Old Narrow Gauge Railway Query

By (Anonymous)

Donegal Railway Heritage Centre In Donegal Town

Reader Question: Where would I find info on the old Donegal railway as part of an upcoming Donegal vacation? We have a three week trip scheduled July. Thanks.

Our Reply: The best place we know of is the Donegal Railway Heritage Centre in Donegal Town. There's also a scenic vintage railway tour available in the Donegal Gaeltacht region, that you might enjoy...

Donegal Railway Heritage Centre: This heritage center's museum contains a wealth of information about Donegal's former narrow gauge system. The museum holds a large and diverse collection of historic photos related to the old railway. In fact, the Donegal railway's entire history from start to finish is on display there. The museum also has detailed working scale models as well as a collection of fascinating artifacts. The exhibit even includes a variety of meticulously restored examples of original rolling stock.

You can also watch vintage documentary footage of the old railway in the unique comfort of one of the heritage center's original rail cars. As well as that, you'll find an interesting selection of books and DVDs available to buy in the museum shop.

The Railway Heritage Centre is located in Donegal Town's historic old station house buildings. They are about a ten minute walk from the bustling cafés and shops around the town's center, which is known as the 'Diamond'. Pass Donegal Castle, cross the bridge over the river Eske, and continue past the post office to the 'T' junction. You can see the Railway Heritage Centre just across the road from you at this point.

Fintown Railway: You might also enjoy Fintown Railway's heritage tour. This fun tour travels on five kilometers of restored track aboard the vintage Muc Dhubh train. 'Muc Dhubh' is Gaelige for 'Black Pig'. But if you think that might be a clue as to the train's color, you'd be mistaken, it is painted red and cream!

This tour transports you along the shores of enchanting Lough Finn amid some of the Gaeltacht region's most beautiful highlands. Fintown Railway is open from the beginning of June to early September, so it would tie in with your vacation.

For Fintown Railway information and reservations, ring +353 (0)74 954 6280 or e-mail info@antraen.com.

Wishing you a wonderful vacation!