When people ask **“What is the biggest lake in Ireland?”**, the answer is almost always **Lough Neagh**. Spanning an impressive 392 square kilometres, Lough Neagh is not only the largest lake in Ireland but also the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles.
Quick Facts About Lough Neagh
- Surface area: 392 km²
- Located in Northern Ireland (counties Antrim, Armagh, Down, Tyrone, and Londonderry)
- Supplies water to over 40% of Northern Ireland’s population
- Rich in history, folklore, and biodiversity
Top 10 Biggest Lakes in Ireland
Here are the **top 10 biggest lakes in Ireland** ranked by surface area:
- Lough Neagh – 392 km²
- Lough Erne (Lower & Upper) – 110 km² combined
- Lough Corrib – 200 km² (largest in the Republic of Ireland)
- Lough Derg – 118 km²
- Lough Ree – 105 km²
- Lough Mask – 76 km²
- Lough Conn – 50 km²
- Lough Allen – 35 km²
- Lough Sheelin – 19 km²
- Lough Cullin – 11 km²
Biggest Lake in Southern Ireland
If you’re looking for the **biggest lake in southern Ireland** (Republic of Ireland), it is **Lough Corrib** in County Galway. At approximately 200 km², it is the second-largest lake on the entire island and a popular destination for fishing, boating, and tourism.
Lakes in Ireland Map & Geography
Ireland is famous for its beautiful lakes. **How many lakes in Ireland?** There are hundreds, with over 5,000 named bodies of water when including smaller loughs and tarns. For a clear visual, search for a **Lakes in Ireland map** or **Lough Ireland map** — you’ll see the Shannon-Erne system and the great western lakes dominate the landscape.
Famous Lakes in Ireland
Beyond size, Ireland’s lakes are steeped in mythology and history:
- Lough Neagh – Legendary home of the Children of Lir story
- Lough Corrib – One of the best fishing lakes in Europe
- Lough Derg – Major pilgrimage site (Station Island)
Is Lough Neagh Bigger Than Loch Ness?
Yes. Lough Neagh is significantly larger in surface area than Scotland’s famous Loch Ness (392 km² vs 56 km²). However, Loch Ness is much deeper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the largest lake in Ireland?
Lough Neagh is the largest lake in Ireland by surface area.
Is Down Catholic or Protestant?
County Down has a mixed population. Some areas have a Catholic majority, while others (especially North Down) are majority Protestant. It is one of the most diverse counties in Northern Ireland.
Who’s richer, Ireland or the UK?
As of 2026, the Republic of Ireland has a higher GDP per capita than the United Kingdom. However, the UK has a much larger overall economy due to its size and population.
Is Lough Neagh bigger than Loch Ness?
Yes — Lough Neagh is significantly larger in surface area than Loch Ness.
For a more detailed look at Lough Neagh and Ireland’s iconic lakes, read our full feature:
What is the Largest Lake in Ireland?.
Word count: approximately 1520. Ireland’s lakes are not just geographical features — they are living parts of our history, culture, and natural heritage.
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