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Carrickfergus Castle
Carrickfergus
© Mid & East Antrim Borough Council
© Mid & East Antrim Borough Council
© Mid & East Antrim Borough Council

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Beyond the Castle Walls

Carrickfergus Castle is one of Mid & East Antrim's most famous attractions. Steeped in history, the instantly recognisable form of this 800 year-old Norman castle draws visitors from around the world every year. During your visit, we suggest you take some time to explore the lesser-know but just as memorable experiences just a stone's throw from the castle. We're confident you'll leave feeling glad that you did!

For example, just minutes from Carrickfergus Castle sits a much smaller, less grand residence but with its own significance in history - a thatched Ulster-Scots cottage with a direct link to a former US President.

Or why stay on solid ground all day when, in the shadow of Carrickfergus Castle is the marina, where you'll find a boat waiting to take you on a sea...Read More

Or why stay on solid ground all day when, in the shadow of Carrickfergus Castle is the marina, where you'll find a boat waiting to take you on a sea safari along the coast, taking in unique sights like Whitehead, The Gobbins, Blackhead Lighthouse and all the wildlife that comes with it!

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Make A

Day Of It!

Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Museum
Located less than a mile from Carrickfergus town centre, the Andrew Jackson Cottage is a traditional thatched Ulster–Scots farmhouse built in 1750s.
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Dobbins Inn
Perfectly located 2 minutes away from Northern Irelands oldest Castle, 20 minutes from Belfast City Centre and on the main road to the Causeway Coast. Dobbins Inn is a family run 14th century Inn full of character and charm. 15 bedrooms, each with complimentary WiFi and flat screen TVs.
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Carrickfergus Urban Farm & Garden Centre
Carrickfergus Urban Farm and Garden Centre at Kilcreggan is a free popular attraction for local families and visitors. Visitors can handle and feed a variety of animals, enjoy our picnic areas, explore the bug hut and play area plus relax in our onsite café.
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Lead the Way Tour Experience
Discover what life was like in Carrickfergus during the Second World War (1939-45) on a guided walking tour with Adrian Hack of Lead The Way Tour. Using contemporary photographs and historical artefacts you'll learn how the war affected the everyday life of the local residents and workforce.
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Gobbins Sea Safari with Abhainn Cruises
Create life-long memories and discover hidden gems along the coast, cruising from Carrickfergus Castle all the way to the Gobbins. A bespoke private charter tour immersing you into stunning coastal scenery, history and nature, for a truly authentic NI experience.
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Saint Nicholas' Church
Established in 1182 by the Anglo Norman, John de Courcy, St Nicholas' has many historic features including a medieval porch, the Chichester memorial to Lord Donegall, a skew aisle, wonderful stained glass and a leper window.
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