Letterkenny , County Donegal

Letterkenny , County Donegal

Letterkenny is the largest town in Donegal by some way. Though not a normal tourist target on Ireland tours , it does have some hidden gems to offer.

Although it sits at the mouth of Lough Swilly , there’s no water in sight , and the most notable visual element is the huge 19th century Cathedral of Saints Eunan and Columba at the top of Church Street , with its intricate stone-roped ceiling , flying buttresses and gaelicized Stations of the Cross.

Donegal County Museum is housed in part of the old Letterkenny workhouse on High Road. Exhibitions occupy the downstairs area while upstairs is a typical display of artefacts from megalithic to more recent times , including the keys and lock of the old Lifford jail , and an account of the old Donegal County Railway , which ran to and from Letterkenny.

The restored Newmills Corn and Flax Mills , located beside the River Swilly and , naturally , powered by its waters was closed as recently as 1982 and much of the old machinery is still present.

Its also has decent shops on offer.

Check it out on any tours of Ireland.

letterkenny