Lough Key Forest Park, which is made up of extensive woods and several islands, is located in a region of significant historical significance. As early as 1184, Castle Island is mentioned in the chronicles of Lough Ce. The park was known as Moylurg at the time, and the McDermotts were known as the Kings of Moylurg.
On The Rock, today known as Castle Island, the McDermotts had their formal house. They had a second house on the mainland, which is now the Moylurg Tower because the room on this little island was restricted. The McDermotts held this territory until the Cromwellian settlement in the 17th century when it was given to the King family of England. Between Boyle and Moylurg, which they called Rockingham, the King family split their time. Rockingham House, which stood where the Moylurg Tower presently stands, was one of the great houses they erected.
The evolution of the terrain may still be seen today. On three sides, the Great Lawn encircles the old homestead. On the fourth side, there are magnificent views of the islands from Lough Key. The most significant is Castle Island, which was erected as a folly during the King family’s reign as one of Ireland’s most powerful landowners.
Take time to explore the Park’s many distinctive natural and historical features, including the 19th-century parkland with towering trees, follies, bridges, and canals, as well as the various walks and paths through the native woodlands, Bog garden, and forests.
The Park is mostly covered in forest and woodland, with both broadleaf and conifer trees. Ash, oak, beech, lime, sycamore, and horse chestnut are among the broadleaf trees, while Norway spruce, Sitka spruce, Scots pine, and the majestic western red cedar are among the most prevalent conifers. Bluebell, wild garlic, wood anemone, ragged robin, summer snowflake, wood sorrel, primrose, yellow iris, and meadowsweet are some of the wildflowers that may be found in the park.
Ringforts, a souterrain, the Fishing Pavilion, Fairy Bridge, Wishing Chair, Ice House, Stables, and the Estate Chapel are just a few of the historical and archaeological attractions located throughout the Park. It’s perhaps one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets.
