Ireland’s Peatlands at Lullymore

Learn about Ireland’s Peatlands at Lullymore. Lullymore, a small mineral island surrounded by Ireland’s largest peatland, the Bog of Allen and is steeped in history. Thousands of years ago, early settlers had rich, fertile farmland in Lullymore and were protected from attack by the encircling wetlands.

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.

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. 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.

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“In health and wealth survive with thee, unto your last posterity, but let me still of you implore to guard and keep Lullymore”

Matthew Farrell – Lullymore 1860

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The rebellion, led by Wolfe Tone, buried locally in Bodenstown Cemetery, was a pivotal time in Irish history, and followed the American and French Revolutions whose successes inspired the Irish rebels into action.

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

New to the Park this year is our Peatlands Exhibition which brings visitors on a 10,000 year journey. 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.

So dive in and explore Lullymore. By the end of your visit to the Park, we think you’ll understand the affection our local Poet, Matthew Farrell had for his birthplace: