Zipit Lough Key: Guide to the Local Area

Get Active in Nature

Zipit Lough Key is a fun-filled obstacle course located in Ireland’s beautiful Lough Key Forest Park. You’ll find this gorgeous place near Boyle, Co. Roscommon, and Zipit’s obstacle course through the trees is situated right by the lake. You’ll be treated to incredible views over the tranquil water and Castle Island, which is home to the ancient McDermott Castle. As you tackle the swinging logs, rope bridges, and ziplines, see if you can spot any of the wildlife, from rabbits to the endangered red squirrel.

Zipit Lough Key is one of three locations we have in Ireland. We also provide fun and thrills at our forest adventure parks in Farran Park (Co. Cork) and Tibradden Wood (Dublin). But in this guide to Lough Key and the local area, we’re focusing on our picturesque spot in Co. Roscommon!

Let’s get started! Scroll down to find all the information you need to help you plan an epic day out or a longer stay in the local area.

Where is Zipit Lough Key?

Zipit Lough Key is situated within the scenic Lough Key Forest Park, a popular destination just a few kilometres from the town of Boyle in Co. Roscommon. The adventure park is set amidst the lush woodlands of the park, offering visitors the chance to experience high ropes courses, ziplines, and treetop challenges in a beautiful, natural environment.

Surrounded by lakes, forests, and historical landmarks, Zipit Lough Key provides a unique combination of adventure and nature, making it a key attraction for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and thrill-seekers visiting the area.

How to Get to Zipit Lough Key

Lough Key Forest Park is conveniently located on the N4 Dublin-to-Sligo road and is 17 kilometres from the N5 Dublin-to-Westport road. The town of Boyle is less than a 10-minute drive away while Carrick-on-Shannon is around fifteen minutes away by road.

Want the train to take the strain? Boyle Station is on the Sligo-to-Dublin route, and from there you can take a bus or taxi. For train timetables and further information, please visit the Irish Rail website. To find out more about the bus routes servicing Boyle, head to the Bus Eireann website.

Visit the Directions page for more information about getting to Zipit Lough Key.

Map illustration highlighting Carrick-On-Shannon, Athlone, and Lough Derg in Ireland, with trees and water depicted in shades of green and blue.

What are the Opening Hours at Zipit Lough Key?

Zipit, Lough Key is open from February to November. Our opening hours depend on the time of the year. Check up-to-date hours on our booking calendar by clicking Book Now. During the peak season in summer, i.e.July and August, we’re open every day from 9 am to 6 pm. But this changes to Thursday to Sunday for public bookings outside of the peak season. However, we still welcome school, corporate, and team bookings from Monday to Wednesday.

For the most up-to-date information before your visit, we recommend checking the website and booking your tickets before travelling to Zipit Lough Key. You can also contact us directly if you’re unsure about anything ahead of our visit.

Please arrive at least 15 to 30 minutes before your allocated time slot. This allows time for check-in, gearing up, and attending the mandatory safety briefing.

Zipit Lough Key Tickets, Accessibility, and What to Wear

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Zipit Lough Key and What is Included in Your Ticket?

All Zipit Lough Key Tickets must be pre-booked to guarantee your place and time. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our pricing page. If you are only there to supervise someone under 18 years old, you can do so free of charge and you can even bring along your pets to keep you company! It costs €5 to park, which can only be paid by contactless card, coins, or tokens at the Lough Key activity centre.

If you get hungry, you can also buy a variety of hot and cold dishes, as well as homebaked goods, from the Lakeside Cafe. If you just want a quick bite to eat, visit the onsite cabin which offers cold drinks, chocolates, and energy bars. If the weather is nice, get the barbeque going and bask in the sun on the picnic benches with an ice cream from the ice cream bar.

Your ticket grants you access to six circuits up to 15 metres high. Perfect for children and adults, the circuits cater to a range of different heights, ages, and abilities. The children’s circuits start at two metres but then increase as you navigate your way around the family-friendly course.

If you’re feeling brave, you could tackle the high ropes course, which is about 15 metres off the ground. Not to worry, you will be given a harness and a safety briefing before you start! You’ll also have three hours to complete the course. Fancy going higher? The Blue course, the second toughest at Zipit Lough Key, is 20 metres high! And if you’re curious what the toughest is, it’s the 15-metre high Red course.

Accessibility at Zipit Lough Key

To participate in Zipit Lough Key, you must be at least seven years old and be at least one metre tall. If you are under 18, you have to be accompanied by an adult who is either also taking part in the course or keeping a watch from the path below. Wheelchair access is provided to our cabin. However, there may be some paths around the park that are difficult to traverse.

The high ropes course involves a safety system of magnets, which may interact with pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators. You’ll need to check with your doctor to make sure it’s safe for you to take part.

What Should I Wear to Zipit Lough Key?

Irish weather can be unpredictable at the best of times. When it rains, the course can become muddy and slippy. Therefore, wear something you wouldn’t mind getting dirty. Opt for comfortable clothes and shoes with a good grip.

Gloves must be worn at all times you are on the course. You can either bring your own or purchase a pair from our cabin during check-in. For safety reasons, long hair must be tied back, and you must cover midriffs and body piercings so the harness doesn’t rub or catch. On the days we’re blessed with some Irish sunshine, make sure you bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.

