Discover Early Medieval Carrickfergus: Museum Launches New Exhibition and Summer Events

Carrickfergus Museum invites the public to the launch of its summer exhibition Carrickfergus Before the Castle: Early Medieval Ireland on Thursday 24 July at 7pm. This free event explores life in Carrickfergus before the famous castle was built, with a talk by archaeologist Scott Ingram, a hands-on game, and a chance to win a local food hamper. The exhibition runs alongside a summer programme of workshops, storytelling, and archaeological discoveries.

Step Back in Time at Carrickfergus Museum

Carrickfergus Museum is excited to unveil its new summer exhibition, Carrickfergus Before the Castle: Early Medieval Ireland (c. 400–1169 AD), launching on Thursday 24 July at 7pm. This immersive exhibition explores the rich and lesser-known history of Carrickfergus before the castle was ever built.

A Night of History and Fun

The opening night promises an engaging journey into the past. Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, encourages the community to join archaeologist Scott Ingram as he shares fascinating insights into early medieval life in the area.

After the talk, guests can take part in Cattle Battle, a fun and educational board game with a historical twist starting at 8pm. Attendees will also be entered into a draw to win a special Carrickfergus food hamper.

More Than Just a Castle

While Carrickfergus is widely recognised for its Norman castle and the legacy of John de Courcy, this exhibition focuses on what came before – the Gaelic kingdoms and communities that thrived in the area. Drawing on archaeological evidence, the display reveals early settlement patterns, laws, customs, Viking influences, and religious practices.

Explore the Past All Summer Long

This exhibition kicks off a summer-long programme of events that bring early medieval Ireland to life through hands-on workshops, storytelling, and interactive experiences. Highlights include:

Before the Castle Event Programme (24 July – 27 September)

• 2 August – Celtic Scribe: Create handmade ink and learn ancient Irish calligraphy
• 6 August – Deer Park Farms Revisited: Explore one of Co. Antrim’s most significant archaeological sites
• 12 August – Early Medieval Trade and Exchange: Discover imported goods and trading routes
• 28 August – Who Created the Irish Townland System?: Unravel the mystery of medieval land divisions
• 13 September – Spinning and Weaving: Try textile arts the medieval way
• 20 September – Ogham: Tales of the Trees: Hear stories rooted in tree lore and the Ogham alphabet
• 26 September – Early Medieval Food and Drink: Sample traditional dishes and taste homemade mead

Booking Information

Want to be part of the launch event or attend any of the workshops?
Call: 028 9335 8241
Email: carrickfergusmuseums@midandeastantrim.gov.uk
Online booking: midandeastantrim.gov.uk/BeforeTheCastle