Main image

Sarah777 CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia Commons

Lough Owel

Lake

Shallow spring‑fed lake near Mullingar prized for trout fishing, birdwatching-especially wintering swans-and quiet boat launches; the shoreline supports country walks and angling.

Lough Owel DublinGalwayCorkKillarneyCliffs of MoherLough Owel
In this guide

Lough Owel essentials

Address: Lough Owel, near Mullingar, County Westmeath, Ireland
Hours: Open daylight hours
Admission: Free (public lake); angling permits may be required
GoogleAppleOSM

About Lough Owel

Lough Owel is a freshwater lake in County Westmeath in the Irish midlands, lying north of the town of Mullingar. It is a spring-fed lake known regionally for its clear water and natural setting.

The lake is used for angling, walking and birdwatching, with shore paths and viewpoints that attract local visitors. Its water quality and habitats support fish stocks and a range of wildfowl species.

The lake has long been part of local settlement and land-use patterns, with historical features on its shores and use as a water resource for nearby communities.

Lough Owel lies immediately north of Mullingar in County Westmeath and is accessible from regional roads around the town.

  • Wildlife and fishing: The lake is valued for clear, spring-fed water and supports trout fisheries and wintering waterfowl, making it a local focal point for anglers and birdwatchers.
Things to Do
When to Go

Best Time to Visit Lough Owel

Spring through early autumn offers the most pleasant conditions for outdoor activities around the lake.

Spring-Summer (Apr-Aug)
Apr-Aug · 8-22°C (46-72°F)
Best time for walking, birdwatching and angling.
Autumn (Sep-Oct)
Sep-Oct · 6-16°C (43-61°F)
Quieter and good for low-sun photography.

Weather & Climate near Lough Owel

Climate

Lough Owel's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 2°C to 19°C. Moderate rainfall (997 mm/year).

Air Quality: AQI 29 Good
Best Time to Visit
JuneJulySeptember
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
27°
Warmest Month
-7°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January Poor 2° - 7° 1° 103 mm overcast 95% 4.5 m/s 0.0 low 7.9h
February Poor 2° - 8° 1° 80 mm overcast 94% 4.4 m/s 0.2 low 9.6h
March Acceptable 3° - 9° 3° 82 mm overcast 91% 4.4 m/s 0.4 low 11.7h
April Acceptable 4° - 12° 5° 63 mm overcast 87% 3.7 m/s 0.8 moderate 13.8h
May Acceptable 6° - 15° 11° 61 mm overcast 84% 3.5 m/s 1.2 high 15.7h
June Good 9° - 17° 13° 69 mm overcast 83% 3.3 m/s 1.5 high 16.7h
July Good 11° - 19° 15° 64 mm overcast 85% 3.2 m/s 1.3 high 16.2h
August Good 11° - 19° 15° 84 mm overcast 86% 3.1 m/s 1.1 high 14.6h
September Good 9° - 16° 13° 83 mm overcast 88% 3.4 m/s 0.7 moderate 12.5h
October Acceptable 7° - 13° 8° 100 mm overcast 92% 3.8 m/s 0.3 low 10.4h
November Acceptable 4° - 10° 4° 102 mm overcast 95% 3.9 m/s 0.1 low 8.4h
December Poor 3° - 8° 2° 106 mm overcast 96% 4.2 m/s 0.0 low 7.3h
Getting There & Around

How to Get to Lough Owel

Lough Owel lies north of Mullingar in County Westmeath. It is accessible by regional roads from Mullingar; local parking and access points are available around the lake shore.

Tips for Visiting Lough Owel

  • Lough Owel's clarity makes it a favourite for fly-fishing - contact local angling clubs for permits and seasonal rules.
  • Walk the lake shore paths early to catch the best light and calmer water.
  • The lake is spring-fed and icy in early morning; swimmers should be cautious of temperature and depth.