I've been staying with my sister whom currently lives in Carrickfergus. This afternoon, I walked…read moreinto town to just entertain myself. I had intended to stop into a small art gallery that was closed the first time I went by... just for a few minutes to see what I could see... then I was off for some tea before heading back and starting dinner. Well then I met Thomas. Thomas is the local artist and proprietor of The Courtyard Gallery. His work is stunning. He specializes in watercolors of seascapes in that capture the bold and sometimes stark Northern Ireland coast as well as bright, vibrant and whimsical farm life. I was drawn into the gallery by the art but stayed over an hour making a new friend in Thomas. He's a fascinating gentleman that gives willingly of his time to discuss his art or any other topic that happens to come up between you. He is warm. He loves his dog, whom stays at the shop with him. He loves golf. He paints because he loves it and it shows. I purchased one piece today and will return after I've completed some measurements for my suitcase for some larger works. Carrickfergus is a quaint little town and I was so pleased to find such a treasure in both Thomas and his work. Do not miss this amazing opportunity to take home such creative and stunning impressions of Northern Ireland with you while meeting the creator in the process. The experience has easily been on of my favorite parts of my trip. Thank you, Thomas! I'll see you soon!

Everyone who works there is amazing. The food, delicious. Everything Amazing…read more Would fully recommend to anyone They think a lot about their coffee, it is incredible.

Hi there folks, this coffee shop is beautifully presented and friendly atmosphere also sells…read morehomemade produce and crafts, next door is the village gallery run by Trevor he will give advice on picture framing and sells artists materials.

The Ards peninsula is the home to a wealth of creative and artistic talent and the Doghouse gallery…read morein Comber houses just a small snippet of it. The Doghouse gallery markets itself as an intimate gallery space but when I visited recently I felt that it should perhaps mention the type of Artwork it displays in the countless blurbs in tourist information booklets. This place is anything but a Doghouse, despite being relatively small in comparison to other galleries, it is classy, sleek space for local art to get the exposure they deserve. The is quaint and unassuming. It welcomes visitors and the staff housed in the Doghouse Gallery are more like puppies that pit bulls. They are approachable, so if you particularly like one of the textiles hanging or the design installations then I would advise you to ask questions because they will gladly answer them. The emphasis in the Doghouse is on quality o design and you are not going to be disappointed with either. The Doghouse is something to be proud of and so are the unique designs inside. Doghouse gallery is currently closed until October 7th, they are restocking and their collection. But do not worry Doghouse will start their winter session soon.

From the owner: Welcome to the Doghouse, a contemporary art/craft gallery situated in Comber, Co.Down. The gallery…read morehosts a wide variety of carefully selected, studio made crafts and fine art by full-time designer makers from home and abroad. Ranges include, jewellery and accessories, textiles, leather, metal, glass, ceramics and paintings.

gallery closed more than 2 years agoread more

Well, didn't I have an interesting day! Initially I started out to visit a different art gallery…read morewhich unfortunately was closed but fear not, I trooped on another gallery sign posted across the road. So, first port of call then was Castle Upton gallery. Now, I don't know how many times I've driven past this place and I've never once taken notice, but sure isn't that always the way. Well, there's a first time for everything and all that. I can tell you now; I'm so glad I eventually decided to come. It was a short, pretty walk down a winding path through the beautiful grounds of the castle (which unfortunately is privately owned so you can't nosy about) until you actually reach the gallery. Honestly, you could take or leave the gallery but the grounds are worth a visit alone for the walk around here. But, seeing as it was the whole point of me coming here well, I though I may as well troop on. I was warmly greeted by two gorgeous big Labradors bounding down the courtyard to meet me, which fully made me smile, none of this poncy, holier than thou nonsense that I've come to expect from certain establishments. The cuddly canines were allowed to wander freely around; one even had his bed under the manager's desk, how sweet, brownie points there! As far as the gallery was concerned it was quite a small affair showing a range of different styles. I was quite pleased with the variation on offer; it covered national and international artists, painting, sculptures and 3D pieces. Artists included; Barbara Allen (her watercolours were beautiful!) Heidi Wickman (see her cows - love them!) Deadre McKibbin and her fantastic egg piece! And I actually quite liked Kevin McAleenan's abstract pieces (I'm not a huge abstract fan, so actually liking them means a lot!) I really enjoyed the relaxed yet professional atmosphere of Castle Upton. All in all it's quite a hidden gem in the middle of Templepatrick. Worth a visit if you're an art lover, if so, take your time and visit Coloured Rain up the road as well, or while you're here take a walk around the near by Mausoleum which is a fascinating place.