Built in 1177 by John de Courcy as his headquarters after conquering eastern Ulster, this is one of the best-preserved medieval structures in Ireland, with three-quarters of its perimeter surrounded by water on Belfast Lough. Besieged in turn by Scottish, Irish, English and French forces, it remained in military use until 1928.
Visiting Carrickfergus Castle
Yes, Historic Environment Division (NI) managed, daily tours
"Built in 1177 by John de Courcy as his headquarters after conquering eastern Ulster, this is one of the best-preserved medieval structures in Ireland, with three-quarters of its perimeter surrounded by water on Belfast Lough."
Where to stay nearby
The closest castle hotel is Ballygally Castle, 19.04 km away in Ballygally — Built in 1625 by Scottish settler James Shaw, used during the Irish Civil Wars and 1641 rebellion; the only 17th-century building in Northern Ireland still in continuous use as a residence today.
Nearest castle hotel · 19.04 km
Ballygally Castle
Ballygally, Co. Antrim · 4-star
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