Getting Crafty at Moville Pottery, Inishowen

By Denise Henry, Marketing Assistant, Inishowen Tourism

Overlooking the picturesque town of Moville, Inishowen, there is a hub of craft called Moville Pottery. Moville Pottery is owned and run by Lowry Wasson and partner Brian McLaughin. 

"How Could you Live in Inishowen and Not be Inspired"

Arriving at the entrance, prepare to be greeted by Lacey pictured above. The shop itself is bright, spacious and full of coloured mugs and dinnerware of all shapes and sizes. On closer inspection you see the intricate designs and layered textures on their pottery range, that I found was chiefly "inspired by the Inishowen landscape". At every corner is an example of beautifully crafted, contemporary pieces of work, which include products from local craftspeople in Inishowen and the North West of Ireland.

From the Worlds Largest Tea Pots to Ceramic Speakers

At Moville Pottery you will get the chance to see, what was once the worlds largest tea pot that can hold up to 23 gallons of tea!! and the only example of a working ceramic speaker system in Ireland. They are fantastic examples of some of the innovation and craft that you will see at every stage of your visit from shop floor to workshop.

The popular Galaxy Green range pictured below, is inspired by the colours and textures of Kinnagoe Bay, an area steeped in history and natural beauty on the Eastern side of the Inishowen Peninsula. The formation and shape of the rugged rocks at Kinnagoe, and Five Fingers Strand, near Malin Head, inspire the shape and design of some of their pottery. 

Moville Pottery in High Demand

Having celebrated over forty years in business, owners Lowry and Brian, have built up an impressive range of pottery that is in high demand in Ireland and internationally. Commissions have been requested by cafes, restaurants, hair and beauty salons and other businesses throughout Inishowen, Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Spain.

Both Lowry and the staff take time during your visit to answer any questions about the pottery making process, including the inspiration behind their designs. Upon invitation, you also have the opportunity to view their workshop, pictured above. 

Tune in next week to find out more about how Lowry and Brian make there unique pots and find out a little about some movie stars that are sipping tea out of a Moville Pottery mug!

Find Out More About Moville Pottery
http://www.movillepottery.com/
https://www.facebook.com/movillepottery

Tell use what you think?
Add any comments or questions about the blog below.

Fun for all the Family at Lurgybrack Farm

By Denise Henry, Marketing Assistant, Inishowen Tourism
Today's visit takes me to the wonderful Lurgybrack Farm, Donegal, a popular destination with both visitors and locals. On arrival you will be greeted by a spacious car park and directed via a path and signage to an inviting entrance with a large court yard. Immediately there is a sense of space and energy as school children buzz in and out of play areas and what appears to be rooms with animals inside. On site there is a cafe and shop, where I am greeted by Sharon, a staff member at Lurgybrack who gave me a warm welcome and an umbrella to fight off the rain.

Undeterred by the weather I venture out and explore the exotic bird display, followed by a room next door which houses some ridiculously cute animals, including guinea pigs and bunnies, pictured above.  

"No Matter What Age You Are There is Something for Everyone"

Leading on from the main courtyard you will pass a number of indoor facilities, which include spacious eating and play areas to a large outdoor complex. This section of the farm is full of attractions. The first to catch your eye will be a large play area with a range of swings, slides and other features suitable for any age group to enjoy. Taking in the sheer wealth of space and facilities on site it is unsurprising that on any particular day it is possible to hold up to 12 birthday parties on the grounds.

In the distance you will notice a number of paths leading to animals grazing in green lush fields. In this area you will be welcomed by the quirky sight of a type of barrel train. This fun and unique idea is one of many that you will encounter at Lurgybrack Farm. At the helm of the train I meet Paddy O'Loan, pictured above. Paddy has multiple roles at the property, which includes everyday maintenance of the grounds, care of the animals and entertaining visitors by driving the quirky barrel train around the property at intervals throughout the day. 

