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Glebe House and Gallery: An Artistic Retreat

Discover art, history, and natural beauty at Glebe House and Gallery, the former home of artist Derek Hill in County Donegal.

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Nestled in the serene Donegal countryside near Church Hill, Glebe House and Gallery offers a unique glimpse into the world of renowned artist Derek Hill. The Regency-style house, dating back to 1828, showcases a fascinating blend of art, history, and culture, with collections of William Morris textiles, Islamic and Japanese art, and works by prominent 20th-century artists.

A brief summary to Glebe House and Gallery

Local tips

  • Check the Glebe Gallery website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and special exhibitions.
  • Allow at least 1.5 - 2 hours to fully explore the house, gallery, and gardens.
  • Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee at the tearooms located on the grounds.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving, start from Letterkenny and take the R251 towards Church Hill. Glebe House and Gallery is located 18km from Letterkenny on the R251. Look for signs as you enter Church Hill. There is free parking available on site for cars and coaches.

  • Public Transport

    From Letterkenny, take the TFI Local Link bus route 971 towards Church Hill. The bus departs from Letterkenny Bus Station and arrives in Church Hill. Glebe House and Gallery is a short walk from the bus stop. Bus Eireann also provides services to Church Hill. A single fare on the Local Link bus is approximately €4.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Letterkenny and Church Hill. A taxi from Letterkenny to Glebe House and Gallery will cost approximately €25-€30. Local taxi services include Churchill Cabs & Minibus Hire Ltd and McHugh Travel.

Unlock the Best of Glebe House and Gallery

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Discover more about Glebe House and Gallery

Glebe House and Gallery, located near Letterkenny in County Donegal, is a captivating destination for art and history enthusiasts. The centerpiece is Glebe House, originally known as St. Columb's, a Regency-style house built in 1828 as a rectory. In 1954, the English portrait and landscape painter Derek Hill made it his home, living and working there for nearly three decades. Hill transformed the house into a unique showcase of his diverse artistic interests, filling it with William Morris textiles, European and Oriental furniture, and Islamic and Japanese art. The collection includes over 300 works by leading 20th-century artists, including Picasso, Kokoshka, and Irish and Italian masters. In 1981, Hill generously donated the house, its contents, and gardens to the Irish State. Today, visitors can explore Hill's former home, which is displayed in an informal manner, as though Derek Hill were still in residence. His studio and guesthouse have been converted into a modern gallery that hosts changing exhibitions. The gardens surrounding the house are open to the public and offer a tranquil escape with beautiful views of Lough Gartan. Note that Glebe House is currently closed for conservation and is expected to reopen in the summer of 2025.

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