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Top Things to Do in Buncrana, Ireland

Places to visit in buncrana, explore popular experiences, tours in and around buncrana.

DAY TOUR: Highlights of Derry and Donegal

Glenveagh National Park and Gaeltacht Tour

Bog Safari Hike

Mysteries of Inishowen private day tour

Walking Tour Buncrana

Malin Head and Inishowen Tour

A Walk Through Time in Fort Dunree

7 Arches Kayak Tour

Oakfield Park Day Pass and Train Ride

DONEGAL DAY TOUR: Coast and Castles

Cultural & theme tours.

Top Attractions in Buncrana

Other Top Attractions around Buncrana

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & Custom Tours

What travellers are saying.

Top Things to Do in Buncrana - Buncrana Must-See Attractions

Things to do in buncrana, explore popular experiences, tours in and around buncrana.

DAY TOUR: Highlights of Derry and Donegal

Glenveagh National Park and Gaeltacht Tour

Bog Safari Hike

Mysteries of Inishowen private day tour

Walking Tour Buncrana

Malin Head and Inishowen Tour

A Walk Through Time in Fort Dunree

7 Arches Kayak Tour

Oakfield Park Day Pass and Train Ride

DONEGAL DAY TOUR: Coast and Castles

Cultural & theme tours.

Top Attractions in Buncrana

Other Top Attractions around Buncrana

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & Custom Tours

What travellers are saying.

Top Things to Do in Buncrana

Things to do in buncrana, explore popular experiences, tours in and around buncrana.

DAY TOUR: Highlights of Derry and Donegal

Glenveagh National Park and Gaeltacht Tour

Bog Safari Hike

Mysteries of Inishowen private day tour

Walking Tour Buncrana

Malin Head and Inishowen Tour

A Walk Through Time in Fort Dunree

7 Arches Kayak Tour

Oakfield Park Day Pass and Train Ride

DONEGAL DAY TOUR: Coast and Castles

Cultural & theme tours.

Top Attractions in Buncrana

Other Top Attractions around Buncrana

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & Custom Tours

What travellers are saying.

Plan Your Buncrana Holiday: Best of Buncrana

PLAN YOUR HOLIDAY Buncrana

Essential buncrana.

Buncrana Is Great For

Sand & surf.

Cultural & Theme Tours

The Buncrana Beach Guide: 4 To Saunter Along

By Author James March

Posted on Last updated: February 7, 2023

We get emails asking about ‘Buncrana Beach’ every once and a while. However, there isn’t just one beach here – there are several!

The waters around Buncrana in County Donegal have seen their fair share of intrigue and adventure over the years (did you know Wolfe Tone was captured and imprisoned near here?).

Fast forward to 2022 and there are several sandy stretches around the town to enjoy. You’ll find info on each of them below.

Some quick need-to-knows about Buncrana’s beaches

Photo left: Hemi Photography. Right: Tank & Skinny’s

Although a visit to Buncrana Beach is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

1. There are several

Where to start then? There are a bunch of beaches around Buncrana that look out towards the mighty Lough Swilly and all of them have their own character. Choose from Buncrana Beach, Lady’s Bay, Porthaw Beach and the slightly more removed Stragill Bay Beach (great for a little ramble!). 

2. You can pair a visit with a great breakfast

Located just a stone’s throw from Buncrana Pier, Tank and Skinny’s is a bright and stylish café/bistro with gorgeous views across Lough Swilly! Kick off your day in Buncrana with a few of their fluffy pancakes or an indulgent breakfast burrito. And don’t forget to grab a coffee-to-go for the walking!

3. Part of the Inishowen 100

The Inishowen Peninsula is criminally underrated, but if you want to get to know it better then the Inishowen 100 is an awesome drive that takes in a bunch of awesome sights, scenery and attractions (see our guide with handy Google Map here ).

4. Water safety (please read)

Understanding water safety is  absolutely   crucial  when visiting  beaches in Ireland . Please take a minute to read  these water safety tips . Cheers!

