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3-Day Buncrana Itinerary
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedAug 20, 2025
Updated • updatedAug 20, 2025
Buncrana in 3 days
If you only have 3 days to spend in Buncrana, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here.
With favorites like Amazing Grace Park, Amazing Grace Viewing Point, and St. Mary's Oratory, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on all the must sees. We even included some of our favorite food spots around the area, like Four Lanterns and Bella Forno so you can get the best taste of Buncrana while you’re here. To see our full list of food recommendations, check out our best restaurants post. If you're traveling on a budget, you can check out our cheap eats post.
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Buncrana?
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Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering!
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Table of contents
- Buncrana in 3 days
- Most popular attractions
- East side of town
- Proximity is everything
Day 1
Most popular attractions
For day 1, we strategically grouped the most popular attraction, Buncrana Castle, with surrounding point of interests to start your trip off with a bang. Combining the average time spent at each location and traveling time in between, it should fill up about 7 hours of your day.
1
•Oshadha A — Google reviewPaul M — Google reviewNitin P — Google reviewT.M. A — Google reviewZilvinas A — Google reviewTaz M — Google reviewVignesh M — Google review
Fort Dunree
4.7
(1970)
4.4
(349)
Museums
Cafe
Event venue
History museum
Fort Dunree, a historic fortress dating back to the 18th century, is perched on a strategic clifftop site overlooking Lough Swilly. It is part of a series of forts built by the British following the 1798 uprising of the United Irishmen. The fort has received significant funding for restoration to preserve its historical significance and combat weather-related deterioration. With its deep waters and historical defenses against submarines during WWI, it offers an intriguing glimpse into military history.
Fort Dunree was an active military installation until the end of World War 2. The fort is situated at the west side of Inishowen peninsula. It was under the British Royal Navy control until 1938 when it was handed over to the Irish navy. Irish navy used it as a training facility until the 1990s. Now this fort is a tourist attraction with a wonderful military museum. The entry of the actual fort is ticketed and it can be purchased at the gates. There is free toilet facilities in the museum. There is also a wonderful cafe near the fort just a stone throw away. There are multiple artillery guns, naval guns and armoured vehicles displayed in front of the fort where visitors can see them for free. This place is a must visit for anyone visiting Donegal. We visited on a bank holiday and the place was not too crowded. Kids enjoyed the museum and the miniature ships displayed inside the museum. Later they had some delicious waffles and pancakes at the nearby cafe.
Arjadip D — Google review
Fort Dunree is a spectacular mix of history, nature, and breathtaking views. The fort itself is packed with fascinating military history – from old guns and bunkers to a well-presented museum that gives great insight into Ireland's coastal defenses. But what really sets this place apart is the location. Perched high on the cliffs, the panoramic views over Lough Swilly and the Atlantic are absolutely stunning.
Lovely spot, lots to see and read about. Venture off the normal path around the olds buildings to find some old relics. It's a pity the old generator engines are locked away. Still in great condition but the building has seen better day. Hopefully it will be restored and opened to the public some day
Fort Dunree in Donegal is an underrated gem, boasting a rich history and breathtaking views. It's a highly recommended visit.
I recently visited Fort Dunree while exploring the Inishowen Peninsula, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip to County Donegal. Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking Lough Swilly, the fort offers a perfect combination of breathtaking scenery, rich history, and peaceful atmosphere.
The drive up to the site is stunning in itself, but once you arrive, the panoramic coastal views are absolutely spectacular. You can see for miles across the ocean and rugged cliffs—bring your camera! The fort itself is steeped in military history, dating back to the Napoleonic era, and the museum does a great job showcasing its strategic importance through the years, especially during both World Wars.
There’s a nice mix of indoor exhibitions and outdoor spaces to explore, including gun placements, tunnels, and barracks. It’s all well-preserved and thoughtfully laid out. The staff were welcoming and informative, happy to share stories and answer questions.
One of my favorite moments was standing on the upper platform watching the waves crash below—it felt like stepping back in time. There’s also a café and gift shop on site, perfect for relaxing after your visit.
Whether you're into history, nature, or photography, Fort Dunree has something to offer. It’s a peaceful, fascinating place and I highly recommend stopping by if you’re touring the Wild Atlantic Way.
The fort is surrounded by beautiful nature. Museum, memorial, barracks and walking trails. Definitely worth a visit.
Excellent spot , bit of history , a museum , and a great cafe , well worth a visit
A fort turned museum with rich heritage and great maintenance. Perfect spot for a informative visit
Dunree View, Leophin, Linsfort, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, Ireland•
17 min · 7 mi
2•Lisa S — Google reviewLouise P — Google reviewBrian — Google reviewJim B — Google reviewVyshnav M — Google reviewDave M — Google reviewJean L — Google review
Swan Park
4.7
(459)
4.8
(149)
Park
Nature & Parks
Swan Park, also known as Sli na Slainte, offers a serene 2km looped walk through beautiful natural surroundings. The park starts at the Old Pier by the Wolfe Tone Memorial and takes you across the historic six-arched Crana Bridge. As you follow the wooded riverside pathway to Westbrook Bridge, you'll pass Buncrana Castle and ODohertys Keep.
Really pretty walk. Quiet on a weekday
Megan R — Google review
Beautiful park with lovely floral and fauna. Peaceful and thoughtfully appointed with statues and plaques! An easy walk and nice for people of all activity level. A great place to go and contemplate the world!
Found this place by accident, we were looking for the butterfly garden, didn't know it was in Swan park. We only did a bit of the walk. The walkways were very tidy, wheelchair friendly mostly, 1 steep hill the way we went, but there is multiple ways in. loads of different things to see. Will definitely be back to do the full walk
Swan Park is a fantastic park well laid out nice walks, and a great river running through it I felt so relaxed if you are in Ireland do not miss it
A stunning picturesque place nestled on the shores of lough swilly, the park itself has be painstakingly crafted into a rich history of the sounding county. The town of Buncranna is very welcoming, a real buzz in the town with incredible friendly people...
A compilation of the cute things I found in this park.
For a peaceful walk in the most beautiful natural surroundings, you should visit Swan Park. After traversing the Castle Bridge, you can opt for a shoreline walk to Ned's Point, or follow the River Crana as it meanders through Swan Park along the wooded walk. Major refurbishment and repair works have been completed following devastating flood damage in August 2017. The end result is a greatly enhanced experience with a variety of riverside walks. Really worth checking out.
A beautiful day in Swan Park, my favourite place.
30 Cahir O'Doherty Ave, Ballymacarry, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 WP78, Ireland•
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
8 min · 0.43 mi
3•Darren — Google reviewMartin T — Google reviewLisa M — Google reviewBarry T — Google reviewElaine C — Google reviewJudith C — Google reviewTRAVEL M — Google review
O'Flaherty's Bar
4.7
(389)
4.5
(71)
affordable
Bar
O'Flaherty's Bar in Buncrana is renowned for its charm and warm hospitality. This beloved pub has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike for over 27 years. The bar exudes a welcoming atmosphere, with friendly brothers working diligently to ensure every guest feels comfortable. Patrons can expect nothing less than perfection when it comes to the pints served here, as they are consistently poured flawlessly.
