Overview
Leebeen Park sits on the tranquil shores of Lough Leebeen, just outside the village of Aughnacliffe in County Longford. The park is centred around a 1.5 km looped walking trail that follows a board‑walk skirting the lake, offering uninterrupted views of water‑lapped scenery and resident swans. Facilities are thoughtfully laid out: a playground, a fairy garden for the youngest explorers, an outdoor gym for fitness‑focused visitors, and plenty of picnic benches where families can relax with a packed lunch. Parking is available on‑site, making the park an easy stop for a leisurely half‑day outing.
History & Background
While Leebeen Park itself is a modern amenity, the surrounding landscape is steeped in ancient history. Just a short walk from the park are two megalithic dolmens, one of which ranks as the third‑largest portal tomb in Ireland. These stone monuments date back to between 4000 BC and 3000 BC, reminding visitors that the area has been a place of settlement and reverence for millennia. The nearby Aughnacliffe Waterfall Trail also nods to the past: a water turbine installed in the 1930s once powered the village post office, and a contemporary turbine now energises subtle LED lighting on the waterfall deck.
What to See & Do
- Boardwalk & Wildlife – Stroll the timber‑framed path along Lough Leebeen, where swans glide and a variety of birds can be spotted from the safety of the boardwalk.
- Playground & Fairy Garden – The timber‑frame playground overlooks the lake, and a whimsical fairy garden provides a magical nook for children to explore.
- Outdoor Gym – Fitness enthusiasts can make use of the free‑standing gym equipment positioned near the lake’s edge.
- Picnic Areas – Several benches and grassy spots invite visitors to enjoy a picnic while listening to the gentle lapping of water.
- Aughnacliffe Waterfall Trail – A 1.40 km loop (plus a 430 m linear option) leads to Pulliness Waterfall. The trail follows the river, and a modern turbine powers LED lights that highlight the waterfall after dusk. The historic turbine story adds a unique educational element.
- Megalithic Dolmens – A short walk north of the park brings you to two impressive portal tombs, perfect for a quick archaeological detour and photo opportunity.
- Lake Exploration – The Upper Erne and Gowna lakes lie only minutes away, offering further opportunities for fishing, kayaking or simply admiring the water‑filled landscape.
Accessibility
The boardwalk surface is firm and suitable for prams and pushchairs, though it is not fully wheelchair‑accessible due to occasional board sections that rise slightly. The playground and picnic areas are level and easy to navigate. The outdoor gym equipment is positioned on a flat surface near the lake edge.
Seasonal Highlights
- Illuminated Waterfall – The turbine‑powered LED lights operate year‑round, creating a striking sight after dark, especially on clear evenings.
- Wildlife Watching – Spring and early summer bring increased swan activity and a wider range of migratory birds.
- Family Visits – Summer school holidays are the busiest time; arriving early ensures a quieter experience and a good spot on the boardwalk.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday – Sunday | 12 am – 12 am (open 24 hours) |
Admission
| Visitor type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults, children, families | Free |
Getting There
- By Car: From Longford town, take the N4 south for about 20 km, then exit onto the R198 towards Aughnacliffe. After 5 km turn left onto Líss Na Críose; the park entrance is at 12 Líss Na Críose, Dunbeggan, Aughnacliffe, N39 WK74. Parking is free on‑site.
- Public Transport: Bus services run from Longford town to Aughnacliffe. Once at the bus stop, walk south for roughly 1 km along the R198 and turn left onto Líss Na Críose; the park is a short 500 m walk from the stop.
- Taxi: A taxi from Longford town takes about 20‑25 minutes and typically costs €25‑€35.
Facilities
- Free car parking
- Picnic benches and open grassy areas
- Playground and fairy garden for children
- Outdoor gym equipment
- Boardwalk suitable for strollers and pushchairs (not fully wheelchair‑accessible)
Nearby Attractions
- Pulliness Waterfall (1 km from the park) – a scenic cascade illuminated by turbine‑powered LEDs.
- Aghnacliffe Portal Tomb and Cleenrah Portal Tomb – both within a kilometre, offering a glimpse into Neolithic Ireland.
- Upper Erne & Lough Gowna – ideal for water‑based activities and further scenic walks.
- Aughnacliffe village – explore local shops, a historic church and the community centre.
Map Leebeen Park on Google Maps
Leebeen Park is a perfect blend of natural beauty, family‑friendly amenities and a touch of ancient heritage, making it a worthwhile stop on any County Longford itinerary.