aventuro Back to map A
Amusement parks

Emerald Park

4.6 · 16,761 reviews
Energetic and family-oriented
Emerald Park, Kilbrew, Ashbourne, Co. Meath, A84 EA02, Ireland
Interesting facts
1

The park was originally established as a branded experience themed around a major Irish potato crisp manufacturer.

2

The Cú Chulainn Coaster reaches speeds of up to 90 kilometers per hour.

3

The onsite zoo holds an EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria) accreditation.

4

The park's layout incorporates original manor house elements from the Kilbrew estate.

5

The name change to Emerald Park occurred following the conclusion of a long-standing naming rights partnership in 2023.

Overview

Emerald Park, formerly known as Tayto Park, is Ireland's only theme park and zoo facility. The park is home to the Cú Chulainn Coaster, the first wooden roller coaster in Ireland. The grounds feature a dedicated zoo area housing over 250 animals, including Amur leopards, Amur tigers, and tropical birds. Rides are categorized into junior, mid-level, and thrill-seeking attractions. The park spans approximately 50 acres of landscaped terrain in County Meath. It combines high-adrenaline mechanical rides with educational wildlife exhibits. The facility is designed for multi-generational visits, balancing toddler play zones with extreme roller coasters. The site is located on the former grounds of a potato crisp production facility.

Photo spot

The viewing platform near the Cú Chulainn Coaster track for an action shot of the wooden structure.

Insider tips

Download the official park map beforehand to identify height restrictions for rides, as they are strictly enforced.

Visit the zoo area during the morning when animals are most active and zookeepers often conduct enrichment sessions.

Bring weather-appropriate gear, as most queuing areas and attractions are outdoors and exposed to Irish wind and rain.

What to avoid

Attempting to cover both the zoo and all thrill rides in under four hours, as the physical footprint of the park requires significant walking time.

Good to know

The park generally operates on a seasonal basis, with full daily operations during summer months and limited weekend-only openings during late autumn and winter.

Etiquette

Closed-toe footwear is mandatory for most mechanical rides; maintain distance from zoo enclosures and refrain from feeding animals.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
6-8 hours
Best time to visit
Weekdays during the shoulder season (May or September) to avoid peak weekend crowds and school holiday queues.
Address
Emerald Park, Kilbrew, Ashbourne, Co. Meath, A84 EA02, Ireland
53.545, -6.459
Get directions
Details
Signature AttractionCú Chulainn wooden roller coaster
Animal CollectionsAmur leopards, Amur tigers, and lemurs

Frequently asked

Plan for about 6-8 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekdays during the shoulder season (May or September) to avoid peak weekend crowds and school holiday queues..

The viewing platform near the Cú Chulainn Coaster track for an action shot of the wooden structure.

Close by you'll find World of Raptors, Hill of Tara, Phoenix Park.