Today (Tuesday 31 March 2026), W5 is marking 25 years as Northern Ireland’s award-winning science and discovery centre, celebrating a quarter of a century during which it has inspired curiosity, expanded access to science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM), and become a cornerstone of Belfast’s cultural and educational landscape.
Since opening its doors in March 2001 as part of the landmark Odyssey development, W5 has welcomed more than six million learners and visitors, offering generations the opportunity to explore STEM through hands-on discovery. Named after the five fundamental questions of discovery – Who, What, Where, When, and Why – W5 was created to challenge traditional perceptions of science learning and to encourage curiosity in people of all ages.
Over the past 25 years, W5 has become one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable educational destinations, working closely with local schools, communities, and industry partners to deliver experiences that complement traditional classroom learning, while also opening new pathways into STEM careers. W5’s programmes are designed to be inclusive of all learners, with a particular focus on supporting communities facing the greatest barriers to STEM engagement
Victoria Denoon, Head of W5, said: “For 25 years, W5 has been a place where curiosity comes alive — a space where young people discover that science is something they can explore, question and shape for themselves. For many visitors, W5 is the moment they realise that STEM is for them.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we’re also looking ahead. Our focus is on breaking down barriers to STEM learning, widening participation, and ensuring every community feels welcomed, represented and inspired here. W5 has always been about more than exhibits; it’s about building confidence and raising aspirations and creating opportunities that help people see their place in a rapidly changing world.
“We’re proud of the impact W5 has had over the past 25 years, and we remain committed to keeping science learning accessible, inclusive and transformative for generations to come.”
Throughout its history, W5 has continually evolved to reflect the advances in STEM and changes in how people learn. A major milestone in that journey came in 2020 with a multi-million-pound redevelopment that transformed W5, enhancing its 250 exhibits and eight interactive zones to reflect contemporary scientific thinking and real-world innovation.
This major redevelopment was followed in 2022 by the opening of W5 LIFE – Learning Innovation for Everyone. The 20,000 sq. ft digital learning facility, located on the site of the former Bambu Beach Club, was created to address the growing demand for digital and STEM skills across Northern Ireland, delivering industry-aligned programmes, alongside organisations including Microsoft and The King’s Trust.
Judith Harvey, Group Head of Learning and Engagement at The Odyssey Trust, commented: “At its core, W5 has always been about creating opportunities for people to engage with STEM in ways that are meaningful and memorable. For many young people, experiences here can be the spark that encourages them to explore STEM subjects further.
“Over the past 25 years, we have worked closely with schools and educators across the island of Ireland to develop programmes that support curriculum learning, while also encouraging critical thinking and a lifelong love of learning. The redevelopment of W5 and the opening of W5 LIFE have allowed us to deepen that work, providing new spaces where learners can begin to see how STEM connects to the world around them.”
W5 has established itself as a significant contributor to Northern Ireland’s wider educational ecosystem, delivering workshops and outreach programmes designed to broaden participation in STEM and inspire learners from all backgrounds.
W5 operates as part of The Odyssey Trust, the charitable organisation that oversees the wider Odyssey complex, including The SSE Arena and the Belfast Giants. W5 plays a key role in fulfilling The Trust’s charitable aim of advancing public education and advancing scientific knowledge and education of the general public.
Martin McDowell, Chair of The Odyssey Trust, added: “W5 is a powerful example of what can be achieved through long-term and sustained investment in education and community engagement. For 25 years, W5 has played a vital role in broadening access to science and discovery, while inspiring curiosity and ambition in people of all ages.
“As a charity, The Odyssey Trust is committed to creating opportunities that have lasting social and economic impact. W5 sits at the heart of that mission – not only as a leading visitor destination, but as a platform for learning, skills development, and innovation.
“This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on the difference W5 has made over the past quarter century, and to reaffirm our commitment to supporting its continued growth and relevance in the years ahead.
As part of its anniversary celebrations, W5 has given back to the communities that have supported its work since day one. To mark the milestone, W5 has given away 25 ‘Silver Tickets’, including 20 annual family passes and five free visits for schools or community groups. Members of the public were invited to nominate deserving families, schools or organisations online, recognising those who would most benefit from the opportunity to experience W5.
The milestone was also marked with a special birthday celebration within W5 itself, which brought together staff, partners, and supporters to recognise the people who have contributed to W5’s success over the past 25 years.
To learn more about W5 and its range of exhibits and experiences, please click here.
