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-
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.
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…
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…
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,…
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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15
Sep
Halloween Fun Day @ Donegal Railway Centre”
Read more“Halloween Fun Day @ Donegal Railway Centre” One of Donegal’s favourite and popular annual family events returns again this year with Donegal’s Railway Centre’s famous
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26
Aug
Fine Dining & Music at Donegal Railway!
Read moreDonegal Railway Heritage Centre was delighted to host a unique night at our museum of fine dining and music till the late hours at the
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18
Aug
Restored Donegal Steam Engine Officially Unveiled!
Read moreHistory has been made in County Donegal with the historic Donegal Steam Engine Drumboe installation, being officially launched after her return home several months ago to
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07
Aug
Save the Date for Vintage Car & Tractor Run 2022!
Read moreDonegal Vintage Run – 14th August 2022! Have you a Vintage Car or Tractor, itching to get it out for a final run in scenic
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10
Jun
Launch of “The County Donegal Remembered”
Read moreDonegal Railway Heritage Centre is delighted to announce the publication of a new railway book, titled “The County Donegal Remembered”, by Jim McBride. Jim has