About
Founded by the Anglo-Norman knight John de Courcy in 1182 shortly after his development of Carrickfergus Castle, St. Nicholas Church is unique within Ulster and has survived as a place of worship for over 800 years. Located in the heart of the town just 200 metres from Carrickfergus Castle, an iconic symbol of Northern Ireland’s medieval heritage, the church retains many Norman features such as columns and piscina.
Visitors can explore the church's history through ghost marks, showcasing its evolution from the 1305 enlargement by Robert de Mercer to extensive 17th-century renovations commissioned by Sir Arthur Chichester who was instrumental in the development and expansion of Belfast. The Chichester Memorial, an impressive Jacobean funereal monument, features marble and alabaster bearing the effigies of Sir Arthur, his wife Lady Lettice, and their tragically short-lived son, Arthur.
The church reveals intriguing elements such as the Priest's Door, believed to be the entrance for monks' daily services, and medieval graveslabs dating back to the 12th century. Art enthusiasts can admire stained glass from An Tur Gloine Studio, Dublin, including works by Ethel Rhind, Beatrice Elvery, and Catherine O'Brien.
St. Nicholas's Church boasts literary connections, with (Frederick) Louis MacNeice's father serving as rector and Jonathan Swift appointed prebendary in 1695. Swift played a vital role in church administration and pastoral care.
Today, St. Nicholas's Church remains a beloved place of worship and stands as a living testament to centuries of history, offering a glimpse into Carrickfergus's rich cultural and religious past.
Book Tickets
Guide Prices
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Ticket | Free |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
