Tory Island

Location

off the coast of Co. Donegal

History

Tory Island has become very well known for many reasons - one being the native art of the Tory Island artists. Well established as a style of painting, examples of the work are found in the local community hall and exhibitions are often held on the mainland. A Gaeltacht island, Tory is small and yet retains its own distinctive dialect. Only 11 kms from the mainland it is served by ferries from 4 ports during the summer - Downings, Dunbeg, Magheraroarty and Portnablagh. Arriving at the pier on Tory, visitors can see the island's symbol - a T-shaped cross. It is believed that St. Colmcille may have founded a monastery on Tory in the 6th century - a round tower and the ruins of two churches are all that remain. The Tory Island Lighthouse was completed in 1832 and was automated in 1990. Bird-watchers are treated to puffins and, due to its location on the north-west coast, Tory is often visited by interesting migrant birds.

Ferries run from June to September (weather permitting).

Visit Length

2hrs

Admission

No admission fees

Information

Leaflets: Yes Guided Tours: Yes Audio Visual: Yes Exhibition: Yes