Learning About Animals at Lurgybrack Farm

Before speaking with Paddy, I take the time to wonder around on my own. Expect to feel like a child again, as you navigate around the grounds and encounter a collection of farm animal favourites like the Shetland pony pictured above to the gentle and majestic deer pictured below.

Animals on the grounds range from the powerful Clydesdale, to Jacob sheep, goats, pot belly pigs, chickens, ducks, geese and much more. Among the more exotic animals and new additions to the farm are the Emu, native of Australia and Llambas that originated in North America. At each point you will notice information panels which allow you to learn more about each colourful creature.

“Whatever the Weather Lurgybrack is a Great Location for all the Family” 

After meeting with Paddy he tells me a little of how Lurgybrack came about. Seven years ago an idea was formed "over a pint at a local pub" during a charity event and since then Lurgybrack has gone from strength to strength, with "some family's returning 2/3 times a year". School tours are also extremely popular due to an engaging list of activities, among them "milking the cow" pictured above. In regards to development at Lurgybrack, a current project underway is to expand the canteen to facilitate the needs of a growing number of visitors.

What struck me in particular at Lurgybrack was the efforts in place to ensure that the grounds are wheelchair accessible, including some of the playground equipment and vehicles used for providing tours of the property. Lurgybrack is full of surprises, from the scale of the property to the range of activities, facilities and animals on display. You will leave Lurgybrack having had a memorable experience, that was both fun, engaging and educational.

Find out more about Lurgybrack Farm:
http://lurgybrackopenfarm.town.ie/

Tell us what you think!
Add any comments/questions about the article below 

"Never a Dull Moment" at Tropical World

By Denise Henry, Marketing Assistant, Inishowen Tourism

Today I travel to Tropical World, Donegal’s popular Butterfly House and Mini Zoo. Undeterred by the rain, I make my way on the N13 road to Letterkenny/Ramelton. Along the way expect to see wonderful historical and archaeological gems. Notably the ancient fort of An Grianan which stands guard over the landscape and Burt Castle which rests on top of the appropriately called Castle Hill. With a final turn off from N13 onto R245 I arrive at my destination. On arrival I notice a florist & gift shop, large garden centre and restaurant. A fan of flowers, my first stop is the vibrant and spacious florist which offers a wide selection of flowers to cater for any occasion.

From Plants to Wildlife: Alcorns Garden Centre & Tropical World

Next stop is the garden centre, which can only be described as every garden enthusiasts dream. With knowledgeable staff on hand, you will leave the centre with all the information and products you need. What struck me was the space and freedom to wonder around comfortably. Care has been taken to ensure the grounds and associated buildings are wheelchair accessible. Following a warm welcome from John Alcorn, joint director of the property, I am introduced to his son Lewis Alcorn, who has been working at Tropical World since it was established in 2011. There is a great atmosphere at Tropical world "which is a family run business". 

Tropical World; It’s all About the Wildlife

From the garden centre we make our way to the reception area, pictured above, which is bright, spacious and inviting. Information panels occupy each wall and engage the reader with fun and accessible text for all age groups. Spotting the large Dino Den sign, I am told is the "new addition to Tropical World in 2015", I go to explore and feel like I am on the set of Jurassic Park! You will see why the Dino Den has become a favourite with many visitors. Lewis states that the emphasis at Tropical world is to ensure “the visitor has fun but learns something along the way”.

The Butterfly Effect at Tropical World

A personal favourite was my next stop, the Butterfly room pictured above. Pulling back the black protective curtains I enter a simulated rainforest environment. Hot, humid and misty I feel like I’m in a totally different location. Butterflies fly overhead completely undeterred by my presence, offering you the opportunity to get up close to these beautiful creatures. Although the delicate butterfly has a short life span of three weeks, they are well cared for in this unique environment. In a container, you can view future butterflies in crystallised form, providing the opportunity to view different developmental stages. I soon realise why “The Butterfly room remains a consistent favourite”.

