The Water Wheels

Ballyshannon, DonegalAges not specified

The Water Wheels, Ballyshannon, Donegal

Visit a restored 12th-century Cistercian mill with two working water wheels. There is a museum about medieval Cistercian history in Ireland, along with a coffee shop and craft shop.

Abbey Assaroe, in Ballyshannon County Donegal, was founded by Cistercian monks from Boyle Abbey in the 12th Century. In 1989 the Abbey Mill Restoration Trust acquired the mills and surrounding area. The restored mill now houses a coffee shop, restaurant, craft shop and museum. This museum relates to the history of the Medieval Cistercians in Ireland. Two rotating water wheels have also been restored. The overall concept of the restoration project is to provide a useful facility and restore part of Ireland's 12th Century heritage. The Water Wheels is in an exceptional setting overlooking the Erne Estuary and Atlantic Ocean.

Family practicalities

  • Pram-friendly (likely)
  • Baby changing (likely)
  • Step-free access (likely)
  • Café on site
  • Toilets (likely)