Carrickfergus Castle reopening update

From October 1, visitors who book in advance will be able to visit the state care monument including the recently unveiled new oak roof on the great tower.

Announcing the reopening of the 800 year-old stronghold, Communities Minister Carál Ní Chuilín said: “Carrickfergus Castle is one of our most popular visitor attractions.

“It has been closed as a result of the Covid restrictions, however following a detailed risk assessment my staff have worked to develop a pre-booking system that will allow tours of the castle to proceed.

“As a result I am delighted to announce the castle will be opening to visitors from 1 October. While numbers will be limited I hope people take this opportunity to experience the castle and to view the newly installed roof in the main keep.”

Following the earlier opening of the majority of state care monuments, Carrick Castle remained closed as the Department said it presented “particular challenges due to the limitations of space within”. Read more here.

Completion of a £1 million conservation project at the castle along with a £600,000 public realm scheme, which included the installation of new footways, lighting and street furniture in the Antrim Street and Lancasterian Street areas of Carrickfergus, were trumpeted earlier this year as key components of promoting the Co Antrim town as the gateway to the Causeway Coastal Route.

Bookings to visit the castle can be made by calling 028 9335 1273.

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