Overview
McMahon Park, popularly called Clare Lake, sits just off the R331 in the heart of Claremorris, County Mayo. Once an industrial wasteland, the site has been transformed into a 9‑acre public park that blends natural beauty with family‑friendly amenities. The park’s centerpiece is the man‑made Clare Lake, encircled by a well‑maintained 1.3 km loop that invites walkers, cyclists and anglers to linger among rhododendrons, lilacs and the gentle murmur of a brook.
History & Background
The park’s rebirth is a community success story. Local volunteers, the Clare Lake / McMahon Park Development Committee and state agencies collaborated to replace a derelict industrial site with a vibrant recreational space. In 2016, Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) and the Department of the Environment Amenity Fund funded a major upgrade of the lake’s angling facilities, adding floating fishing stands, wheelchair‑accessible paths, and gear‑disinfection stations. The project not only boosted tourism but also created a template for rural recreation across Ireland.
What to See & Do
- Lake Loop Walk – The 1.3 km gravel circuit is graded ‘Easy’ and is fully way‑marked with a green arrow on a white background. It offers two wooden bridges, KM markers for progress tracking, and informative signage about local flora and fauna.
- Wildlife Watching – Ducks, swans and a variety of waterfowl frequent the lake. Bird‑watchers can also spot kingfishers and other native species from the lakeside benches.
- Miniature Village & Land of Giants – Scattered along the path are whimsical miniature houses and larger‑than‑life figures that delight children and adults alike.
- Playground – A modern children’s playground sits near the park entrance, providing a safe space for families to let kids burn off energy.
- Angling – The upgraded floating fishing stands and six jetties cater to anglers of all ages. Wheelchair‑friendly access and on‑site gear‑disinfection help protect the lake’s ecosystem.
- Picnic Areas – Rustic seating and shaded spots near the water make for a perfect lunch break or quiet contemplation.
- Educational Signs – Throughout the park, plaques explain the history of the area, the meaning of the Irish word clar (bridge), and details about the surrounding wildlife.
Practical Information
Opening hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 08:00 – 20:00 |
| Tuesday | 08:00 – 20:00 |
| Wednesday | 08:00 – 20:00 |
| Thursday | 08:00 – 20:00 |
| Friday | 08:00 – 20:00 |
| Saturday | 08:00 – 20:00 |
| Sunday | 08:00 – 20:00 |
Admission: Free entry; no tickets are required.
Accessibility: The loop walk is fully wheelchair‑friendly, with smooth surfaces, gentle gradients and dedicated fishing stands. The playground and picnic benches are also level‑access.
Getting there
- Walking – The park entrance is a short stroll from Claremorris town centre along Lower James Street (R331).
- Public transport – Both Bus Éireann services and Irish Rail stop within a 15‑20 minute walk of the park. Bus fares from Ireland West Airport Knock to Claremorris range from €10‑€15.
- Taxi – A ride from the train station or bus stop costs roughly €8‑€12.
- Driving – Parking is available beside the playground and is free, though spaces can fill quickly during peak summer weekends.
Facilities
- Restrooms – Public toilets are located near the playground.
- Fishing amenities – Floating stands, gear‑disinfection unit and clearly marked fishing zones.
- Dog policy – Dogs are permitted on a lead throughout the park.
- Alcohol – Consumption is not permitted within the park grounds.
Contact & Further Details
- Website: McMahon Park – Evendo
- Trail map: Clare Lake Loop Walk PDF
- Trail management: Anna Connor, Walking Development Officer, Aras on Chontae – Tel: 094 904 7545, Email: mayowalks@mayococo.ie
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in the area, consider a short walk into the centre of Claremorris to explore its shops, cafés and the historic St. Mary’s Church. The town also hosts a regular farmers’ market on Saturdays, offering local produce and crafts.
Whether you are seeking a gentle family stroll, a spot to cast a line, or simply a quiet place to watch the sunrise over a tranquil lake, McMahon Park offers a slice of serenity that feels worlds away from the bustle of town yet remains conveniently accessible.
People typically spend about 25 minutes exploring the loop, but the park’s varied attractions encourage longer visits, especially during the summer months when the playground is bustling and the wildlife is most active.