Overview
Long Lake and Leebeen Park are two tranquil lakeside gems in County Longford, the “Hidden Heartlands” of Ireland. Long Lake sits amid rolling farmland, just a short drive from the Royal Canal and Lough Ree, while Leebeen Park hugs the shore of Lough Leebeen near Aughnacliffe. Both sites provide quiet escapes for walkers, cyclists, wildlife enthusiasts and families seeking a gentle day out away from the coastal crowds.
History & Background
County Longford, Ireland’s second smallest county, is steeped in history. The county motto Daingean agus Dílis (“Strong and Loyal”) reflects a community that has preserved its landscape and heritage. The Royal Canal, which skirts the northern edge of Long Lake, was fully reopened to navigation in 2010 after decades of disuse, revitalising the tow‑path for walkers and cyclists.
Leebeen Park, although a modern amenity, sits in a landscape dotted with ancient monuments. Two megalithic portal tombs – the third‑largest in Ireland – lie a short walk north of the park, dating from 4000‑3000 BC. The nearby Aughnacliffe Waterfall Trail recalls a 1930s water turbine that once powered the village post office; a contemporary turbine now illuminates the waterfall with LED lights after dusk, offering a unique educational feature.
Wildlife & Birdwatching
The lakes and surrounding woodlands support a variety of birds and mammals. In spring, the Derrycassan Wood trails burst with bluebells, and the lake edges attract swans, mallards and the occasional kingfisher. Autumn brings migratory waterfowl, making the boardwalk at Leebeen Park a prime spot for bird‑watchers. The area is also home to otters and small deer, which can be glimpsed on quiet evenings.
Fishing
The waters of Long Lake, the Upper Erne and nearby Lough Gowna are popular coarse‑fishing venues. Anglers report good catches of roach, perch, bream and tench, especially from late spring to early autumn. A licence from Inland Fisheries Ireland is required; permits can be purchased online or at local post offices. The lake’s gentle shallows are suitable for families and beginners, while more experienced anglers can explore the deeper channels for pike.
What to See & Do
- Royal Canal Greenway – Hire a bike in Longford town (€25 / day) and ride the 130 km greenway. The stretch nearest Long Lake offers serene tow‑paths and reflections of sky on the water.
- Lough Ree Boat Trips – From Ballyleague, board a fully accessible 90‑minute cruise that sails Lough Ree, the River Shannon and the islands of Inchcleraun with its early‑medieval monastery ruins.
- Derrycassan Wood Trails – Just north of Long Lake, three marked routes (Nature Trail, Walled Garden Walk, Main Avenue Walk) showcase bluebell‑carpeted paths in spring and lake‑side vistas. (Derrycassan Wood)
- Leebeen Park Boardwalk – A 1.5 km timber‑framed loop skirts Lough Leebeen, providing uninterrupted views of swans and a variety of water‑birds.
- Playground & Fairy Garden – The park’s lakeside playground and whimsical fairy garden delight younger visitors.
- Outdoor Gym – Free‑standing fitness equipment near the water’s edge invites a quick workout with a scenic backdrop.
- Picnic Areas – Benches and grassy spots at both sites are perfect for a packed lunch while listening to gentle water lapping.
- Megalithic Dolmens – Explore the impressive portal tombs north of Leebeen Park for a quick archaeological detour and photo opportunity.
- Aughnacliffe Waterfall Trail – A 1.40 km loop (plus a 430 m linear option) leads to Pulliness Waterfall, where a modern turbine powers LED lighting after dark, adding a unique educational element.
- Fishing & Kayaking – The Upper Erne and Lough Gowna lie minutes away, offering further opportunities for angling or paddling.
- Nearby Heritage – The Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre and the Norman Heritage Park at Granard are within a short drive, providing a deeper dive into Longford’s ancient and medieval past.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
| Site | Hours |
|---|---|
| Leebeen Park | 24 hours (open 12 am – 12 am daily) |
| Long Lake area | Open access year‑round |
Admission
| Visitor type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults, children, families | Free |
Getting There
- By Car – From Longford town, take the N4 south for ~20 km, exit onto the R198 towards Aughnacliffe, then turn left onto Líss Na Críose after 5 km. The entrance is at 12 Líss Na Críose, Dunbeggan, Aughnacliffe, N39 WK74. Parking is available on‑site.
- By Train – Regular Irish Rail services run from Dublin Connolly to Longford station (approx. 1 h 30 min). From the station, Local Link bus route 865 (Granard – Ballinalee – Longford) or 975 (Cavan – Longford) can be used to reach Aughnacliffe; a short taxi ride completes the journey to Leebeen Park.
- By Bus – Bus Éireann and Local Link operate several daily services linking Longford town with Aughnacliffe and nearby villages. Check the latest timetables on the Irish Rail or Bus Éireann websites.
Facilities
- Parking – Free car parking at both sites; limited disabled spaces are available.
- Accessibility – Paths around the boardwalk and main trails are level and suitable for wheelchair users. The outdoor gym and playground have level access.
- Dog Friendly – Dogs are welcome on the trails and boardwalks but must be kept on a lead near wildlife nesting areas.
- Bike Hire – Available in Longford town, €25 per day.
- Boat Trips – Lough Ree Access for All runs three times daily from Ballyleague; tickets can be booked online or on the day.
Enjoy the blend of natural serenity, historic intrigue and modern recreation that makes Longford’s lakeside areas a rewarding destination for any traveller.