Beaches in Buncrana worth a visit

Each of the beaches in Buncrana vary greatly and some have more appeal than others. Here’s a speedy overview of each:

1. Buncrana Beach

The long sandy expanse of Buncrana Beach is about a 20-minute walk from the lively town centre of Buncrana (there’s plenty of parking) and is lovely for a ramble at any time of day! 

In summer, you can usually find one or two ice cream vans nearby and you might see a coffee van too. You’ll also find a toilet and showering facilities beside the smaller car park at the beach.

And definitely don’t miss the gorgeous sunsets from here, when the sun dips below the distant mountains across Lough Swilly. 

2. Lady’s Bay

If you’ve just enjoyed a fine feed at Tank and Skinny’s , then Lady’s Bay is very conveniently placed for your first morning stroll! Walk straight out onto the beach and go for a saunter with your coffee while enjoying beautiful views across Lough Swilly. 

As well as being the closest beach to Buncrana town if you want to head back and explore the main street, Lady’s Bay is also the start of the Buncrana Shore Path walk (which we’ll talk a bit more about later!). 

3. Porthaw Beach

A secluded beach on the Buncrana Shore Path, Porthaw Beach is located around 4km north of Buncrana town and is a lovely spot for relaxing as it’s rarely too busy.

There are car parking facilities a short walk away at Ned’s Point, but it’s best discovered as part of the shore path. 

Enjoy the lovely views from here and keep an eye out for Lough Swilly’s abundant wildlife, such as dolphins, porpoise, seabirds, migratory geese and swans.

4. Stragill Bay Beach

Around 6km north of Buncrana, Stragill Bay Beach is the final stop of the Buncrana Shore Path and it’s a great spot to end your walk. The beach is large and has plenty of room for strolling and there are a bunch of rocks that are great for climbing if you’ve got kids with you. 

There’s parking here, but like with Porthaw, taking the Buncrana Shore Path is far more rewarding. And if you time it right, you’ll arrive in late afternoon for one of those majestic Lough Swilly sunsets!

Places to visit near Buncrana

There’s a handful of things to do in Buncrana , but there’s  endless  places to visit a short spin away.

So, if you’re staying in one of the hotels in Buncrana for a few nights, here’s some things to do to keep you occupied.

1. Mamore Gap (20-minute drive)

Photos by Ondrej Prochazka/Shutterstock

Rising up to 800ft above sea level and giving off gorgeous panoramas down towards Dunaff Head, the Mamore Gap is one of the most unique stretches of road in Ireland!

Park up at the car park near the holy shrine (yes, there’s also a holy shrine!) and take a bit of time to fully appreciate the epic views. 

2. Glenevin Waterfall (20-minute drive)

Photos by The Irish Road Trip

One of a number of magical spots in the area, the picturesque Glenevin Waterfall cascades over black rocks from a height of 40ft.

A handy 20-minute drive from Buncrana, the soothing sound of the tumbling fresh mountain water is one of many reasons to head to this enchanting spot.

3. Fort Dunree (15-minute drive)

Photo left: Lukassek. Right: Lucky Team Studio/shutterstock

Initially built to guard against potential French invasion during the Napoleonic Wars, Fort Dunree is now a museum that houses a fascinating display of military memorabilia and artifacts. 

Oh, and its location is absolutely spectacular! Perched on a rocky promontory overlooking Lough Swilly, the wild views are epic. 

FAQs about Buncrana Beach

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘Which beach is best for a swim?’ to ‘Where’s worth visiting nearby?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Are there many beaches in Buncrana?

Yes, there’s 4 main beaches in and around Buncrana: Buncrana Beach, Lady’s Bay, Porthaw Beach and Stragill Bay Beach.

Is Buncrana Beach worth stopping off at?

We’d argue that any beach is worth having even a little nosey at. The beach here is a good spot to stretch the legs. The views over Lough Swilly add to the experience!

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• 2 Get around

Buncrana ( Bun Cranncha , "foot of the river Crana") is a town on Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal , on the shores of Lough Swilly. It was a textile town, but the "Fruit of the Loom" factory closed in 2006, so Buncrana now gets by as a commuter base for both Derry (23 km) and Letterkenny (43 km). Its population in 2016 was 6785, making it the second-largest town in the county.

