Knockagh Monument
Northern Ireland’s largest war memorial, standing tall on Knockagh Hill with sweeping views over Belfast Lough and the surrounding countryside.
Perched atop Knockagh Hill near Carrickfergus, the Knockagh Monument is Northern Ireland’s largest war memorial, a 34‑metre basalt obelisk honouring County Antrim’s fallen from the First and Second World Wars. From its 390‑metre summit, sweeping views stretch across Belfast Lough, the city of Belfast, and the surrounding countryside, making it a place of solemn remembrance and striking natural beauty. The site is freely accessible and offers a powerful blend of history, panoramic vistas, and quiet reflection.
A brief summary to Knockagh Monument
- Monument Rd, Carrickfergus, BT38 8QG, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the panoramic views across Belfast Lough and the city of Belfast; early morning or late afternoon light is especially atmospheric.
- Wear sturdy footwear and bring a windproof jacket, as the hilltop is exposed and can be very windy even when it’s calm at lower levels.
- Combine your visit with a walk from Greenisland or a stop in nearby Carrickfergus to explore the castle and waterfront.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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By car
From Carrickfergus town centre, follow signs for Greenisland and then Monument Road; the drive takes about 10–15 minutes. There is a small on‑site car park at the monument, but spaces are limited and can fill quickly on weekends and during remembrance events.
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On foot
From Greenisland village, a well‑defined path leads up the hillside to the monument; the walk takes roughly 30–40 minutes and involves a steady climb on grass and gravel tracks, so wear sturdy shoes.
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By public transport
Take a train to Greenisland station and then walk up the hill via local roads and footpaths; the walk from the station takes about 35–45 minutes and is suitable for confident walkers in good weather.
Knockagh Monument location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Knockagh Monument
A Monument of Stone and Memory
Rising 34 metres above the summit of Knockagh Hill, the Knockagh Monument is a commanding basalt obelisk that stands as Northern Ireland’s largest war memorial. Built from local stone, its simple, powerful form echoes the Wellington Monument in Dublin’s Phoenix Park, though at exactly half the height. The monument was conceived after the First World War to honour the men of County Antrim who lost their lives between 1914 and 1918. A committee led by Henry Barton, High Sheriff of County Antrim, laid the foundation stone in 1922, but financial difficulties delayed completion for more than a decade. It was finally finished in 1936, and after the Second World War, its dedication was extended to include those from the county who died in 1939–1945.Words Carved in Stone
The monument’s inscription, adapted from the hymn “O Valiant Hearts” by John S. Arkwright, reads: “NOBLY YOU FOUGHT, YOUR KNIGHTLY VIRTUE PROVED / YOUR MEMORY HALLOWED IN THE LAND YOU LOVED.” These words, set into a stone tablet on the broad square plinth, lend the site a deeply personal and poetic quality. Bronze panels originally listed the names of the fallen from County Antrim, and the monument continues to serve as a focal point for remembrance, with annual services held around Armistice Day. Its Grade B2 listed status reflects its importance as both a war memorial and a historic structure, a place where history is not just recorded but physically present in the landscape.Views That Stretch for Miles
At 390 metres (about 1,230 feet) above sea level, the summit of Knockagh Hill offers one of the most expansive panoramic views in the region. From the monument’s base, the eye sweeps across Carrickfergus and the shores of Belfast Lough, taking in the city of Belfast, the hills of North Down, and the open waters of the Irish Sea. On clear days, the outline of the Antrim coast and the distant Mourne Mountains can often be seen. This vantage point makes the site not only a place of commemoration but also a natural viewpoint, where the scale of the landscape underscores the scale of the sacrifice it honours. The surrounding hillside is largely open moorland, with paths leading up from the village of Greenisland and the nearby road.Visiting the Summit
The monument sits on Monument Road, just above Greenisland, and is freely accessible to visitors at all hours. There is on‑site parking, making it easy to reach by car, and the final approach to the obelisk is a short, level walk across grassy ground. The site is well maintained, with information boards explaining the history and significance of the memorial. Because of its exposed hilltop location, the weather can change quickly, so sturdy footwear and weather‑appropriate clothing are recommended, especially in winter. The monument is a popular spot for quiet reflection, photography, and short walks, and it is often included in local remembrance events and guided historical walks in the area.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Knockagh Monument
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Northern Ireland’s largest war memorial, standing tall on Knockagh Hill with sweeping views over Belfast Lough and the surrounding countryside.
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
