Lough Key Forest Park - Family Fun in Roscommon
Lough Key Forest Park is a picturesque outdoor recreational area located in County Roscommon, Ireland. It encompasses woodlands, lakes, historical sites, and a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Here’s a detailed description of the place:
- Visitor Fee:
- There is typically no admission fee to enter Lough Key Forest Park. Visitors can access the park and enjoy its natural beauty at no cost. However, some activities and attractions within the park may have separate fees.
- Transportation:
- Car: The most convenient way to reach Lough Key Forest Park is by car. It’s easily accessible from towns like Boyle and Carrick-on-Shannon.
- Public Transportation: While there isn’t direct public transportation to the park, you can take a train or bus to nearby towns and then use local taxis or rental cars to reach the park.
- Things to Do:
- Nature Trails: Explore a network of well-marked walking and cycling trails that wind through the forested areas, offering scenic views of Lough Key and the surrounding landscape.
- Activities on the Lake: Enjoy various water-based activities on Lough Key, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. There’s also a lakeside beach area for swimming.
- Zipit Forest Adventures: Experience an exhilarating treetop adventure with Zipit Forest Adventures, featuring zip lines, climbing walls, and high ropes courses suitable for all skill levels.
- Tree Canopy Walk: Take a walk among the treetops on the park’s unique tree canopy walkway, offering a bird’s-eye view of the forest.
- Historical Sites: Explore historical features within the park, including the ruins of Rockingham House and the Moylurg Tower.
- Boda Borg: Challenge yourself with mind-bending puzzles, physical activities, and teamwork challenges at Boda Borg, an indoor adventure facility in the park.
- Picnicking: Enjoy a leisurely picnic in one of the designated areas while surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
- Visitor Center: Visit the park’s visitor center, which provides information about the park’s history, wildlife, and activities.
- Why People Enjoy Coming Here:
- Natural Beauty: Visitors are drawn to the park’s stunning natural landscapes, including woodlands, lakes, and scenic walking trails.
- Outdoor Activities: Lough Key Forest Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to water sports and adventure challenges.
- Family-Friendly: The park is family-friendly, with activities suitable for both adults and children, making it an ideal destination for family outings.
- History and Culture: History enthusiasts appreciate the park’s historical sites and the chance to explore the ruins of Rockingham House.
- Relaxation: It’s a tranquil and peaceful setting, perfect for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
- Age of the Place:
- Lough Key Forest Park has a rich history and dates back to the 17th century when Rockingham House was built. The park’s development as a recreational area began in the 20th century.
- List of Activities:
- Hiking and walking
- Cycling
- Water sports (kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing)
- Zip lining and high ropes courses
- Tree canopy walk
- Historical site exploration
- Picnicking
- Boda Borg adventure challenges
- Additional Nearby Attractions:
- Boyle: Explore the nearby town of Boyle, known for Boyle Abbey, a well-preserved Cistercian abbey, and the impressive King House, a historic Georgian mansion.
- Carrick-on-Shannon: Visit Carrick-on-Shannon, a lively town situated on the River Shannon, offering boat cruises, riverside dining, and cultural attractions.
- Lough Key Cruises: Take a boat tour on Lough Key to learn about the area’s history and enjoy the scenic beauty from the water.