Northern Transept

St Nicholas’ Church is illustrated on all the early maps of Carrickfergus – but the most significant restoration was carried out during the period of the Plantation of Ulster when Sir Arthur Chichester had the transepts rebuilt.

The church has a wonderful atmosphere inside; you can almost feel the history in the thick stone walls, and the light which filters through the impressive stained-glass windows. Features of interest include the crooked aisle, deliberately slanted to represent the head of Christ on the Cross, falling to the right; the Leper window; and the many impressive stained-glass windows.

This historic parish church was established in 1182 by the Anglo Norman, John de Courcy who was also responsible for building Carrickfergus Castle.  Only fragments of the original church have survived; but in its medieval form, the church was cruciform.  It is now much longer, and the roof and floor are higher, owing to several restorations over its history.