Mammals, Exotic Birds, Reptiles and Creepy Crawlies!

The next area leads to the exotic birds section, pictured above. The range of colour is striking, as I view species from Africa, Australia and Asia. The new, extended free flight Avery provides an opportunity to see the birds stretch their wings and take flight. I draw my attention away from the exotic display and slowly make my way to investigate the reptile and creepy crawlies section where you will learn about the collection of snakes, lizards and hair raising tarantulas. 

As Cute as a Fox at Tropical World

Mammals on display include meerkets, squirrels, yellow mongoose, ring tailed lemurs from Madagascar and short clawed otters. One mammal in particular that grabbed my attention was the adorable Fennec Fox. Fennec is a small nocturnal fox from the Sahara in North Africa. As you can see above, he is curled up and having a nice snooze.

Just when I think I have seen it all, I follow directions outside to a large area called the Hazel Hill Habitats, opened in March 2016. Outside there is a series of enclosures, which showcase many types of wildlife, including a favourite with staff; Tetly the Black and White ruffled lemur, pictured above.

Tanya Jacobs Head Ranger at Tropical World

Shortly after completing a degree in Bio Science in Letterkenny I.T, Tanya “got the job by chance”, “Clive Alcorn, director and founder of Tropical World, approached Tanya about an idea "to have a butterfly farm" and if she "would like to come on board”. Tanya took the opportunity and over six years of hard work followed. In that time Tanya “completed a Diploma in Management of Zoo and Aquarian animals, followed by training in Stradford-Upon-Avon Butterfly Zoo, birds section in Edinburgh Zoo and Belfast Zoo”. In 2012 Tropical World was granted a zoo licence which “meant so much for the property and staff as they could now expand” and in 2013, became a member of BIAZA, British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

“Visitors Return to Tropical World to Discover Something new Every Year”

Each year director Clive Alcorn and the team strive to have a new addition or feature, like the Dino Den or Hazel Hills Habitat pictured above, to join there already extensive and impressive butterfly room and mini zoo. A lot of people remark that they “didn’t realise it was so big and left with gaining more than what they expected”. I totally agree Tropical World and adjoining Alcorns Florist and Garden Centre have a package that will satisfy the needs of any visitor or local who wants to drop by. Aside from the sheer fun of the environment itself, I left Tropical World with an appreciation of and awareness of the rich habitats and environments that wildlife come from and need in order to survive. 

Stay posted for our next blog where Tanya tells us more animal story's and what a day is like as a Head Keeper at Tropical World.

Find out more about Tropical World

http://tropicalworld.town.ie/

https://twitter.com/TropicalWorldLK?lang=en

https://www.facebook.com/tropicalworldlk/?fref=ts

Tell us what you think! 

Any questions or comments about our article? make sure to comment below

Adventure at Malin Head, Inishowen

By Denise Henry, Marketing Assistant, Inishowen Tourism

Today’s adventure takes place at Malin Head with one of Ireland's leading climbing instructors Bren Whelan, pictured above. Bren is an award winning wildlife & landscape photographer, film maker and highly qualified  Mountain Instructor & International Mountain Leader. The day kicks off at Malin Head as my colleague and I meet Bren at the historic Banba's Crown, a Napoleonic Tower built in 1805. From there we make our way a little further along the headland to our climbing site, where we are fitted with harnesses, helmets and soft climbing shoes. The scenery is simply stunning, the jagged sea stacks of Skildrenmore and Skildrenbeg strike up from the water, a temptation to climbers, but until July, home to nesting gulls. 

Taking the Plunge: Abseiling at Malin Head, Inishowen

 As a beginner, who admittedly is a little nervous of heights, Bren starts off with a gentle abseil over a grassy edge pictured above, that tumbles down to meet the stark rocky barrier between us and the Wild Atlantic. Using a multiple belay system, we complete a loop down to the foot of the rock face. During the abseil you can hear the rolling sea drawing nearer behind you. At the bottom, standing on a thick bed of stones there is ample opportunity to pause and appreciate the raw beauty of our surroundings. Meanwhile Bren sets up the next belay ensuring the rope is attached to each cam and carabiner as he passes it. Ascending again, we learn more from Bren about the belay system, which keeps us all safe and connected.

