Shaped by Sea and Stone

06/02/2025

Love is in the air, and there’s no better place to celebrate than in the heart of Mid & East Antrim. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, looking for unique couple activities, or indulging in a special meal, this region is brimming with options to make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable.

Read our blog here 👉 https://bit.ly/4aPAu9N

31/01/2025

Carrickfergus Castle - A Fresh Perspective from Italy!

Carrickfergus Castle isn't just a Northern Irish treasure - it's a story that captivates travellers from around the world! We're thrilled to share 's stunning exploration of our medieval marvel.

From Norman stone walls to breath taking coastal views, Paola's lens captures the magic that makes Carrickfergus Castle a must-visit destination. Her Italian wanderlust meets our rich Irish heritage in a blog post that'll make you want to pack your bags and discover our historic gem!

Carrickfergus Castle is an iconic Norman fortress in Northern Ireland, offering rich history, stunning architecture, and engaging activities.

31/01/2025

𝗔𝗿𝘁𝗵𝘂𝗿 𝗔𝗿𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽: 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗲𝘅𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀

📅Saturday 1st March
⌚10:30 - 12:30
📍Carrickfergus Museum

From your imagination, or an image of the coast, guided by our tutor, paint your own seascape the Arthur Armstrong way.

To celebrate the centenary of the Carrickfergus born artist, create your own painting inspired by Arthur Armstong's ideas.

29/01/2025

𝗔𝗿𝘁𝗵𝘂𝗿 𝗔𝗿𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱

📅Saturday 8th February
⌚11am
📍Carrickfergus Museum

Join art historian Dickon Hall for an insightful look into the works of Carrickfergus-born Artist Arthur Armstrong, widely regarded during his lifetime as one of the most significant Irish landscape painters

Arthur Armstrong revealed - talk at Carrickfergus Museum

16/01/2025

Feeling creative?

Mid & East Antrim is home to a world of hands-on experiences, perfect for those who want to channel that creative energy into an experience to remember.

Check out our Creative Experiences here 👉 https://bit.ly/4hiGDgQ

14/01/2025

We're joining The National Lottery Heritage Fund in celebrating ! Today we're showcasing the wonderful Arthur Cottage.

Located 4 miles from Ballymena town, Arthur Cottage is situated in the heart of County Antrim. Only a short walk from the village of Cullybackey, it is the ancestral home of Chester Alan Arthur, the 21st President of the United States of America.

Enter this carefully restored cottage and be transported to a bygone era and see how the Arthur family lived in the late 18th Century. Follow the story of the Arthur family and trace the link from a rural village in Northern Ireland to the American Presidency.

To discover more about Arthur Cottage click here 👉 https://bit.ly/3VdXFkM

10/01/2025

Check out the new 𝐌𝐢𝐝 & 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐦 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐝𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐬 guide for information on some of the best outdoors hikes, walks and parks there are in the borough.

Click here to see the guide 👉 https://bit.ly/4gNPRSi

Visit Mid and East Antrim, a land shaped by sea and stone. Find events, things to do, accommodation and more.

09/01/2025

🎻🪕 Traditional Music Sessions 🪕🎻

🎻 ‘Fiddle Fever’ 🎻
📅 26 January 2025
📅 23 February 2025
📅 30 March 2025
🕒 12.30pm – 2.30pm
📌 Arthur Cottage

💃 ‘Shindig’ 🕺
📅 25 January 2025
📅 23 February 2025
📅 29 March 2025
🕒 12noon – 3pm
📌 Andrew Jackson Cottage & US Rangers Museum

Join us this Autumn for traditional music sessions in our thatched cottages.

Standard admission applies at Arthur Cottage, no booking is necessary.

For further information contact:
Carrickfergus Castle Visitor Information Centre
T: 028 9335 8262
E: [email protected]

Shaped by Sea and Stone

01/01/2025

Kickstart the new year with fresh air and a focus on wellness in Mid & East Antrim. This January, discover invigorating walks and outdoor activities that refresh the body and soul. Whether you're local or visiting, it’s the perfect way to embrace a healthy start to 2025.

