Overview
Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park is an award‑winning day‑visitor attraction set on a 60‑acre mineral island in the heart of the Bog of Allen, between the villages of Rathangan and Allenwood in north‑west County Kildare. The park’s panoramic views of the surrounding peatlands make it a striking natural backdrop for a day of learning and play. Accessible by a short drive from Dublin, the site is managed as a social‑enterprise, meaning that visitor fees help sustain the conservation and educational programmes on‑site.
History
The story of Lullymore is a micro‑cosm of Irish history, written into the very peat that underlies the island. Archaeological evidence points to Mesolithic settlers who first walked the ancient bogs over 9,000 years ago. Over the centuries the island became a place of ritual for pre‑Christian peoples, later providing seclusion for monks who established a monastic settlement that endured for a millennium. The raised bogs also offered refuge for rebels during the 1798 Rebellion and later played a role in the industrial era of the 20th century when peat extraction transformed the landscape. Exhibits in the park trace these epochs, from early hunter‑gatherers through the arrival of Christianity, the Great Famine, and the mass emigration that reshaped Irish society. Personal stories, such as those of Michael Rush, who left for Australia in 1820, and Katie Gorey, who emigrated to New York in 1908, bring the broader narrative to life.
What to See & Do
Biodiversity Boardwalk & Peatlands Exhibition
A highlight for nature lovers is the 1 km Biodiversity Boardwalk, which winds over glassy lakes, birch scrub and heather‑covered peat. Interpretive panels explain the formation of raised bogs over 10,000 years and showcase the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this habitat, from bog cotton to rare dragonflies.
Interactive Historical Galleries
The indoor exhibition space offers multimedia displays that let visitors travel 9,000 years through Irish history. Highlights include a replica of a 1798 rebel hide‑out, a Famine and Emigration Cottage, and artefacts that illustrate daily life on the island across the ages.
Family Fun Zones
- Funky Forest – a state‑of‑the‑art indoor play area designed for younger children.
- Outdoor Adventure Play Area – includes climbing frames, a rope course and a magical treasure‑hunt that culminates in a monthly prize draw.
- 18‑Hole Mini Golf – set amid the peatland scenery, offering a gentle challenge for all ages.
- Pet Farm – meet farm animals such as goats, rabbits and chickens, perfect for curious kids.
- Road‑Train Ride – a guided tour on a small train that circles the island, providing commentary on the natural and cultural heritage.
- Treasure Hunt – visitors can request a form at the admission kiosk, follow clues along the boardwalk and submit their solution for a chance to win.
Additional Experiences
Guided tours are available on request, delving deeper into the ecological restoration work that is allowing nature to reclaim the bog. Seasonal events, from craft workshops to storytelling sessions, add an ever‑changing programme to the visitor experience.
Practical Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (last admission 4:00 pm) |
| Booking | Online booking is essential. Reserve your slot via the official booking page. |
| Admission | Fees are applied at the kiosk; exact prices are listed on the website at the time of booking. |
| Parking & Wi‑Fi | Free on‑site parking and complimentary Wi‑Fi are provided. |
| Food & Retail | A café with seating for over 200 serves hot and cold meals; a shop offers locally made souvenirs. |
| Accessibility | The park is fully wheelchair accessible, with smooth boardwalk surfaces and accessible restrooms. |
| Contact | Phone: +353 045 870238 – Email: raylullymore@gmail.com |
| Location | Rathangan, Co. Kildare, R51 E036 (GPS: 53.2707684, -6.9501775) |
| Website | https://www.lullymoreheritagepark.com/ |
Visitors should book ahead, especially during school holidays, to guarantee entry and to secure a spot on the popular road‑train. The park’s café provides a convenient base for a break, and the on‑site shop is ideal for picking up a reminder of the day’s discoveries. With its blend of natural beauty, immersive history and family‑focused attractions, Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park is a must‑see stop on any Kildare itinerary.