Places for More Adventure near Lough Key

  • After you’ve completed Zipit Lough Key, hop on over to Lough Key Tour Boats to either go on their one-hour cruise around the lake, hire a rowing boat, or opt for a private charter boat trip.
  • Shannon River Adventure is the place to go if you’re looking for more adrenaline-filled activities. From kayaking to pier jumping, they have something for everyone.
  • Book your tickets for Baysports Westmeath, Ireland’s largest inflatable waterpark and holder of the Guinness World Record for the tallest floating slide in the world!
  • Engage in the relaxing sport of stand-up paddleboarding at Sligo Bay SUP. A knowledgeable and friendly instructor leads their SUP tours.
  • At Electric Bike Trails, you can hire one of their regular or electric bikes and cycle along the scenic Shannon River.
  • Moon River Cruise is a family-run business that offers cruises down the River Shannon. On their tours, all you need to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy learning about the history and culture of the local area.

Outdoor Activities to Do near Zipit Lough Key

  • Boda Borg at Zipit Lough Key is a 47-room quest, packed with fun-filled activities, puzzles, and tasks. There are no instructions, so you’ll have to work together to problem-solve and progress to the next room.
  • Get your daily dose of cuteness at Knockvicar Alpaca Farm by going on a farm walk to visit their adorable alpacas.
  • At Arigna Mining Experience, you’ll be able to go on a guided tour of the underground mines that were used between the 1700s and 1990. Accompanied by an ex-miner, you’ll venture underground to learn about Ireland’s coal-mining industry and witness the first-hand working conditions.
  • Caves of Kesh are a set of 17 limestone caves with excellent views over the Irish countryside. It only takes 20 minutes to reach the caves from the small car park just off the main road, but it is quite a steep walk.
  • Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk is Ireland’s first floating boardwalk. With wonderful views stretching out over the Acres Lake and surrounded by ducks and swans, it’s a tranquil place to go for a walk.

Places to Eat near Zipit Lough Key

  • The Lakeside Cafe at Lough Key Forest & Activity Park is perfect for those who don’t want to venture too far for a bite to eat. Indulge in the delicious toasties, soup, burgers, or our homemade sweet treats.
  • Located in the heart of the beautiful and vibrant riverside town of Carrick-on-Shannon, just a 15-minute drive from Zipit Lough Key, Vittos Restaurant offers the very best in casual Italian and European in relaxed and informal surroundings.
  • Only a 10-minute drive from Lough Key is the lovely Waterfront Restaurant. As the name suggests, it sits on the waterfront which provides incredible views whilst you’re enjoying their modern Irish cuisine.
  • Lovage at the Gate Lodge Cafe is a small family-run restaurant that serves delicious dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Or if you’re just looking for something quick, indulge in their coffee and pastries while enjoying the views over the Boyle River.
  • The Oarsman is an award-winning restaurant in Carrick-on-Shannon. They use the freshest local ingredients to make exceptionally good food for lunch or dinner.
  • Only a 20-minute drive from Lough Key is Di Vino Italian Restaurant. It serves authentic Italian food from delicious pastas and pizzas to meat-based main courses, all made from scratch.

Places to Stay Near Zipit Lough Key

  • Lough Keel Scout Campsite is situated 5 km from Boyle town and 10 km from Carrick-on-Shannon, just off the N4 Dublin-to-Sligo route, adjacent to the renowned Lough Key Forest Park.
  • Located in Carrick-on-Shannon, just a 15-minute drive from Zipit Lough Key, Courtyard Apartments offers several self-catering accommodation options to suit whatever size group you might have.
  • Another great option located in Carrick-on-Shannon, just a 15-minute drive from Zipit Lough Key, Carrick Plaza Suites offers stylish, comfortable accommodation that is just a 2-minute walk to the town centre.
  • Enjoy 4* luxury hotel accommodation in a central location in Carrick-on-Shannon at The Landmark Hotel. Like most Carrick-on-Shannon stays, it’s just a 15-minute drive from Zipit Lough Key.
  • House in a period residence from the 1800s, Linsfort Bed and Breakfast is a delightful guesthouse in the centre of Boyle. Each room is en-suite with king-size beds and is decorated with an individual style and colour.
  • Bush Hotel is situated in Carrick-on-Shannon and is another accommodation a mere 15-minute drive from Zipit Lough Key. This is a charming, award-winning boutique heritage hotel in the centre of town, with open fires, themed lounges, bars, a coffee shop and a restaurant.
  • Nestled between Boyle Abbey and Lough Key Forest Park, Rosdarrig B&B provides a Fáilte Ireland-approved, four-star, luxurious bed and breakfast experience with genuine Irish Hospitality at its heart.
  • Riverhaven Log Cabins is home to three- and four-bedroom cabins on the shore of Lough Key. Guests can enjoy an array of facilities and extras, including lakeside walks and rowboats to take out on the water.
  • If you don’t mind travelling from further afield, Athlone Springs Hotel offers a four-star, luxury stay in Athlone, Co. Westmeath. However, the drive to Zipit Lough Key is comfortably over an hour.
  • Carrick Self-Catering accommodation is ideal for a relaxing getaway in the popular tourist town of Carrick-on-Shannon, just a 15-minute drive from Zipit Lough Key.

Book Your Visit to Zipit Lough Key!

Whether you’re local to the area or visiting from further afield, we hope this guide has helped you to better understand what to expect at Zipit Lough Key and inspired you to plan additional activities in the local area. We can’t wait to welcome you and your group for an epic day out!

Do you have any questions about your visit to Zipit Lough Key? Please just contact us for all the information you need.

Explore the outdoor this bank holiday weekend.

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