Emerald Park to open new rollercoasters to public following €22m investment
Two new rollercoasters will open at Emerald Park next month, following a €22 million investment.
The 55 acre Ashbourne theme park and zoo, formerly known as Tayto Park, has confirmed its new themed area known as Tír Na nÓg, will open to visitors on May 22nd.
Billed as the longest intertwining family and thrill rollercoaster in Europe, the ‘Na Fianna Force’ and ‘The Quest’ attractions represent the latest evolution of the popular family destination.
The rollercoasters have been designed and engineered by the Dutch manufacturing company, Vekoma, a major supplier for Disney.
Originally founded by potato and crisp entrepreneur Ray Coyle in 2010, the park was rebranded last year following Coyle family’s sale of their crisps business to Germany’s Intersnack.
Ray Coyle sadly passed away in 2022.
The park is now headed by Ray Coyle’s son Charles.
Along with the two main rollercoasters, the new Celtic-themed area, Tír na nÓg, will also introduce a third classic theme park attraction, known as a The Celtic Dreamer. This 56-seater attraction is a colourful, spinning, flying sensation where young and old can take in the unmatched sight of Tír Na nÓg as they soar to 12 metres and beyond.
New food outlets and retail spaces will also all lend to the Irish mythology and fantasy theming across the land.
The new full themed and immersive land adds to Emerald Park's 40 thrill-seeking rides and attractions along with its zoo which is home to over 250 diverse animals.
In addition, Emerald Park is excited to reveal a four part behind the scenes series, ‘Nerves of Steel’ which will air weekly on RTÉ One.
Filmed over two years this full access behind-the-scenes series follows the trials and tribulations of building Europe’s longest intertwining steel rollercoaster, an ambitious vision from its late Founder, Raymond Coyle.
Produced by Moondance Productions and directed by Shane Brennan, this four-part series delves deep into the heart of the action, chronicling the tireless efforts and unwavering dedication of the Emerald Park team as they navigate the intricate journey towards the grand opening of its first fully themed and immersive land.
"We are delighted to finally announce the opening date of Tír Na nÓg.The opening represents a new chapter in our commitment to providing guests with unparalleled experiences, whether you're seeking family fun or an adrenaline rush”, said Charles Coyle, Managing Director of Emerald Park.
“Shane and The Moondance team have really captured the spirit of Emerald Park in this behind the scenes documentary.
We’re looking forward to sharing an exclusive look into all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes at Emerald Park from our various teams and departments as we gear up to the opening of our first fully themed immersive land, Tír Na nÓg.”