Located on Tory Island (never imagined I’d like anything Tory related!) 14.5km off the north west coast of Donegal, Ireland. The word Tory comes from the Middle Irish word Tóraidhe, which means bandit (how apt!)
A 45 minute ferry from mainland Donegal will get you to the most remote (inhabited) island of Ireland. It really feels like stepping back in time - words simply can’t describe it! Neolithic farmers colonised this island several thousand years ago, and though very little trace of that period remains, it is said that the perimeter wall surrounding the lighthouse is built from stone from the only remaining building of that era.
Old fellas greeting all walking by from their modest house doorways, wildflowers, birds - I was in heaven! I very much hope it remains this way - so many of the islands of island have become major tourist attractions.
Number one stop was of course the lighthouse. The island is very small, 5km long and 1km wide, so plenty of time to explore - but lots to see!
You see the lighthouse long before you get to it. Of course the gates were locked (and very high) and the wall was also well over 6ft. I opted to jump the wall (with assistance) only to discover the wall on the other side was completely knocked down and the gate wide open!
The lighthouse was requested by the Harbour Commissioners and merchants of Sligo in April 1828. Approval for the project was granted in November of the same year. The tower and buildings were designed by George Halpin, a prominent lighthouse engineer of that time, and the buildings are very much of his style.
The lighthouse was established on 1st August 1832. The tower is 27 metres high and the light is 40 meters above sea level. In 1972 the light was electrified. In 1990 it was automated and the keepers withdrawn from the station.
For all those that ask me from now on which lighthouse is my favourite, it will be Tory. But mostly because the island is just beautiful. I can’t imagine ever getting bored on this island.
