The Red Door Country House

Renowned for its relaxed dining, intimate weddings, breathtaking views, and comfortable seating on the beautiful terrace and courtyard, The Red Door Country House is nestled on a 4 acre site overlooking Lough Swilly, along the Wild Atlantic Way in Inishowen, county Donegal.

Situated between Derry and Buncrana, the country house is easily accessible by car. In fact, they attract day-trip diners from as far away as Down and Monaghan, for their famous Sunday lunches alone! Slow braised beef in Guinness tops the list of favourites.

This beautiful country house has seen a lot of changes since it was built in the 18th century. Formally St Johns Restaurant, the first part of the country house was built in 1789, including the cellar, Kate’s Room, and bedrooms Le Noir and Le Damask. Kate’s Room still has the original sliding sash windows. The bar area was built 100 years later in 1889 and was formerly an outbuilding for storing turf and logs.

Over the past two centuries, ownership has passed through many hands, including musician Phil Coulter, and the owners of Watts Distillery in Derry. The late Reggie Ryan and his wife bought the house from Phil Coulter in 1979 and opened it as a restaurant in 1980. The current owners bought the building when the Ryan’s retired and opened for business under the name The Red Door Country House on 13th February 2009.

Today The Red Door is an award winning restaurant and accommodation provider as well as an exclusive wedding venue, defined by its attention to detail and personal service. The traditional open fires in the bar and Kate’s Room enhance the homely atmosphere and these areas provide the perfect meeting place for guests before and after their meals. Bar food is now served Thursday and Friday from 5pm until 8.30pm, Saturday from 12.30pm until 7pm and Sunday from 12.30pm until 8pm, with no reservation required.