Carrickfergus town walls come to life

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is bringing history to life with a step back in time on the town walls of Carrickfergus.

NIEA will recreate what life was like in the Co Antrim town from the 12th to 17th centuries.

Paul Logue, NIEA Archaeologist, said: “Today’s visitor to Carrickfergus will experience a town that is very different to the one that existed for most of its long history.

“We are asking visitors of all ages to come on each Sunday in April and learn more about the walls and life in the town.

“Visitors will meet characters from the town’s history from John de Courcy, who built Carrickfergus Castle, to the town’s Mayor in the 16th century and his adversary Sorley Boy MacDonald. They’ll also have the chance to meet Sir Arthur Chichester who expanded the walls in the early 17th Century and a soldier who participated in the Schomberg siege.

“Daily tours will depart at 11am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm from the Carrickfergus Castle ramp.”

These events are part of NIEA’s Living History events held across Northern Ireland and are free of charge.

Notes to editors:

1. For further information on the tours contact (028) 9335 1273 or log on to the wonderfulni website
2. The tours will take place on Sunday 4, 11, 18 and 25 April at 11am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm.
3. If visitors wish to enter the Castle normal admission applies.
4. All media enquiries should be directed to the DOE Press Office on 028 9054 0003. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.