Letterkenny

Letterkenny is a destination in Ulster, Ireland. Letterkenny (Irish: Leitir Ceanainn) is the largest town in County Donegal, serving as the county's commercial and administrative hub. It is set on the River Swilly in east Donegal, with a population of about 19,000. The town has a lively centre with good shopping, restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife scene. It is a convenient base for exploring the Inishowen Peninsula and the wider Donegal region.

By Car

The most practical way to reach Letterkenny is by car. Ulster (IE-U) is best explored with your own transport, as public connections are limited. The main roads are the N15 (Sligo–Donegal–Letterkenny), N13 (Letterkenny–Stranorlar), N14 (Letterkenny–Lifford), and N2 (Dublin–Monaghan–Letterkenny), all of which are good quality. Minor roads in Donegal are often narrow and winding — allow extra travel time.

By Train

There is no rail service within Ulster (IE-U). The nearest train stations are in Sligo (for Donegal) and Dundalk/Drogheda (for Cavan and Monaghan), where connecting buses are available. Irish Rail operates services to these stations from Dublin Connolly and Dublin Heuston.

By Bus

Bus Éireann operates services from Dublin and other major cities to Letterkenny, Donegal Town, Cavan, and Monaghan. Local bus services connect smaller towns but are infrequent, especially on Sundays. Advance route planning is essential, particularly for reaching remote coastal areas.

By Air

Donegal Airport (CFN) at Carrickfinn has flights from Dublin operated by Aer Lingus Regional. Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC) in County Mayo is an alternative for visitors to south Donegal. Dublin Airport (DUB) is about 2–2.5 hours' drive from Cavan and Monaghan.

Letterkenny is compact enough to explore on foot. For exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby attractions, a car is essential. The region's public transport network is limited, so advance planning is necessary for bus-based travel. In Donegal, the stunning coastal scenery rewards drivers willing to take the slower, more scenic routes.

"There is a town called Letterkenny which hath a market every Friday and two fairs in the year with a fair Church and a bridge at the east end over the River Swilly" - survey of 1652-56

Main Street (one way traffic south) is a mix of 19th century and modern low rise. Market Square is a little green space, with a statue commemorating its Hiring Fairs: bring any spare members of your family along and hope to hire them out for the season to local farmers. Especially your children: that's money in your pocket, fewer mouths to feed, and their education taken care of; it's just like Montessori only with cuffs to the earlugs instead of violin lessons.

Town Park is a pleasant green area north end of High Road by the hospital.

St Eunan's Cathedral (RC) on Castle St was built in the 1890s and is open daily 7AM-9PM. The Adoration Chapel adjacent within the Loretto Convent is also usually open similar hours.

Cathedral Square outside has a tall Celtic Cross, erected in 2006.

Conwal Parish Church (Church of Ireland) across the square is from 17th century, with an interesting interior and graveyard.

County Museum ,

High Rd ,

☏

+353 74 912 4613 ,

[email protected] .

M-F 10

What's on? Listen to Highland Radio on 103.3 MHz or read Donegal News , Donegal Live or Donegal Daily .

Walk: a footpath follows the north bank of the Swilly until you loop onto Ramelton Rd or return the same way.

An Grianán Theatre ,

Port Road F92 RV1F

( near bus station ),

☏

+353 74 912 0777 .

This stages drama and music in a modern building with a 383-seat auditorium.   ( updated Aug 2021 )

Regional Cultural Centre

( RCC ),

Cove Hill, Port Road

( behind An Grianán Theatre ),

☏

+353 74 912 9186 .

Tu-F 11AM-5PM, Sa 1-5PM .

One of the finest arts centres in the north west, with a year-round programme of visual art exhibitions, live music across classical, jazz, trad and world genres, and film screenings in association with Donegal Film Society. The building itself — a striking glass and aluminium structure designed by local architects MacGabhann — is worth a look.

Free admission to galleries .   ( updated Apr 2026 )

Century Cinema ,

Paddy Harte Rd F92 DA02 ,

☏

+353 74 912 1976 .

Mainstream film releases.   ( updated Aug 2021 )

Donegal International Rally is an annual tarmac car rally, over 3 days in June, based in Letterkenny bu

Local restaurants and trattorias serve regional cuisine featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Traditional dishes reflect the local culinary heritage.

Cafes and bars in the town centre serve coffee, wine, and local beverages. Regional wines and spirits are worth sampling.

Hotels, guesthouses, and bed-and-breakfast establishments offer accommodation. Advance booking is recommended during peak season.

Local shops offer regional products, handicrafts, and everyday necessities. Markets may be held weekly in the town square.

Nearby towns and natural attractions are within easy reach by car. Public transport connections are available to major cities in the region.