The main reason to come is to explore Inishowen Peninsula, the northern tip of the Irish mainland. The TIC is Go Visit Inishowen on Railway Rd, open M-F 09:30-17:30, Sa 10:00-16:30.

Get in [ edit ]

For long-distance routes by air, rail and road, see Derry .

From Derry, McGonagle Bus [dead link] runs hourly from Guildhall via Burnfoot and Fahan to Buncrana (35 min), continuing to Cockhill. They run M-F 08:00-18:00, Sa from 10:00, with only two on Sunday.

From Letterkenny, McGonagle Bus 951 takes 40 min. It runs three times M-F and twice on Saturday.

Local Link Bus 955 runs two or three times M-Sa from Cardonagh. One run per day is along the coast via Ballyliffen and Dunree.

55.136 -7.457 1 Buncrana Bus Station is the high falutin' name they give to the stop on St Mary's Rd. There isn't even a bus shelter.

Swilly Ferry crosses the lough between Rathmullen and 55.127 -7.464 2 Buncrana Pier . It carries cars and sails Jun-Sept daily every 80 min or so. In 2021 an adult foot passenger is €5 single, €7 return, and a car with up to 2 adults and three children is €17 single, €28 return.

Get around [ edit ]

You need wheels to get around Inishowen Peninsula.

See [ edit ]

• Castle Bridge at the outlet of Crana River leads to the Keep and Swan Park.
• 55.14 -7.463 1 O'Doherty's Keep is the shell of a tower built by the Normans in the 14th century. The third floor was added in 1602 to welcome the Spanish army that would surely drive out the English; but they landed altogether the wrong end of the country at Kinsale , and were besieged then sent packing. Nothing daunted, Sir Cahir O'Doherty launched his rebellion of 1608, burning Derry, but he and his men were soon beaten. It only remained for the English to burn this place in reprisal, put to death any remaining rebels, and award the land to their own supporters. The Keep passed to the Vaughan family, who in 1718 recycled much of the stone to build Buncrana Castle adjacent (a private mansion, no tours), and they laid out the town on its present pattern. The Keep is unsafe to enter but you come for the scenic riverside park.
• 55.141 -7.475 2 Ned's Point Fort half a mile beyond the Keep is a gun battery built in 1812 against Napoleonic invasion. It was re-armed in the 1890s but disarmed in 1905. The structure is derelict and you can't enter.
• Dunree lighthouse 200 m north of the fort was first lit in 1876 and remains in use.
• 55.084 -7.462 4 St Mura's is a C of I church in Fahan with monastery ruins in its graveyard.
• 55.065 -7.495 5 Inch Island is connected by road to its east and a footpath causeway to its south. A 15th century turret stands at its southwest point, but you mostly come for the bird life in the lough channel. An 8 km loop path follows the shore.
• 55.197 -7.334 6 Slieve Snaght is the 615 m mountain between Buncrana and Carndonagh. You might be content to admire it from afar, as it's boggy and midge-ridden by any route. Shortest but soggiest approach is from the lane to the east, 12 km return. Many prefer to ascend from R244 around Drumfrees: a track leads up towards Slieve Snaghtbeg (505 m), then pick your way to the main summit.
• Grianan of Aileach: see Derry for this sturdy ringfort above Burt village.

Do [ edit ]

• What's on? For local events read Inish Times, Inishowen Independent , InishowenNews.com , or the Derry Journal.
• Cinema: Buncrana Cinema is on St Mary's Rd, north end of Main St.
• Golf: Buncrana GC [dead link] is south side of town by Amazing Grace Park. Northwest GC is on the coast at Lisfannon 3 km south.
• Fishing: you need a permit for fishing in the river, available at several stores.
• Art: there isn't a public gallery, but Northern Light [dead link] on Main St is a commercial gallery displaying the photography of Adam Rory Porter.
• Wains World is a children's indoor adventure play area on Milltown Business Park, 200 m east of Lidl. It could save your sanity.