A great pub with a great atmosphere. Shows lots of sport and has traditional live music. Has a beer garden out the back. Is enjoyed by young and old. Relaxing during the day but can get very busy and noisy in the evening at weekends but that's not a bad thing. Staff are always very friendly.
Gary D — Google review
We love this place when in Buncrana. Great atmosphere, great friendly fast service and the Guinness and Heineken is lovely.
The Main Street cafe next door does a great all day Irish breakfast and I love the eggs Benedict.
Great place to watch any sporting event and a must when in Buncrana.
What can I say .. o flahertys is a fantastic bar with great staff and regular top notch entertainment with great food next door in main street kitchen.. highly recommended
Didn't rate the food as I didn't have any. We had an amazing time the last 2 years here. Such a good atmosphere the staff is so friendly and you get served right away. The front outside of the bar always looks amazing, and there was live music both times we were there, one being Johnny Brady, which was held in the back area, which is absolutely massive. And the other was a man and his guitar, and it was a brilliant night. Highly recommended
One of the best bars around. Great atmosphere and the service is excellent. Worth a visit.
Best pub in beautiful Buncrana. Four nights here & had four trips to this fabulous bar. The last day with rain lashing & fire lighting was the highlight. Chatting to Pauric jnr for hours. All the brothers working here were so hospitable.
27 years ago we arrived in here soaked & Pauric snr poured us THE perfect pint as we sat by the fire. There was love in that pint (we got engaged on way home!) The pints are still perfect.
We were delighted to be back with one of our four kids to share lovely Guinness with him. Couldn’t get over price of pints compared to Dublin! We might have to move up.
OH there’s definitely a woman’s touch in the loos. They are gorgeous & have everything you could possibly need even down to a needle, thread & loose buttons. Incredible.
Great Bar and great staff..Would definitely recommend a visit to this bar when in Buncrana
Its fine, lots of locals
41 Upper Main St, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 X21F, Ireland•
2 min · 400 ft
4•Lydia M — Google reviewJez — Google reviewEmolaja — Google reviewJames B — Google reviewPaul F — Google reviewBrian B — Google reviewRichard G — Google review
Oscars Cafe Bar & Restaurant
4.5
(459)
4.3
(299)
affordable
Restaurant
Oscars Cafe Bar & Restaurant in Buncrana is a popular spot known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff who cater to food allergies. The menu offers options for all budgets, with delicious dishes like hamburgers, fish & chips, burritos, wings, noodles, and curry. This family-style Irish restaurant in the heart of town is highly rated among locals and offers great special offers including a fabulous two-course Sunday lunch. The stylish art deco front and refurbished interior create a welcoming ambiance.
A warm friendly welcome is waiting for you and the setting and food are excellent. The staff are very attentive and friendly and I would highly recommend a visit.
There is a great deal on at the moment from their gorgeous Christmas menu and I felt like eating all that was on there! I went for the salmon and champ and others in our party went for the turkey and ham.
Lovely selection of drinks and the Guinness is a lovely pint.
Well worth a visit and you will not be disappointed, go on treat yourself.
Darren — Google review
The food was delicious. The vegetable soup was bursting with flavor, and the brown bread was very fresh. I had the fish and chips, which were perfectly battered, accompanied by a fabulous side salad. The service was top-notch. The atmosphere was very welcoming, and the decor was stylish. I would highly recommend it.
This place is great for coeliacs, I ordered the chicken & bacon Caesar salad without the croutons. The waitress then told me they could make it with gluten free croutons. That’s very rare, that was a treat. Ordered it with a side of mash. Delicious.
My daughter ordered the chicken goujons with a side of garlic potatoes. The goujons come with a bbq and garlic dip. The garlic dip is amazing.
Anyone who is gluten free there is a full gluten free menu. Even the chips can be done in a separate gluten free fryer so avoids any cross contamination.
Lovely food and very friendly staff. Highly recommend.
We had amazing time at Oscars. Great atmosphere, beautiful cocktails and delicious food we had lovely dinner and our time out. Would recommend it and will comeback for more. Thank you.
Back again after the beautiful cajun salmon, to try out the lunch menu. Great value for two courses and plenty of choice!
Just came in at short notice for Sunday evening dinner. Had the early bird with sirloins X2. The starter (wings) and main was delicious. Excellent value for money and the service faultless. Definitely be back. Well worth supporting this local business. Thank you.
Stopped in a pub up the road to enjoy a beer and they recommended Oscars Cafe. We weren’t disappointed. Service was great and the food was delicious! Highly recommend!
Food was ok. We ordered breaded mushrooms, beefburger and Cajun salmon with salad. With a bottle of house wine, small beer and coffee cost was 61 euro. As I said food was ok but personally I would not be in a rush back. Service was pleasant and attentive though.
5 Upper Main St, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 DNA4, Ireland•
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Where to eat
When you need a food break from visiting all the attractions today, these fan favorite restaurants are about a 1-minute walk away from O'Flaherty's Bar.
Four Lanterns
4.2
(191)
2.5
(23)
Fast food restaurant
Nestled in the charming town of Buncrana, Donegal, Four Lanterns is a beloved eatery that has been delighting locals and visitors alike for over three decades. Known for its friendly atmosphere and exceptional service, this restaurant offers a menu filled with tasty options that keep patrons coming back for more. While some recent changes to portion sizes have sparked conversation among regulars, many still rave about their signature chips and flavorful curry sauce.
Had a few meals in this fast food company and it was fresh and recently cooked.
Stephen L — Google review
Laughably bad food. Don't know how this place is still getting custom, was good about 20 years ago.
Good food. Csn deliver and make food under pressure. Wish they could tell tables to be quieter
I took 3 football teams in for dinner and the food and more importantly the service was brilliant! Thank you for accommodating 30 of us so well and quickly.
Staff great. Food was good. Wonky table not good
Food was very poor got a quarter pounder and chip both of the frozen variety. Very poor for the price.
Ok, for a quick snack if you're really hungry, definitely not one of the first places on my mind when looking for food. Food was basic, not freshly made. sauces bottled kind that you can get anywhere. The staff were very good.
Always good food.Good value for money and good service.
38 Upper Main St, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 V1DY, Ireland•
Bella Forno
4.3
(125)
3.2
(13)
Italian restaurant
Nestled in the charming town of Buncrana, Bella Forno is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Italian fare. This delightful eatery offers an impressive array of dishes that transport you straight to Italy, featuring stone-baked pizzas and freshly crafted pasta that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. The menu also includes aromatic paellas, crisp salads, and delectable sides that perfectly complement your meal. Don't forget to save room for their mouthwatering desserts!
