As you drive through Carrickfergus towards the coast, a charming building comes into view on your left. Partly hidden by trees, its clock tower and bright red doors have caught my eye on many occasions. I’ve often wondered about its history, so one Saturday I decided to stop and take a closer look.
Despite the Private sign at the entrance, I was given a warm welcome and permission to wander up the driveway and take some photographs. I’m glad I stopped.
A little local history
Sheils Houses was one of five institutions established through the generosity of Charles Sheils, a local philanthropist born in 1782. He provided almshouses for people experiencing hardship, particularly in the aftermath of the Great Famine.
Designed by architect Charles Lanyon, the Carrickfergus houses form a distinctive horseshoe-shaped terrace, with each home having its own character. A clock tower above the warden’s house adds to the charm of the building.
The architecture, the red entrance doors and the details revealed as you look more closely all make this a place I’d like to explore further.
A place to return to
Although close to a busy road, Sheils Houses has a quiet appeal. There’s something special about discovering a place with such a rich local history, especially one I’ve passed so many times without really knowing its story.
I’d love to return when the houses open to visitors for one of the Open Heritage Days. Until then, I’m glad I finally stopped to take a closer look.
For more information, visit the Charles Sheils charity website
You might also enjoy:
- The Titanic Memorial Garden
- Explore Belfast’s Linen Heritage on the ‘Linenopolis’ Walking Tour
- Bakkehuset: Literary Museum & Garden in Copenhagen
Just gorgeous 💕💕so interesting as I live near by and never New the details .
I fell in love with a place down quay lane on the way to whitehead on the right hand side from Carrickfergus- there was a house which used to be owned by an admiral I believe – there is a gorgeous harbour too
I must go again soon x
Oh I think I might have driven by Quay Lane. I’ve often wondered where the roads down that way lead. I must check it out. So you never know…it might be on the blog soon 😊
That is definitely a hidden gem. I enjoy the historic buildings. Thanks for the idea of hidden gems. I will have to think about some in my area 🙂
Yes..it will surprise you what comes to mind when you think about it. Look forward to seeing them on your blog 😊
What a gem!!!! So happy that you asked, and found out that it is fine, to look and take some pictures. You could share them here, with we, who can’t visit.
Now, I will do a search on this wonderful place.
Thank you!!!!!
Thank you. I will try and share more hidden gems as I find them. Hope you enjoy 😊
It is so gorgeous, I love it. What an absolute find.
I know…so lovely. I’ve been so curious about it for so long I’m glad I finally stopped 😊
How lovely. And what a beautiful place.
Oh thank you. Yes it was lovely to walk around 😊
Ah I want to live here… Is it now divided into private apartments and houses that can be bought or rented (I wonder)? It’s so quaint; looks like a little Utopian community-type place. How gorgeous, I’m glad you went exploring… I envy that man who loves returning home there.
I envied him too. It’s a form of charitable housing now trying to maintain its original aims of helping those who have fallen on tougher times.