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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.

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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

  • 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.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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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Discover more about Ballynafagh Lake

Ballynafagh Lake, also known as Blackwood Reservoir, lies approximately 2km north of Prosperous in County Kildare. This artificial lake was created in the 1780s as a crucial water source for the Grand Canal, a monumental engineering feat that traversed the bogs of Kildare. The lake supplied water via the Blackwood (Coill Dubh) feeder, and the remains of the gatehouse that controlled the water flow can still be seen. With the advent of the Allen power station and a new water supply from the River Liffey, the lake's original purpose became obsolete. Since the mid-1940s, nature has reclaimed the area, transforming it into a thriving wildlife refuge. Today, Ballynafagh Lake is a Special Area of Conservation, recognized for its ecological significance. The lake and its surrounding habitats support a remarkable variety of flora and fauna. Alkaline fen vegetation dominates the lake edge, while acid grassland, heath, and bog surround the area. The site is home to several notable species, including the Desmoulin's whorl snail and the marsh fritillary butterfly, both of which are protected under the EU Habitats Directive. Birdwatchers can spot a diverse array of bird species, including kingfishers, little grebes, mallards, and the elusive hen harrier. Visitors can explore Ballynafagh Lake via a grassy trail that encircles the water. The walk offers picturesque views and opportunities to observe the local wildlife. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as the path can be muddy, especially during wetter months.

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