The Dobbins Inn open morning kicks off Christmas in Carrickfergus

Mulled wine and mince pies were the order of the day at the official opening of newly restored Dobbins Inn.

Locals and visitors alike dropped into the hotel on High Street recently to find out about the histories and mysteries of the iconic building which has been given a new lease of life following its recent restoration.

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Maureen Morrow, said: “I am delighted to see the restoration works now completed at The Dobbins Inn in time for the festive season”.

She congratulated the support and guidance of Carrickfergus THI Project Board in bringing the project to fruition, acknowledging the significant funding support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council administered through the scheme.

She particularly congratulated Kirsty Fallis for her and her team’s commitment and determination over the last two years, in rediscovering and carrying out the painstaking restoration and repair of this important historic listed building. 

Guests learned that a medieval tower house on the site of Dobbins Inn appears on an old map of Carrickfergus dating back to the 1567, at that time occupied by the Dobbin family, and it was then one of several tower houses to line the High Street.

Owner of The Dobbins Inn, Kirsty Fallis, said: “I was thrilled to see so many people taking the time out of their day to come along and learn more about this fascinating building. 

"I want everyone to have a better understanding of the history and stories attached to The Dobbins and I hope this official opening has helped fill in some of the gaps.”

Councillor Cheryl Johnston, Chair of Carrickfergus THI Board said: “We congratulate Dobbins Inn on the completion of their project. Carrickfergus THI Board really appreciates the commitment and contribution of THI property owners in restoring and regenerating their historic properties in the town centre.

“The restoration of Dobbins Inn and the development of further THI schemes is beginning to greatly lift the quality and character of our Conservation Area, and to help us appreciate the particular rarity and importance of some of our buildings.

“The scheme will ultimately benefit us all and help us to fully realise Carrickfergus’s potential as an attractive heritage town and a must-see place to visit.”

Archaeologist Paul Logue rounded off the morning by giving a talk and tour on the history of the building and some of its fascinating tales of years gone by and Samuel Wilson, project consultant to the Fallis family, was at hand to talk about the restoration.

Lorraine Robinson, Investment Manager for The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “This fantastic project has returned a small piece of medieval Carrickfergus to the present-day, and gives visitors and local people a real sense of what this place would have been like five centuries ago.

“Uncovering and sharing the history of the building has increased our understanding of the past and will undoubtedly help others to learn about and enjoy the heritage of Dobbins Inn and the town.

“We were delighted to support this project and the wider Townscape Heritage Initiative and congratulate everyone involved in its success.”

The THI is an ambitious regeneration scheme for the town’s Conservation Area, supported by £1.55million in funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and £0.55 million from Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.