Kerrykeel sits on Mulroy Bay in north-west County Donegal, between Milford and the Fanad Peninsula, with Knockalla Mountain and Ranny Hill around it. The bay and the surrounding hills shape the approach to the village, and the road through it is part of the scenic Mulroy Drive linking Kerrykeel, Milford and Fanad Head.
Above the village are Ranny Hill and the Gortnavern portal tomb, a Neolithic dolmen, and the site of the Battle of Ranny. If you plan to explore the countryside around Kerrykeel on foot, check locally for current routes and stay on public roads or marked paths.
On towards Fanad
Kerrykeel is a useful stop on the road towards Fanad Head. The lighthouse operator gives directions via Kerrykeel and publishes current tour and booking information. Check times before driving out to the headland.
For another stop on the peninsula, continue towards Portsalon, which has a long sandy strand on the far side of the headland.
The Saturday market
A country market has been held in Kerrykeel on Saturdays at the old national school on Ranny Road, and it has been a short one. Check locally for current days and times before you plan a visit around it.
A bit of history
Kerrykeel – An Cheathrú Chaol, ‘the narrow quarter’, and Carrowkeel in the older census returns – grew up as a farming and market village. For generations it held a monthly fair at Cow Hill on Pump Street, trading livestock and produce. The footballer Billy Gillespie, the first Irishman to captain an FA Cup-winning side, was born here in 1891, as was the ballad singer John Kerr.
Practical
- Getting there – By car on the R245 and R247. Letterkenny, to the east, has the nearest supermarkets, restaurants and onward transport.
- Facilities – Kerrykeel is a small village, so check locally for shops, food and services before you rely on them.
- Nearest airport – Donegal Airport; check current flights before you plan around it.