Adrian Hack

Meet Adrian Hack: Lead the Way Tour & Carrickfergus Tours and Tales  

Standing in the shadow of Carrickfergus Castle, where centuries of history are etched into streets, buildings and landmarks, you'll find Adrian Hack, a passionate tour guide, researcher and storyteller dedicated to helping visitors uncover the remarkable stories hidden throughout his hometown. 

A Journey That Started "Just for the Craic" 
Like many of the best tourism stories, Adrian's journey into tour guiding began completely by accident. When a friend discovered an introductory course and wanted some company, Adrian decided to go along "just for the craic". What started as a simple evening out soon sparked a fascination with storytelling and local history. That interest eventually led him to develop his own Second World War themed walking tour and begin a rewarding career as a professional guide. 

A Growing Contribution to Local Tourism 
Over the last seven years, Adrian has built a diverse tourism career. Alongside operating his own WW2 tour and spending two and a half years guiding visitors at The Gobbins, he helped establish the collective now known as Carrickfergus Tours and Tales. His Lead the Way Tour has also earned a place within Tourism NI's Embrace A Giant Spirit experience portfolio, recognising the dedication and creativity he has invested in developing memorable visitor experiences. 

Today, Carrickfergus Tours and Tales provides new opportunities to engage audiences through regular walking tours, specialist themed experiences and creative events such as murder mystery evenings. More recently, Adrian has also helped welcome cruise ship visitors to Carrickfergus, introducing them to the town's rich history and unique character. 

No Such Thing as a Typical Week 
There is no such thing as a typical week for Adrian. Alongside leading tours, he delivers talks and presentations, visits schools, undertakes historical research and develops new visitor experiences. Research remains at the heart of his work, helping him uncover fresh stories and perspectives that continually shape and enhance his tours. 

Helping Future Guides Find Their Voice 
Adrian's contribution extends beyond the tours he delivers. Working with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, he has helped inspire aspiring tour guides through contributions to local tour guiding courses, sharing knowledge and practical experience gained throughout his career. By supporting new guides, he is helping ensure the stories, heritage and people of the borough continue to be championed for years to come. 

Bringing Hidden History to the Fore 
When asked what brings him the most pride, Adrian's answer is immediate: "Bringing Carrickfergus' hidden history to the fore." For Adrian, every street and building has a story to tell. His tours shine a light on significant events, fascinating local characters and historic connections that many people may never have noticed before. He enjoys helping guests discover how a town of this size has played a role in stories that reach far beyond its walls. 

Moments That Matter 
One unforgettable experience involved guiding a large group of American visitors around Carrickfergus. Adrian still remembers watching their amazement as they discovered the depth of history visible within a short walk of Carrickfergus Castle.  Seeing visitors strongly connected with Carrickfergus' rich history firsthand reinforced Adrian's belief that tourism has the power to inspire curiosity and create lasting memories.

People, Place and Passion 
What does Adrian love most about Mid and East Antrim? The answer is simple. "Tons of stories to be shared by some very welcoming and authentic people." 

He believes the area has a wealth of untapped heritage that is often hidden in plain sight, simply waiting for someone to tell the story. His passion is fueled by meeting new people, reconnecting with those he has met through guiding and promoting the place he proudly calls home. 

Shaped by History, Sea and Stone 
Living in Carrickfergus, Adrian has a strong connection to the Shaped by Sea and Stone brand. Describing the influence of local heritage, he references Star Wars: "It's an energy field created by all living things. It surrounds us and penetrates us; it binds the galaxy together."  Adrian believes Carrickfergus' heritage has a similar presence. "Living here you can't help feel the weight of the town's heritage, almost permeating into the soul." 

Advice for Future Tourism Professionals 
To anyone considering a career in tourism or hospitality, Adrian offers straightforward and heartfelt advice: "Turn your passion into a career. Nothing beats meeting new people and helping them have a great time."  His own story is proof that a small spark of interest can grow into a fulfilling career built around people, place and storytelling. 

A Storyteller at Heart 
Adrian Hack is more than a tour guide. He is a champion of Carrickfergus, a passionate researcher and a gifted storyteller whose enthusiasm helps visitors and residents alike see the town through fresh eyes. Through Lead the Way Tour, Carrickfergus Tours and Tales and his support for future guides, he continues to ensure the stories of Carrickfergus remain alive, relevant and inspiring for future generations.