Carrickfergus

Carrickfergus is mainly known for its old castle and harbour. There is one sailing club in the village, however like most clubs in the UK, dogs are not welcome inside. Svea enjoyed the car park whilst Pete enjoyed the warm hospitality offered to each sailor - and in his case a free pint and a club hat.

Carrickfergus itself is a charming historic harbour town nestled on the northern shore of Belfast Lough. Dominated by the impressive Carrickfergus Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland, the town offers a warm welcome to sailors — and dogs!

🐾 Dog-Friendly Pubs & Cafes

• Ownies Bar & Bistro – Traditional and cosy, with a dog-friendly bar area - this is the only dog welcoming pub in Carrickfergus. Staff brought out a bowl of water and gave Svea lots of fuss.

• The Windrose – A little more upmarket, with views over the marina. Dogs are welcome in the outside seating area, and it’s worth visiting for sunset drinks.

• Cafe Madi – This lovely café just off the main street is dog-friendly and serves great coffee and cake. Svea was allowed in and got plenty of smiles from the staff.

🚶‍♀️ Local Walks

The promenade is ideal for dog walks — wide paths, fresh sea air, and plenty of space for a good sniff around. There's even a dog-friendly beach just north of the marina, perfect for stretching furry legs.

• Carrickfergus Castle Walk – Start from the marina and stroll around the castle grounds. It's an easy, scenic loop with views across the lough.

  
  

• Marine Highway Coastal Path – This flat path runs along the shoreline toward Whiteabbey and Belfast. Great for long dog walks with benches, birdlife, and spots to dip paws.

🧭 A Quick Hop to Belfast – Worth It?

Absolutely! Belfast is a short train or bus ride (both dog-friendly) from Carrickfergus and well worth a visit. The Titanic Quarter, St. George’s Market, and Botanic Gardens are highlights — and many places are surprisingly dog-welcoming. Dog friendly pubs however seem to be a bit harder to find. In the whole of Belfast, Pete only found two - the Dirty Onion which has the oldest building and Pete's favourite pub so far - Sunflower. Svea got many treats and was look after very well. The Sunflower was only for residence, and they turn away a couple of American tourists. How our Swedish viking disguised himself and managed to get a pint at local prices - £4.50 instead of the £6 a pint most bars are charging. Svea eventually dragged him back to the train, where he had a power nap and missed his stop. Both therefore got a fine from a friendly but diligent guard. Jen will arrive later to day to keep an eye on proceedings!

Belfast is a city with a complex and visible history. You'll see political murals, painted curbstones, and even walls that divide some communities. Pete was surprised by the tension and clear lack of openness towards the opposite sides, in both the butchers and bars. It's a reminder of how deeply recent history still shapes daily life here.

That said, both communities are warm and proud, and Belfast today is vibrant, creative, and forward-looking — an enriching stop for any curious sailor (and well-behaved pup).