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St Connell's Museum and Heritage Centre: A Glimpse into Donegal's Past

Explore Donegal's heritage at St Connell's Museum in Glenties, showcasing local history, culture, and traditions through fascinating artifacts and exhibits.

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Located in Glenties, Co. Donegal, St Connell's Museum and Heritage Centre offers a fascinating look into the area's rich history and culture. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the stories of rural life, folklore, and traditions in the region.

A brief summary to St Connell's Museum and Heritage Centre

  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a more relaxed experience and better interaction with the knowledgeable staff.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events and workshops that celebrate local crafts and traditions.
  • Allow time to explore the village of Glenties, known for its natural and architectural beauty.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Glenties, St Connell's Museum is a short walk. Head north-west on Main Street/N56 towards Mill Road. Turn left onto Mill Road. The Museum will be on the left.

  • Public Transport

    The Bus Éireann route 492 and route 964 and 991 stop at Glenties. From the bus stop, the museum is a 3 minute walk. Head north-west on Main Street/N56 towards Mill Road. Turn left onto Mill Road. The Museum will be on the left. A single fare on Bus Éireann within the region typically costs €3-€5.

  • Car

    From Letterkenny, take the N56 road towards Donegal Town. After approximately 30 km, turn left onto the R262 towards Glenties. Follow the R262 for about 15 km, then turn right onto Mill Rd. St Connell's Museum and Heritage Centre will be on your left after about 500 meters. Parking is available at the museum.

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Discover more about St Connell's Museum and Heritage Centre

St Connell's Museum and Heritage Centre, situated in the heart of Glenties, provides visitors with a captivating journey through the local history and culture of County Donegal. Named after St. Connell Caol, who founded a monastic settlement on Inniskeel Island in the 6th century, the museum is a treasure trove of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that narrate the stories of the region's past. The museum's collection includes items related to the Great Famine in South-West Donegal, offering a poignant look at a difficult period in Irish history. Visitors can also explore exhibits on traditional rural life, including displays of tools, cottage interiors, and the famed Donegal Railway. A section dedicated to Patrick MacGill, the 'Navvy Poet' from Glenties, highlights the life and works of this renowned writer. The museum is housed partly within the town's old courthouse, a sophisticated building dating back to the 1840s. The courthouse itself is a valuable piece of built heritage in South-West Donegal and once featured as a set in the film serial 'The Hanging Gale'. The museum was established to preserve local historical information and artifacts, opening its doors in 1986. Over the years, it has amassed a diverse collection from homes across the region.

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