From Sea to Sky at Greencastle Maritime Museum and Planetarium, Inishowen

Denise Henry, Marketing, Inishowen Tourism

Situated beside a bustling fishing port and harbour at Greencastle, Inishowen, is the Inishowen Maritime Museum and Planetarium, pictured above. Housed in an impressive building, originally the Old Coast Guard Station, are artefacts that tell you the story of Inishowens rich Maritime Heritage. On arrival you will be greeted by the museums helpful and friendly staff, who will provide you with all the direction and information you need for your visit.

Maritime Heritage in Inishowen, Co. Donegal

Entering the main exhibition hall you will be greeted by an eye catching replica of a Basking Shark, pictured above, the largest fish species in the North Atlantic and second largest in the world. These gentle giants have been spotted off the coast of Inishowen by locals and visitors. Progressing through the hall you will encounter an impressive collection of boats and other maritime related artefacts, pictured below. Information panels provide the story and context behind the diverse range of objects on display. 

As you make your way through the exhibition space located on the 1st and 2nd floor you will notice there is a story and artefact to engage with at every corner. Visual aids will bring you back in time, as you learn about the impact of emigration in the area. Letters and personal objects on display are donated from families in the area.

Located on the second floor, pictured above, is a wealth of objects and memorabilia telling the story of events that shaped the lives of those living in Inishowen and neighbouring Derry/Londonderry. You will learn about how fishing and seafaring played an important role in the survival of families in Inishowen over the centuries and the role of local people who served in the Royal Navy and Irish Naval service during WW2.

The Power Of The Sea

The rugged coastline of Inishowen has witnessed a number of shipwrecks over the centuries which include the La Trinada Valancera, an important vessel associated with the Spanish Armada Fleet that sank off the coast of Inishowen in 1588.

The story of the devastating and sometimes ruthless power of the sea is echoed by the Inishowen Maritime Memorial located at the front entrance to the museum. The Memorial pictured above, commemorates all those from the Inishowen Peninsula that lost their lives at sea.

From The Sea To Stars

Maritime Heritage is one dimension of your museum experience as you will have access to an impressive full dome planetarium. On request you can experience one of the museums wonderful shows that caters to all age groups. Learn about Prehistoric Sea Monsters that once roamed our oceans, witness the wonders of our solar system and experience the award winning show "Dynamic Earth", that will bring you face to face with the wonders of our planet. 

The Planetarium, which includes comfortable seating, is a popular venue with visitors, school trips and families. The space is also used to host talks related to astronomy by astronomer Ash Mc Fadden. Greencastle Maritime Museum and Planetarium is open all year round so you will have ample opportunity to come and learn about Inishowens Maritime Heritage and the wonders of our planet and solar system.

Find Out More 

http://inishowenmaritime.com/

https://www.facebook.com/inishowenmaritime.greencastle

Nestled by The Coast at Trean House Farmhouse B&B, Inishowen

Denise Henry, Marketing, Inishowen Tourism

Trean House Farmhouse B&B is located in the picturesque townland of Lecamy on the Inishowen Peninsula. During your stay you will be immersed in a truly stunning landscape, comprising of large mature gardens, pictured above, with colourful flowers and fruit trees. The grounds include farm outbuildings and sheep that roam the 125 acres of working farmland. The house itself offers ample space to relax, read a book, spend time in the gardens and rest in spacious, bright, rooms pictured below. On arrival you will be greeted by the family's friendly collie. 

Farming at Trean House

During your stay you will have the opportunity to learn about Joyce and Mervyn Norris's working farm and on request you may be given a tour of the vast farmland surrounding Trean House. If visiting in the springtime you can come face to face with a collection of adorable lambs.Whatever the season there is always something different to engage with at Trean and the surrounding landscape in Inishowen. The family have recently been awarded the “Farmhouse of the year 2016″ by Georgina Campbell’s Ireland Guide, a guide that selects some of the best places to eat, drink and stay throughout Ireland.

Hidden Gems on Your Doorstep

Amongst the scenic areas close to Trean House is Tremone Bay, located a mere five minute walk from your accommodation. Tremone Bay, pictured above, is an unspoiled gem, nestled behind another popular beach, Kinnagoe Bay, pictured below.

If beach life is too quiet for your interests, you are within short driving distance to a number of coastal towns in Inishowen, like Culdaff and Malin Town. Trean House can act as a base to explore the entire Peninsula, immerse yourself in culture, relax near a beach or enjoy the grounds on location.

Find Out More
http://www.treanhouse.com/the-farm/
https://www.facebook.com/treanhouse/

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

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