British Sign Language tour of Carrickfergus Castle

British Sign Language tour of Carrickfergus Castle

Join the Historic Environment Division for an engaging and informative tour of Carrickfergus Castle, with interpretation in British Sign Language.

Carrickfergus Castle, built by John de Courcy after his invasion of Ulster in 1177, stands as an Anglo-Norman fortress on the shores of Belfast Lough. Over more than 800 years, it is besieged and captured by Scottish, Irish, English, and French forces, including King John in 1210, Edward Bruce in 1315, Schomberg for William III in 1689, and the French under Thurot in 1760.

Expanded by Hugh de Lacy in 1227, the castle develops into a complex structure with inner, middle, and outer wards, towers, and a gatehouse. It serves various roles over time, including a prison, armoury, and army base, before transferring into State Care in 1928. During the Second World War, it also houses air-raid shelters.

Today, Carrickfergus Castle stands as one of the best-preserved medieval structures in Ireland and operates as a popular visitor attraction, featuring historical exhibitions and restored cannons displayed within the keep.

Practical information

General public (All Ages Welcome)

Duration: 1 hour

Free admission

Parking is available

Enquiries: scmenquiries@communities-ni.gov.uk