Swilly

Swilly is a geographic name most often used to refer to the River Swilly and Lough Swilly, a coastal feature in County Donegal, Ireland. The term is commonly used to describe the river that feeds into the sea inlet and the surrounding coastal and estuarine area.

The River Swilly rises in upland areas on the Inishowen Peninsula and flows generally westward to enter Lough Swilly, a sea inlet that lies between the Inishowen and Fanad peninsulas. The lough opens to the Atlantic Ocean and provides a sheltered harbor that supports local fishing and boating. The estuary and surrounding shoreline are characterized by tidal wetlands and coastal habitats that support a variety of wildlife.

Historically the Swilly estuary area has supported fishing communities and maritime activity. In the 20th century Lough Swilly served as a naval base for Allied operations, and remnants of fortifications and wrecks illustrate its naval heritage. Today the area is used for fishing, sailing, and tourism, with natural heritage making it a popular destination for birdwatching and coastal walks.

The Swilly estuary hosts diverse habitats, including tidal wetlands, eel and salmon runs in the river, and birdlife such as waders and seabirds. Conservation efforts focus on preserving water quality and habitat connectivity to support migratory fish and resident species.

The name Swilly derives from Irish origins and is sometimes used to refer collectively to the river, the lough, and the surrounding coastal region. In common usage, Swilly can denote either the river or the lough, depending on context.