Ballynafagh Lake: A Wildlife Sanctuary Forged by the Grand Canal
Discover Ballynafagh Lake: A serene Kildare wildlife sanctuary with canal history and scenic walking trails.
Ballynafagh Lake, near Prosperous, Co. Kildare, is a man-made lake originally built in the 1780s to supply water to the Grand Canal. Now a protected Special Area of Conservation, it's a haven for diverse wildlife, including rare plants, insects, and birds. A scenic walking trail circles the lake, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature.
A brief summary to Ballynafagh Lake
- Ballynafagh, Co. Kildare, IE
- +3531890383000
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-9 pm
- Thursday 8 am-9 pm
- Friday 8 am-9 pm
- Saturday 8 am-9 pm
- Sunday 8 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Wear waterproof footwear, especially during autumn and winter, as the trail around the lake can get muddy.
- Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching and wildlife spotting opportunities.
- Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Getting There
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Driving
From Prosperous, take the Staplestown Road. Keep left at the fork and continue for approximately 2.5 km. Turn left towards Ballynafagh Lake, following the signpost. Pass the ruined church on the right. The road will bend to the right, and the entrance to Ballynafagh Lake, including a car park, will be on the left shortly after the bend. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
The closest bus stop is in Prosperous. From there, it's approximately a 3km walk to Ballynafagh Lake. Follow the directions for driving from Prosperous (above) on foot. Local Link Kildare operates in this area; check their website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single Local Link fare within the zone is approximately €2-4.
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Taxi
A taxi from Prosperous to Ballynafagh Lake will cost approximately €10-€15. Pre-booking is recommended, especially during peak season.
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