THE OPENING OF THE SWILLY LINE
In early September 1864, the L&LSR opened the new railway line connection from Derry to Buncrana, and Fahan saw its first scheduled passenger and freight service. Steam locomotives were used on the railway right through until the end of service on 8th August 1953. The coal fireboxes of the locomotives provided the cooking heat for the engineers’ snacks and tea breaks.
The “Swilly Line” as it was affectionately named, brought people on excursions from Derry to Fahan and on to Buncrana for bathing, golf, beach walks and for a day out.
In the reverse direction, the catch of Buncrana’s fishing fleet joined the produce of Inishowen farmers on its way to the Derry markets. The village of Fahan, which means ‘sheltered place’ in Irish, effectively served as the “Port” for the voyage across the Swilly to Rathmullan and up to Portsalon, using large paddle steamers, two of which were aptly named “The Lake of Shadows” and “Inishowen”.
The railway line itself extended into sidings at the pier for the transportation of goods and passengers to and from the paddle steamers. Remains of the old pier are still a feature of our local beach.
The refreshment rooms and bar at Fahan have been serving visitors to the area since the station opened in 1864, a long tradition we are proud to continue.
OUR HISTORY
The Railway Tavern firebox grill is stationed in what was formerly the refreshment rooms at Fahan Station on the Derry to Buncrana line, run by the Londonderry & Lough Swilly Railway Company (L&LSR).
The restaurant and bar are decorated with vintage train memorabilia and rare railway artefacts alongside the resounding echoes of so many past visitors. Serving up a slice of history: one plate at a time!
OPEN FIRE GRILL
Our cosy, traditional interior has retained much of its original charm and is perfect for intimate gatherings, a quiet pint or a meal for all the family, young and old.
At the centre of the restaurant is a dramatic open fire grill housed in a steam engine firebox, where patrons get to watch the chef cook their steak or burger over flame, adding to the anticipation of the meal!
Location
Station Road, Fahan, Co. Donegal, F93 TVF2
Hours
Opening hours for restaurant
Mon to Thurs 3pm to 9pm (last orders)
Fri & Sat 12.30pm to 9pm (last orders)
Sunday 12.30pm - 8pm (last orders)