Buy [ edit ]

• Buncrana is the main shopping town, with Aldi, Lidl, and SuperValu.
• There are ATMs outside Bank of Ireland, AIB and Ulsterbank.

Eat [ edit ]

• Main St has a slew of budget places: Ubiquitous Restaurant, Four Lanterns, Oscar's , Abrakebabra, Sherpa and La Papa [dead link] .
• The Drift Inn , Railway Rd, Buncrana ( by Gateway Hotel ), ☏ +353 74 936 1999 . Th 14:00-21:30, F-Su 13:00-21:00 . Gastropub in the former railway station. ( updated Aug 2021 )
• The hotels have the best dining, with Red Door getting the best reviews.

Drink [ edit ]

• O'Flaherty's Bar , 41 Upper Main St, Buncrana F93 X21F . Friendly central bar. ( updated Aug 2021 )
• Rodden's Bar , 4 Upper Main St, Buncrana F93 K3CF , ☏ +353 86 894 8177 . Triendly bar often has live rock or soul at weekends and trad sessions Sundays. Open fire in winter. Decked beer garden open year-round. ( updated Aug 2021 )

Sleep [ edit ]

• Camping and caravans may be able to pitch at Amazing Grace Park south side of town. Lough Swilly caravan park has closed.
• Tullyarvan Mill Hostel didn't open in 2021.
• B&Bs mostly didn't open in 2021, but try St Columbus House or Town Clock B&B in the centre, or Caldra along Westbrook.
• Lake of Shadows Hotel , Grianan Park, Buncrana F93 VY36 , ☏ +353 74 936 1005 . Comfy friendly hotel in town centre. B&B double €100 . ( updated Aug 2021 )
• 55.142 -7.455 1 Westbrook House B&B , Westbrook, Buncrana F93 H795 , ☏ +353 74 936 1067 . Welcoming B&B in a Georgian mansion. B&B double €110 . ( updated Aug 2021 )
• 55.126 -7.457 2 Inishowen Gateway Hotel , Railway Rd, Buncrana F93 PPH9 , ☏ +353 74 936 1144 . Decent mid-price hotel on coast south edge of town, comfy but service erratic. B&B double €100 . ( updated Aug 2021 )
• 55.116 -7.46 3 Harbour Inn , Derry Rd, Luddan F93 V57X ( by Northwest Golf Course ), ☏ +353 74 932 1810 . Friendly well-run small hotel on coast road. B&B double €80 . ( updated Aug 2021 )
• 55.085 -7.466 4 The Red Door , Fahan F93 FV4Y , ☏ +353 74 936 0289 . This country house hotel gets great scores for comfort and dining. ( updated Aug 2021 )

Connect [ edit ]

As of Aug 2021, Buncrana has 5G from Three, and 4G from Eir and Vodafone.

Go next [ edit ]

• Carndonagh is the main settlement in the north of Inishowen Peninsula, with Malin Head the most northerly point on the Irish mainland.
• Derry is a fascinating historic city with intact 17th century walls.
• Letterkenny is Donegal's main transport and accommodation hub.

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Things to Do in Buncrana, Ireland - Buncrana Attractions

Things to do in buncrana, explore popular experiences, tours in and around buncrana.

DAY TOUR: Highlights of Derry and Donegal

Glenveagh National Park and Gaeltacht Tour

Bog Safari Hike

Mysteries of Inishowen private day tour

Walking Tour Buncrana

Malin Head and Inishowen Tour

A Walk Through Time in Fort Dunree

7 Arches Kayak Tour

Oakfield Park Day Pass and Train Ride

DONEGAL DAY TOUR: Coast and Castles

Cultural & theme tours.

Top Attractions in Buncrana

Other Top Attractions around Buncrana

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & Custom Tours

What travelers are saying.

Top Things to Do in Buncrana - Buncrana Must-See Attractions

Things to do in buncrana, explore popular experiences, tours in and around buncrana.

