Haunted Hosts

Dobbins Inn stands as one of Northern Ireland's oldest surviving buildings, with origins traced to the 13th century when Reginald D'Aubin established the family seat in Carrickfergus. The Dobyn family name evolved through various spellings over the centuries - D'Aubin, Dobyn, and eventually Dobbin - leaving an indelible mark on the town's history. Records from the early 1600s document members of the family serving as mayors of Carrickfergus: Nicholas Dobbin held office in 1607-1608, and William Dobbin followed in 1613-1614. This political prominence reflects the family's significant standing in the community during a formative period of Ulster's history. The building's function shifted multiple times across the centuries. It served as the family residence, then as military barracks during periods of conflict, and later operated as a coaching inn serving travelers on the main routes through County Antrim. The structure retains original medieval features that connect visitors directly to its distant past, including a substantial stone fireplace that dominates the reception area. A priest's hole - a concealed space used to hide Catholic clergy during periods of religious persecution - survives within the building, providing tangible evidence of the dangerous religious politics that shaped Irish life in the 16th and 17th centuries. The property's proximity to Carrickfergus Castle places it at the heart of one of Ulster's most historically significant locations. Local tradition speaks of a secret tunnel connecting the inn to the castle, though no archaeological evidence has confirmed this passage. The conversion to modern hotel accommodation occurred during the mid-20th century, adding en-suite rooms while preserving the atmospheric period features that make Dobbins Inn a unique destination for history enthusiasts and paranormal investigators alike.