Places to go and things to do in Carrickfergus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, are the focus of this portion of our web guide.
As one of the oldest towns in Northern Ireland, Carrickfergus has a rich history, illustrated in many of its existing structures, along with cultural and entertainment venues that serve the town's residents as well as tourists and other visitors.
Carrickfergus Castle was the prominent feature around which the town was founded and developed, and it continues to be a focal point of the community. Built on orders of John de Courcy in 1177, this medieval fortress has withstood numerous sieges and battles throughout much of the town's history. Today, it stands as one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Ireland, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with its interactive exhibits and stunning views of Belfast Lough.
Art lovers will appreciate The Courtyard Gallery, which hosts rotating exhibitions of local and regional artists. The gallery is also part of a larger complex with a theatre, where visitors can watch live performances ranging from comedy to musical acts. The Swift Gallery offers a blend of visual arts and live performances for those seeing entertainment. Additionally, Carrickfergus Omniplex is the go-to place for the latest blockbuster films, providing a modern cinematic experience.
Sports enthusiasts can cheer for the Carrick Rangers Football Club, a local football team that competes in the NIFL Premiership. The town also boasts other sports clubs, including rugby, cricket, and hockey, offering competitive and recreational opportunities.
Carrickfergus is home to several recreational facilities, such as the Carrickfergus Leisure Centre, which features swimming pools, a gym, and courts for various sports programmes. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Marine Gardens, which offers beautiful landscapes, walking paths, and a picturesque seafront. Shaftesbury Park is another good place to stroll or take a family photo.
The town hosts festivals and events throughout the year. The Carrickfergus Medieval Festival brings visitors back in time to witness jousting tournaments, historical reenactments, and craft stalls. The Belfast Lough Sailability event promotes inclusive sailing opportunities for people of all abilities. Additionally, the Carrickfergus Christmas Market adds a festive charm to the town with its decorative lighting, artisan stalls, and holiday treats.
Recommended Resources
Formed in 1939, Carrick Rangers Football Club is a semi-professional Northern Irish football club playing in NIFL Premiership. Playing home games at Taylors Avenue, known as the Loughview Leisure Arena. Its teams (First Team, Under 20, Falcons, Academy) are featured, and the club history, stadium, and UEFA 10 Point Plan are set forth, along with fan and supporter resources, ticket sales, contacts, and a club shop selling branded products, such as apparel, scarfs, and other items.
https://carrickrangers.co.uk/
The cricket club is based in Carrickfergus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Established in 1868, it is one of Ireland's oldest surviving cricket clubs. The club plays in the Premier League of the Northern Cricket Union Senior League. The club's home ground is at Middle Road, where they have a clubhouse with facilities for members and visitors. The history of the club is presented, along with membership information, committee members, and facilities. Its sponsors, media centre, and contacts.
https://www.carrickferguscricket.org/
The Carrickfergus Golf Club, established in 1926 in Carrickfergus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is an 18-hole, par 68 parkland course. The club's website provides information on its history, officials, sponsors, and contacts, as well as photographs, videos, a scorecard, a slope rating, and fees. Master scoreboard results are provided for gents, ladies, and juniors. Other resources include announcements of upcoming or regular events, and an introduction to its on-site restaurant.
https://carrickfergusgolfclub.co.uk/
Situated in the Carrickfergus Museum & Civic Centre in Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland, the museum highlights the town's history from the medieval period to more recent times. It features various displays, including audiovisual presentations and hands-on interactive exhibits. The museum also has a community archive gallery where locals can contribute their memories and artifacts. Open Monday to Saturday, the museum is fully accessible and offers free admission. Contacts are provided.
https://www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/things-to-do/museums-arts/carrickfergus-museum-and-civic-centre/
Carrickfergus Musical Festival Association
The CMFA organises the Carrickfergus Music and Speech & Drama Festival, which promotes the study and cultivation of music, speech, and drama, encouraging amateurs of all ages to perform and develop their skills. The festival usually takes place in April at the Carrickfergus Town Hall, and is supported by the Mid & East Antrim Borough Council, and affiliated with the British and International Federation of Festivals. Schedules, classes, adjudicators, officials, and contacts are posted.
https://carrickfestival.co.uk/
Irish Road Trip, The: Carrickfergus Castle
Created by Keith O'Hara, The Irish Road Trip highlights things to see and do in Ireland. Its section on Carrickfergus Castle, written by Keith O'Hara on January 27, 2025, includes an introduction to one of the most famous castles in Ireland, along with photographs, a map showing its location, opening hours, and an account of the history of the iconic structure, including the battles that it was part of, ghost legends, and an account of what tourists are likely to experience during a tour.
https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/carrickfergus-castle/
Representing Uplift Performing Arts, a performing arts school based in Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland, the facility offers dance, voice, and stagecraft classes. Its website gives insights into its workshops and events and provides access to its information pack, child protection policy, and general information sheet, which may be downloaded. For the public, the website announces upcoming performances, including locations, event information, and other details. Contacts are provided.
https://www.weareuplift.com/