Went back to this place since they've switched to a grill and sushi place. This food was perfect! My wife had sushi as you can see in the pics. It was delicious. My steak was cooked to perfection 😋🤤. I had calamari that was lightly coated and really tasty. We also had the fried brie and it was fantastic. Service was great and even though we were served by someone new, he was extremely polite and was very attentive. The owner was also attentive making sure we were happy. All in all, a great food place. Probably now our fave in Buncrana Town. 💜
Kevin M — Google review
I have no idea what the food is like. It could be fabulous. However when you are seated on a table, in the dark, that would struggle to accomodate hobbits and the menu offers burgers and BBQ chicken wings...Hmm..maybe not so Italiano, maybe not so authentic. We left ( probably an hour) before they noticed.
Absolutely amazing - beautiful Italian cuisine at its finest! The food was incredible, staff were lovely and polite. We had starters, Calamari and Meatballs, which were divine. Two pizzas, two desserts, Chocolate Fudge Cake and freshly made Tiramisu, and a small pasta for our wee boy. Everything was beautiful and authentic and I can't wait to go back again. Will recommend this lovely spot to anyone and everyone!
Very poor, prices are ridiculous for what food you get. Got a pizza I'd expect from a school cafeteria, ingredients must have been all premade from the base to the sauce. €8.50 for a calimari starter but only 3 calimaris given, preposterous. Took way too long for that standard of food to come out as well. Fair enough you have to work with what you have in terms of venue but charge accordingly to the food and atmosphere.
Very unimpressed with the service, we waited an hour before any of our food came and all 5 dishes got served at different times, with at least a 10 minute wait between each one. They also told us they had run out of vinegar, but there were full bottles of vinegar on the empty tables around us that we had to get up and get ourselves.
Linguini had the texture of an over-cooked carbonara when it finally came over an hour later. Was eating for 20mins before my friend got her food. Would not recommend!
Food was good here. We had no wait for our drinks and food;we visited on a Wednesday evening
Food was disappointing. Looked better than it tasted. Girl serving us was lovely.
6 Upper Main St, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 CXA5, Ireland•
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2
Travelers
2
Kavanagh's SuperValu Buncrana
4.5
(329)
affordable
Supermarket
Kavanagh's SuperValu Buncrana is a local gem that offers a delightful shopping experience for those seeking quality groceries and fresh Irish produce. The store is well-organized, clean, and bright, making it easy to navigate through its wide selection of products. While some customers have noted inconsistencies in staff friendliness compared to other locations, many appreciate the helpfulness of the team here.
Had my wedding here on the 23rd of August 2024. It was a very small event with less than 7 people. We didn't make a big deal of it, however, the hotel and manager did, they set up the room and the front of the hotel like it was big wedding event and we where so happy with how they treated us. They really made everything so good and special for us on that day. We will never forget. We visit the hotel every year now when we visit our house In dunree. It's a special place for us.
Jason — Google review
Staff are all brilliant and friendly. Shop itself more on the expensive side, but has a wide range of products and brands. Toilets could do with a refresh, not very clean (Womens).
Great for shopping. Various things to buy like sandwiches, vegetables, meat fruits and many other things. Good to try
Great food at great prices, local shop that puts money back into the community via sponsorship and using other local business
Big, very big store with just about anything you could need. Prices are ok, nothing is cheap across the border but offers were worth seeking out. Very clean and staff pleasant
I liked that there was self checkouts wide range of products very nice staff
Great local store with white selection of quality groceries
Always clean, bright and well stocked with helpful staff and lots of free parking. A little more expensive in branded products but some good offers also. Clean customer toilets also.
Cockhill Rd, Ballymacarry, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 T1WD, Ireland•
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Day 2
East side of town
For day 2, we recommend exploring the east side side of town. Start the day off with The Cottage Bar, then wind down and take it easy by the time you get to Atlantic Bar. All together, your day would be filled with about 8 hours of non-stop fun.
1•Autumn M — Google reviewGlenn C — Google reviewTRAVEL M — Google reviewJudith C — Google reviewNeil M — Google reviewMary D — Google reviewStephen L — Google review
The Cottage Bar
4.7
(319)
4.5
(4)
cheap
Bar
The Cottage Bar in Buncrana is a charming and welcoming pub with a warm atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy live music on Fridays and Saturdays, creating an inviting ambiance. The bar staff are attentive and efficient, making it worth a visit when in the area. The layout of the bar caters to various group sizes and styles, offering a fantastic experience for all patrons. With friendly characters always up for a chat, this Irish pub provides great value and tasty pints in a quirky yet friendly setting.
Lovely family run bar in lower Main Street of Buncrana
Has a unique interior with every wall decorated with wine corks
There’s a couple of bars inside the pub and a nice outdoor beer garden with nice flowers and shrubs
They have music on weekends and we saw a couple of good singers and band grew during the night as more musicians turned up and joined them as happens in good Irish pubs open in the day till late
D M — Google review
Lovely wee bar and dog friendly for our big labrador nice atmosphere, friendly and of course drinks were 👌
This bar has to be experienced in person, to be properly appreciated, an un real layout that can cater for all numbers & styles, !P! Marks the spot for a Cracker Pint!,, its 10 out of 10 from me folks😉💯
5 star Guinness in. TRADITIONAL Bar, nice and clean, central location.
This bar is quiet enough but it is fantastic with all the corked walls. The barman is real friendly. The beer garden is fantastic also. Great place for small or large groups
Found the iconic Cottage Bar very friendly, good atmosphere, class pint of Guinness, excellent bar tenders and succulent food - I'll be back...
Lovely Irish bar. Great music . Staff very friendly . Really enjoyed it .
Great pint of Guinness. Small but comfortable bar.
Lower Main Street Lower Main St, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 X4F3, Ireland•
< 1 min · 0 ft
2
The Northern Light Gallery & Studio
Gift shop
Shopping
Art gallery
Irish goods store
Toy store
If you have a passion for photography, make sure to visit The Northern Light Gallery & Studio. Located in the heart of town, this gallery showcases stunning fine art photography available for purchase.
14 Lower Main St, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 W90V, Ireland•
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2
Travelers
2
1 min · 100 ft
3Ruairi O — Google reviewMark C — Google reviewOfficial G — Google reviewLouise M — Google reviewBrian P — Google reviewDamian B — Google reviewSeamus G — Google review
Las Gorditas
5.0
(31)
Permanently Closed
Coffee shop
Takeout Restaurant
Las Gorditas is a delightful café that stands out as a serene spot for coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Nestled in a welcoming atmosphere, this dog-friendly establishment offers an enticing fusion of South American and Romanian cuisine. Guests can indulge in their signature gorditas, which come with customizable fillings, or savor the delicious empanadas. The owners, Lizbeth from Ecuador and Joane from Romania, are incredibly warm and knowledgeable about their culinary offerings.
