Lough Boora Parklands

Turraun is an expansive, wild, open plan site rich in natural beauty and diversity. The first area to come out of commercial peat production, this 144 hectare site is the most species diverse of all the Parkland’s sites. Over 60 hectares were flooded in 1991 making Turraun the oldest wetland in the Parklands.

With over 110 bird species and 270 vascular plant species, ranging from trees to reeds, heathers to grasses, Turraun is an ideal location in which to pursue an interest in natural history, or simply take a pleasant walk. The site’s secluded bird hide, located 300 m from the northern- most car park, is accessed by continuing down the road in the Pollagh direction for approximately 150 m and turning down the gravel path on the right (southwards). The hide, at the end of this path, provides an excellent vantage point over the lake.

Walking paths and map boards

With many kilometres of walking paths, including the Offaly way and locally renowned for its summer wildflower displays, autumn colours, and abundance of wild orchids – which peak during June and July, Turraun provides a good opportunity to experience both the wilderness and beauty of the Parklands.  Continuing through Turraun into Pollagh village provides an opportunity to view this historical bog village. A visit to the church, famous for its spectacular bog oak alter, should not be missed.

There are a number of map boards located throughout Turraun detailing the walking routes and site information boards are also provided close to each of the car parks, which are located on site, at the southern end and northern end nearest to Pollagh village.

Turraun is situated off the R357 Boora road, which links Cloghan village to the Tullamore road (N52) at Blue Ball and is accessible by turning north along the gravel road beside Boora Church, opposite the turnoff to The Boora Works and Lough Boora site. The access route continues on through the site into Pollagh village. Do not cross the canal. Taking the Rahan road out of the village and the first right off this road will take you back onto the R357.

History of Turraun

Turraun has a long history of commercial peat development, which pre-dates Bord na Móna by centuries. First developed by a man called Kieran Farrelly in the 1800s, moss peat was stripped from the surface of the bog and dried for use as horse bedding by the British Army during the Crimean War. By the turn of the century this was a very prosperous business, however, in 1903 a flood destroyed the factory and Kieran was forced to emigrate to America.

Sir John Purser Griffith

The area was then purchased by Sir John Purser Griffith - who drained it further and built a peat-operated power station. Its power was used to drive a Wielandt excavator, which produced sod turf that was transported along the Grand Canal and sold in Dublin. In later years Bord na Móna was to use this station as a model for its electricity stations.

The Turf Development Board

In1936 the area was sold to the Turf Development Board it was developed further, so that by the outbreak of WW II Turraun was a major supplier of sod peat to Dublin. Also during this era, peat was used to produce carbon from which gas was extracted and used as a substitute for petrol. The remains of this carbon factory can still be seen close to the northern car park.

In 1946 Bord na Móna took over from the Turf Development Board and Turraun’s production system was changed from sod peat to milled peat used to supply Ferbane Power Station. This process continued until Turraun reached the end of its commercial life and became part of the Lough Boora Parklands.

19th Century "Gallen Brick"

Turraun was also the source of the 19th century "Gallen Brick". A distinctive yellow brick, it was moulded from blue clay found in the area and fired using dried turf as a kiln. These were transported to Dublin and used to build many of the houses along the North Circular Road.