Overview
Lullymore sits on a 60‑acre mineral island in the middle of the Bog of Allen, County Kildare, just off the R414 between Rathangan (6 mi) and Allenwood (3 mi). The site is an easy day‑trip from Dublin and is famed for recording Ireland’s lowest 20th‑century temperature – ‑18.8 °C on 2 January 1979. Today the island hosts the award‑winning Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park, a social‑enterprise where visitor fees fund conservation and education programmes.
History / Background
Archaeological evidence shows Mesolithic hunters traversing the bog over 9,000 years ago. The island later became a ritual landscape for pre‑Christian peoples and a secluded monastic settlement that lasted a millennium. During the 1798 Rebellion it offered refuge to rebels, and the Great Famine left its mark on the community. In the 20th century Bord Na Móna operated a briquette factory (1936‑1992) that turned peat into fuel. After the factory closed, the Irish Peatland Conservation Council acquired the neighbouring Lullymore West Bog in 2005, converting cut‑away peat into a thriving wildlife reserve. The community then launched the Heritage & Discovery Park, weaving together the island’s natural and cultural story.
What to See & Do
Biodiversity Boardwalk & Peatlands Exhibition
- A 1 km raised boardwalk winds over glassy lakes, birch scrub and heather‑covered peat, with interpretive panels on bog formation and flora such as bog cotton and carnivorous plants.
- The Peatlands Exhibition uses multimedia displays to trace the raised bog’s evolution over 10,000 years and highlights ongoing conservation work.
Interactive Historical Galleries
- Immersive rooms cover Mesolithic settlers, early Christian monastic life, the 1798 Rebellion, the Great Famine and mass emigration.
- Highlights include a replica rebel hide‑out, a Famine and Emigration Cottage, and personal stories of emigrants like Michael Rush (1820) and Katie Gorey (1908).
Family Fun Zones
- Funky Forest – a state‑of‑the‑art indoor play area for younger children.
- Outdoor Adventure Play Area – climbing frames, rope course and a treasure‑hunt that ends in a monthly prize draw.
- 18‑Hole Mini Golf – set against the peatland backdrop.
- Pet Farm – goats, rabbits, chickens and other friendly animals.
- Road‑Train Ride – a guided circuit of the island with commentary on natural and cultural heritage.
- Treasure Hunt – clue‑filled walk along the boardwalk with a chance to win a prize.
Guided Tours & Seasonal Events
- Regular guided walks explain peatland ecology and history.
- Seasonal programmes include butterfly‑watching days, heritage festivals and school‑focused workshops.
Practical Information
- Location: Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park, Lullymore, County Kildare (on the R414 between Rathangan and Allenwood).
- Access: 30‑minute drive from Dublin; ample free on‑site parking.
- Opening times: Open Monday – Sunday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (last admission 4:00 pm). Check the website for any seasonal variations.
- Tickets: Advance online booking is recommended; fees support the park’s conservation and education activities.
- Facilities: Café, picnic areas, disabled‑friendly paths, free Wi‑Fi, and a gift shop featuring locally made crafts.
- Website: lullymoreheritagepark.com (for tickets, events and visitor information).
- Nearby natural area: The park sits within the Bog of Allen, offering further opportunities for wildlife spotting and longer walks.
Enjoy a day where Ireland’s deep past and vibrant peatland future meet, all within a compact, family‑friendly setting.