This is a gem of a place, serving a fusion of flavours from Ecuador and Romania. Such tasty, filling food - our group had gorditas (our own choices of filling) and the empanadas. Spoke with the owners - Lizbeth (Ecuadorian) and Joane (Romanian) and they are lovely! So warm and welcoming and VERY knowledgeable about food.
Didn't get to try their cakes / desserts....but they looked amazing! Next time! People of Buncrana / visitors to the area, please do yourself a favour and try this place out. It DOESN'T serve a full Irish breakfast, but far tastier options! Great big portions of freshly prepared goodness!
J- D — Google review
Seriously divine place. We tried the Gordita and Burrito, some of of the nicest food we've ever tasted. Coffee is also delicious. Owners are very lovely and hospitable. Will be back
Romanian and Ecuadorean cafe, great cappuccino and hot chocolate (with oat milk). Freshly prepared food in a relaxed setting. Well worth a visit
The best owners, chefs and food. Their chemistry is undeniable and the food makes you feel like you’re home and gives you comfort. The flavors are unique and well thought of and the deserts are also home made so they melt in your mouth and are so fresh. The menu has endless possibilities to choose from and I sincerely hope more people try coming here.
The food was really tasty and fresh, and made with good quality ingredients. We got the vegetarian gorditas, they put plantain instead of meat, it was delicious! Quite like an arepa, but with rice instead of beans. There was cornflour in the tortilla and served with freshly fried plantain chips on the side. The menu is a blend of various South American and European dishes. Staff were very friendly! Definitely would recommend it!
Extremely friendly atmosphere, excellent coffee and the desserts I tasted are delicious, especially the chocolate cake. They also have an unusual and appetising selection of cooked dishes. Until today, I hadn't sampled any of them, but I decided, finally, to try the Romanian-style meatball soup and loved it. It comes with a side dish of sour cream and tastes superb with or without the cream added.
We just had a lovely meal 2 coffee good flavour, empanadas very nice not sure if you need feta cheese as side. The salad garnish was ample with the dipping sauces. We then had 2 gorditas again very nice we like spicey food some more chillies would give that kick. Qualty waa very nice and well worth it. The cakes were lovely. Well worth the visit.
Bottle of drink.
Thankyou so much we both enjoyed our me
Called in earlier today, first time I’ve been , ill be back for sure.
Service and menu knowledge by the staff was second to none.
Just let them guide you.
Had a beautiful Gorditas with chicken chorizo and a mix of salad and taco sauce.
Very filling and great value.
Noticed 3 different options for breakfast if you don’t fancy a stodgy big fry.
31 Lower Main St, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 Y0H9, Ireland•
4 min · 0.2 mi
4•Angela B — Google reviewMary M — Google reviewJavier — Google reviewVeronica T — Google reviewMartin T — Google reviewChris D — Google reviewJim L — Google review
St. Mary's Oratory
4.8
(71)
4.7
(15)
Catholic church
Sights & Landmarks
Churches & Cathedrals
St. Mary's Oratory is a stunning architectural gem that captivates visitors with its unique charm, setting it apart from typical churches. This well-maintained building serves as a local sanctuary where the community gathers for Mass and other spiritual activities. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it an ideal spot to pause for reflection or light a candle in prayer for personal intentions. Many find solace during the holy hour, appreciating the peaceful ambiance that envelops them.
The building stands out. Not like your ordinary church.
Carina M — Google review
Very Beautiful building.. Well cared for, a ld the of priests. I love going to. Mass, very Spiritual . Great Congregation. Lovely to go to the holy hour. Basically it's perfect to call in, put up a candle and pray for your special intentions. God bless everyone. 🙏🙏🙏🕯️❤️
It was great to get Mass this morning
Todas I have been in the Oratory a lot of devotion, prayers, etc. Fantastic.
It's my local place of worship. I like to pop in say few prayers n put up lights
Lovely church .. does a fantastic wedding service
Beautiful place, made to feel very welcome by everyone.
Beautiful place to spend one hour very peaceful
St Marys Rd, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 EY27, Ireland•
9 min · 0.45 mi
5•Brendan C — Google reviewPeggy M — Google reviewDave M — Google reviewDerek L — Google reviewCaroline D — Google reviewLisa O — Google reviewRichard K — Google review
Amazing Grace Viewing Point
4.7
(306)
4.6
(25)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Points of Interest & Landmarks
The Amazing Grace Viewing Point in Buncrana offers a picturesque shoreline view over Lough Swilly, where the renowned hymn "Amazing Grace" was written by John Newton. The area features picnic tables, a well-kept green space, and a coffee wagon for visitors to enjoy. Additionally, there is a pleasant tarmacadamed shoreline walk and an outdoor workout area.
Beautiful place to visit. The place itself has a long path you can walk, a lot of green area, and picnic benches. It is a very clean place with a very nice outdoor workout place alongside it. There are many places to walk down to a nice sandy beach and has an amazing view of Donegal. Lovely place for a walk, picnic, day adventure or simple plans for a beach.
James S — Google review
Fabulous beach and there is a lovely walking area
There were only the 2 notices there as shown and nothing else to see. Fortunately knew the story and the song written here which is sung often.My husband currently reading the book of John Newton's life so was nice to see where song composed.
The Amazing Grace Viewing Point offers a shoreline view over Lough Swilly where the synonymous hymn was written in a ship while anchored in this picturesque lough. There are several picnic tables situated behind the viewing area on a well kept green where a coffee wagon also parks. There is also a pleasant tarmacadamed shoreline walk. All in all, it is a pleasant stop off on the Wild Atlantic Way in the town of Buncrana.
Oh Buncrana and the surrounding area is absolutely stunning, beautiful beaches, walks and the newly managed and restored Swan Park are definitely worth a look..
Stunning scenery, gorgeous on any type of day. Love to take my grandkids there, getting chips from the local chip shop. Kids love to watch the seagulls scramble for the leftovers!
Beautiful area at the bottom of the Crana river. Leads on to the castle bridge, The Keep that Wolfe Tone was once held in and Swans Park. Follow the path and it will lead you on round to the beach
Beautiful with new statue of friar hegarty
Cahir O'Doherty Ave, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 WP78, Ireland•
8 min · 0.41 mi
6•Connie D — Google reviewKodi B — Google reviewJasonwhoareu1 — Google reviewMark H — Google reviewKathleen B — Google reviewSharon T — Google reviewAndy P — Google review
Atlantic Bar
3.9
(42)
2.4
(7)
cheap
Bar
Nestled along the picturesque Inishowen 100 route, Atlantic Bar is a delightful spot that perfectly complements your scenic journey through Ireland's breathtaking coastline. As you explore this stunning 100-mile drive, which boasts panoramic views of Lough Swilly, the Atlantic Ocean, and Lough Foyle, make sure to stop by for a refreshing drink. The atmosphere at Atlantic Bar is warm and inviting; you'll be greeted by friendly staff who are eager to ensure you have a memorable experience.
