THINGS TO DO
Belleek Pottery
Promoting over 160 years of craftsmanship, Belleek Pottery is located in the quaint village of Belleek in Co. Fermanagh on the banks of the River Erne. This Neo-Georgian building is home to Ireland’s oldest working fine china pottery. Established in 1857, Belleek Pottery holds a very special place in Ireland’s cultural and commercial heritage. Producing more than 100,000 pieces of pottery annually, passing through 16 pairs of hands, Belleek has opened its doors by giving you the chance to buy their special pieces online. The Belleek Group comprises world renowned gift and tableware brands of Belleek Classic, Belleek Living, Galway Irish Crystal and Aynsley China.
Donegal Castle
Built by the O’Donnell chieftain in the 15th century, beside the River Eske, the Castle has extensive 17th century additions by Sir Basil Brooke. The Castle is furnished throughout and includes Persian rugs and French tapestries. Information panels chronicle the history of the Castle owners from the O’Donnell chieftains to the Brooke family. Limited access for people with disabilities to the ground floor.
Things for the family in Donegal
- Playground – found near to the Donegal Railway Heritage Centre in Donegal Town.
- Bundoran Adventure Park – a selection of rides and attractions to entertain for hours. Also available is the Adventure Golf, Bumper Cars, Go Karts and much more. Visit com for more information.
Drive time approx. 25mins. Bus Eireann bus number 64 approx. 30mins
- Salthill Cabin, Mountcharles – a coffee shop located near Mountcharles Pier which has a small petting zoo. 10min drive from Donegal Town.
- Castle Adventure Open Farm: There are plenty of animal activities to enjoy under cover of barns, including bunny cuddling, lamb bottle-feeding and much more. As well as an indoor play area. Visit openfarm.ie or contact on 0719852688.
Located approximately 5km from Ballyshannon on the Rossnowlagh road.
- Tropical World: an unmissable experience with tropical butterflies as well as birds, lemurs, miniature monkeys, racoons, meerkats and more. Visit www.tropicalworld.ie or call 074-9121541. Booking is essential. Located near Letterkenny, approx. 50minute drive from Donegal Town.
- Wild Ireland: unique wild animal sanctuary with animals including wolves and bears. Tickets can be booked online. Visit wildireland.org for more information. Located in Burnfoot, approximately 1 hour drive.
- Cinema – There is a cinema located in both Bundoran (approx. 25minute drive) and Letterkenny (approx. 50minute drive).
- Arena7 – Located in Letterkenny Arena 7 is an indoor entertainment complex. IT has activities such as laser quest, bowling, soft play, arcade games and pool. Approx. drive 50 minutes from Donegal Town or Bus number 64. Visit arena7.ie or call 074 91 28853.
Donegal Craft Villages
We are a creative collective of craft and art studios and shops all clustered around a beautiful courtyard. We are a small community of skilled independent handcrafters and we invite you into our workshops to view our glass, hand-woven textiles, painting, jewellery, printmaking and handmade felt art. Situated 2km outside Donegal Town on the Wild Atlantic Way, the Craft Village is also home to the award winning Aroma coffee shop and mini bakery famous for its divine cakes, homemade brown bread and mouthwatering lunches.
We do hope that you drop by and say hello to us in our workshops and treat yourself to some of our many handmade gifts, from our hands to yours. We look forward to meeting you.
Donegal Railway Heritage Centre
We want you to be part of our museum and experience its rich history, so this is why we offer several ways to let you engage with us. To help maintain and develop the museum. Whether you are a young family wanting to entertain the kids on a rainy day, a railway enthusiast, a person who loves to preserve local history, or a couple looking for an interesting photo opportunity on your wedding day! We have it all here for you.
Glenveagh National Park
Glenveagh National Park is a remote and hauntingly beautiful wilderness of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, tumbling waterfalls and enchanted native oak woodland in the heart of the Derryveagh Mountains in the north west of County Donegal.
At the centre of the Park on the edge of Lough Veagh is Glenveagh Castle, a late 19th century castellated mansion, built as a hunting lodge.
Slieve League
Don’t miss your opportunity to visit one of Ireland’s best kept secrets and a signature point on the Wild Atlantic Way. Located in south west Donegal along this magnificent costal driving route are Ireland’s highest Sea Cliffs, Sliabh Liag. A visit to the cliffs and the surrounding region is a must on your Wild Atlantic Way adventure. Experience the local culture, heritage and people of Donegal against the backdrop of our spectacular and rugged coastline.
The Folk Village Glencolmcille
Glencolmcille Folk Village: This thatched-roof replica of a rural village in Ireland’s most north westerly county offers a glimpse into daily life as it was during past centuries.
The Folk Village Museum is a cluster of several small cottages, called a ‘clachan’, perched on a hillside overlooking the sandy curve of Glen Bay Beach in the Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking area) of South West Donegal. Designed, built and maintained by the local people, the Folk Village is one of Ireland’s best living-history museums.
Donegal Bay Water Bus
The Scheduled trip on Donegal Bay Waterbus is suitable for all age groups and families giving a guided tour around Donegal harbour, with a bit of a singsong and even the possibility of seeing seals. Ask at reception for sailing times. Tickets must be bought from the office down by the quay and must be booked at least half an hour in advance.
Phone:0749723666
Email: info@donegalbaywaterbus.com
Donegal Town Bank Trail
A 3.2 kilometre out and back trail along the river which is good for all skill levels. This walk features various bird boxes, signs, and even small fairy doors for the little ones to find.
Donegal Town Walking Tour
A 90 minute guided stroll around the cultural and historical sites in Donegal Town. Monday to Friday at 12noon. Contact Niamh on 0863931415 to book or for more information.
Donegal Town Walking Tour
A 90 minute guided stroll around the cultural and historical sites in Donegal Town. Monday to Friday at 12noon. Contact Niamh on 0863931415 to book or for more information.