Lough Key Forest Park: A Blend of Nature, History, and Adventure

Lough Key Forest Park, located near Boyle in County Roscommon, Ireland, is a captivating destination that seamlessly combines natural beauty, rich history, and a plethora of recreational activities. Spanning approximately 800 hectares along the southern shore of Lough Key, the park offers visitors a diverse range of experiences, from exploring historical landmarks to engaging in thrilling outdoor adventures. If you hire a boat for your holiday you can get to lough Key by taking a turn onto the Boyle river between Carrick-on-Shannon and Leitrim village. It takes about 3 hours to cruise from either location and you'll pass Cootehall and Knockvicar on your way. There are plenty of places to moor your boat at the park.

Historical Significance

The park's origins trace back to the Rockingham Estate, the ancestral home of the King family. Rockingham House, a grand Georgian mansion designed by renowned architect John Nash in the early 19th century, once stood as the estate's centerpiece. Unfortunately, the house was destroyed by a fire in 1957, believed to have started due to an electrical fault. In 1973, the Moylurg Tower, a concrete viewing structure, was erected on the site, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Visitors can delve into the estate's storied past through the "Rockingham Remembered" tour, which guides them through 19th-century underground tunnels and along Ireland's first Tree Canopy Walk. This 300-meter-long walkway rises 9 meters above the forest floor, providing a unique perspective of the park's flora and fauna.

Recreational Activities

Lough Key Forest Park offers a wide array of activities catering to all ages and interests:

Boda Borg: An innovative, indoor adventure challenge that tests participants' mental and physical skills through a series of themed quests. Suitable for ages 7 and up, teams of 3-5 people work together to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles.
Zipit Forest Adventures: An exhilarating treetop experience featuring zip lines, rope bridges, and climbing challenges set amidst the park's lush woodlands.
Adventure Play Kingdom: A dedicated play area for children, equipped with towers, slides, climbing frames, and other interactive features designed to stimulate young minds.
Water Activities: The park's proximity to Lough Key allows for various water-based activities, including boat tours and kayaking, offering visitors a chance to explore the lake's serene beauty.

Trails and Tours

For those who prefer a more leisurely exploration, the park boasts numerous walking and cycling trails that meander through its diverse landscapes. These paths lead visitors through dense woodlands, along the lake's edge, and past historical landmarks, providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.

Cultural Events

Lough Key Forest Park also serves as a vibrant cultural venue, hosting events such as the annual Night and Day Festival. This music festival transforms the park into a lively hub of performances, art installations, and interactive experiences. In 2025, the festival will feature the innovative "Sol Stage," a 150-foot-high platform atop Moylurg Tower, where artists will perform amidst live animations by visual artist Sergey Khadjava.

Visitor Amenities

To enhance the visitor experience, the park offers a range of amenities, including a modern visitor center, picnic areas, and dining options. Camping facilities are also available for those wishing to extend their stay and immerse themselves fully in the park's natural surroundings.

There are original concrete moorings that you can moor your boat at and newer floating jetties at the lake shore. You can cruise most of the lake on your hire boat and visit islands if you have a dinghy, the shallows around most of the islands mean that you can't take your hire boat in too close.

Conclusion

Lough Key Forest Park stands as a testament to Ireland's dedication to preserving its natural and cultural heritage. Whether you're a history enthusiast, adventure seeker, or nature lover, the park offers a multifaceted experience that caters to diverse interests, making it a must-visit destination in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands.