Overview
Tucked between the villages of Scotstown and Ballinode, Hollywood Lake offers a quiet counterpoint to the bustle of Monaghan town. Situated roughly seven kilometres north-west of the county town, the lake and its surrounding woodlands form a community-run retreat that has been welcoming visitors since a local voluntary committee purchased the land in 1969. Today, the park operates entirely on a free-entry basis, relying on community stewardship to maintain its trails, facilities and natural character.
The site strikes a balance between active recreation and relaxed countryside escape. Families come for the safe swimming waters and fenced playground, while walkers and birdwatchers appreciate the ring of mature trees and reed beds that soften the shoreline. There is no admission charge, no booking required, and no commercial pressure – just a straightforward, well-kept patch of County Monaghan landscape ready for a weekend picnic or a midweek stroll.
A Glimpse into the Past: The Crannog
Beneath the lake’s calm surface lies a tangible piece of early modern Irish history. At the centre of the water sits the remains of a crannog, an artificial island constructed by driving timber piles into the lakebed and piling stone and earth on top. Before 1650, this fortified dwelling served as the headquarters of Patrick MacArt Moyle MacMahon, a chieftain of the MacMahon clan who controlled much of the surrounding territory during the Tudor and early Stuart periods.
Crannogs were more than just defensive structures; they functioned as seasonal residences, administrative centres and symbols of clan authority. While the Hollywood crannog is no longer accessible for climbing, its stone foundations remain visible at low water levels, and interpretive signage along the shore explains its construction and the MacMahon family’s role in the region’s history. For visitors interested in Ireland’s pre-colonial landscape, the site offers a rare opportunity to see a genuine medieval water-dwelling in its original setting, rather than a reconstructed exhibit.
What to See & Do
The park’s layout encourages a slow, unhurried pace. A network of well-marked paths circles the lake, passing through mixed woodland and open grassland. The routes are suitable for casual walkers, dog owners and families pushing strollers, with gentle gradients and clear sightlines across the water.
- Swimming & water activities – The designated swimming area is safe for summer dips, with gradually shelving edges that are manageable for children. A small launch point allows for rowing boats, canoes and fishing, though all watercraft must be non-motorised to protect the lake’s ecology.
- Nature & wildlife – The surrounding reeds and mature trees provide habitat for herons, kingfishers and various duck species. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be the best times for wildlife spotting.
- Playground & family facilities – A fully fenced play area caters to children aged two to twelve, featuring slides, swings and climbing frames. The layout allows parents to supervise easily while enjoying the lakeside views.
- Picnicking & relaxation – Wooden picnic tables and benches are positioned along the shoreline, many of which face the water. The open grassy areas are popular for family spreads, outdoor games or simply reading away from the screen.
Facilities & Accessibility
Hollywood Lake has been thoughtfully developed to accommodate visitors of all abilities. The voluntary committee has prioritised inclusive access without compromising the natural feel of the site.
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Parking | Free on-site car park, clearly signposted off the Ballinode-to-Scotstown road |
| Toilets | Standard and disabled-access toilets maintained by the park committee |
| Playground | Fully fenced, suitable for children aged 2-12 |
| Disabled access | Paved pathways connecting the car park to picnic areas, toilets and the main lake viewpoint |
| Water sports | Swimming, non-motorised boating, fishing |
| Picnic areas | Tables, benches and sheltered spots along the shoreline |
Practical Information
Hollywood Lake operates on a simple, visitor-friendly model: open daily from sunrise to sunset, with no admission fee or seasonal closures. While the park is accessible year-round, the swimming area is best used between June and September when water temperatures are more comfortable. Anglers should note that a valid freshwater fishing licence is required in Ireland, which can be purchased online through Inland Fisheries Ireland.
Getting there – The park is easily reached from Monaghan town via the R185. Head north-west for approximately seven kilometres, then look for the signposted turn-off to Hollywood Forest Park. The drive takes roughly ten minutes. For GPS navigation, use coordinates 54.26136, -7.06963. A direct route can be plotted via Google Maps.
Visitor tips
- Wear sturdy footwear if exploring the woodland edges, as some sections can be damp after rain.
- Bring a towel and waterproof bag for swimming days; there are no changing facilities on site.
- The park relies on community care, so please take all litter home and keep dogs under control near the wildlife zones.
Exploring Further in County Monaghan
Hollywood Lake makes a convenient base for a broader day trip across the county. A short drive north leads to Dartrey Forest, where extensive walking trails wind around the ruins of a grand Victorian estate. To the east, Inniskeen offers a well-preserved round tower and the Patrick Kavanagh Centre, providing a deeper look into the region’s literary and monastic heritage. For those continuing south, Castleblayney and Rossmore Forest Park provide additional lakeside walks and historical sites.
Planning a visit to Hollywood Lake is straightforward: arrive early in summer to secure a good picnic spot, bring your own refreshments, and allow time to walk the full circuit of the lake. The combination of free access, genuine historical remains and reliable family facilities makes it one of the most practical and rewarding outdoor stops in County Monaghan.