At each interval time is taken to ensure that we both know exactly what to do and expect. During the climb we hear some inspiring stories about his trips around the world and experience with climbing in all types of conditions. While the third belay system is set up, I find a seat on a flat rock on this outcrop, and take time to appreciate the experience - the multitude of colours; shades of green, blue and grey and the changing ocean is striking.

 Fear and Exhilaration at "The Cauldron"

The final belay takes us across a manageable walkway, perched atop a jagged ridge, and back onto solid ground. We stroll across to Dawson's Dihedral - named after Dawson Stelfox, the first Irishman to climb Everest. It's a dramatic site, the chasm plummets to "The Cauldron", as its aptly known locally. At this point you will find your knees buckling, but with guidance from Bren, a balance can be found between terror, determination and adrenaline. Before I begin my descent I coat my hands in chalk to improve grip on the rock face, I descend to where I feel comfortable and find a thin grassy ledge, pictured above, to capture a few photographs of this moment. Although still nervous I found a sense of calm standing there as the sounds of the ocean act as a reminder of where you are and how fortunate it is to be at this stunning location at the top of Ireland. 

 

 Embracing the Wild Side of Malin Head, Inishowen

The morning's climb not only helped settle my fear of heights, it was an educational and exhilarating experience, one not to be forgotten and certainly to be repeated. Aside from the experience itself, Bren takes time to point out some of the abundant wildlife in the area - the sturdy little pink orchids and the skylarks' with their territorial song.You will leave Bren's company with an appreciation for how he and others have been bitten by the climbing bug and by the draw of Malin Head's enchanting coastline, pictured above.

Find out more about adventure in Inishowen:

@wawrockclimbing
http://mountaintraining.ie/
https://www.facebook.com/wildatlanticwayrockclimbing/

Tell us what you think 

Add any comments or questions below!

Growing Tourism in Marine & Coastal Areas - Donegal Marine Tourism Seminar, 8 July 2016

Delivering World-Class Tourism all over the Island of Ireland

A rich and diverse tourism offering exists in Donegal. It's a county with a reputation for delivering world-class tourism services and attracting visitors from all over the Island of Ireland as well as from overseas.

Donegal Marine Tourism seminar Q&A. @donegalcouncil @govisitdonegal pic.twitter.com/YgOimbP2wb

— Cllr. Niamh Kennedy (@kennedyniamhm) July 8, 2016

Inspiration from Marine Tourism Strategy in Scotland

Alan Rankin, Marine Tourism Strategy in Scotland: A Scottish National Tourism Strategy was launched in 2016 (TS2020) - they have set up sectoral strategies linked to this national strategy, business tourism, marine tourism and a national events strategy. They have successfully linked to local and destination strategies to ensure they are all aligned and tracking activities on the coast. Important things to think about are: Where are the saturation points, where are the dips? What areas need development ? 

Having a cohesive strategy should include : 

1. Providing a local & authentic experience; 
2. Improving the customer journey & identifying all touchpoints (planning, digital channels); 
3. Building capabilities to welcome local visitors & tourists at scale (facilities)

#Donegal Marine Tourism Gathering 2016 @CleanCoasts @VisitInishowen @visit_donegal @inishadventures #climbwild pic.twitter.com/FWtNaOnsq1

— Bren Whelan (@wawrockclimbing) July 8, 2016

Sustainable Development, Eco-Tourism & Job Growth in Maritime Communities

Marine tourism projects include a cohesive marine leisure development strategy for the North West, which links Donegal to the maritime regions of Northern Ireland and the West coast of Scotland. The Donegal Marine Tourism seminar detailed many insights and innovation in the development of new marine tourism products and services. It was a fantastic event and each speaker outlined how companies can provide sustainable development, eco-tourism, job growth and the rejuvenation of maritime communities. 

