May 2013

Once you find Lilliput its well worth a visit. We looked in vain for a signpost when we came off the M6 and inevitably got lost. Eventually we got on the right road and found our way to Jonathan Swift Park.

This is a swimming area designated as such by Westmeath County Council , which is rare and nice to see. To the left of the boathouse there is a stony, beach like surface which leads you into shallow water. A better way to get in is down the steps to the right of the boathouse where it is sandy underfoot and also has a bit of depth. The water was nice and fresh and remained shallow as we swam out. It was nice to have the sand beneath our feet and this seems like a good place for kids to splash and play. However, lakes are potentially dangerous so watch out for submerged rocks. No jumping or diving

The park itself has plenty of space with a picnic table and a large sand pit right in front of the swimming area. Right beside the park is the Lilliput Adventure Centre which organises various adventure courses.

There is ample car parking and it is accessible.

Update April 2015: A 2014 report on bathing water quality conducted by the EPA found the water quality in Lough Ennel ‘poor’ .You might want to check out the current state of play with the County Council.
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Directions:

From the M6 take exit 4 onto the N52 toward Mullingar. Watch out for a left turn onto the L122 signposted for Ballinagore. After that you will pick up the signposts for Jonathan Swift Park/Lilliput. There are a number of them so watch carefully and they will lead you to the lake.