Had a fantastic night here.. left my phone behind and got it next day, good atmosphere, great band and lovely locals
Karen G — Google review
Only a few people when we arrived. The girl working behind the bar so friendly. We had a lovely chat.
Hi, recently visited Buncrana for a weekend with my wife. I unfortunately visited this bar and it was a terrible experience. The bar itself looks well from the outside but once you get inside it is another story. The price of the drinks was very reasonable. There was a number of young people in the bar and in my opinion they were definitely underage. Within 15 minutes of arriving a fight broke out in the bar and the girl behind the bar didn't know what to do.We left the premises immediately. We visited another couple of bars over the weekend and spoke to a few "locals". They informed us that the Atlantic bar was probably the roughest bar in Buncrana and was known for fighting and general rowdiness. Avoid unless you like that kinda of atmosphere.
Best dj in the world the Craic was class and the staff and people were so friendly will definitely be back ☺
Great beer. Staff are very friendly
More older ones in the morning younger at weekends disco at back music front bar weekend friendly staff can be nosiey
Mary is the best barwoman ever. She rocks my world.
Lovely friendly staff... Nice people's
Main Street, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, Ireland•
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Where to eat
Under a 1-minute walk from The Cottage Bar, here are a few close by recommendations for when you get hungry exploring around.
Sherpa Indian & Nepalese Restaurant, Buncrana
4.5
(324)
4.6
(185)
affordable
Nepalese restaurant
Nestled in the charming town of Buncrana, Sherpa Indian & Nepalese Restaurant offers a delightful culinary journey through the rich flavors of South Asia. With an inviting atmosphere, this eatery is perfect for those craving authentic Indian and Nepalese dishes. Diners rave about their diverse menu featuring mouthwatering curries and freshly baked naan, with tender lamb being a standout favorite. Each dish is crafted with care, ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor.
The food was really gorgeous, nicest indian I've ever tasted! The staff were friendly and attentive and the food was served quickly :) will definitely be back!
Sian M — Google review
I am not surprised, this place is so busy that you need a reservation. Food here is truly amazing, best Indian food I had in a very long time. The menu is huge, it takes quiet some time to choose from all the delicious options. I finally ended up with the Gorkhali mixed grill, garlic onion coriander naan and special fried rice. The spices in the sauce, the coriander in the naan, and the raisins in the rice complemented each other so well that I would have loved to order another portion. "Unfortunately," the portions are so large that I couldn't even eat dessert. I wish you would open a branch in Switzerland; I would be a regular customer.
Most of them dishes are Nepali inspired dishes which are not that great for Indian palette. I would recommend having spicy indian dishes and you can ask them to increase or decrease the spice level. They are very accommodating and entertained us very late during closing hours. Very good service
Love it!!
The biryani has carrots and cashews in it which adds a nice bite to it! Absolutely delicious!
Great find in Buncrana. Staff so lovely.
Try the Momo, the sauce with them was gorgeous. Crispiest Onion Bhaji ever. Got recommendation from Ritam of Ledo-Bedo lamb dish. So tender. Had leftovers for lunch next day. If we were here for a week we’d definitely be going back.
The quality of food is good but the meat / sauce ratio was off. It's slightly pricey for the location the standard is good.
Had a takeaway from here tonight 😋 It was absolutely gorgeous I had the masu chicken chilli,onion bajais,aloo kerau chapat and pilau rice and peshwari naan. If you order from here you will not be disappointed.
Just spectacularly good!
Very friendly staff, worth every €
Reservation necessary (which is no surprise with this quality of food....)
10 Lower Main St, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, Ireland•
Roddens Bar
4.7
(140)
cheap
Bar
Roddens Bar is a hidden gem in Buncrana, renowned for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. This unique establishment stands out as a dog-friendly haven, making it an ideal spot for pet owners looking to enjoy a night out. With live music filling the air on Fridays and Sundays, Roddens offers an eclectic mix of genres from rock to folk, ensuring there's something for everyone.
A unique bar full of unique characters, i don't think there's another bar even similar in the whole of Donegal, a bit different, original music, live acts, bands, singers, djs etc rock, acoustic, folk, funk, soul, disco, there's always something for everyone so long may it last as without this bar the world would be a sadder place
Gerard C — Google review
This bar is one of the best in buncrana.its authentic style offers character, atmosphere and guarantees a great night. Be sure to check their social media pages to see what incredible local talent is playing for the upcoming weekend. Never disappoints
Service was great and so was the staff. Can't wait to return.
A top 3 pub in town for me, lots of fun on busy weekends and always full of craic!
Very poor bar, staff were brutal, rude, awkward, ignorant, took an age to get a drink, was like they didn’t want any customers.
You will genuinely be welcomed with a smile and there is usually live music on Fridays and Sundays. Great atmosphere and a decent size yard to the back used, among other things, as a smoking area. Best bar in town!
Best bar in Buncrana. Lovely regulars who’re always really welcoming and the craic is great! Regularly have well chosen live music and a great pint of Guinness!!!
If you visit Buncrana you have to call in to Roddens. It's a very organic place and the regulars are great people. Great bands and music at the weekends.
The only bar in Buncrana worthy of live music. Open mic night on Saturday nights are fantastic for drawing in local talent of all ages and genres. Check their FB page to see what's on.
Market Square, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 NT62, Ireland•
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Primavera Restaurant
4.4
(269)
4.3
(234)
Permanently Closed
affordable
Italian restaurant
Primavera Restaurant is a charming Italian eatery located in Buncrana, offering delicious food and a warm atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its friendly staff and reasonably priced menu. It's a great option for those looking to enjoy fresh, high-quality Italian cuisine in the area. Whether you're craving classic pasta dishes or authentic pizzas, Primavera Restaurant has something to delight every palate.
Kati was very helpful. She was prompt. The menu was extensive. The prices were reasonable and the quality of the food was excellent! I highly recommend Primavera and give it a five.
Melissa M — Google review
Great Italian. Definitely one of the top restaurants in Buncrana. Food is perfect. Staff are so attentive and accomodating. Also quite reasonably priced.
Very disappointed that when we requested bread, olives and balsamic to share we were told they didn't do this!!! Its an ITALIAN RESTAURANT!
Food was good, staff were friendly if a little overwhelmed by our request!
Most annoying of all was that when we're leaving we saw.. guess what?? Oil, balsamic and bread they had bread!
Felt it was a little penny pinching..
Found this place via Google and TripAdvisor. If you're looking for very basic Italian food then this is fine, otherwise I would say avoid. Staff were friendly but certainly not attentive. I had to get up twice to ask for water, just badly managed I think, they need better training. I also would have loved a second glass of wine, but was never asked if id like one. Food was poor, mussels were awful, good thing my 7 year old liked them! Pasta dishes were like they were out of a jar from Tesco. I asked for parmasan and was told it was all gone, in fairness a waitress arrived with a jar of pasmasan, very 1990's. I find it hard to believe there is any Italian input behind this restaurant. Once again, this place may suit some but if you like real Italian food avoid!
