Sheephaven Bay


Sheephaven Bay is a broad, shallow inlet on the north coast of County Donegal in Ulster, Ireland. Bounded by the peninsulae of Rosguill, to the east and Horn Head to the west, the bay is relatively protected from the full force of the Atlantic Ocean, and has supported a vibrant herring fleet.

Etymology

The Irish name Cuan na gCaorach, "Haven of the Sheep", is a neologism, from a mistranslation of Cuan na gCurrach, "The Bay of the Currachs ". When the name was translated to English, the word "ship" was misheard as "sheep".

Doe Castle

Sheephaven Bay is home to Doe Castle, located near Creeslough, which was built in the early 16th century. The castle, which still stands, was a stronghold for the Clan Sweeney for 200 years.

Settlements around the bay