History
Originally the home of the Johnston family, The Cliffe at the Quay nestled on the banks of the River Eske is a building steeped in history.
Built by Robbie and Phylis Johnston, this Victorian red-brick home was for generations an identifiable gateway home to Donegal Town. Always a hive of activity synonymous with the Irish expression ‘céad míle fáilte’, the Johnstons raised their family within these red-brick walls overlooking the harbour town. Today it stands reimagined and built anew, once again a place to enjoy, relax, rest, and unwind. The Cliffe at the Quay, like the heritage town of Donegal, is full of personality.
Robbie Johnston was an entrepreneur, the main dealer for Austin, Jaguar and Triumph cars in the north-west of Ireland in the 1950’s, and a driving force in the motor sales industry. A keen badminton player and a champion game hunter, he ran his motor business beside the family home on Quay Street.
The home fell into dilapidation in the mid 2000’s until fired by the beauty, character and history of this lovely house, the McCabe Family undertook its refurbishment in 2024 bringing it back to its former glory. Situated in the heart of Donegal Town, overlooking the harbour, The Cliffe at the Quay is vibrant again and welcomes guests all year round.