Overview
Lough Key (Irish: Loch Cé) lies in the north‑west of County Roscommon, just north‑east of the town of Boyle. Fed by the Boyle River, the lake stretches several kilometres across and contains more than thirty wooded islands, each with its own story – from the 19th‑century folly on Castle Island to the medieval priory ruins on Trinity Island. The lake drains eastwards into the River Shannon, making it a natural gateway for boaters travelling the Shannon‑Boyle waterway.
The surrounding 350‑hectare Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, once the Rockingham estate, is now a vibrant public space managed by Coillte. It blends natural beauty with a suite of modern attractions, from the iconic Moylurg Tower to Ireland’s first tree‑canopy walk.
History & Background
The name Loch Cé derives from the druid Cé, a figure in Irish mythology who died on the plain that later flooded to become the lake. Archaeological evidence shows the area has been inhabited for millennia; five ring forts lie within the forest park, and the islands were chronicled in the Annals of Loch Cé as early as 1184.
In the 17th century the King family acquired the land, renaming it Rockingham. John Nash designed Rockingham House in 1809, which served as the family seat until a fire in 1957 led to its demolition in 1970. The ruins of the house’s foundations now support the Moylurg Tower, erected in 1973 as a viewing point over the lake and the former estate lawns.
What to See & Do
Island Exploration
- Castle Island – home to an 18th‑century folly that dominates the island’s skyline. Boat tours from the park’s jetty let you step ashore and explore the ruins.
- Trinity and Church Islands – host the remains of medieval priories, offering a quiet glimpse into monastic life.
Forest Park Attractions
- Moylurg Tower – climb (or use the stairs) to a panoramic platform for sweeping views of the lake and its islands.
- Tree Canopy Walk – a 300 m timber and steel walkway, 9 m above the forest floor, provides a birds‑eye perspective of the woodland and lake. It is Ireland’s first of its kind.
- Rockingham Remembered Tour – a self‑guided journey that threads together the 19th‑century underground tunnels, the Moylurg Tower, and the canopy walk. The tour is wheelchair‑accessible, though the tower lift is currently out of service.
- Boda Borg Challenge – a 47‑room puzzle trail that tests logic and teamwork for all ages.
- Zipit Forest Adventures – a high‑ropes zip‑line and rope‑bridge course that delivers an adrenaline‑filled treetop experience.
- Boat Tours – the Walsh/McGreevy family have operated tours since 1984. Options include the intimate 10‑seat M.V. Shy Talk and the larger, heated, all‑weather Trinity (50 seats) with a drinks licence.
- Camping & Caravan Park – 46 caravan pitches and a separate tent area, complete with showers, laundry and a children’s play zone.
- Wildlife & Flora – oak, beech and red cedar dominate the canopy, while wood anemone, yellow iris and fallow deer add colour and movement to the forest floor.
Cultural Highlights
- Folklore – the lake is linked to the legend of the druid Cé and the fairy tales of Una Bháin. The UFO Society of Ireland was founded here, and the modernist lakeside tower is a favourite spot for sky‑watchers.
- Historical Tours – guided walks recount the Annals of Lough Key, compiled on Trinity Island from 1253‑1590, and the story of the King family’s Rockingham estate.
Practical Information
Lough Key Forest Park is open year‑round. The main car park charges a modest fee (see on‑site signage). Admission to the park itself is free; individual attractions such as the Rockingham Remembered Tour have separate charges (see table below). The park is largely accessible, with paved paths and wheelchair‑friendly routes, though the lift to the Moylurg Tower is currently out of service.
Ticket prices – Rockingham Remembered Tour
| Category | Adult (17+) | Senior/Student | Child (5‑17) | Under 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Group (10+) | €10.00 | €8.00 | €5.00 | Free |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children) | €25.00 (family ticket) | – | – | – |
| Extra Family Child | €4.00 | – | – | – |
For larger groups (10+ people) a guided version can be arranged. Dogs are not permitted on the tour.
Getting there – The park is accessed via the N4, just north of Boyle. The lake is navigable from the Shannon via the Boyle River, and boat tours depart from the park’s jetty. Public transport to Boyle connects with local taxi services for the short drive to the park entrance.
Contact & Booking
- Phone: +353 071‑9673122 (Lough Key Visitor Centre)
- Website: https://loughkey.ie
- Boat tours: Lough Key Boat Tours
- Zipline: Zipit Lough Key
Accommodation – The on‑site caravan and camping park offers pitches for caravans and tents, a reception building with showers, laundry and a play area. It is an ideal base for multi‑day stays, especially for families wanting to explore the park’s extensive trail network.
Seasonal notes – The canopy walk and zip‑line operate in all weather conditions; the indoor Trinity boat remains heated year‑round, ensuring comfort even on cooler days.
Lough Key blends myth, history and modern adventure, making it a must‑visit destination for anyone travelling through Ireland’s hidden heartland.