Local Attractions

On the approach to Letterkenny the spire of Saint Eunan's Cathedral dominates the skyline. This 19th century cathedral stands on Sentry Hill and was commissions by the Bishop of Raphoe, Patrick O'Donnell, who in 1888 became the youngest bishop in the world at only 32 years of age. The Donegal County Museum is the place to visit for other fascinating historical facts. The museum is in the High Street in an old stone building which formed part of the Letterkenny Workhouse.

For the more activity minded the Letterkenny Leisure Centre is opposite the museum. This is fully equipped with a swimming pool, a learner's pool, air conditioned gymnasium, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. There are also tennis courts and a play area for children.

Letterkenny is the host for a number of internationally renowned events. The Donegal International Car Rally takes place in June and there is the Earagail Arts Festival in July organised by the Letterkenny Arts Centre.

An Grianán Theatre has established itself as a major venue in the Northwest and hosts major plays and artists from all over Ireland and the world. For programmes and booking contact 074 9120777.

The Century Cinema Complex shows all the latest releases in a luxurious newly opened facility. For advanced bookings contact 074 9121976.

There is an impressive range of shops in Letterkenny many of special interest to the tourist. The Derryveagh Crystal factory shop is open to the public and also features displays of crystal glass blowing.

The range of night clubs, restaurants and pubs is extremely impressive. You will never be lost for somewhere to go for a nights entertainment with places to eat out to suit all pockets.

Letterkenny is an excellent location for touring Donegal and the north of Ireland. Some of the many attractions close by in Donegal are

• Glenveagh National Park - covers 14000 hectares of mountains, lakes, glens and woods with a resident red deer herd. The Visitor Centre houses exhibitions, an audio-visual show and a restaurant. Glenveagh castle is surrounded by some of the finest gardens in Ireland.
  
• Newmills Corn & Flax Mills - Just outside Letterkenny on the R250 (Glenties Road) there is one of the largst working waterwheels in Irleand. One of the mill wheels was made by the Stevenson Foundry of Strabane in 1967 and is one of the few surviving Irish mill wheels.
  
• Glebe House & Gallery (The Derek Hill Collection) - this Regency House built in 1828 is decorated with William Morris textiles, Islamic and Japanese art. The Derek Hill collection includes over 300 works of art by leading 20th century artists including Picasso, Kokoshka and Irish and Italian artists.
  
• Colmcille Heritage Centre - celebrates the life and times of this most famous saint with displays of ancient manuscripts and artifacts.