Neds Point Fort, County Donegal Travel Guide

4.7 (189)

Explore Neds Point Fort in Donegal: a Napoleonic-era coastal defense offering scenic views and a glimpse into Irish military history.

Neds Point Fort, near Buncrana in County Donegal, is a historic Napoleonic-era battery built in the early 19th century to defend the northwest coast of Ireland against French invasion. Though not always open to the public, its well-preserved structure and scenic location offer a glimpse into Ireland's military past.

A brief summary to Neds Point Fort

Tullyarvan, Tullyarvan, Co. Donegal, IE

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Neds Point Fort.

Check local sources for current access information, as the fort is not always open to the public.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the area around the fort involves some walking.
Bring a camera to capture the scenic views of Lough Swilly.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Largy Viewpoint

Donegal Castle

Fairy Bridges

The River Bank Walk, Donegal Town

Donegal County Museum

Explore Neds Point Fort on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Neds Point Fort, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the center of Buncrana, follow the shore walk towards Ned's Point. The walk is approximately 500m from O'Doherty's Keep, taking you along the scenic coastline to the fort. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

Local buses serve Buncrana. From the bus stop in Buncrana, it's a short walk to the shore walk that leads to Ned's Point Fort. Bus fares within Buncrana are typically around €2-€3.
Taxi

A taxi from Buncrana town center to Ned's Point Fort would be a short ride, costing approximately €8-€12. Confirm the fare with the driver before setting off.

Discover more about Neds Point Fort

Neds Point Fort, situated in Tullyarvan near Buncrana, County Donegal, is a tangible reminder of Ireland's strategic importance during the Napoleonic Wars. Constructed between 1812 and 1813, the fort was part of a broader scheme to fortify Lough Swilly and Lough Foyle against potential French invasion.The fort originally comprised a rectangular blockhouse mounting two guns and a supporting battery with four guns, all surrounded by a protective ditch. Over the years, it underwent several modifications. In 1874, it was armed with two 5.5-inch Howitzers in the tower and four 24-pounder smooth bore guns in the main battery. Later, in the 1890s, it was remodeled with two 6-inch guns on hydro-pneumatic mountings, including a central underground magazine complex, and the tower's height was reduced.Decommissioned in 1907, Neds Point Fort stands as one of several Napoleonic batteries along Lough Swilly. While not always open to the public, the site has undergone restoration efforts, preserving its historical integrity. Visitors can appreciate its architecture and imagine its role in defending the coastline. The fort also offers stunning views of Lough Swilly, enhancing its appeal as a historical landmark.