This is a historical gem. So much information in the form of old tickets, photographs, paintings, newspaper cuttings, station masters hat, old signs. It’s SO interesting.
VisitDonegal Railway Heritage Centre is considered one of the county’s hidden gems and is located just 300 metres from Donegal Town Centre. Donegal had the largest narrow-gauge railway network in the British Isles, and uniquely, amongst steam engines and railcars, operated one of the first railway vehicles with an internal combustion engine in the world. This fascinating museum celebrating Donegal’s railway heritage is based in one of the few remaining original station houses, which opened in 1889. The museum which has just been upgraded comprises railway rolling stock, interesting artifacts, displays, a video presentation, model railways, a reference library, a shop and much more, including that famous Donegal welcome!
Our Museum
DonateDonation & memberships are our primary way to support our goal to preserve and conserve our local history.
Ways to support
VolunteerDo you have a passion for local history or a special skill you can use to help keep our museum fresh? Get involved in our volunteer program.
Volunteering-
Station House
Read MoreThe former Donegal Town Station houses a small museum with illustrated wall-boards, scale-models and railway memorabilia. Built: 1885 – 1895 Description Detached three-bay two-storey triple-pile former…
Garden
Read MoreOur lovely garden is set between the station house and coaches. With picnic benches it’s the perfect place to sit with a cup of tea.
Railcar Trailer 5
Read MoreRailcar Trailer 5 was secured for restoration in the Summer of 1994. It was discovered by the local photographer the late Conor Sinclair at Doochary,…
Coach 58
Read MoreCoach 58 was one of the three most modern on the whole of the Irish narrow gauge lines and came to the County Donegal on…
Railcar 15
Read MoreThe County Donegal Railway pioneered the use of diesel railcars introducing the first one in 1931. Quite sophisticated articulated units were brought in over the…
Upcoming Events
In the news
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08
Mar
The History of The Railway Travel Poster (and poster offer)
Read moreAdvertising for travel companies was a key component to getting people to consider and purchase tickets to new and exotic places-whether by train, ship,
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26
Feb
Donegal railway Photography Competition!!
Read moreDonegal Railway Photographic/Calendar Competition Launched This year, Donegal Railway Heritage Museum is delighted to announce that they are running a special photographic competition, and winning
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02
Dec
In you can’t go to Santa, then Santa can come to you!!!
Read moreIt has just been announced by Santa’s elves at Donegal Railway Heritage Museum, that as kids (and big kids) this year may not be able
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#BuyDonegalWeekend
Read moreThis weekend, starting Friday 6th November, Donegal County Council is launching its “Buy Donegal Weekend”. As we are all in lockdown and it’s very difficult