Highly recommend this place. If your ever in Buncrana get to it. Food is outstanding and Staff are excellent 👌 👏. I'll be back 😋.
(Update) Tonight we went back and I must say I was not impressed at all. The food that my girlfriend and myself ordered was nothing special at all. I don't know what has happened to this place. Different chef or they have just lost there standard's. My Spegetti was hard and the meat balls tasted like they were out of the microwave and the Mrs food she did not eat at all. I have help this place in High Standards, but not anymore. We will not be back.
Beautiful place, delicious food, grate customer service. 🍕👍😋
Bought a Munchy Box, which was really tasty and freshly made...
The only reason I never gave 5 stars, was the fact it was a bit pricey at €12:50...
Staff a little unfriendly and lacking in experience. Please get rid of the service bell (door bell sound) that keeps going off in the dining area.... very annoying. Place is a little dated and could do with being refreshed. Food was good but we were only told what wasn't available to order from the menu when placing our order from the already limited menu.
37 St Marys Rd, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 CA22, Ireland•
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Day 3
Proximity is everything
For day 3, we bundled attractions like Ubiquitous Restaurant and WainsWorld and other places within a close range, so that the time it takes to travel between all of them is less than one hour. Combined with the average time people spend there, your day should take about 7 hours.
1•Eimear B — Google reviewShaun B — Google reviewDavid P — Google reviewAnn M — Google reviewPaula H — Google reviewG W — Google reviewO C — Google review
Ubiquitous Restaurant
4.7
(307)
4.5
(363)
affordable
Restaurant
Cocktail bar
Takeout Restaurant
Wine bar
Nestled in the charming town of Buncrana, Ubiquitous Restaurant and Bar is a culinary gem that promises an unforgettable dining experience. Known for its fresh and high-quality food, this establishment offers a delightful blend of Irish and European cuisine. The warm ambiance makes it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. With a diverse menu that caters to various tastes, diners can expect delicious dishes crafted with care.
Was visiting Buncrana with family and went here for dinner. Would definitely recommend - they had great options for dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten free) and the food was so tasty. Service was also great and very attentive. Would definitely recommend the ratatouille! Also very reasonably priced for the size of the portions.
Rob H — Google review
The girls and I visited The Ubiquitous Restaurant Buncrana on the busy May bank holiday, and it was an absolutely fab experience from start to finish. Despite being quite busy, the atmosphere was great, had an amazing buzz, and the staff couldn’t have been better, they were very attentive, friendly, and super welcoming.
The food was to die for, very well done, really good quality, generous portions, plus such good value for money. The cocktails were easily the best I’ve had in town.
Really excited to go back for literally any occasion I can—highly recommended!
Without doubt one of the nicest restaurants in donegal, it was our first time here and wasn't it a surprise, the service was first class from the meet and great at the door until we left.
The restaurant was packed but our food came out so fast we were shocked because we knew it was busy and expected a delay.
The food was as good of food that I've ate in donegal ,credit to the chefs, highly recommended coming here and well done for your good work 👏
Had read some really positive reviews so when we visited the area recently we booked in. It didn't disappoint.
Food and service both really good, so good in fact that we visited a second time a couple of days later. Definitely recommend a visit here.
Myself and my family visit in July. Food was delicious staff went above and beyond for us. Staff were a great team and all looked like they were enjoying their work together
We had the most beautiful meal here this evening. The service was excellent and it was great value for money. The girls serving us were a pleasure. Thanks so much for a wonderful experience. We can't wait to come back!
My husband & I were desperately looking for somewhere to eat in Buncrana that allowed dogs in. We had absolutely no luck whatsoever, so my husband decided to go into Ubiquitous & ask the owner if there was any way they would accommodate the 3 of us. We were delighted that he agreed and we had a first class meal. I had a duck dish which was absolutely gorgeous, as were all the trimmings. My husband's sea bream was equally delicious and both meals were beautifully presented. The service was very good and staff were very friendly and efficient. We would highly recommend this restaurant if you want an excellent meal at a reasonable price. We will definitely return should we be in Buncrana again.
Came in with a very large group with not booking. At the time we were told there was no tables available but if we went to the bar next door for half an hour someone would be in to get us and in fairness they were. Hid loved the waitress taking our order because we were well on at this point but the service was top notch and the food was just as good. Very professional very good food at a reasonable price. Couldn’t knock it
47 Upper Main St, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, Ireland•
14 min · 0.72 mi
2•Michelle M — Google reviewHelly L — Google reviewIoana M — Google reviewMags L — Google reviewLouise H — Google reviewSuzanne C — Google reviewMark R — Google review
WainsWorld
4.4
(91)
4.5
(56)
Indoor playground
Nature & Parks
Playgrounds
Theme Parks
We had an amazing time ! The people were lovely and gave personalised fun ! It wasn’t crowded wich make it more special … and the decoration was very nice ! Staff was lovely!
Gloria S — Google review
Worst childs playplace I've ever been. Health and safety and cleanliness was awful. Tables peeling, no safety corners on tables,rusted chairs, broken toys, peeling paint, jug cracked and dirty with hair attached to the dirt, sockets exposed, extension lead lying where children go for snacks. Building absolutely freezing. Strong smell of bleach because the staff member had just cleaned before we came in (so unsafe for children)
Wish I could post pictures
AVOID THIS PLACE ITS UNSAFE AND UNHYGIENIC
I don't know how it is allowed to be open.
Had my daughter's 5th birthday party in Wainsworld at the weekend. Staff, service and food were all excellent. It was a great, stress free afternoon for us as parents and no mess to clean up after everyone went home!! The kids were all delighted with the face painting, a great little treat and only €1 extra to add onto the Package A we had chosen.
We also had a joint party for our 2 youngest here in June. Again I couldn't fault anything. As the kids at this party were younger more parents stayed for the duration so we opted to add a tray of sandwiches, great value, good choice of fillings and much appreciated by the adults.
Will definitely be booking future party's and would recommend WainsWorld without hesitation.
Never going again we went today and let me say it was fun at first but later it was bad . We went in the ball bit and it stank’s like pee we found a sock and it smelled like it was there for years. We got chocolate and it was expired!! . The lady there was not bothered to be there she was sitting on the counter in the kitchen and staring on her phone slipping a milkshake I think and then she was giving us the look . But if you want to bring your kid there when you arrive home take them a SHOWER. Hope this helps
Had a great time with the grandkids just before Christmas, met my friend and we had a lovely catch up over a cuppa knowing the wee ones were happy and safe. Staff were really helpful even crawling into the frame to "help" teddy when he got stuck 😂🧸
My daughter just finished 5 days of summer camp. She had a ball. She didn't want it to end. She loved the hot lunches everyday (especially friday 😊)The staff were amazing. I would highly recommend the camp.
