Ballyshannon

Ballyshannon is a town in Donegal. It is located at the southern end of the county where the N3 and N15 cross the River Erne, and claims to be the oldest town in Ireland. From its idyllic setting, the town looks out over the estuary and has panoramic views of mountains, lakes and forests. There are numerous archaeological sites in the area dating back as far as the Neolithic period (4000BC - 2500BC). As well as a selection of shops, pubs and restaurants, the town is also known for its music with the Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival taking place on the June Bank Holiday weekend each year and the Ballyshannon Folk Festival taking place on the August Bank Holiday weekend. Famous guitarist Rory Gallagher was born in Ballyshannon and the town centre contains a statue erected in his memory. Bus Eireann offers routes to cities and major towns in Ireland including Cavan and Dublin. Ulsterbus offers services to cities and major towns in Northern Ireland including Belfast and Derry. Feda O'Donnell offers routes to and from Gweedore to the west of Ireland, including Sligo and Galway, via Ballyshannon. There are six primary schools in the town, as well as a secondary school and a centre for adult education. There is also GAA, rugby, soccer and basketball clubs in the town.