Donegal Castle

Donegal Castle was built during the 15th century by the heads of the ruling O’Donnell Clan, whose reign lasted in the area until the Flight of the Earls in 1607.

Hugh Roe O’Donnell was the last clan chief. He tried, unsuccessfully, to fend off English attackers and died while traveling to Spain in an effort to gain reinforcements.

Ownership of the castle was then transferred to an Englishman, Sir Basil Brooke. He renovated the castle by adding gales and windows, and building a banquet hall on the first floor that can still be seen today. It is known for its beautiful vaulted ceiling made with strong wooden beams. The hall is decorated with Sir Basil’s coat of arms and a distinctive Jacobean fireplace.

Sir Basil also reinforced the surrounding castle walls and built a manor house inside their perimeter, complete with magnificent towers and turrets.