![]() ![]() The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Some tales I have come across also claim that a headless ghost walks the castle battlements, but I have not (so far) been able to confirm this. They claim that there was nobody else there when the photo was taken. On reviewing their photos later, they were shocked to discover what appears to be the figure of a young boy standing beside the daughter as she looked out of a window. ![]() In 2016, a former resident of Northern Ireland returned from her home in Australia and visited Carrickfergus Castle with her daughter. Credit: Laurena Weston via Belfast Liveīutton Cap may not be the only ghost haunting the castle. This name was given on the belief that his army-issued hat featured a large button, but in reality – this detail has never been confirmed either. Over the years, the unfortunate soul has been affectionately referred to as “button cap”. However it came to be, the ghost of an army drummer is now said to haunt the area surrounding the castle well, and some claim that the sound of cries for mercy and lonesome drumming can also be heard on occasion. Lavery’s only crime was that he looked remarkably like the real killer, but he was tried on the belief that he was responsible, and he was hanged for the crime. As he lay dying, the wounded man recounted the event to his brother, but in his confusion, pointed out Timothy Lavery, an army drummer, as the man who had attacked him. On discovering that she had cheated on him, the young soldier was overcome with rage and attacked his love rival, stabbing him with his sword. Indeed, she was having an affair with another man, the brother of the soldier’s commanding officer no less. The soldier was unaware, however, that his fiancé (possibly now-wife), also had a wandering eye. The soldier had a reputation as a bit of a ladies’ man, but he promised to change his ways if she married him. In the 18th-century, a young soldier stationed at the castle fell in love with a local woman. There are multiple opinions on who the characters were, how the events panned out, and whether it happened at all. The authenticity of the castle’s main ghost story is open to question. It is now preserved and managed as an attraction by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency. The castle has withstood numerous battles and sieges and remained in military use until 1928. You would definitely want a handsome (i.e., skillful) boatman to make that crossing.Carrickfergus Castle is an imposing Norman structure, constructed in 1177 overlooking Belfast Lough. “Almost 80 miles of the turbulent North Irish Sea separate Carrickfergus from Ballygrant. Ballygrant is across the Irish Sea on Islay in Scotland. There is no Ballygrant in Ireland either.Ī contributor known only as “Blade Thresher” on a Carrickfergus site explains much of the mystery. Why does the song abruptly switch to Kilkenny? Well, actually it doesn't. To strike that lonely road, down by the sea.”īut I'll sing no more now till I get a drink Soft is the grass and sure, my bed is free “My childhood days bring back sweet reflections Here are the lyrics to "Carrickfergus" as most often sung:īut the sea is wide and I cannot swim over WATCH: Irish trad musician's incredible version of “Hail Mary” prayer as Gaeilge. ![]()
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