Dring Lake

Dring Lake - photo by Antonio Simoes

Dring Lake is located in North Longford and is a townland of Mullinalaghta.  You can push a boat out at Dring and make your way across the waters to Inchmore Island.

St Columba (or Columbcille) established a monastery there in the sixth century which was "destroyed by the Danes in 804", according to Lewis's 1837 Topographical Dictionary of Ireland. It was restored afterwards though and continued in use until Henry VIII did away with it in 16th century.  The ruins are still there to be explored, however, so you can contemplate the monastic life in splendid natural surroundings.

Derrycassin Woods are scenically located on the shores of Dring Lake. The forest covers an area of 179 acres and consists of three recommended walks, the Nature Trail, the Walled Garden Walk and the Main Avenue Walk.   Kayaking is popular in the area too and it is frequently used by visitors due to the lovely scenery and favourable conditions.  Longford Sports Partnership hold kayaking sessions frequently throughout the year, please see video below of their most recent program 'Lads on the Lake'.

Useful links: Derrycassin Woods Walk, Story of Lough Gowna-Dring