Read more 👉 https://bit.ly/49EFgWU

27/12/2024

December is the perfect time to explore Mid & East Antrim’s iconic attractions without the crowds. Wander the halls of Carrickfergus Castle, or marvel at the dramatic beauty of The Gobbins Cliff Path. Make the most of the quiet season and see these incredible sites up close. Start planning your post-Christmas explorations today at www.shapedbyseaandstone.com

𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙜𝙪𝙨 𝘾𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨:

Sat 28th Dec – 9.00am – 3.30pm
Sun 29th Dec – 9.00am – 3.30pm
Mon 30th Dec – Closed
Tues 31st Dec 9.00am – 3.30pm
Wed 1st Jan – Closed
Thurs 2nd Jan - 09:00am - 3:30pm

𝙂𝙤𝙗𝙗𝙞𝙣𝙨 𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨:

27th Dec - 5th Jan (open daily)

25/12/2024

Wishing all our followers a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

23/12/2024

Nothing says festive cheer like a warm drink by the fire. In Mid & East Antrim, you’ll find plenty of welcoming pubs and cafes to escape the winter chill. Enjoy a mulled wine in a traditional pub, sip a creamy hot chocolate in a cosy café, or treat yourself to seasonal specialties at one of Mid & East Antrim's fabulous hotels. Discover the perfect spot to celebrate the season at www.shapedbyseaandstone.com

21/12/2024

Escape into nature this festive season with a visit to the stunning forests of Mid & East Antrim. Whether you need a breather from the holiday hustle or simply want to enjoy the crisp winter air, these peaceful spots are perfect for a seasonal stroll.

📍 Portglenone Forest – Wander through enchanting woodlands along the River Bann.
📍 Glenarm Forest – Explore this historic forest with breathtaking views of Glenarm Castle.
📍 Ballyboley Forest – Immerse yourself in tranquillity among towering trees and serene trails.
📍 Woodburn Forest – Discover hidden reservoirs and peaceful paths close to Carrickfergus.

Take a break, recharge, and reconnect with the natural beauty of the season.

19/12/2024

Never stop exploring this December - with so many outdoor adventures to be found in Mid & East Antrim, there's always a perfect way to find some "me time" amidst the festivities! From invigorating walks along Blackhead Coastal Path or The Gobbins Cliff Path, to hiking up Slemish Mountain for panoramic views, there’s no better way to embrace the season. Wrap up warm, breathe in the crisp air, and experience the beauty of nature at its most peaceful. Plan your winter escape at www.shapedbyseaandstone.com

17/12/2024

Escape the hustle and bustle of Christmas for a while...

The Causeway Coastal Route winds along the East Antrim coast, from Carrickfergus to Carnlough and beyond, with treasures to uncover around every corner.

If you fancy taking some time out of the Christmas grind, take a few minutes to read our Coastal Itinerary blog and plan your escape 👉 https://bit.ly/3ZY4wo6

02/12/2024

🎄𝑬𝒍𝒇 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑴𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝑫𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑾𝒐𝒓𝒌𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒑🎄

📅Thursday 12 December
⌚4pm-5.30pm
📍Carrickfergus Town Hall

Dance, act, sing! Make new friends! Have some fun and get into the festive mood on the run up to Christmas! Suitable for 7yrs-12yrs.

Spaces are £3 each and can be booked at https://bit.ly/48Ybvjv

01/12/2024

The holiday season is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by exploring the unique shops and markets throughout Mid & East Antrim.

Whether you're searching for handcrafted goods, local art, or something quirky to tuck under the tree, this area is brimming with one-of-a-kind shopping experiences.

Read our latest blog for the ultimate guide to Christmas shopping in the area, where every purchase supports local artisans, makers, and small businesses. #

Ebb & Flow Midtown Makers The Steensons Artisan Style 2020 Natasha Swan Ceramics JenniMac Nook Living ETC - Carrick The Nest Winnies 1975 Glenarm Castle Causeway Aromatics Rory and Helen Shearer Ceramics The Secret Bookshelf Tower Centre Ballymena McKillens of Ballymena Camerons Ballymena Fairhill Shopping Centre Creative Gardens Galgorm Castle Sunnybank Garden Centre The Gallery Whitehead Raceview Gallery Outdoor Adventure NI Audrey Kyle Art Gobbins Crafts Swifts Forge Vera McCullough Jewellery

The holiday season is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by exploring the unique shops and markets throughout Mid & East Antrim. Whether you're searc..

30/11/2024

🎄𝑪𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒎𝒂𝒔 𝑵𝒖𝒏𝒐 𝑭𝒆𝒍𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝑩𝒂𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝑾𝒐𝒓𝒌𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒑🎄

📅Saturday 7 December
⌚11am-3pm
📍Carrickfergus Museum and Civic Centre

Create a special festive piece of Nuno silk felt (using a wet felting technique).
You will also be creating and stitching a bauble using materials supplied to create a beautiful decoration for your tree or as a special gift.

Duration 4hrs (bring a towel and packed lunch).

All materials and equipment supplied. £25 per person.

To book go to https://bit.ly/3CLpFIF