Visit Buncrana
Buncrana, nestled on the shores of Lough Swilly in Inishowen, County Donegal, is a charming coastal town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. Visitors are drawn to its stunning beaches, like Lisfannon and Porthaw, ideal for peaceful strolls or scenic picnics with panoramic sea views.
The town is steeped in history, with landmarks such as the 19th-century Buncrana Castle and the picturesque Swan Park providing glimpses into its storied past. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the walking trails, water sports, and nearby Inishowen Peninsula, while the lively local pubs and cafes add to the welcoming small-town atmosphere.
Whether you're after relaxation or adventure, Buncrana has something special to offer.
Things to do...
Ballyliffin Golf Club
Ballyliffin Golf Club consists of two outstanding, contrasting links courses and 36 wonderful holes, making up one of the finest golf resorts to be found anywhere in the world. The expansive panoramic views of countryside, coastline and ocean savoured by these magnificent links courses will not easily be forgotten.
Fort Dunree
In the Irish language Dunree translates as Dun Fhraoigh, meaning, “Fort of the Heather,” indicating that it was an important defensive location throughout history. Today however, it's stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, military museum, coastal artillery display and “The most scenic coffee shop in Ireland” are drawing increasing numbers of visitors to one of Inishowen’s most beautiful locations.
Wild Ireland
Located on the Wild Atlanic Way this is the newest and most exciting visitor attraction in the North West of Ireland. Come see the Brown bears, European Wolves and Lynx back together in the Irish forest for the first time in thousands of years. Here they live in their natural habitat in the temperate rainforest.
An Grianán of Aileach
Rumoured site of the baptism of St Patrick, the fort consists of a circular stone wall made of dry-stacked stone. It has a diameter of about 23 meters (75 feet) and is about 5 meters (16 feet) thick at its base. The hill we know as an Grianán Ailigh has dominated the landscape of the Northwest for upwards of 4000 years and has views of Lough Foyle as well as extensive panorama covering five counties.
Places to eat...
Tank & Skinny’s - Buncrana
Quirky seaside cafe with breathtaking panoramic views. Comprehensive and wholesome menu with locally sourced ingredients and friendly welcoming staff. Located beside the Buncrana Pier and Lough Swilly Ferry.
Railway Tavern
The Railway Tavern Firebox Grill is stationed in the former refreshment rooms at Fahan Station on the Derry to Buncrana line, run by the Londonderry & Lough Swilly Railway Company (L&LSR). The restaurant and bar are adorned with rare railway artefacts, vintage train memorabilia, alongside the resounding echoes of so many past visitors. Serving up a slice of history: one plate at a time!
Nancy's Barn
Nancy’s Barn is a quirky and innovative restaurant/bistro housed in an authentic 19th century converted barn. We have a well-deserved reputation for serving a wide range of delicious treats, all made from fresh local produce, including a large range of organic salads and vegetables, delicious home baking and a selection of fresh daily specials. Our speciality has become our world award-winning seafood chowder.
Places to stay...
The Harbour Inn
The Harbour Inn is a modern 30 bedroom, family run Inn beautifully located in Buncrana, Co. Donegal. Situated on the hillside overlooking the beautiful sandy beaches of Lough Swilly & the greens of The Northwest Golf Club.
Lough Eske Hotel
A long list of enviable and prestigious awards has been received by Lough Eske Castle Hotel throughout the years. Recent accolades and awards include being named the best luxury hotel in Ireland by The Times in the UK, Conde Nast's Top Ten Luxury Hotels in Ireland for seven consecutive years including 2024
Inishowen Gateway Hotel
The Inishowen Gateway Hotel in Donegal is a three-star property located on the Inishowen peninsula, North East Donegal, an area of outstanding natural beauty and the hidden treasure of Donegal’s stunning landscape. Located only a short 15 minute drive from Derry and 30 minutes from Letterkenny, our Hotel in Donegal offers an ideal base to explore the surrounding area and the Wild Atlantic Way route.
McGrory's Hotel
McGrory’s Hotel is a family owned hotel with a reputation for proividing a unique experience through award winning food and drink, friendly service and a great night’s sleep as well as traditional music. The hotel consists of 17 comfortably styled bedrooms, a restaurant and two relaxed authentically Irish bars. It is the perfect location to explore the Wild Atlantic Way with nine discovery points only a scenic drive away.
Located minutes from Culdaff beach with swimming, canoeing, surfing, sea and shore angling only a short drive away.
Where are we?
