The Doon Well consists of a modern enclosing wall with steps descending to the spring below, whilst a nearby sapling bears countless mementoes left by those who’ve come seeking cures. Though the site was landscaped in 2006, its reputation as a place of healing stretches back centuries, making it one of Tirconaill’s most frequented holy wells despite being one of its youngest.

Local tradition credits the well’s sacred status to Fathers Freel and Gallagher, two priests who returned from abroad around 200 years ago and blessed the spring. According to 19th century antiquarian Kinahan, the well’s fame grew so rapidly that authorities had to construct a public road to accommodate the increasing numbers of summer and autumn pilgrims. The water was believed to cure various ailments, particularly problems with mobility and vision, whilst water carried home and sprinkled on fields was thought to prevent potato disease and corn blight; a valuable protection in a rural community dependent on agriculture.

Unlike many Irish holy wells, Doon Well has no specific feast day or pilgrimage season, remaining open to visitors throughout the year. The ritual observed here involves reciting five Our Fathers, five Hail Marys and the Creed for one’s intention, with the same prayers repeated for each bottle of water taken. Additional prayers are offered for Father Friel, who is said to have discovered the well and lies buried in nearby Kilmacrenan graveyard beneath a white stone, and for Father Gallagher who blessed it, as well as for the unknown benefactor who built the original shelter around the spring.