New tourism trail launched to showcase Boyle's heritage and attractions

A new visitor trail has been launched in Boyle which aims to encourage tourists to spend more time exploring the town's attractions. Using a printed guide and interactive digital map, visitors can use the Boyle Experience Trail to explore some of Boyle's best-known attractions, including Boyle Abbey, King House and Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, as well as local businesses and lesser-known points of interest around the town. The launch follows significant investment in Boyle in recent years, including €470,000 through the Fáilte Ireland Destination Towns Funding Scheme. That funding has supported improvements to public spaces, pathways and laneways, as well as improved signage and upgrades around King House. The Boyle Experience Trail was developed by Roscommon County Council's Tourism Department, in collaboration with the Boyle Town Team and local tourism businesses, with support from Fáilte Ireland. Lisa Joy, Tourism Officer with Roscommon County Council, said the new trail offers visitors a chance to experience the town at their own pace. 'The Boyle Experience Trail is an invitation to experience the town at your own pace and discover what makes Boyle so special,' she said. 'From our remarkable heritage and stunning natural landscapes to our thriving cafés, shops and visitor attractions, the trail encourages people to explore beyond the obvious, stay a little longer and create lasting memories.' Boyle Town Team chairperson Ciaran Sheerin said the new trail reflects the community pride and tells the story of the town. 'It connects the places, stories and businesses that make Boyle unique and makes it easier than ever for visitors to experience them,' he said. Fiona Fitzgerald, Regional Development Officer with Fáilte Ireland, described the trail as a welcome addition to the tourism offering in the region. 'By making it easier for visitors to discover Boyle's heritage, culture, outdoor experiences and local businesses, the trail will encourage longer stays and help deliver lasting economic benefits for the town and surrounding area,' she said. Roscommon County Council said it will continue to invest in Boyle as a year-round tourism destination through infrastructure improvements, destination management, business supports and marketing campaigns. The local authority is currently partnering with Coillte on a €10-million redevelopment of Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, which received planning permission in June. The popular lakeside park is one of the most popular attractions in the region and hosts the annual Night and Day Festival. Printed copies of the Boyle Experience Trail guide are available from Úna Bhán Tourism in Boyle, while the interactive map can be accessed through VisitRoscommon.ie.