Very jealous indeed! Customer digital marketing #DonegalMarineTourism pic.twitter.com/ozES43p6sU

— DonegalMaps (@DonegalMaps) July 8, 2016

Speakers included Olivia Crossan from An Taisce’s Clean Coast initiative, Joy Harron, Marine Tourism Officer with Donegal Tourism and Adrian Harkin from Inish Adventures. Pre-trip planning is always a vital factor for visitors. Give them all the information they need to increase the value of their experience. During their trip, increasingly important is their digital experience while visiting. Research how do they communicate with their holiday snaps and understand which web channels have most engagement. In addition, maintaining this social relationship afterwards is a great way to gain repeat visits. Give the visitor a platform to speak, to post and to promote your business, for free, through content marketing. 

For more information :
www.malinwaters.com
www.cleancoasts.org
www.donegalcoco.ie/marinetourism/

Tweets about DonegalMarineTourism

Lights, Camera, Action- International Coverage set to showcase Inishowen - Photographic Tour of the Peninsula & Our very own International Star Daniel O’Donnell stops by on the Road trip T.V series

      By Tourism Development Officer- Heidi Woods

As we head into the first week of July, it’s hard to believe it is “summer”. Despite the heavy outbursts of showers more typical of April, visitors are not deterred by the weather to explore Inishowen from the continent. Statistics from the January to May period 2015 have been assessed in relation to the same period this year 2016. Although it doesn’t give an overall picture until the end of the year, early indications show there is a steady increase in visitor numbers from the main overseas markets that include the UK mainland, 9% increase since 2015, Germany, up by just 1%, France by 5.5%, and remarkably an increase by 50% in Italy. The Republic of Ireland domestic market was up 3.5%; however there was no increase in the Northern Ireland visitor statistics in contrast to last year compared to 2014. It is expected that this may spike upwards during the July/August period as it historically hits the main holiday months. Up and coming markets like Australia were showing increases of 36%, with various visitors from the category Others up by 29%. 

“Capturing the Light” at Ballagh Studio, Inishowen, Donegal

By Denise Henry, Marketing Assistant, Inishowen Tourism

 

Today’s blog takes me to Ballagh Studio, in Ballagh, Inishowen to meet acclaimed artist and native of Malin, Ros Harvey. From the picturesque town of Malin, I follow a series of quirky signs entitled "paintings". The route itself brings the visitor on a scenic journey where on arrival a beautiful beach and rolling hills can be seen in the distance (see above). As I pull into a spacious drive there is a collection of traditional buildings that appear to have been lovingly restored. 

At the front door of the large ivy covered building I am welcomed by Ros Harvey, pictured above, who guides me to a showroom. The showroom, pictured below, originally a Cow Byre, has a warm and inviting feel. Each wall displays a collection of stunning paintings and prints. The room hints at a love of craft as well as art, amplified by the uniquely carved chairs. Books placed on the large table suggest a passion for myth and folklore, alongside a love of the sea and landscape. I later learnt that myth and folklore is largely a passion of Tim Stamptons. Tim, a printmaker and illustrator, met Ros in 1979 and in 1988 they established the Ballagh Studio.

Dramatic seascapes and landscapes on display are inspired by the rugged and diverse landscape in Inishowen. Many scenes capture Trawbeaga Bay, the Isle of Doagh and other iconic locations around the peninsula. Ros captures the power of the sea beautifully in her work. It is the “Rocks, boats and the sea (that) create a sense of deep home roots”.

What Inspired an Interest in Art?

From the age of 13 Ros had been around many great pieces of art. Her stepfather had an interest in both the subject and collection of abstract art. Despite the fact that Ros herself has practiced a very different artistic style, she believes this harbored an initial interest. Ros began her artistic career as a potter, spending many years producing pottery in Dublin, where she became one of the leading potters of original ash-glazed stoneware in the country. 

