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09 Sept 2025

Step inside the iconic St John's Point Lighthouse this Heritage Week

This is a free, self-guided tour with the knowledgeable house manager on hand to chat and answer questions

Step inside the iconic St John's Point Lighthouse this Heritage Week

St John's Point Lighthouse

St John's Point Lighthouse in south Donegal will be open to the public as part of Heritage Week and the Killaghtee Festival.

This Sunday, August 25 from 10am to 4pm, the lighthouse will be open for free, self-guided tours. 

A spokesperson said: "Explore the rich heritage of this unique location during our open house event. Step inside and discover the stories behind this historical landmark. 

"The knowledgeable house manager will be on hand to share fascinating insights and answer any questions you may have. 

"Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the past and experience the beauty of our heritage up close."

This is a free event which can be booked by going to Eventbrite.ie and searching for St John’s Point in Donegal.

St John's Point Lighthouse is classed as a harbour light, designed to guide boats from Donegal Bay. It marks the north side of the bay leading to Killybegs Harbour, from the entrance up to Rotten Island.

The lighthouse was built after requests in 1825 by merchants and traders of Killybegs to have a light on St John's Point. 

It was designed by civil engineer George Halpin Senior and is made of cut granite.  

The lighthouse came into operation in 1831. It was augomated in 1832 and converted to electric operation in 1962. It continues to play a role in maritime safety today. 

As well as the lighthouse itself being worth a visit, the drive to it is varied and spectacular. St John's Point is one of Ireland's longest peninsulas, and has stunning views of Donegal Bay as well as the mountains of Donegal and Sligo. 

The area is rich in marine wildlife and visitors may even be lucky enough to spot whales and dolphins, or some of the many species that inhabit the wetlands and littoral environment. Visitors will drive alongside a coral beach with beautiful clear waters en route to the lighthouse. 

St John's Point is steeped in history and heritage, from the Killaghtee Cross to the lookout post (pictured) on a high point near the lighthouse, which offers views that are well worth the short, though steep, climb.

People visiting the area are reminded to respect livestock and to keep the gate between the beach and the road to the lighthouse closed. 

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