Not only is the Carrickfergus International Ladies Football Tournament the only
tournament of its kind in Northern Ireland, but the location of Historic
Carrickfergus is second to none.
Located within 20 minutes drive time from all the major ports into Northern
Ireland (both ports of Belfast and Larne and both the International and City
Airports) and set on the scenic shores of Belfast Lough, historical
Carrickfergus boasts one of the most well-preserved early medieval castles,
that has survived intact despite 800 years of continuous military occupation.
A striking feature of the landscape from land, sea and air, Carrickfergus Castle
greets all visitors with its strength and menace. Besieged in turn by the
Scots, Irish, English and French, the Castle saw action right up to World War
II. Today it is maintained by the Environment and Heritage Service and can be
enjoyed by visitors wanting to learn more about its history or just looking for
a fun day out in a unique setting.
The American & Ulster-Scots Connection
The Andrew Jackson Centre highlights the strong connection between
Carrickfergus, American and Ulster-Scots, as well as telling the story of
Andrew Jackson, the 7th president of USA, whose parents emigrated to America
from Carrickfergus in 1765.
Located a short distance from the Castle and town centre, the cottage has been
restored to its original state and is furbished with furniture and equipment of
the period. The centre has a display depicting the life and career of the
President Andrew Jackson. In the grounds is an exhibition dedicated to the US
Rangers, the elite American army regiment. Formed in 1942, the US Rangers were
based in Carrickfergus during World War 2. The exhibition has a great
collection of uniforms, photographs, documents and other material relating to
the war.