What happened to Rathbeggan Lakes? A guide to its closure and future
Rathbeggan Lakes, the family activity park in Dunshaughlin, County Meath, is permanently closed. The attraction was sold in 2021 and no longer operates as a public park with the activities it was known for. The new owners are redeveloping the site into a destination with a focus on glamping and eco-tourism.
Is Rathbeggan Lakes permanently closed?
Short answer: Yes, the original Rathbeggan Lakes family park is permanently closed and will not reopen. The property was sold to new owners in 2021 who have different plans for the site.
The 2021 sale and the end of an era
For many families in Meath and the surrounding areas, Rathbeggan Lakes was a staple for school holidays and sunny weekends. The park's closure came after its sale in 2021, marking the end of its long run as a public activity center. The previous owners confirmed the sale and ceased all operations related to the family park, including the popular fishing access and children's play areas. This decision means the bouncy castles, paddle boats, and zip lines are now just memories for those who visited over the years.
Before planning a day trip to any local attraction, it's a good rule of thumb to check their social media page first. The absence of an official page for the old park is a big clue that it's no longer running. Any information you find on old directory websites is likely outdated.
Remembering the original family park
The original park offered a simple, enjoyable day out. It was known for its variety of low-key but fun activities. Families could spend hours on the paddle boats, navigating the small lake. The petting farm area gave children a chance to see common farm animals up close. Other popular attractions included the zip line, the large bouncy castle area, and the fishing ponds, which attracted both beginners and experienced anglers.
What is replacing the old park at Rathbeggan?
Short answer: The site is being transformed into a glamping and eco-park destination. The focus is shifting from a day-trip activity park to an overnight accommodation experience centered on nature.
A new focus on glamping and eco-tourism
The new vision for the Rathbeggan site moves away from the day-visitor model. The development plans center on creating high-quality glamping accommodations, such as pods or yurts, integrated into the natural landscape. This new business aims to attract tourists looking for a comfortable nature retreat rather than a bustling activity park. The emphasis is on sustainability and offering a quieter, more immersive outdoor experience. This is a significant change from the previous operation.
Expected opening and future plans
A specific public opening date for the new glamping venture has not been widely announced. Developments of this kind often happen in phases. The new owners appear to be taking a measured approach to redeveloping the 40-acre site. People interested in the new project should look for official announcements from the developers rather than relying on information about the old park. The future of the site is about accommodation, not the drop-in activities of the past.
Can you still fish at Rathbeggan Lakes?
Short answer: No, the lakes are no longer open to the public for fishing. The trout fishery that operated as part of the old park closed down permanently with the sale of the property.
For years, Rathbeggan was a popular spot for trout fishing, with well-stocked lakes available for public access on a day-ticket basis. This was one of the key attractions for many visitors. Unfortunately, this is no longer available. The new development's plans have not indicated any intention to reopen the site for public fishing. Anglers will need to find alternative fisheries in the region.
Pros and cons of the old park versus the new development
| Pro | Con |
|---|---|
| The old park was very affordable for a family day out. | Some facilities at the old park were becoming dated. |
| It offered simple, accessible fun without long queues. | The range of activities was limited compared to larger theme parks. |
| The new glamping site will likely offer a modern, high-quality experience. | The new model is not a drop-in activity park for local families. |
| An eco-tourism focus is a positive for the local environment. | Glamping is usually a higher-cost activity than a day pass to the old park. |
| It brings a new type of tourism to the Dunshaughlin area. | The closure removed a beloved local amenity for children's activities. |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Relying on old information: Many websites and blogs still list Rathbeggan Lakes as an open family attraction. Always check for recent updates, as any information published before 2022 is now incorrect.
- Driving to the location: Do not drive to the site expecting to find an open activity park. It is now private property undergoing redevelopment, and there is no public access for the former activities.
- Confusing it with other parks: Don't mix up Rathbeggan Lakes with other attractions in County Meath. If you're looking for rollercoasters and a zoo, you're probably thinking of Emerald Park (formerly Tayto Park), which is a completely different place.
Top alternatives for family fun in County Meath
If you were hoping to visit Rathbeggan, don't worry. County Meath has other great options for a family day out.
For animal encounters and farm fun: Newgrange Farm is an excellent choice. It's an open farm where children can interact with a wide variety of animals, enjoy tractor rides, and play in dedicated areas. It provides a similar hands-on experience to the old petting zoo at Rathbeggan but on a much larger scale.
For big thrills and a full day out: Emerald Park is the largest theme park in the area and a major Irish attraction. It has rollercoasters, a zoo, and a wide range of rides for all ages. It's a much bigger and more expensive day out than Rathbeggan was, but it offers far more to do.
For outdoor adventure and water activities: Boyne Valley Activities, located further north in the county, offers kayaking and boating trips on the River Boyne. This is a great option for families with older children who enjoyed the water-based fun of Rathbeggan's paddle boats and want a more adventurous experience.
Quick recap
- Rathbeggan Lakes family park is permanently closed following its sale in 2021.
- The site is being redeveloped into a private glamping and eco-tourism destination.
- Public access for fishing, paddle boats, and the playground is no longer available.
- Always verify information from before 2022, as it is now outdated.
- Excellent alternatives in County Meath include Emerald Park and Newgrange Farm.
When did Rathbeggan Lakes close?
The original Rathbeggan Lakes family park closed permanently in 2021 after the property was sold to new owners. It no longer operates as a public activity center.
Can I visit the new glamping site yet?
The new glamping and eco-park on the former Rathbeggan site is still under development. There has been no official public opening date announced, so it is not yet open for bookings or visits.
Was Rathbeggan Lakes the same as Tayto Park?
No, they were different attractions. Rathbeggan Lakes was a smaller activity park in Dunshaughlin. Tayto Park, now called Emerald Park, is a large theme park and zoo located in Ashbourne, also in County Meath.
Are there any other family attractions near Dunshaughlin?
Yes, the most significant nearby attraction is Emerald Park, which is about a 15-minute drive from Dunshaughlin. There are also historical sites like the Hill of Tara and various farm experiences within a short drive.