Great softplay. Friendly attentive staff. Great climbing space with additional toy area for very little ones. Practical child centred menu, which was great value. Perfect to get a break for 90 minutes, especially on rainy day.
Perfect little play area for kids staff are lovely and place is extremely clean, went back a few times.
Unit 10, Milltown Business Park, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, Ireland•
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2
Travelers
2
17 min · 0.9 mi
3•Debragh K — Google reviewDominic Q — Google reviewAnne D — Google reviewPaddy F — Google reviewRosemary B — Google reviewManu V — Google reviewMick T — Google review
Amazing Grace Park
4.7
(29)
4.3
(3)
Park
Nature & Parks
This is a small park beside the tourist office & small carpark in Buncrana. The park is symbolic, in that it reflects on a ship voyage by John Newton captain & crew whom took refuge in Buncrana after rough seas from a storm back in 1748. The park contains small landscaped areas, a pond, park benches, a statue and and sculpture of a ship's anchor. The pond had alot of algae in the autumn during our visit. It's likely cause is from nitrogen based garden fertilisers. A small amount of. barley straw if used & maintained around the ponds edge & by its decay, should minimise algae blooms. A reduction in nitrogen based fertiliser usage helps too. Worth a visit for a small walk. Great to see Donegal Co Council & local tidy town committee in keeping this park & the town litter free.
Paul D — Google review
Lovely spot , place for campervans , lovely walk and garden with loads of history boards in regards to "amazing grace " and the writer . Loved its location we stayed here 2 nights with shop right across the road and brilliant gastro pub beside us ,beach around the corner and also the harbour , just a great location .
it's a lovely spot to park and the staff are so friendly. My number one spot to park as a have a Disabled.👍☘️🇨🇮
Great park well kept and clean
Beautiful the children love it like a we secret garden
Fantastic! Everyone so keen, encouraging helpful and friendly
Just a regular park nothing special .
Beautiful place for the family
Railway Rd, Ballymacarry Lower, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, Ireland•
2 min · 0.84 mi
4•Brittany H — Google reviewSunny Y — Google reviewAlan D — Google reviewDerek H — Google reviewCyprien B — Google reviewPat K — Google reviewW.H. ( — Google review
O’Dohertys Keep
4.5
(24)
4.2
(20)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Castles
O’Dohertys Keep is a significant historical site in Irish history, located along the scenic Swan Park Sli na Slainte. The 2km looped walk offers picturesque views and takes you past the six-arched Crana Bridge and Buncrana Castle gates before reaching the white gateposts at Westbrook Bridge. Although visitors cannot enter the keep itself, the walk provides a pleasant experience along the wooded riverside pathway.
First one on my line to return home since 1845ish… then became engaged at the inishowen hotel. Wonderful memories
Lauren D — Google review
Fantastic community park. We had no idea it was going to be this nice!
A wonderful historic monument along the river and castle bridge
We really enjoyed Our trip to O'Dochartaígh keep, Urris via Mamore Gap two weeks ago despite the weather.
An important place in Irish history. A very scenic walk to the keep too. You can't go in but I just enjoyed being there
We can’t visit the Keep but the bridge and the walk are very pleasant.
They ( O'Doherty's) have just started to unlock some of the secrets of this historian site ,
Excellent historical site
Cahir O'Doherty Ave, Tullyarvan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 WP78, Ireland•
1 min · 300 ft
5Marty G — Google review
Buncrana Castle
4.0
(6)
Permanently Closed
Castle
Buncrana Castle, a stunning historical landmark perched along the banks of the River Crana and Lough Swilly, is a must-see for anyone exploring this picturesque area. While the castle itself isn't open to visitors, its surroundings offer breathtaking views and serene walking paths. One popular route is the Swan Park Sli na Slainte looped walk, which spans 2 kilometers starting from the Old Pier near Wolfe Tone Memorial.
This beautiful historic castle is nestled on the banks of the River Crana and Lough Swilly. Just behind O' Doherty Keep. It's an area of immense natural beauty and history. The castle is not open to the public but the path around it lead to beautiful coastal and river Bank walks.
Siobhan Q — Google review
Lovely scenery and walks....
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Where to eat
Even the most seasoned adventurers need a break to chow down some food. Close to Ubiquitous Restaurant, these restaurants are about a 1-minute walk away.
The Lily Rose Cafe
4.7
(222)
4.6
(185)
Permanently Closed
cheap
Cafe
Breakfast restaurant
The Lily Rose Cafe, located on Main Street in Buncrana, is a charming spot for casual dining during the day. The cafe offers a variety of sandwiches, wraps, and freshly baked cakes alongside fabulous coffees. With its spacious and well-presented interior, friendly staff, and generous portions, it's considered by many to be the best in the northwest. Visitors praise the delicious breakfast options at reasonable prices and appreciate the relaxed atmosphere where they can enjoy home-baked treats with friendly service.
Visited this cafe 2 times in last month. Ambience is very good, a peaceful place to enjoy your coffee with your loved ones and friends. Ice coffee is also awesome on a sunny day 🌞. Friendly and welcoming staff. Will visit again.
Suraj G — Google review
One of Buncrana's best coffee shops, The Lily Rose offers quality coffee and a selection of sandwiches and pastries in a tastefully decorated premises with some quirky touches. Cute teapots and crockery add to the ambience of this place.
A very nice cafe, relaxed and easy going, we go in for tea coffie and cake, all home baked and all wonderfull and to top it off the staff are friendly.
We really enjoy the Lily Rose. We went for breakfast,which was delicious and reasonably priced. My coffee was in the biggest cup I had seen for a long while! Staff are friendly and accommodating. Also, on the way our, you can buy a couple of lovely cakes to take home x
Morning breakfast after blood test😂. A wee treat before the bad news!!. Small Irish breakfast served with kindness with a sauce of craic for fun. Great wee place lovely staff, great food and good friends. What more does a body need❤️?
Ideally located in the town of Buncranna, the Lilly Rose Cafe. The menu has plenty to offer sandwiches,wraps etc also fabulous coffees that are served with a variety of freshly baked delicious cakes. Its spacious well presented with a deli of choice on arrival the staff are very helpful and friendly certainly an enjoyable experience.
This is the best Cafe in town, the staff are friendly and the food is always great. I highly recommend it.
They also do outside catering which is again second to none! It is so good I had them cater my Wedding!
A great little cafe. I got a full Irish, fully loaded with all my favourites, fried egg, sausages, bacon, beans, fried potato bread, black/white pudding, mushrooms, coffee & toast. And reasonably priced. Sorry I didn't take a photo.
Upper Main St, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, Ireland•
The Drift Inn
4.5
(625)
4.4
(314)
affordable
Pub
Located on the Donegal seafront, The Drift Inn is a beloved pub known for its inviting ambiance, reasonable prices, and delectable cuisine. This popular spot attracts both locals and tourists alike. Renowned for its Sunday roast meats, which are slow-roasted for over 24 hours to ensure top-notch quality, The Drift Inn offers a warm atmosphere and delicious food.
