This small hidden gem in the UK is one of Britain’s oldest seaside towns – but you may have never heard of it and it’s definitely somewhere you need to add to the list
If you are looking for a seaside break, one of Britain’s oldest seaside towns is a true hidden gem. Carrickfergus, the quaint little spot and is just 11 miles from Belfast – giving holidaymakers a true sense of seaside as well as big city adventures.
It promises a true Irish warm welcome and sits on the shores of Belfast Lough – formerly known as Carrickfergus Bay. It also features the breathtaking 12th century Carrickfergus Castle which is is the seaside town’s best-known landmark. However there are many more charming parts of the town to discover.
The old town is enclosed around 16th century walls, that hold all sorts of historic charm and allure as well as many attractions and amusements.
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Locally known as Carrick, residents advise to wander around the seaside and take in the atmosphere, before heading to the marina which features a huge variety of restaurants, bars and shops and then head to the harbour beneath the castle walls and walk the quayside.
The 12th-century Norman harbour is a great spot to sit by for an hour or two, where you can watch the boats coming in and out, as well as observing local anglers. With a 4.6 rating on Expedia, tourists who flock to the small town love the historical Irish charm oozing from the old streets.
However it’s hard to ignore the castle, which according to Irish Roadtrip is one of the best presevered in the country. Carrick is one of the oldest towns in Ireland, and is most famous for it’s castle landmark. It still remains a dominant feature for the town.
The Norman castle dates back to the 12th century. For over 800 years it’s survived multiple sieges by Scots, Irish, English and French and yet it still remains one of the best-preserved medieval structures in the country.
There are a range of museums, as well as small independent shops and restaurants, or if you’re feeling adventerous, there is the chance to walk alng the scenic cliffs and you can take in the charm of the irish coastline.
Carrickfergus is a 25-minute drive from many of the most popular things to do in Belfast and a 20-minute drive from Larne which makes it very easy and accessible.
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