Castle Access, Promenade & Location for The Result
The vision for Carrickfergus Castle is to transform it into a world-class attraction and a landmark gateway to the Causeway Coastal Route. By improving access, adding engaging exhibitions, and upgrading visitor services, the castle will attract more people to explore Carrickfergus and beyond.
Key ambitions include:
- To elevate Carrickfergus into a premier destination by transforming the Castle into a world-class attraction
- Positioning Carrickfergus Castle as the main gateway to the Causeway Coastal Route.
- Reimagining interpretation and exhibitions to showcase the Castle and Town’s remarkable heritage.
- Transforming access to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.
- State-of-the-art renewal of building services including lighting and heating.
At present, many areas of the Castle are difficult to reach, with steep ramps, narrow stairs, and no lifts. The new plans will remove these barriers, creating easier access routes throughout the site, including into the Keep. This means visitors of all abilities will be able to enjoy much more of the Castle.
As part of these improvements, the route to the Castle’s front gate will be redesigned to provide a safer, more inclusive entrance, allowing all visitors to enjoy a smooth and welcoming arrival.
Visitors will also soon be able to climb to the castle roof. From there, they’ll get amazing views over Belfast Lough. Because of space and constraints, access will be by stairs only.
Interpretation at Carrickfergus Castle will be completely refreshed, using new exhibitions, digital media and storytelling to bring 800 years of history to life. Visitors will be able to explore the Castle’s past through immersive displays, interactive features and carefully restored historic spaces.
At the same time, temporary and inappropriate modern buildings will be removed, improving views of the Keep and the surrounding curtilage.
Together, these improvements will create a stronger, clearer impression of the Castle’s history, while opening the site up to many more visitors who may not previously have been able to experience it before.
Alongside the Castle transformation, plans are in place for the celebrated schooner to return to Carrickfergus, subject to agreement.
The vessel will be displayed on the west promenade, creating a powerful link between the Castle, the harbour and the town centre.
The Result will broaden the story of Carrickfergus to include its proud shipbuilding and industrial heritage, encouraging visitors and locals to see the town as more than just its Castle.
For the Walk of Fergus, just east of the Castle entrance, interpretation will be built into the public space through paving, sculptures, lighting and interactive features. This will encourage visitors to explore beyond the Castle, and discover the unique view from east of the promenade.
We are always keen to hear from you. If you have any questions about the project, get in touch.
