A Brief History of Lullymore

A mineral island surrounded by a sea of peat – Lullymore is a unique place and one of the reasons for this is that the surrounding Bog of Allen has offered protection to the people who have lived here for millennia – it has been a place of ancient ritual, a place of seclusion for monks and a hiding place for rebels in 1798.

Lullymore has a host a heritage and biodiversity areas to suit all ages, which bring visitors on a fascinating journey – 10,000 years in the making.

Little is known about Lullymore in pre-Christian times, but it is thought to have had significant settlements as numerous ancient Togher roads have been discovered leading across the bog to Lullymore. As part of your trip to Lullymore you’ll get the chance to see a see a Neolithic farmstead and meet a “New Stone Age” man. In the 5th Century, Saint Patrick converted a Druid named Erc and ordained him his first Bishop. Bishop Erc was then sent to Lullymore to set up a monastery which would last over a thousand years and become one of the biggest monasteries in the country. Saint Erc & Lullymore Monastery’s fascinating story is told in the Park’s early Christian Centre.

The 1798 Rebellion is also an important part of Lullymores history. The Parks 1798 Exhibition retells the life story of Captain John Doorly, a native of Lullymore who was executed for his significant role in the uprising.

Discover our Peatlands Exhibition. From their formation, past uses including ritual bog bodies, bog butter, turf-cutting , industrialisation, their unique biodiversity and what the future holds for our Peatlands.

There are many other heritage exhibits from important eras in Irelands past to enjoy in Lullymore – our Famine House, Blacksmiths Forge, Hedge School, Fairy Bower and Theme Gardens are full of information which allow visitors to explore the richness of Irish folklore, culture and history.

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