Emy Lough – A Family‑Friendly Lakeside Escape in County Monaghan

Overview

Emy Lough sits on the gentle drumlins of north County Monaghan, a short drive from the N2 and the village of Emyvale. Covering roughly 136 acres (55 ha), the lake is framed by tree‑lined banks, rolling pasture and a newly‑developed lakeside promenade. The site is managed as a state fishery by the Emy and District Angling Club, which also looks after the modest visitor facilities – a car park, picnic tables, a children’s play area, a sandy swimming beach and a short, well‑marked 4 km loop walk.

History & Background

While today Emy Lough is best known for recreation, the water once powered the historic Emy Mill, a flax‑processing mill that served the local agricultural community throughout the 19th and early‑20th centuries. The mill’s legacy lives on in the lake’s name and in the quiet, industrious feel of the surrounding countryside. In recent years the Angling Club has introduced annual trout stocking, ensuring the lake remains a vibrant fishery while preserving its historic character.

Conservation & Water Supply

Emy Lough supplies drinking water to nearby towns, so strict environmental rules apply. Motorised craft are prohibited and only club‑provided rowboats may be hired. This protects water quality and the reed‑bed habitat that supports swans, ducks and seasonal waders.

What to See & Do

Swimming & Beach Play

The lake’s south‑west shore hosts a dark‑sandy beach area that gradually deepens, making it ideal for families with children. A wooden walkway leads to the swimming zone, where benches and a small children’s slide add a playground vibe. A sign at the car park warns of occasional algae, so a quick visual check is advisable before entering the water.

Fishing – Trout & Pike

Emy Lough is primarily a trout fishery. The lake holds a healthy stock of brown trout, with typical catches ranging from 1 lb to 2 lb and occasional trophy fish of 5–8 lb. Seasonal hatches of mayfly, olive, sedge and gnat provide excellent dry‑fly and wet‑fly action.

Fishing is by permit only and must be done from club‑provided boats – private vessels and outboard engines are prohibited because the lake supplies drinking water to nearby communities. Boat hire and permit details can be arranged with Paul Gormley ( +353 47 87573 or +353 87 6128259 ). Bank fishing for pike is not allowed; trout can be taken from the shoreline along the 4 km walk.

4 km Looped Lakeside Walk

The highlight for walkers is the 4 km circuit that starts at the main car park. The route alternates between a quiet minor road and a paved lakeshore path, taking roughly 1–1.5 hours to complete. Benches are spaced at scenic points, offering spots to rest and enjoy views of the water and surrounding pasture. The walk is suitable for all fitness levels and is popular with families, joggers and bird‑watchers.

Picnic & Play Area

A dedicated picnic area with tables and a newly‑installed children’s play zone sits adjacent to the car park. The play area, built to modern safety standards, makes Emy Lough a convenient stop for families travelling the N2 between Dublin and Derry.

Boating & Birdwatching

Although motorised craft are banned, the Angling Club’s fleet of small rowboats is available for hire, allowing a gentle paddle around the lake’s tranquil centre. The surrounding reeds and woodland support a variety of birdlife, including swans, ducks and occasional waders – a quiet treat for birdwatchers.

Seasonal Highlights

• Trout stocking takes place each spring, usually in March, giving anglers a fresh supply of fingerlings that grow quickly over the summer.
• Swimming is most enjoyable from late May through August when water temperatures are at their warmest and the beach area is fully staffed.
• Pike season runs from October to February; although pike may be sighted year‑round, the closed season limits legal catches to the winter months.
• Birdwatching peaks in early spring and autumn migration periods, when waders and ducks pass through the reed beds.

Practical Information

Emy Lough is free to enter; there is no admission charge. Parking is available in a spacious, un‑attended car park directly opposite the picnic area. The site is open year‑round, though swimming is most enjoyable in the warmer months and the pike season runs from October to February.

Getting There

By car – From Dublin, travel north on the N2, follow signs for Emyvale, then look for the right‑turn sign to Emy Lough. After a couple of kilometres, a left‑turn sign marks the lake entrance and the car‑park.

Public transport – The nearest bus stop is in Emyvale (approximately 5 km away). From there, a local taxi can complete the short journey.

Permits & Fees

Trout and pike fishing require a daily permit (€35 for one angler, €60 for two). Permits are issued by the Emy and District Angling Club; contact Paul Gormley for purchase and boat hire.

Facilities

Restrooms are located near the car park. Benches, picnic tables and a children’s slide are free to use. A small information board near the entrance provides details on fishing regulations and safety notices.

Map & Directions

Coordinates: 54.33511, ‑6.94156. A detailed walk map can be downloaded from the Monaghan Tourism site: Emy Lough Looped Walk PDF.

Nearby Attractions

• Castleblayney – A lakeside town with a marina, golf course and a range of cafés; a short 15‑minute drive from Emy Lough.
• Dartrey Forest – Offers woodland walks, a historic mausoleum and the Dartrey Estate house; ideal for a longer day out.
• Glaslough – A charming village with a heritage railway and boutique shops, just a few kilometres north.
• Monaghan Town Trail – A self‑guided walking route that showcases the heritage of Monaghan town, including the County Museum and historic courthouses.

Emy Lough delivers a balanced mix of active recreation and relaxed lakeside ambience, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring Ireland’s Ancient East.

Note: The previously listed website is currently unreachable; a working official URL should be added when available.