Donaghadee is a beautiful coastal town in County Down that I am pretty sure will captivate you with its charm. I visited it while travelling along the Causeway Coastal Route, as it is a short distance from the Giant’s Causeway. However, Donaghadee is really so lovely that it is worth visiting for its picturesque harbour, historical significance, and vibrant local culture.
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The Charm of Donaghadee: History and Maritime Heritage
Donaghadee is the closest point to Scotland. It is situated on the eastern coastline of Northern Ireland, and the Scottish coast is often visible on clear days. Locals told us there are also swimming competitions to cover the 21.5 miles of sea from the Scottish city of Portpatrick.
The name Donaghadee, pronounced Don-a-ga-dee, derives from the Irish term Domhnach Daoi, which translates to “church of Daoi” or “church of the motte.” The village was originally home to a Gaelic ringfort, and later became the site of an Anglo-Norman motte-and-bailey castle. Donaghadee also played a significant role in the Irish Rebellion of 1798.
Today, Donaghadee is mainly known for the BBC drama Hope Street filmed there, and its lighthouse, which has earned the town the nickname “Beacon of the Coast.” However, the town is so charming that it seems to be coming straight out of a postcard. Donaghadee is bustling with life, boasting a variety of shops, restaurants, and even Ireland’s oldest pub.
Things to See in Donaghadee
Visiting Donaghadee, you will discover a charming mix of maritime heritage and scenic beauty. While the town’s highlight is the lighthouse, you can also enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views by taking a stroll along the harbour.
Donaghadee Lighthouse
The Donaghadee Lighthouse is the main attraction in the town, standing at 35 feet tall and representing its rich maritime heritage. It was notably the first Irish lighthouse to be converted to electricity.
Although you cannot tour the lighthouse itself, the surrounding area offers breathtaking coastal views. With a stroll along the harbour, you can enjoy great views of the lighthouse and the surrounding waters.
If you wake up early or visit the harbour at dusk, you’ll find the lighthouse even more charming when illuminated.
Donaghadee Harbour
One of the best ways to truly appreciate the charm of Donaghadee is by taking a stroll along its scenic harbour. The harbour is still active today, with small fishing boats coming and going.
Walking along the quay, with local cafes and shops lining the waterfront, you can enjoy the vibrant maritime atmosphere, accompanied by seagulls in the background.
You may even catch a glimpse of local fishermen bringing in their daily catch, enhancing the authentic experience of this picturesque coastal town.
Donaghadee Motte
The Motte, also called the Moat, is a motte-and-bailey castle constructed by the Anglo-Normans in the late 12th century. In addition to the castle, a Gunpowder Store was built around 1821 to hold explosives for the construction of the harbour.
Ards and North Down Borough Council owns the Motte castle and the surrounding grounds, recognised as protected heritage assets.
Where to Eat and Drink in Donaghadee
Donaghadee offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget. You can choose from gastropubs, a renowned distillery, the oldest pub in Ireland, and more. Here are some places I recommend worth trying to discover the best Northern Irish cuisine.
Pier 36
Pier 36 is situated right on the quayside of the picturesque Donaghadee harbour, and you should definitely try its fantastic food.
This pub has won multiple awards, including Northern Ireland Pub of the Year in 2003, 2006, and 2012, as well as LCN Food Pub of the Year in 2013. Additionally, it was a finalist in the LCN Awards for Guesthouse of the Year and was recognised as Northern Ireland’s Premier Seafood Pub Restaurant.
During my stay at the nearby Pier 36 Guest House, I enjoyed a fantastic breakfast at Pier 36. My salmon toast and poached eggs were absolutely delicious.
Grace Neill’s
Grace Neill’s is one of Ireland’s oldest pubs, opening in 1611. Situated on High Street, this small bar features stone flooring and beams made from ship timber, both original to the building. Inside the pub, you can spot antiques and memorabilia.
Initially, the pub was named the King’s Arms. According to family tradition, Grace Neill received the pub as a wedding gift from her father. Neill was a prominent figure in Donaghadee and owned the bar until she died in 1916, after which it was renamed in her honour.
In addition to its historical significance, Grace Neill’s is a great place to eat. In 2010, it was featured in the Michelin Eating Out in Pubs guide.
Harbour and Company
At Harbour and Company, you can share, taste, talk, and relax while enjoying stunning views of Donaghadee Shores. Some tables, like the one where I sat, offer unique views across the Copeland Islands and beyond.
The menu at Harbour and Company is quite intriguing as it combines daily catches from local fishermen with British classics and fusion dishes, such as the delicious salmon with noodles that I enjoyed during my dinner there.
Harbour and Company is a lovely restaurant with a great menu and a selection of local beers. However, please note that it is not suitable for families, as they have an age limit of 14 years and older to create a more relaxed atmosphere.
Copeland Distillery
The Copeland Distillery produces a range of spirits, including Irish gin, rum, single malt whiskey, and pot still whiskey, all inspired by the history of Donaghadee and the Copeland Islands. On-site, a coffee shop is open daily, where you can enjoy a coffee and a sweet treat while watching the distillery in action.
If you’re interested in the distillation process, you can take part in their tasting tours to learn more about the production of their unique handcrafted gin. After the tour, visitors can relax in the cosy bar area and enjoy a refreshing gin cocktail.
How to Reach Donaghadee
Donaghadee is easily accessible from Belfast, located just a 40-minute drive away. If you prefer public transport, regular bus services connect Donaghadee with Belfast and other nearby towns.
The town is also only a 2-hour drive from Dublin. It was the first stop during my trip along the Causeway Coastal Route. Renting a car in Ireland is the best way to explore the area’s stunning landscapes, coastal walks, and charming towns and villages.
Best Time to Visit Donaghadee
The best time to visit Donaghadee is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is more pleasant. During the warmer months, outdoor activities like walking along the beach and harbour are definitely more enjoyable.
Where to stay in Donaghadee
In Donaghadee, accommodations mainly consist of B&Bs and guesthouses. If you’re looking for hotels, the only options available, such as Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, are in the nearby town of Bangor, just a short drive away.
However, B&Bs and guesthouses are usually cosy and charming. I stayed at the Pier 36 Guest House and loved the cottage’s cosiness and central location, just a few steps from the harbour and the lighthouse.
What to See Around Donaghadee
While Donaghadee is a picturesque coastal gem, I recommend to explore the surrounding areas too for more attractions and remarkable experiences. Just a short drive from Donaghadee, you’ll find Mount Stewart House and Gardens, a National Trust property featuring stunning gardens and inviting walking paths.
If you’re travelling with kids, the Ulster Folk Museum in Cultra presents the history of Northern Ireland through a fantastic immersive experience, with traditional craft demonstrations in a unique reconstruction of rural life. Additionally, the Ulster Transport Museum, located right across the street, showcases an impressive collection of locomotives, and vintage cars, including an original DeLorean, a Titanic exhibition, and more.
Another nearby attraction is the Copeland Islands, which are accessible by ferry from Donaghadee. These islands are home to many wildlife, particularly seabirds, making them the ideal destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts willing to spend a day hiking and exploring the rugged coastline.
As you may have guessed from this article, Donaghadee is a hidden gem in Northern Ireland. Feel free to share in the comments what impressed you the most between the natural beauty of the coastline, the delicious local food, or the fantastic destinations you can reach with just a short drive from Donaghadee.