DAY TOUR: Highlights of Derry and Donegal

Glenveagh National Park and Gaeltacht Tour

Bog Safari Hike

Mysteries of Inishowen private day tour

Walking Tour Buncrana

Malin Head and Inishowen Tour

A Walk Through Time in Fort Dunree

7 Arches Kayak Tour

Oakfield Park Day Pass and Train Ride

DONEGAL DAY TOUR: Coast and Castles

Cultural & theme tours.

Top Attractions in Buncrana

Other Top Attractions around Buncrana

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & Custom Tours

What travellers are saying.

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Buncrana

Things to do in buncrana, explore popular experiences, tours in and around buncrana.

DAY TOUR: Highlights of Derry and Donegal

Glenveagh National Park and Gaeltacht Tour

Bog Safari Hike

Mysteries of Inishowen private day tour

Walking Tour Buncrana

Malin Head and Inishowen Tour

A Walk Through Time in Fort Dunree

7 Arches Kayak Tour

Oakfield Park Day Pass and Train Ride

DONEGAL DAY TOUR: Coast and Castles

Cultural & theme tours.

Top Attractions in Buncrana

Other Top Attractions around Buncrana

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & Custom Tours

What travellers are saying.

Buncrana Town

Buncrana is a town in County Donegal, Ireland. It is located on the Inishowen Peninsula and is the largest town on the peninsula. It has a population of around 6,500 people and is known for its beautiful scenery, including stunning views over Lough Swilly and the nearby hills. Buncrana is a popular tourist destination and is known for its lively pubs and restaurants.

The town is historically linked to the O’Doherty clan and was originally built around O’Doherty’s keep which is situated at the foot of the Crana River. The keep can still be found there as can Buncrana Castle an 18th manor house built by Colonel George Vaughan in 1718. He also built the main street in its present location south of the Crana at the same time.

The Keep is beside Swan Park which is in the process of being renovated and is partially open at the moment and will hopefully be fully open in 2021. It was badly affected by flash floods in 2017

The town has some great hotels and B&Bs as well as a hostel, there are also some fantastic places to go for something to eat and drink. There are plenty of local shops to choose from in the town where you can buy most things that you will need.

You will find Buncrana Beach , a great little beach on the town’s shorefront along with a children’s play park, tennis courts and small all-weather basketball and football pitch. Quite often there will be an ice cream van and or coffee van at the shorefront.

If you’re looking for holiday accommodation in Buncrana, you’ve come to the right place! Begin your search here and take the time to explore all the available local accommodation options in the area. Click the ‘Accommodation’ button below to find the best choices, which will lead you to a selection of places to stay, ensuring that your holiday in Buncrana is truly enjoyable and memorable!

Important disclosure: Inish View is a proud participant in the Booking.com Affiliate Program. What does this mean for you? If you choose to make a booking through the provided link, rest assured that you won’t incur any extra charges.

However, by using this link, you are supporting us as we may receive a small commission. Your support means the world to us! Thank you for choosing Inish View and happy travels!

Accommodation

During the summer months, a ferry runs between Buncrana and Rathmullen on the Fanad Peninsula.

there are some fine walks in Buncrana with the best one being the Buncrana Coastal Walk , which is approx. 2. km long one way and finishes in the beautiful Stragill Strand, it has views across Lough Swilly which are particularly impressive.

There is also the Buncrana Heritage Trail which goes around the town and includes several information points about the extensive history of the town.

You can find a small river walk by an old mill on the Owenkillew River in the south of the town.

Read a little more about the history of the town by clicking here .

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Buncrana Bridge Print

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Accomodation, food and drink near here.

Lake Of Shadows Hotel – Buncrana

Inishowen Gateway Hotel – Buncrana

The Harbour Inn – Buncrana

Activities near here.

Buncrana Beach

Buncrana Heritage Trail – 3.6 to 4.3 km easy

Buncrana Outdoor Gym

Buncrana Play Park

Buncrana Shore Path Coastal Walk – 4.6 km – easy

Buncrana Tennis Courts

Ludden Beach

O’Doherty’s Keep

Stragill Beach

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Buncrana Heritage Trail

by Elena T.

