Carrickfergus is a historic town located on the northern shore of Belfast Lough in Northern Ireland. The town has a long and varied history, dating back to the 12th century, and is known for its imposing Norman castle, which sits atop a rocky promontory overlooking the sea. The castle is one of the best-preserved examples of medieval architecture in Ireland and is a popular tourist attraction. Carrickfergus is also home to several other notable landmarks, including St Nicholas Church, a 17th-century marketplace, and the Andrew Jackson Centre, which commemorates the life of the 7th President of the United States, whose parents emigrated from Carrickfergus to America. The town has a thriving economy, with a mix of industry and retail, and is an important transport hub for the wider region.