Hut site, Tullydush Lower, Co. Donegal
On the southwest facing slope of Bawnloge Hill in Tullydush Lower, County Donegal, the remains of an ancient hut site offer a glimpse into Ireland's prehistoric past.
Hut site, Tullydush Lower, Co. Donegal
The site occupies a level, oval shaped area measuring approximately 4.2 metres from northeast to southwest and 3.3 metres from northwest to southeast, cleverly cut into the natural rock outcrop. Rather than constructed walls, the dwelling’s boundaries were defined by existing boulders and large stones, showing how early inhabitants worked with the landscape rather than against it. From this elevated position, residents would have enjoyed sweeping views across the rough mountainous pasture, taking in vistas from east through south to west.
This particular hut site isn’t an isolated find but part of a broader ancient settlement pattern across Bawnloge Hill’s southwestern face. The entire area contains multiple dwelling sites within an extensive field system, suggesting a once thriving community. Just 125 metres to the south southeast, two additional hut sites can be found, whilst 245 metres to the east southeast stand the remains of two house sites. Adding to the area’s archaeological richness, a panel of rock art lies 130 metres to the east, hinting at the cultural and possibly spiritual significance of this hillside location.
The rough pasture field located southwest of the hut may have been associated with this monument, perhaps serving as grazing land for the settlement’s livestock. Today, these subtle remains in the landscape require a keen eye to spot, but they represent thousands of years of human habitation and adaptation to Ireland’s rugged upland environments. The site forms part of a wider archaeological landscape that demonstrates how prehistoric communities organised themselves across these hills, creating networks of homes, fields, and sacred spaces.