Buncrana Heritage Walk: Discover the Amazing Grace Story and Stunning Views

If you are looking for a beautiful and informative walk in the charming town of Buncrana, then the Buncrana Heritage Trail is the perfect choice. This easy, light shore walk will introduce you to the amazing story behind the famous hymn "Amazing Grace," stunning views of Lough Swilly, and the beautiful town of Buncrana.

The Story of Amazing Grace

The trail starts at the sandy beach beside Buncrana pier, and as you walk along the shore to the river Crana outfall, you will learn the incredible story behind "Amazing Grace." This hymn, performed about 10 million times annually, tells the story of the slave trade and a life-changing storm that connected them with John Newton and Lough Swilly.

Easy and Accessible Trail

The trail is an elementary level, suitable for everyone who wants to enjoy a short walk with stunning views. It is also perfect for children, toddlers, wheelchairs, buggies, dogs, and anyone who wants to explore the area's beauty. The trail offers plenty of benches, a picnic area, an outdoor fitness area, and a lovely playground. You can also find information about the story of "Amazing Grace" placed on several boards along the path.

Stunning Views of Buncrana and Surroundings

As you continue your walk through the Castle Bridge in Swan park and follow the trail along the Buncrana Shore path, you will enjoy the breathtaking views of Buncrana pier, Lough Swilly, Rathmullan pier, Rathmullan beach, Kinnegar beach, and Inch Island. These fantastic views will make you want to stay longer on the path, but the real magic happens when the river Crana meets the sea.

Great Mix of History, Entertainment, and Nature

The Buncrana Heritage Trail is a great mix of history, entertainment, and nature. It is an excellent spot for everyone who wants to have a lovely day out alone or with family and friends. The trail ends with the Crana river meeting the sea under the Crana bridge, a six-arched stone bridge built in 1718. Car parks and toilets are available in the area, and a coffee/tea van regularly serves the visitors.

The Buncrana Heritage Trail is a must-visit spot for everyone who wants to learn the history of "Amazing Grace," enjoy stunning views of Lough Swilly, and explore the beauty of Buncrana. This easy, light shore walk is accessible to everyone and offers plenty of entertainment, nature observing, and exercise. So, if you are planning to visit Buncrana, make sure to add the Buncrana Heritage Trail to your itinerary.

  📸  Pictures by Elena T.

Tips for visitors:

• Wear comfortable shoes: The walk is an easy one, but it is still advisable to wear comfortable shoes to make your walk enjoyable.
• Bring snacks and drinks: You'll find a picnic area along the path, so it's an excellent opportunity to bring some snacks and drinks with you to enjoy while you take in the stunning views.
• Check the weather: While the path is suitable for all kinds of weather, it is still important to check the weather forecast before heading out. If it's rainy, bring rain gear, and if it's sunny, don't forget sunscreen and a hat.
• Take your time: The walk is not very long, but there's no need to rush through it. Take your time, enjoy the scenery, and take advantage of the picnic area to rest and relax.
• Learn about the history: Make sure to read the information boards along the path to learn more about the history of Buncrana and the story of the Amazing Grace hymn.
• Support local businesses: Don't forget to stop by the coffee/tea van and support local businesses by buying some refreshments.
• Respect the environment: Remember to take your litter with you and respect the environment by not damaging or removing any plants or wildlife along the path.

Parking (Free)

Buggy Friendly

Children Friendly

Baby Changing Station

Pets Allowed

Tea & Coffee

Map Location

Distance from:.

Letterkenny - 40.7 km

Buncrana - 1.2 km

Bunbeg - 89.9 km

Donegal Town - 82.4 km

Derry - 15.7 ml

Visit more places for a walk in Donegal

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• Coastal escapes
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The Buncrana shore-path is a traffic free walk which follows the shoreline of Lough Swilly between Buncrana and Stragill Strand. It is gently undulating path which passes quiet beaches, old forts and a number of sites of historical interest. Wildlife is abundant and the views in all directions are superb.

Buncrana Coastal Walk is easy and relatively level for the whole route, although access to Stragill Strand at its southern end requires crossing a rough area of large stones and boulders.

