney’s personal lexicon at the Word Hoard, where some of his most memorable, evocative and unusual words drop out of the sky around you. One of the best things to do in Ireland if you love words and want to explore, through Heaney’s work, the quirks of our local language.

If spraughle, lachtar and glar are not currently in your vocabulary, you’re invited to join us to learn those and many more of Heaney’s favourite words.

You’re very welcome to join us at HomePlace and take your own journey through Seamus Heaney’s life and work. For more information email us at seamusheaneyhome@midulstercouncil.org or call us on

Seamus Heaney HomePlace