Carrickfergus Castle
Step back in time at one of Ireland's best-preserved Norman castles. Secure your entry to explore over 800 years of siege, conquest, and medieval life on the shores of Belfast Lough.
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All the details about your upcoming adventure in one place
Dominating the shoreline of Belfast Lough for over 800 years, Carrickfergus Castle is a monumental piece of Northern Ireland's history and one of the best-preserved medieval structures in all of Ireland. A visit here is not just a tour; it's a journey through time. From the formidable gatehouse and the outer ward lined with cannons to the towering five-story keep, every stone tells a story of Norman conquerors, Scottish sieges, and colonial garrisons. By booking your entry, you gain the freedom to explore its labyrinthine passages, climb the spiral staircases to the Great Hall, and stand on the battlements where soldiers once watched for approaching enemies. It's an immersive experience that brings the dramatic history of Ulster vividly to life.
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May-September for the best chance of pleasant weather to enjoy the outdoor areas and views.|April & October offer fewer crowds and a dramatic, atmospheric setting.|Winter months (November-March) are quietest, offering a more personal experience, though weather can be cold and wet.
Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or trainers with good grip, as you will encounter uneven stone floors and many stairs|Bring a waterproof and windproof jacket, as the weather on the coast can change quickly, even on a sunny day|Dressing in layers is advisable, as it can be cool inside the stone keep but warmer outside in the sun.
Founded by the Anglo-Norman knight John de Courcy in 1177, Carrickfergus Castle was built to be his capital and a bastion of Norman power in Ulster. The castle has withstood numerous sieges, including by King John in 1210, Edward Bruce in 1315, and was a key garrison during the Williamite War. It remained a functioning military garrison for over 750 years until 1928, making its history one of continuous military occupation, a rarity for castles of its age.
Many tickets offered through our partners include a free cancellation option when cancelled up to 24 hours in advance. Please verify the specific cancellation policy of the ticket option you choose at the time of booking, as terms may vary.
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Real experiences from real travelers
As an Irish native, I'm ashamed it took me so long to visit. The castle is in incredible condition. You can really feel the history in the walls. The views from the battlements over the lough are worth the admission price alone. Booking online was simple and meant we walked straight in. Highly recommended.
We visited from California as part of our Game of Thrones-inspired tour of NI. While not a filming location, it felt more authentic than many other castles. The preservation is top-notch, and the info panels are great. My kids loved the cannons! It was a highlight of our trip to Northern Ireland.
A very well-preserved castle with a lot to see. The spiral staircases are narrow but that is part of the authenticity. The information provided in each room helps to imagine life back then. A good value for the price. It was a bit crowded in the afternoon, so maybe go early.
Quel château impressionnant! On se sent tout petit face à 800 ans d'histoire. La vue sur la mer est superbe. C'est une visite incontournable si vous êtes près de Belfast. Le billet acheté en ligne a fonctionné sans aucun problème. Très contente de cette expérience.
Took the train from Belfast, which was super easy. The castle is just a short walk from the station. It's a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours. Very informative displays and the staff were friendly. Lost one star as I wish there was a small café on site, but there are plenty nearby.
A true dive into the Middle Ages. The castle is one of the most complete I have ever seen. You can explore almost every part of it, from the cellars to the top of the keep. The strategic position on the water is spectacular. A perfect cultural visit.
I wasn't sure what to expect but Carrickfergus Castle was brilliant. It's not overly commercialized, which is a huge plus. It feels like you're genuinely exploring a historic site. The informational displays are concise and interesting. Great value and a must-do if you're in the area.
We visited on a dramatic, windy day which only added to the atmosphere! The castle stands so strong against the elements. It’s amazing to think it’s been there for over 800 years. The internal rooms are well laid out with models and mannequins. A great historical outing.
Everything you need to know for your journey
Carrickfergus Castle is open most days of the year, typically from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with last admission around 4:30 PM. However, hours can vary seasonally and for special events. We highly recommend booking your tickets online in advance to confirm opening times for your chosen date and avoid disappointment.
While you can sometimes purchase tickets at the gate, we strongly advise booking in advance, especially during peak season (summer months and school holidays). Booking through our platform guarantees your entry, helps you skip potential queues, and often provides access to better cancellation policies.
A typical self-guided visit lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows enough time to explore the keep, the outer ward, the battlements, and the various exhibits without rushing. If you are a dedicated history enthusiast, you might wish to stay longer.
Yes, Carrickfergus Castle is very family-friendly. Children are often fascinated by the cannons, the spiral staircases, and the medieval atmosphere. There are also interactive displays and models that bring the castle's history to life. Please note that the castle has many stairs and uneven surfaces, so pushchairs may be difficult to manage in certain areas.
Yes, there is a designated car park located a short walk from the castle entrance. It is a pay-and-display car park. Additionally, Carrickfergus train station is only a 5-minute walk away, making it easily accessible by public transport from Belfast and other nearby towns.
Yes, non-commercial photography and videography for personal use are permitted in most areas of the castle. However, the use of tripods, drones, and flash photography may be restricted, especially in areas with sensitive historical displays. Always look for signage or ask a staff member if you are unsure.
The castle features many historical elements, including narrow spiral staircases and uneven stone floors, which can be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. The ground floor of the keep and the outer ward are generally accessible, but access to the upper floors is via stairs only. We recommend checking the official Historic Environment NI website for the most detailed accessibility information.
Food and drink are not permitted inside the historical buildings of the castle. However, there are numerous excellent cafes, pubs, and restaurants within a few minutes' walk of the castle in Carrickfergus town centre where you can enjoy a meal or a snack before or after your visit.
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