New visitor attraction opens at Co Derry pub

A new addition to Northern Ireland’s tourism sector, Gorta: Swatragh’s Famine Story, has opened its doors, promising to attract visitors and create new opportunities for the local hospitality industry.

Developed by Dermot Friel, owner of Friel’s Bar and Restaurant, this visitor experience tells the story of Swatragh’s involvement in An Gorta Mór (The Great Hunger), intertwining the rich local history with modern tourism development.

The project took shape during the pandemic when two historical finds—a famine-era window and an original famine pot—were uncovered on the Friel’s site. Dermot Friel, inspired by these discoveries, worked with historians and experts to reveal the story of Dr. Mooney, a 19th-century physician who turned his surgery, located on the site, into a soup kitchen during the famine. This site, which dates back to 1835, has been central to Swatragh’s community, serving as a coaching inn, hotel, and family home over four generations.

The centre’s interactive experience features historical reports, interpretive panels, and unique artwork by sculptor Kieran Tuohy. Visitors can also view the famine pot, which is thought to remain in its original location within the soup kitchen. Tours are available with expert guide Cathy O’Neill, along with a walking experience, “The Emigrant’s Walk,” retracing the steps of local emigrants during the famine years.

From a hospitality perspective, Gorta: Swatragh’s Famine Story is a key investment of £350,000, creating four new jobs. The development has been supported by Tourism Northern Ireland’s Experience Development Programme and Invest NI’s Innovation Voucher scheme. This initiative not only strengthens Swatragh’s tourism appeal but also enhances its potential as a destination for international visitors, particularly those with Irish heritage.

The visitor centre is open six days a week, with both guided and self-guided tours available. In the coming months, the centre plans to introduce kitchen demonstrations and special tours for larger groups.

Dermont Friel,  owner of the Friel’s, said:
“The opening of Gorta, Swatragh’s Famine Story is a very special moment for everyone involved.  It is inspired by the story of local charitable people of the time and the risks they took to help people in the community.  It has taken a big team effort, with support from Tourism NI and Invest NI, as well as years of hard work and focus to develop and gather the research to help us present and tell the story in the best way possible. It is a very important story – not only is it a deeply personal one to the Swatragh community, but it is one that connects us to many across the world especially in America and Canada. We hope visitors and the community connect with the story and feel that we have done it justice.”

Keep an eye out for our upcoming issue, where we’ll speak to the team at Friel’s about their latest venture and future plans.