The Journey Back to Inishowen

Following a decision to move from Dublin to England Ros met Tim Stampton, who, “at the time was making large pieces of garden pottery”. After a number of years in England selling pottery they made the decision to move back to Ireland and “With only 79 Punt in the bank and a little luck, they made their way along the Irish West coast” to find their new home. The “Closer we got to Inishowen the more excited we felt”. Having been away for 30 years, Ros now “felt at home”.

“A Labour of Love” Built Heritage, Art & Craft in Inishowen, Donegal

In 1988 Ros & Tim purchased a Clachan, a small group of houses with a farmstead, outbuildings and a few family homes. Over the next 25 years they would carefully restore each building that had lain empty for over 17 years. “Altogether we’ve got the house, two studios, framing shop, showroom and print workshop.” Ros describes the experience as “a labour of love”, using the profit from art sales to gradually restore the property.

Shortly after moving in in 1990 they “sold their first painting off a trestle table in the gravel on their front yard”. Since then, Ros has exhibited in venues all over the world. To date, Ros is a Member of The Royal Ulster Academy and the Pastel Society of Ireland, has held major one-man exhibitions and illustrated a number of books.

From Clay to Pastel “The Magic Switch”

Following a back operation in 1981, Ross would begin a different creative journey. After a time experimenting with watercolor and oil based paints, it was by chance that she would find her preferred medium, pastel. “A friend had left a set of pastels behind…. the texture of pastel had a similar feel to clay which allowed for 3D imaging”. The move from ceramics to pastels was like “flipping the magic switch”. Pastels allowed Ros to capture form and focus in her paintings alongside a gorgeous depth of colour.

The Creative Process, Creating Art at Ballagh, Inishowen

“I love the changing skies, being surrounded by water and I like to capture how the clouds come in low near the sea”. “Initially I sketch, photograph and then paint the scene”. What fascinated me is how Ros can memorise every shade of colour at a particular scene, often using black and white photographs to paint from. In the initial stages of creating a piece of work Ros has to “Get the sky right to start with, and then the atmosphere is fixed for the rest of the work”. Emphasising a love a light, Ros describes how herself and “Artists who come to the West of Ireland always talk of the light and that even if it is misty there is a clarity.”

Audiences engage in different ways with her work, “Many locals engage with and purchase paintings of local scenes”. From a quick look at the visitor guestbook it is clear that people from all over the world visit the studio, many of whom return.

To the back of the property, surrounded by trees and lush green fields Ros has a studio located on what was originally a privy. The studio is dominated by windows in order to take advantage of natural light. It was “built by a local builder around a bay window we had salvaged”. What commands your attention as you enter is the large impressive easel built by a local blacksmith. 

The Ballagh Experience "The Closer we got to Inishowen the More Excited we Felt"

Visitors are also welcome to experience much more than the showroom, upon invitation you get the chance to visit Tim’s print workshop, pictured above, which contains a treasure trove of traditional print machines, wood cuts and wonderful illustrations.

A visit to Ballagh Studio is a memorable experience, starting with the journey itself to this stunning location. There, you have the chance to meet and hear the fascinating story behind your purchase and of the artist who created it and lovingly restored the building in which it rests.

Come see Ballagh Studio for Yourself!

A selection of Ros’s work is available to purchase from Ballagh Studio and commissions are also taken. 

Open Mon-Sun 9-6. After hour visits are by appointment.

See the following links for more information:

http://www.rosharvey.com/

http://www.timstampton.com/index.html

Tell us What you Think!

Add your comments below and make sure to stay tuned for part two of my Ballagh experience as I talk to Tim Stampton artist, print maker and illustrator in his workshop about all things print, folklore and myth.