The sea views across Lough Swilly are particularly impressive.

• Plan ahead and prepare
• Be considerate of others
• Respect farm animals and wildlife
• Travel and camp responsibly
• Leave what you find
• Dispose of waste properly
• Protect nature from fire

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The principal and largest town in the peninsula, Buncrana sits prominently on the shore of Lough Swilly, which translates, from Gaelic into the very appropriate “Lake of Shadows”. The importance of Lough Swilly to Buncrana during WWI became evident when Admiral Jellicoe moved his grand fleet from Scapa Flow to Lough Swilly. The Clan O’Dochartaigh has had a long affiliation with this town. The historic Ó’Dochartaigh’s Keep at the entrance to Swan Park sits beside Buncrana Castle, which is accessible via the Crana Bridge. This is also the starting point of the costal walk to Fr Hegarty’s Rock.Nearby is the location where the famous Irish revolutionary, Theobald Wolfe Tone, was captured on board a French warship during the 1798 rebellion. The town today has an abundance of bars and restaurants, nearby beaches and a children’s play area.

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Visit Buncrana Beach.

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A superb beach!

Buncrana Beach is a beach on the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal . Located less than 5 minutes’ walk from Buncrana town center, this beach stretches over several kilometers of fine sand. It’s one of the most popular beaches on the Peninsula!

Visit Buncrana Beach

Buncrana Beach is a gigantic beach, renowned for the quality of its waters and the fineness of its white sand. Ideal for a picnic, or to take a dip, the corner will delight children and adults alike!

You can also take advantage of the impressive green space in front of the beach, where numerous beach volleyball and soccer matches are organized to the delight of sports enthusiasts!

The beach is also a haven for kite flyers and other beach sports (snowshoeing, sandcastles, etc.). Note that a short circuit along the beach and coast allows you to discover the outskirts of the village of Buncrana on foot: some beautiful scenery in prospect!

A parking lot is available nearby: given its size, you’ll have no trouble parking!

Buncrana Beach Practical informations

• free of charge

free access

Buncrana Beach on a map

Hotels and b&b nearby.

St Columbs House

Lake of Shadows Hotel

Sally’s Vineyard

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Popular places to visit.

• Vintage Car and Carriage Museum

Rich with history, Vintage Car and Carriage Museum is a cultural attraction worth visiting in Buncrana. Savor the top-notch restaurants and lively bars while in town.

• Buncrana Castle

You can find out about the history of Buncrana with a stop at Buncrana Castle. Savor the lively bars and top-notch restaurants while in town.

• Buncrana Golf Club

Enjoy a round of golf in Buncrana at Buncrana Golf Club. Savor the lively bars and top-notch restaurants while in town.

Star Amusements

Why not try your luck with a visit to Star Amusements during your visit to Buncrana? While you're here, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

• O'Doherty's Keep

O'Doherty's Keep is just one of the places to see in Buncrana, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Savor the top-notch restaurants and lively bars while in town.

• Ned's Point Fort

You can find out about the history of Buncrana with a trip to Ned's Point Fort. Savor the top-notch restaurants and lively bars while in town.

Things to do

Malin head and inishowen tour, derry/londonderry-street art and murals walking tours, bog safari hike, reviews of buncrana, 5/5 - excellent.

Well kept beautiful area. Environmental aspects

• Cities near Buncrana

• Places of interest
• Buncrana Beach
• Portsalon Beach
• Doagh Famine Village
• Rathmullan House
• Letterkenny Town Park
• Marble Hill Strand
• Kinnagoe Bay Beach
• Portsalon Golf Club
• Ards Forest Park
• Oakfield Park
• Letterkenny Cathedral
• Letterkenny Golf Club
• Ballyliffin Golf Course
• Inishowen Maritime Museum & Planetarium
• Letterkenny Town Council Public Services Centre
• Letterkenny Leisure Centre
• Fort Dunree
• Newmills Corn and Flax Mills
• Amazonas Outdoor - Indoor Airsoft Firing Range