Visit Letterkenny to Enjoy Both Historic and Modern Attractions
Letterkenny is the largest and most populated town in County Donegal. Many Irish residents commute to the town every weekday, often to work in its technology companies. However, Letterkenny’s beautiful scenery, vibrant nightlife scene and cultural attractions regularly entice visitors to book hotels and see what this bustling town has to offer as well. You’ll find Ireland’s only Hindu temple in Letterkenny, not to mention O’Donnell Park, where Letterkenny’s two Gaelic football teams, Naomh Adhamhnáin and Letterkenny Gaels, play home matches. Letterkenny became a market town in the 17th century, and has since modernised in meaningful ways.
Attractions for Arts Lovers
Treat yourself to a memorable play by heading to the An Grianán Theatre. It’s the largest venue of its kind in County Donegal, and a favourite destination among Letterkenny locals and visitors alike. The theatre’s auditorium holds nearly 400 people, and the performance area within the theatre is one of the biggest in Ireland. Because An Grianán Theatre is open all day, you can spend some time here beyond merely seeing a production. For example, leave your hotel early and go to the theatre’s café and bar to quench your thirst and tempt your taste buds before seeing a play, or admire the theatre’s rotating art exhibitions. Also, if you’re visiting during the month of July, you might be in town during the Earagail Arts Festival, a bilingual and multidisciplinary celebration that includes plays, musical performances, and panel discussions. Whether you’re a proud arts professional or simply have abundant appreciation for the arts as a patron, Letterkenny has diversions to fuel that passion.
Learn About Local Culture and Individuals
The Donegal County Museum is a notable Letterkenny attraction that was once recognised by the Irish government as one of the best museums in the country. This point of interest is inside an old stone building that used to be a workhouse beginning in 1845. Exhibits take guests through some of the major events that occurred in Letterkenny and the surrounding areas. Explore sections of the museum that explain Stone Age history, through interesting happenings of the 20th century. Also, head to the Colmcille Heritage Centre to learn more about a Saint Colmcille, an Irish Christian missionary largely responsible for spreading the faith to Scotland. Colmcille was born in Gartan, which is also in County Donegal, so it makes sense there’s a centre dedicated to his life in this part of Ireland. Guests arriving at this interpretive attraction from their hotels are greeted with an audio-visual exhibition about Saint Colmcille’s life, beautiful stained glass windows, elaborate Celtic crosses and a step-by-step explanation of ancient religious manuscript preservation practices.
Shop for Memorable Merchandise
Letterkenny offers numerous shopping opportunities, ranging from boutique establishments to sprawling retail hubs. To get a good example of the latter, go to Letterkenny Shopping Centre. The oldest retail park in the area, it was established in 1984 and is open every day. Satisfy a sugar craving by getting Irish treats at a sweets shop, or go to a craft store to get a wide variety of art supplies and kits. Also, if you’re looking for something to do in Letterkenny on a Saturday, the Letterkenny Artisan Market is an excellent pick. It happens weekly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Carrygally Business Park (also referred to as The Old Quarry). This market is a good place to go to buy a handmade item to help you remember your time in the town. Many of the merchants sell hot food, which is good news if you’re feeling hungry from all your shopping. Look for delicious baked goods to bring back to your hotel, too.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities
Some Irish seasons feature many rainy days, so Irish locals know how to make the most of sunshine. Follow their lead when the sun is shining by going to the Letterkenny Town Park. It’s the largest public park in Donegal, and includes an inviting playground. Pay respects to members of the Irish police force (also known as the gardaí) who lost their lives in the line of duty by visiting the Garden of Remembrance. Representatives from the Donegal County Council consistently make financial contributions to this facility, meaning it’s perpetually well kept, and often hosts fun, family-friendly events such as concerts and festivals, particularly in the summer. Also, embark on a pedestrian tour of the town by following the Slí na Sláinte trail. It winds its way from the bus depot on the Station Roundabout to the Old Port. In total, the route is 2.7 kilometres, making it an excellent way to stretch your legs before going back to your hotel.