Overview
Lough Ennell (Irish: Loch Ainninn) spreads south-west of Mullingar in County Westmeath, a broad, shallow limestone lake about 6.5 km long and 2 km wide, covering roughly 12 km². It is shallow almost everywhere, which is why its margins run to reed bed and wetland, and why it holds both waterfowl and a well-known head of trout. The lake is a Special Area of Conservation, one of the important limestone lakes of the midlands. The wooded island in the hero photograph is Cherry Island.
On the southern shore, Lilliput is the main public access point. Use the signed public access there.
The name comes from Ainninn, said in legend to be a son of a Fir Bolg king.
History and literary links
The River Brosna flows in near Mullingar and out towards Lilliput, and it is Lilliput that carries the lake’s best-known story. Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels, is said to have looked back from a boat at the small houses and fields along the shore and pictured them as a kingdom in miniature; the house then called ‘Nure’ became Lilliput House, and the townland has been Lilliput ever since.
On the northern edge stands Belvedere House, a Georgian hunting lodge above the water, with parkland, a walled garden and the Jealous Wall, a mock-Gothic sham ruin built by the first Earl of Belvedere purely to blot out the sight of his estranged brother’s house next door. It is a separately managed estate, so check current opening and ticket arrangements before you visit.
What to see and do
Angling and watersports
Lough Ennell is known as a brown trout fishery, and anglers also take pike. Stocking and seasonal rules change, so check the current regulations before you fish. If you paddle or sail, keep clear of the reed beds and stay back from the water when conditions are rough.
Can you swim in Lough Ennell?
Only in the designated bathing area at Lilliput, and only when current notices and conditions allow. Check the current bathing notices and the signs at Lilliput before you get in. Westmeath County Council lifted a temporary restriction in June 2026, but water quality here has varied, so do not assume it is safe on the day. Stay back from the water when conditions are rough.
Walking and cycling
The Westmeath Way, a long-distance walking route from Kilbeggan to Mullingar, runs along the lake. Belvedere House has its own lakeshore paths, and there is a woodland walk at Tudenham Park. Stay on signed public paths.
Wildlife
The shallow, nutrient-rich margins are good breeding and feeding ground for wetland birds: mute swan, great crested grebe, reed warbler, moorhen and the occasional kingfisher. Otters work the reed beds, best seen at dawn or dusk. Spring and autumn bring migrating birds through; summer is for nesting along the sheltered coves. Keep clear of the reed beds.
Practical information
- Getting there: from the M6, take the N52 towards Mullingar, then follow signs for Lilliput and the lakeside access.
- Public transport: Mullingar, a few kilometres north, is the nearest hub, with a train station on the Dublin–Sligo line.
- Facilities: parking, toilets, boat hire and camping change from season to season. Check the notices on site rather than relying on a listing.
For a swim, check the latest notice first and go on a calm day.