You can wander the keep up to roof level, get lost finding your way to the walls, take in the views across the bay and back over Carrickfergus town, and learn all about the history of the castle, it occupants and the various battles that took place here. The highlight for us was the impressive central keep, which is the oldest part of the castle, surrounded by no less than two major defensive walls. It’s also open to the public, and is a very impressive castle to visit. The castle was built in 1177, and is the best preserved Norman-style castle in Ireland. The town, which dates from the Middle Ages, was walled for defensive purposes, with the main defensive structure being Carrickfergus Castle. Just a short drive from Belfast, the town of Carrickfergus was for a time the largest city in the area, holding an important position on the water. We’d suggest perhaps starting your Northern Ireland in Belfast, where you could get inspiration from our 2 day Belfast itinerary, before setting out on this road trip. Practicalities for visiting Northern Irelandįor this post we’re ordering our highlights from leaving Belfast (southeast endpoint of the route) and then running in order west around the coast all the way to Londonderry, where the causeway coastal route ends.When is the best time of year to visit Northern Ireland?.
Causeway Coastal Accommodation Route Options.Where to Stay on the Causeway Coastal Route.How Long Does it take to drive the Causeway Coastal Route?.Taking a Tour of the Causeway Coastal Route.Causeway Coastal Route by Public Transport.Can I See the Causeway Coastal Route Without a Car?.Causeway Coastal Route Map of Highlights.