Glebe House and Gallery, located near Lough Gartan in Churchill, County Donegal, is a Regency-style house built in 1828 and the former home of renowned artist Derek Hill. Managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW), it’s celebrated for its eclectic art collection, William Morris textiles, and serene woodland gardens.
- Glebe House, originally Saint Columb’s rectory, was purchased by English painter Derek Hill in 1954 and served as his home and studio until he donated it to the Irish state in 1981. Hill, a portrait and landscape artist, was instrumental in fostering the Tory Island school of primitive painting, mentoring local artists like James Dixon. The house retains a lived-in feel, showcasing Hill’s personal touch and eclectic tastes.
- Art Collection: The house boasts over 300 works by 20th-century artists, including Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Oskar Kokoschka, Jack Butler Yeats, Louis le Brocquy, Graham Sutherland, and Tory Island painter James Dixon. Notable pieces include Augustus John’s Calling of James and John. The collection also features Islamic and Japanese art, European and oriental furniture, and William Morris wallpapers and textiles, creating a vibrant, eclectic atmosphere.
- House and Interiors: The Regency-style house, with its bright colors (e.g., electric blue entrance hall) and Arts & Crafts decor, feels like a personal museum. Rooms feature personal items like framed photos of Hill’s friends (Seamus Heaney, Prince Charles, Yehudi Menuhin, Ian Fleming), colorful glass collections, and his tweed suits, adding a charming, intimate vibe. The house is preserved as if Hill still resides there, with an “artful chaos” of high Victoriana, Bauhaus detailing, and boot-sale chintz.
- Gallery and Exhibitions: Hill’s former studio is now a modern gallery hosting changing exhibitions of contemporary and historical art. Past exhibitions, like Carey Clarke’s paintings, have been well-received. The gallery is free to enter, making it accessible for art lovers.
- Gardens: The woodland gardens, bordering Lough Gartan, feature rare plants, beech and chestnut trees, and a wildflower meadow buzzing with wildlife. The serene setting offers mesmerizing lake views, ideal for strolls, picnics, or children’s play. The gardens are open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM, free of charge, and host events like plein air art workshops.
- Guided Tours: Access to the house is by guided tour only (45 minutes, limited to 15 people), offering insights into Hill’s life, art, and connections. Guides like Kevin and Jean are praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling, bringing the house to life with anecdotes about Hill’s starry guests (Greta Garbo, Mary Robinson) and his role in the Tory Island art movement. Tours are described as emotional, informative, and a highlight of Donegal visits.
- Duration and Accessibility: A visit, including the tour, gallery, and gardens, takes 1 to 2 hours. The ground floor of the gallery is accessible for people with disabilities, but the house has limited accessibility due to stairs.
- Amenities: The on-site café offers homemade baking and scenic views, earning praise for its homely atmosphere and reasonable prices. There are no public toilets mentioned, so plan accordingly.
- Cost: House tour admission is €5 for adults, €4 for groups/seniors, €3 for children/students, and €13 for families. The gallery and gardens are free.
- Atmosphere and Appeal: Visitors describe Glebe House as a “hidden gem” and “national treasure,” ranking #1 on Tripadvisor among Letterkenny attractions. Its tranquil setting, world-class art, and authentic decor make it a soul-nourishing stop for art lovers, what Tourism Ireland marketing department calls the “culturally curious”, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The gardens and lake views are recommended for families, with kids enjoying the wildflower meadow and lakeside splashing.
- Location and Getting There: Located at Glebe, Churchill, Co. Donegal (F92 WP70), 18 km from Letterkenny and 2 km from Churchill village, the site is a 20-minute drive from Glenveagh National Park. Public transport is limited; a car is recommended. Free parking is available.
- Nearby Attractions: Combine a visit with Glenveagh National Park (14 km), Colmcille Heritage Centre, or Tory Island (to explore Hill’s influence on its art). The Donegal Garden Trail highlights the gardens’ beauty, making it a great stop for nature lovers.
What’s New:
- Glebe House and Gallery underwent a major conservation programme starting September 2, 2024, closing the house, gallery, and grounds to the public:
- Phased Reopening: The grounds are expected to reopen as early as January 2025, with the gallery and house reopening in phases during the summer of 2025 (likely June–September). The site will not be open for Easter 2025, unlike previous years. Visitors should check Heritage Ireland’s website (www.heritageireland.ie) (www.heritageireland.ie) or social media for exact reopening dates.
- Conservation Works: The ongoing conservation, in preparation for the site’s bicentenary in 2+4428, aims to preserve the house’s structure, art collection, and gardens. The gallery’s 2024 full accreditation from the Heritage Council’s Museum Standards Programme and a green flag award for sustainability suggest continued high standards post-reopening.
- RTE Documentary Exposure: On June 1, 2025, the final episode of RTE’s Legacy series will feature Glebe House, focusing on Derek Hill’s portrait art and his eclectic collection. The episode highlights the house’s history and Hill’s connections to figures like the Prince of Wales and local Donegal residents. This may boost visitor interest, leading to increased tour demand or new promotional events.
- Heritage Guide Recruitment: The OPW is recruiting fixed-term guides across its sites, including Glebe House. This could mean enhanced tour experiences with new guides, building on the reputation of knowledgeable staff like Kevin. Applications close February 5, 2025, so new guides will be in place by summer.
- The 2023 addition of an outdoor classroom for Gartan National School suggests a focus on community and educational engagement, which may expand.
- 2025 Expectations:
- The phased reopening means visitors may initially access only the grounds (from January) and gallery, with the house reopening later in the summer. Expect the same pricing structure and tour format, with enhancements from the conservation works.
- The Legacy documentary and ongoing OPW investment may draw more visitors, so booking tours in advance is advisable, especially in July and August when the site is open daily (11:00 AM–6:30 PM, last tour at 5:30 PM).
- The gardens, with their wildflower meadow and sustainable practices, will remain a highlight, featuring new plantings or events like art workshops.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- Getting There: Drive from Letterkenny (18 km, ~20 minutes) or Glenveagh National Park (14 km). Public transport is limited; consider a rental car or guided tours via Discover Ireland.
- What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes for garden walks and bring a camera for the lake views. The café provides refreshments, but pack water for longer stays.
- Best Time to Visit: Plan for summer (June–August) for full access to the house, gallery, and gardens. Check www.heritageireland.ie or email glebegallery@opw.ie for reopening updates.
- Combine with Other Sites: Visit Glenveagh National Park, Tory Island, or the Colmcille Heritage Centre for a full Donegal experience.
- For the latest updates, contact the OPW (+353 74 913 7071, glebegallery@opw.ie
