An open stone platform above Lough Swilly where John Newton's storm-battered ship The Greyhound found safe haven in 1748 — the spot that inspired the world's best-loved hymn.
Opened in October 2013, the stone-clad platform overlooks Lough Swilly. Its floor is a mosaic by local artist Andrew Garvey-Williams showing Newton's ship The Greyhound, the words "Amazing Grace" in Newton's own handwriting, and broken chains.
Signs at the viewpoint retell how Newton's ship sheltered in Lough Swilly on 8 April 1748 after a violent Atlantic storm, with a timeline of his life and work.
A new set of steps leads down from the platform onto the sandy beach below for a walk along the water's edge.
The viewing point sits on Buncrana's Shore Front; the tarmac coastal path runs for several kilometres along Lough Swilly, linking the beach, Swan Park and Buncrana Castle.
About 1 km along the shore beside the Tourist Office on Railway Road, this tranquil public park opened in 2014 with a water feature, planting, benches and an anchor-shaped viewing area over the lough and pier.
At the entrance to Amazing Grace Park stands a larger-than-life bronze bust of John Newton by Dublin artist Willie Malone, sculpted from 18th-century portraits.
Book a guided walk with a local historian covering the park, viewing point and full Newton story; tours can be tailored to history, music, social justice or faith, and the team can advise on local places to eat and stay.
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