Throw in mention of a Buckie Gelder, a Freeman barber, or knights and the conversation will flow, though not always in the direction expected.
Here are 10 things only Carrickfergus people may know about.
5. Two Ghosts
As with the castles, Carrickfergus also lays claim to two ghosts. 'Buttoncap' is associated with Carrickfergus Castle and 'Maud' with Dobbins Inn hotel in the town centre. One legend has it that during the Plantation period Hugh Dobbin’s young wife fell in love with a handsome captain stationed at the castle barracks. Dobbin, returning from the Tyrone, discovered the deception and put them to death with his sword. The unfortunate pair are said to roam the castle, as Buttoncap and the old inn, as Maud. Image by Google Photo: Google
6. US Rangers
The US Rangers were based at Sunnylands in Carrickfergus during World War II. It was the only US military unit to be formed on foreign soil. The Sunnylands Memorial stands as a permanent tribute to the US Rangers. There is also a museum at Boneybefore dedicated to the elite battalion. Photo: Contributed
7. A 'first' for NI
Carrickfergus hosted Northern Ireland's first ever Learning Disability Pride Day in 2019. Gary Lightbody from Snow Patrol is pictured with Christina and Caroline Watson and David McEvoy at the parade. INCT 22-003-PSB Photo: Phillip Byrne
8. Two Castles
Carrickfergus Castle is one of the province's most instantly recognisable tourist attractions. But the area is home to two strongholds. Castle Lug, near Greenisland, is a late medieval tower house. It is sited in an area thought to have been particularly prosperous during the Early Historic period and was the focus of archaeological exploration before the A2 upgrade commenced. Photo: Google image