When you open the door of the Drift Inn, you step into a dimly lit pub which is brimming with maritime artifacts on the walls and the dancing flames of a delightful log fire in a stone hearth. The atmosphere is relaxed and pleasant. The pints of Guinness are top class. Presently, due to Covid the restaurant is closed but tasty pizzas are available. There is ample outdoor dining and a hot food van attends close by on Fridays and Sundays. Live music is also back. For a most pleasant atmosphere, don't let a visit to Buncrana pass without stopping off at the Drift Inn. You shouldn't be disappointed.
Dave M — Google review
Pub in old Buncrana railway station a bit outside the town centre
Nice bar area inside , Bar built from a old boat and roof timbers like a upturned keel of a ship ,Real fire nice and cosy
Pizza only and then only weekends
Some reviews say it’s dog friendly but bar staff said dogs not allowed in bar only in outside area
Sorely disappointed upon return... First we had to wait 30 minutes before they took our order because they were “so busy” There really weren’t that many people. The chicken wings were by far the worst I have ever tried. They were deep fried with a meanest amount of franks hot sauce. I asked for more and didn’t see the waiter again until we sought him out to pay. Really disappointed. Wont be back.
Nice old converted railway ticket station bar. Large outdoor seating area. Even though next to seafront, no views. Great DJ knocking out the 80’s hits!
We really enjoyed our evening here. Excellent pint of Guinness, and the view was beautiful in the outdoor seating area. We had pleasant weather, which was in our favor because a rowdy bunch was inside watching soccer. However, that meant we were outside with the smokers. Pizza and chips was on the menu. Seems like it varies from night to night. A very easy place to have a group gather.
Great place for pint & pizza , lovely atmosphere
Lovely Guinness ,
Lovely pub in an old railway station that is over 150 years old. Pints are great. Nice big open fire too. Best bar in Buncrana. Would highly recommend.
The Mail was Very nice The Service is Very good so call into The Drift Inn and have pint or two Bar staff are very friendly and helpful
Railway Rd, Ballymacarry Lower, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, Ireland•
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The Lunch Box
4.6
(148)
3.9
(25)
cheap
Cafe
Nestled in the heart of Buncrana, The Lunch Box is a charming family-owned eatery that has been delighting locals and visitors alike since 2004. This cozy spot offers a diverse menu filled with delicious options perfect for lunch. Patrons rave about the friendly service and exceptional coffee, making it an ideal place to unwind while enjoying a meal. With its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to quality, The Lunch Box stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this lovely coastal town.
Seated and served right away. Best of attention even though they were very busy. Great value and great food. We will definitely be back again
James B — Google review
What a lovely place. Its like coming home. Kindness unlimited. Prices are very reasonable as well. Can be busy at times. Service is fast so this is not a problem for them😍
Great food and friendly staff and they make a great coffee
A fantastic wee place to get a feed. The staff are a pleasure, very helpful and polite, again the food is second to none. Thank you for a Gr8 service.
Always a great place to eat great nice friendly staff
Very nice food great staff and nice to
I have to say honestly my partner and I went to the lunchbox too see if we could get an all day breakfast and from The moment we entered the shop Rachel was on the ball. I was having a hypo at the time as I'm type 2 diabetic and I was shown to a seat and as I had not paid for anything I had taken a bottle of lucozade from the shelf and was allowed to drink it. We were able to order a breakfast which came out fast and was the Best breakfast I've had for a long long time. Rachel and Theresa fantastic with the best customer service we have ever seen. The place was adhering to all covid restrictions and was impeccably clean. Thank you all again we will be back, special mention to rachel and Theresa , well done girls. Highly recommend this restaurant.
Ah here what has happened. Got two rolls one chicken fillet bbq sauce cheese and toasted. Wasn't toasted now that no big deal but there was loads coleslaw on it when I never even whispered the word. Second sausage and crispy bacon. There was no hint of crispy bacon. Start writing the orders down and stop guessing what is on it or even just ask again if unsure. Past experiences were grand apart from the attitude I have experienced.
18 Dr Denis McLaughlin Rd, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, Ireland•
Lake Of Shadows Hotel
4.5
(525)
4.0
(124)
Hotel
Bar
Nestled along the breathtaking Northern Headlands of the Wild Atlantic Way, Lake of Shadows Hotel offers a relaxed retreat right on the shores of Lough Swilly. This charming hotel features cozy rooms that invite you to unwind after a day filled with adventure. Start your mornings with a delightful cooked-to-order breakfast made from fresh, local ingredients before setting off for a round of golf or exploring scenic routes nearby.
Called in for Sunday Dinner, have to say the food was absolutely delicious all round perfect.. Soup, dinner and dessert 🍨 fabulous 👌 will be back again. Thanks.
Conorseur — Google review
Great food and atmosphere here. Haven't actually stayed the night (we live in a motorhome, so have no need), we tend to just come for a drink or a bite to eat.
Staff very friendly and efficient, Guinness is spot on, and the food delicious.
Attended for breakfast. Fresh and good quality food. Good selection on breakfast menu to suit all needs. However service was slow.
Was here for a wedding party and we all had a fantastic time. Lovely place, nice food and the friendliest staff I've encountered in a long time. Couldn't think of a way to improve the experience and highly recommend it to anyone planning similar events.
The hotel’s location is its only redeeming feature; otherwise, it was deeply disappointing. I stayed here with my family for a business trip, booked by my company, leaving me no choice. The room was extremely dusty, with spider webs near the windows and small spiders on the bed. I started itching as soon as I got into bed, and it felt like the room hadn’t been cleaned in months. The phone was also dead, forcing us to go to the reception at night just to request water. Most alarmingly, a staff member entered our room without permission or knocking while my wife was alone, casually asking if we needed anything. This was unacceptable and unsettling, especially since she forgot to lock the door. Management must train staff to respect guests’ privacy and practice basic manners. Additionally, loud snoring from a nearby room disturbed our sleep. We planned to stay for two nights but left a day early due to these issues. I will not return to this hotel and strongly advise management to address these serious concerns.
I don't give 5 stars,but Lake of shadows they deserve that rating.
Staff was very helpful and welcoming, we check in, Laura was very welcoming.
Paddy, the barman, brought a smile 😃 to our face.
Didn't stay at the hotel, we just went to the restaurant. Had the most amazing vegan stir fry with rice.
After staying in numerous hotels in donegal over the last 30yrs feel Ihave to mention how wonderful a wee gem of a hotel this is .The staff are welcoming and accomodating to everyone who comes through the door the surroundings are pristine and the food is fantastic good wholesome varied menu to suit all tastes.A special word of thanks to your new management addition john think he will bring an awful lot to this hardworking team particularly impressed that he thanked the staff individually at the end of their shifts .We will be back
Grianan Park, Ardaravan, Buncrana, Co. Donegal, F93 VY36, Ireland•
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