Lifford

Lifford sits where the rivers Finn and Mourne meet to form the Foyle, which marks the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland. The town spreads across both sides of this river and connects to the neighboring settlement of Strabane by bridge.

The town developed around a castle built in 1527 by Manus O'Donnell as his family secured control of the region. This fortress reflected the power of the O'Donnells in this border area.

The courthouse from 1746 now serves as a restaurant and heritage center where visitors can see documents about the O'Donnell clan's past. The building itself tells the story of this powerful family through its rooms and displays.

The town is reachable by bus from larger cities and sits just across the border from Strabane. Visit during late spring through early autumn for the most comfortable weather conditions.

The courthouse from 1746 once served as the center of justice at the border and now operates as both a restaurant and cultural center. Its rooms preserve memories of how law and order worked in this divided region.

Location: County Donegal

Elevation above the sea: 6 m

Website: http://donegalcoco.ie

GPS coordinates: 54.83560,-7.47791

Latest update: December 20, 2025 11:43