Seven things: Movies that were shot in Donegal

‘Seven Things’ aims to explore the different things about Donegal and highlight the fascinating features of each. 

The elements are not listed in order of importance and are not an all-inclusive list. The list indicates what each place, person or event offers, the various attractions, unique points, people and places worth knowing or remembering, hidden gems and an exploration of all things Donegal! Please click on the arrows to scroll through the movies

Donegal, has a rugged coastline, a rich heritage, a beautiful landscape, historical sites, mountain ranges, forestry, lakes and beaches. These features make the fourth largest county the perfect setting to shoot a film. 

Star Wars stormtrooper at Malin Head, the filming location of The Last Jedi

Additionally, attractions such as having the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe at Sliabh League; hosting the most northerly point in Ireland at Malin Head; one of the three glacial fjords in Ireland at Lough Swilly; the largest sea arch in Ireland, the great pollet arch;  the most scenic airstrip in the world at Donegal airport; and being voted ‘the coolest place on the planet’ by National Geographic, Donegal has more than enough features to entice filmmakers that this is the ideal destination. 

Often referred to as ‘the forgotten county’ due to its geographical location isolated in the north-west of Ireland, the landscape is anything but forgettable which is why Donegal has become a hotspot for film production. Over the last few years, Donegal has seen Hollywood stars choose the county as their desired filming location. Therefore Donegal has emerged as a prime filming location in the country. 

This list serves as an exploration of seven movies that Donegal was chosen as the location for. Some would say the forgotten county is not so forgotten anymore!

In the Land of Saints and Sinners starred Liam Neeson and was filmed in Glencolmcille

The Donegal Film Office, which was established by the Donegal County Council in 2003 is the main resource for film-makers. The film office has extensive knowledge and helps to find a desired location, technical services, local service providers and cast and crew. The film office has been praised for having a large part to do with the international films that have been made in Donegal over the last few years.