Explore Carrickfergus Before the Castle: New Exhibition Launches July 24th

A new exhibition, Carrickfergus Before the Castle, launches at Carrickfergus Museum on Thursday 24 July 2025 at 7pm. Explore early medieval life in Ireland with archaeologist Scott Ingram, a wine reception, and a hands-on historical board game experience, Cattle Battle.

Discover Carrickfergus Before the Castle – A New Historical Exhibition and Gaming Experience

Carrickfergus Museum is set to open its latest exhibition, Carrickfergus Before the Castle, with a special launch event on Thursday 24 July 2025 at 7pm.

The exhibition will take visitors on a journey into Early Medieval Ireland (circa 400–1100 AD), a pivotal time in Irish history that saw the advent of Christianity, the development of monastic centres, the creation of masterpieces like the Book of Kells, and the arrival of the Vikings.

Guest Speaker and Highlights

Archaeologist Scott Ingram will guide attendees through this fascinating era, exploring what life looked like in Ireland before the iconic Carrickfergus Castle existed. Using archaeological evidence and historical sources, Scott will reveal how society evolved, from settlements and religious life to art and the early stages of urbanisation.

Board Game Experience – Cattle Battle

At 8pm, visitors will have the opportunity to take part in Cattle Battle, a new board game inspired by early medieval Irish life, offering a fun and educational hands-on experience.

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday 24 July 2025
• Time: 7:00pm (Game play from 8:00pm)
• Location: Carrickfergus Museum Exhibition Gallery
• Admission: Free
• Includes: Wine reception and chance to win a hamper from Carrickfergus Greengrocers
• RSVP: Call 028 9335 8241 or email carrickfergusmuseums@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

This event is delivered as part of the museum’s Carrickfergus Before the Castle exhibition programme.