Visit Lough Boora Discovery Park!

Some places have a way of surprising you, and Lough Boora Discovery Park is one of them. Once a barren industrial bog, this Offaly gem has been transformed, with plenty of lakes, walking trails, and giant sculptures to enjoy - offering a little something for everyone—without the crowds.

Explore the Walking and Cycling Trails

One of the best ways to take in Lough Boora is on foot or by bike. The park has five walking and cycling routes, ranging from gentle strolls to longer loops that stretch across open boglands and around tranquil lakes. The flat terrain makes it an easy and accessible place for all ages.

Top Trails to Try:

• The Sculpture Park Loop (3.3km) – A relaxed, art-filled walk past some of the park’s most famous sculptures.

• The Mesolithic Route (9.3km) – A deep dive into the park’s history, following in the footsteps of Ireland’s first settlers.

• The Farmland Trail (15.8km) – A longer loop showcasing the park’s wildlife and wide-open landscapes.

Bike hire is available on-site, making it easy to cover more ground if you’d rather pedal than walk.

Outdoor Sculpture Park

Lough Boora isn’t just a nature reserve—it’s also an open-air art gallery. Throughout the park, you’ll find over 20 large-scale sculptures, each blending beautifully (and sometimes bizarrely) with the landscape. Made from materials like old railway tracks, bog oak, and scrap metal, these sculptures pay homage to the area’s past while adding a surreal, almost mythical feel to the surroundings.

Keep an eye out for:

• "Sky Train" – A railway-inspired piece that seems to float above the bog.

• "Boora Pyramid" – A striking steel pyramid rising out of the peatlands.

• "The Gathering of Stones" – Ireland’s very own answer to Stonehenge.

Spot Rare Wildlife in a Reclaimed Bogland

What was once an industrial peat-harvesting site is now one of Ireland’s most unique wildlife havens. Lough Boora is home to a range of species, from shy hares and playful otters to over 130 species of birds. Keep an eye out for whooper swans, grey partridges, and the colourful flashes of kingfishers along the water’s edge.

Spring and summer bring a burst of wildflowers, while autumn turns the boglands into a golden wonderland. No matter the season, you’re sure to love the sights!

A Family-Friendly Adventure

Lough Boora is a dream destination for families. Kids can roam freely in the fairy-themed play area, explore the sculptures, or take part in one of the park’s seasonal activities like scavenger hunts and guided wildlife walks. The flat, traffic-free trails make it safe for little legs (or bikes with stabilisers), and the visitor centre café is on hand for a well-earned hot chocolate or ice cream break.

Planning Your Visit

Location:

Lough Boora Discovery Park is located in County Offaly, about 20 minutes from Tullamore. It’s well signposted and easily accessible by car, with free parking available.

Entry Fee:

Completely free! There’s no admission charge, making it one of Ireland’s best-value day trips.

Opening Hours:

The park is open year-round, with the visitor centre and café operating on a seasonal schedule.

Pack a picnic, grab your walking shoes (or your bike), and get ready to discover one of Ireland’s most fascinating landscapes.