Dobbins Inn: historic Carrickfergus hotel announces closure
A historic Carrickfergus hotel that has been owned by the same family for nearly 50 years has announced it will close.
One of the town’s best-known buildings with a history stretching back to the medieval period, Dobbins Inn said it plans to remain open as normal until September 21, 2026.
The High Street hotel and restaurant has been run by the Fallis family since 1978.
In a social media post, Dobbins Inn wrote: “Derek and Maureen, while operationally retired, have owned Dobbins for nearly five decades and along with Kirsty have welcomed thousands through our doors. We had hoped to pass the business on, but it was not to be and like many small independent hotels, we have found the going tough of late.
"To everyone who celebrated with us, stayed with us or simply popped in, thank you. To our loyal regulars and our incredible staff, past and present, you made this place what it is. You created the many thousands of moments and memories that will stay with us.”
Historic structure
Dobbins Inn underwent significant restoration work in 2018 as part of the Carrickfergus Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI).
The works aimed to recreate the historic frontage of the building after investigations revealed it used to be a medieval tower house.
Following timber dating analysis of the Inn, it was established that the structure was as old as c.1530, and at that time it was a residence for the Dobbin family.
At the time of the Plantation of Ulster under King James, the Dobbins’ tower house was shelter for those who wished to celebrate Mass.
During this period, one of the town’s most enduring ghost stories has its origins.
According to legend, Hugh Dobbins’ young wife fell in love with a handsome captain of foot stationed at Carrickfergus Castle barracks. Dobbin, returning from the Tyrone rebellion, discovered the deception and “put them to death with his sword”.
The unfortunate pair are still said to roam the castle, as ‘Buttoncap’, and the old Inn as ‘Maude’.
Famous patrons
Occupying many roles through the years, the building functioned as the town’s main bakery and as a RIC barracks.
In the nineteenth century, it became two townhouses, remaining this way until 1946 when it was converted to a hotel by the Mabbutt family.
Famous patrons through the years included matinee idol, Jack Hawkins, along with carpet tycoon Cyril Lord.
The hotel passed to the celebrated Betty and Joe Wilson, then to entrepreneur John McVeigh, who brought about the maritime flavour.
Dobbins Inn was bought by local couple Maureen and Derek Fallis in 1978, with their daughter Kirsty later joining the team.
'Massive shock’
News of the Inn’s closure has been met with sadness in Carrickfergus, with many locals recalling fond memories of their time as a customer, guest or employee.
East Antrim Alliance MLA, Stewart Dickson said: “This is a massive shock to Carrickfergus, as we are set to lose one of the most famous hotels and inns in this part of Country Antrim.
“Dobbins Inn has been at the very heart of life in Carrickfergus for generations. I sincerely hope the inn finds a new owner and that the history of this important listed building is not lost to the town.”