[[IMG:1]]
Lough Key Forest & Activity Park in Co. Roscommon sits on the grounds of the former Rockingham Estate. Rockingham House burned down in 1957, but the parklands, islands and lake that remain are steeped in history — and in a few good stories that have been passed down ever since.
YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 10 Unusual Activities & Things to Do at Lough Key Forest Park
History at Lough Key Forest & Activity Park
The history of Lough Key, or Lough Cé, is recorded as far back as 1184. Back then, the area was known as Moylurg and was ruled by the McDermotts, the Kings of Moylurg, whose official residence was The Rock — now known as Castle Island.
A second residence was later built on the mainland and became known as Rockingham House. The Moylurg Tower now stands on the site of that once-grand home — but as the stories go, it doesn’t stand alone.
Here are some of the more unexpected tales connected to the park and the places within it.
The Old Servant Tunnels
[[IMG:2]]
The old servant tunnels sit at the foot of the souterrains. During the time of the Rockingham Estate, they were used to store food, to move guns, and as an escape route in troubled times.
Local legend has it that when the house burned down in 1957, whatever restless spirits lingered on the estate found their way down into these tunnels. Visitors and staff have long shared stories of strange noises and odd sensations down here — make of it what you will, but step inside and see if you feel it too.
The Moylurg Tower and the Missing Child
[[IMG:3]]
The Moylurg Tower stands today on the original site of Rockingham House, and it comes with an untold chapter of its own.
The official record says everyone escaped the fire safely — no life was lost. But local lore tells a different story: that the youngest daughter of the Lord Lieutenant had strayed from her bedroom into the nursery that night, and in the panic and confusion, she was left behind. It wasn’t until morning that anyone realised she was missing.
What became of her remains one of the park’s enduring mysteries.
The Ice House and the Little Lady’s Song
[[IMG:4]]
She’s known simply as the Little Lady, and if the story is to be believed, she found her way to the Ice House as the fire raged, climbing down and down until the light disappeared behind her.
Locals say that if you listen carefully near the Ice House, you might still catch her song:
“Sugar and spice and all things nice, that’s what little girls are made of…
Father told me not to play.
Father told me not to play.
He made the nurse hide me away.
Father told me not to play with fire.
But I didn’t burn myself.
I didn’t burn the big house down.
Little girls like to play.”
Castle Island at Lough Key
[[IMG:5]]
There’s no public access to Castle Island today. The official reason given is that it’s unsafe — but local legend offers a more dramatic explanation: that hundreds of years ago, lightning struck the island and killed the hundred or so Chieftains living there at the time.
The story goes that there had been an argument among them that very evening, leaving unfinished business behind. On the right night, with the wind blowing just so, some say you can still hear the faint clash of swords and distant cries drifting across the water.
YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Fabulous Fairytale Castles in Ireland to Show the Kids
Get Active in Nature
Stories aside, Lough Key Forest & Activity Park is a brilliant spot for getting outdoors as a family. From open water swimming to tree-top adventures, there’s plenty to fill a day out surrounded by nature.
[[IMG:6]]
Tunnel Dungeons at Lough Key
[[IMG:7]]
Another tale from the tunnels: a group once made their way through, halfway to the dungeon entrance, when a young mother suddenly realised her child had let go of her hand and wandered off. Lights were brought out to search, but the bulbs kept blowing, and no amount of calling brought the little girl back.
As dawn broke, they finally spotted her — safe, unharmed, and smiling, standing behind the dungeon gate. When her mother asked why she’d gone in, the child simply said, “The little girl led me in.” Spirits, it seems, live on at Lough Key.
Enjoy Family Fun at Lough Key Forest & Activity Park
[[IMG:8]]
Ghost stories aside, Lough Key Forest and Activity Park offers hours of entertainment for the whole family, including:
- Tree top walks and the Moylurg Tower
- The Boda Borg Challenge
- Boat trips and kayaking
- Zipit and orienteering
- Miles of biking and walking trails, with plenty of picnic spots and the Lakeside Café along the way — electric bike hire is also available if you fancy tackling the 8km cycle route
YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 7 Interesting Family Walks To Enjoy At Lough Key In Roscommon
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lough Key Forest & Activity Park suitable for young children?
Yes, the park has walking trails, playgrounds and family-friendly activities suited to a range of ages, alongside more adventurous options like tree-top walks and water activities for older children.
Are the ghost stories about Lough Key based on fact?
They’re local legends and folklore passed down over the years, tied to real historical events like the 1957 fire at Rockingham House. They’re part of the park’s charm rather than verified historical record.
Can you visit Castle Island?
No, public access to Castle Island is not currently permitted.
What activities are available at Lough Key besides the history trail?
The park offers tree-top walks, the Moylurg Tower, the Boda Borg Challenge, boating, kayaking, Zipit, orienteering, and extensive walking and cycling trails.
Related Articles
- 10 Unusual Activities & Things to Do at Lough Key Forest Park
- Fabulous Fairytale Castles in Ireland to Show the Kids
- 7 Interesting Family Walks To Enjoy At Lough Key In Roscommon
Before You Go
Fancy more days out with a bit of story and adventure built in? Browse our other family-friendly ideas for places to explore around Ireland, and save your favourites for your next outing.
Don’t Miss Out
Want more ideas like this delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for our weekly newsletter for fresh family days out, activities and stories to enjoy together.
—