“Mad about Donegal Tweed & Knitwear” The Glendowen experience

By Denise Henry, Marketing Assistant, Inishowen Tourism 

Located 4km from the Wild Atlantic Way route, along the main Buncrana to Clonmany Road the Glendowen Craft Shop at Meentagh Glen is an easy place to find and the location itself is very scenic. A large sign leads the visitor to the property where you are greeted by two traditional style stone buildings. The sense of tradition and of being off the beaten track is reinforced by the sheep you can see grazing at the back of the property.

Welcomed by a quirky, half open Dutch door and vibrant window display I enter the shop where I receive a warm welcome from Ann McGonigle, pictured above, owner and crafter at Glendowen. Items on display range from jewellery, stylish wraps, and hats of all colours, perfume, beautiful wall hangings, books and paintings.

How did this hub of Craft and Art in Inishowen come about?

For Anne “A love and knowledge of craft was harbored from a young age”. Having suffered from Asthma as a child, Ann spent much time at home. To prevent boredom, her late mother, a talented crafter, began to encourage her daughter from the age of 6 to sew and crochet. Over the years Ann’s work with tweed, wool and other materials intensified. In 1997 Glendowen was established and work began out of the current studio in 2004. Inspiration for her work, stems from traditions passed down through the generations, from the stunning landscape that surrounds the craft shop, the wider Inishowen Peninsula and a little from the “style magazines read every Sunday morning”.

Ann was always “Mad about Donegal Tweed & Knitwear” and wanted to find a way to combine both materials, which was skillfully achieved, starting with jackets and tunics. Ann would later specialise in a range of ladies’ garments with a hand-crochet finish including some of the coats, wraps, hats, scarves, bags and jewellery seen above. A passion and attention to detail can be seen in each item.

The customer is always right! Quirky ideas at Glendowen Craft Shop

On display are many unique & quirky items inspired by requests made by friends and visitors. Products range from button earrings covered in tweed and wool, dicky bows, pictured above, made from tweed and a selection of bandanas and bow ties for pets, which are ridiculously cute. Other gift style purchases are tweed & wool based book covers, wine holders and a personal favourite; small sacks of turf.

Each sack, pictured above, is made from tweed with a unique badge attached to the front. Inside you find tiny hand cut pieces of turf. How did this come about you might ask? By listening to visitors Ann found they loved Irish turf. What better way to pack this in your suitcase than with this perfect little gift.

Local Art & Craft in Inishowen, Donegal

Initially, many visitors came to the shop, and questioned where to get other craft items which led Ann to the decision to showcase the work of other crafters/artists at Glendowen. The shop now sells stunning pieces from Moville Pottery, Ballagh Studio and Crana Knits. Solidarity soon grew amongst creative groups in the area, resulting in a booklet that provides a guide of where to view and purchase art & craft products in Inishowen.

Over 70% of the items in the shop are sourced and made from local/Irish materials, for example Donegal Tweed and Yarn used in Ann’s range of garments and jewellery is sourced from Magee’s of Donegal Town and McNutt’s of Downings, Donegal.

What I didn't expect to find: The Creative Hub

Located in a room off the main shop display is a workshop, pictured above, where Ann has ample space to create her line of craft items. How often do we get the opportunity to know and see where our clothing is made and talk to the person that makes it? Each purchase is unique, skillfully made on location from the finest local materials. Every product in the shop promotes local/Irish craft and the traditional skills that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Ann’s engagement and focus on ensuring each “visitor goes out the door with a feel good factor” enhances an already memorable experience. Glendowen is a place for local and visitor alike to visit and experience.

Find out more about the Glendowen Craft Shop, Inishowen

Opening hours are from 10.30 – 5.30, Monday to Saturday or any other time by appointment. Only a small percentage of Ann’s range is available in other shops, so if you want to buy any of what you see above make sure to call into the shop!

For more information:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Glendowen-Craft-Studio-507656602628232/
Website: http://glendowen.com/

Tell us what you think!

Add any comments/questions about the article below and stay tuned for part two of my next visit to the Glendowen craft shop where I learn about the popular traditional music sessions that take place at Glendowen.