Don’t miss our best content straight to your inbox! Sign up now and get our FREE newsletters packed with fun ideas and things to do with the kids, family-friendly recipes, expert advice, parenting tips and great competitions.

For such a small country, Ireland offers a vast array of unique cultural, historical, sporting and scenic experiences. With nowhere more than a few hours away, you can pack in as much as you like during your trip.

Nothing beats local knowledge when it comes to organising a trip. Our team of parents are based around the country so we can highlight those extras that you may not find in the guide books when planning your family vacation in Ireland.

You May Also Enjoy Rent Hero – Properties To Rent In Ireland For Your Vacation

Fun Places to Take Kids on a Family Vacation in Ireland

#1. Lough Key Forest & Activity Park, Roscommon

Located in Boyle, Co. Roscommon and set in the grounds of the old King-Harman Estate on the shores of island studded Lough Key, the Lough Key Forest & Activity Park, offers hours of entertainment for all the family. There are plenty of walking and cycling opportunities at the park, while the indoor Boda Borg Challenge will test the mental skills and physical agility of everybody over seven! (The enclosed Adventure Play Kingdom is currently undergoing an upgrade and will reopen in 2023).

Be guided back in time through 19th Century tunnels and stroll Ireland’s only Tree Canopy trail on the Rockingham Remembered Experience. Then take a well-earned break and enjoy the vista of Lough Key in the Lakeside Café with outside terrace while you sample the delicious food and drink options. You can even stay over in the landscaped Caravan and Campsite.

Other fun activities in the park include:

• Electric Bike trails with traditional and electric bikes
• Zipit Forest Adventures
• Lough Key boat tours
• Kayaking
• Orienteering trails including Wheelo accessible wheelchair trails
• Picnic spots and beautiful walks along the shores of the lake.

You May Also Enjoy 7 Interesting Family Walks To Enjoy At Lough Key In Roscommon

#2. Strokestown Park, House, Gardens and Irish Famine Museum

Strokestown Park houses the Irish National Famine Museum, a must-see visitor attraction for families. Strokestown House is open daily and visitors will get a real insight into days gone by at this Georgian Palladian mansion in which many of the original furnishings can still be seen.

Visitors can also take a stroll through the 6 acre walled garden and surrounding woodlands. Be sure to pick up some of the family trails from reception when you arrive including the Woodland Trail, the Garden Trail and the Archive Explorers Guide.  There is also a Fairy Trail and an outdoor xylophone to spark the imagination. Afterwards enjoy a snack or lunch at the Woodland Café.

Don’t Miss: The Victorian Nursery complete with toys.

You May Also Enjoy 9 Super Fun Things To Do With Kids in Roscommon at Strokestown Park

#3. Johnstown Castle, Wexford

Johnstown Castle is a spectacular gothic Castle in Wexford and offers an amazing day out for all ages. Surrounded by beautiful ornamental gardens designed by Daniel Robertson, they offer walks by the lake, gothic statues, peacocks and other wildlife, fairy trail and a Victorian Walled Garden to discover.

The Irish Agricultural Museum is housed within the ground of Johnstown Castle and displays one of the most comprehensive collections showcasing farming and rural life in Ireland with everything from tractors to kitchens!

You May Also Enjoy 10 Fabulously Fun Things To Do With Kids In Wexford At Johnstown Castle

#4. Irish National Stud & Gardens, Kildare

Enjoy a great day out for all the family at the Irish National Stud & Gardens in Kildare. Just off the M7 motorway, the Irish National Stud is home to both wonderful horses, beautiful gardens and family friendly activities.

The Irish National Stud offers an unforgettable experience in 800 acres of beautiful Kildare countryside that can be enjoyed by all the family. Stroll through the world-famous Japanese Gardens and St Fiachra’s Garden.

Be sure to explore the magical ‘fairy trail’ in the woodland area, and afterwards let the kids run off some steam at the playground. And check out their summer fun events which take place in July and August. Enjoy the beautiful Japanese Gardens, St Fiachras Garden, see the magnificent horses, and tour the interactive and immersive Irish Racehorse Experience (more suited to older kids).

Don’t Miss: The Fairy Trail – Pick up a map on arrival and see how many friendly fairies you can spot!

You May Also Enjoy 10 Kid-Approved Ideas for FREE Family Days Out In Ireland

#5. Beyond The Trees Avondale, Wicklow

The Treetop and Viewing Tower located at Beyond the Trees Avondale is the first of its kind in Ireland and the UK. It is a unique visitor attraction that is fully accessible to all generations.

Your journey through the forest on the Treetop Walk begins as the boardwalk makes its way out over the Avonmore River valley. Play areas and interactive games along the route encourage you to take a different view of the forest and explore the bird and animal life of the surrounding area.

Reaching 38 metres into the sky, the Viewing Tower can be seen peeping above the eucalyptus trees for miles around. It is accessed via a short underground tunnel, where you will learn about the abundant life below the forest floor before emerging for the next part of your adventure!

The spiral ramped boardwalk rises slowly through the forest and has a gentle gradient. It is fully wheelchair and pram accessible with resting points on each level. After 10 gentle circuits you will reach the circular viewing platform at the top, with 360° panoramic views over Avondale Forest Park, the Vale of Avoca, the Wicklow Mountains and beyond.

To continue the adventure, take the option to whizz back down to earth on the giant spiral slide inside the Viewing Tower. Alternatively continue back down the ramped boardwalk to the forest floor once more.

You May Also Enjoy Attractions in Ireland that Offer Family Pass Options to Save Money

#6. Fota House & Gardens, Cork

Fota House and Gardens in Cork offers visitors a look at how life was lived in the past, whether as a servant or as a member of the gentry. When you tour the house you get to see behind the scenes to the bedrooms and a Victorian nursery. Then visit the service wing, where you can see the working conditions of all the servants.

“Where is Mrs Kevin’s Cat?!” is a families tour through the House with a dedicated guide, solving the mystery of where the house keeper’s cat has got to. It’s a great way for children to enjoy learning about the House and the people who lived here.

Or you can go Digging for History in their award winning Victorian Working Garden, with a tour through the Victorian glasshouses with fun facts for kids, finishing off with a chance to pot up their own plant to take home and cherish. Both the Mrs Kevin’s Cat tour and Digging for History are suitable from 4 to about 11.

They also have fantastic trails for kids to follow in the gardens they have some really fun ones e.g. Junior Plant Hunters Activity Trail, Little Explorers Trail, and a Tree Trail.

And after all that fun you can refresh yourselves in the Bakestone Café!

You May Also Enjoy 9 Fantastically Fun Things To Do With Kids In Cork At Fota House

#7. glór, Clare

More than just a theatre, glór sits in the heart of Ennis town in Co. Clare and offers ample parking for visitors. They attract the best of local, national and International entertainment for all ages. And have a full line up of family fun and regular events including films, music, dance and theatre performances, classes and workshops. They also boast an art gallery and an on-site café.

You May Also Enjoy Why We Love These Family Friendly Hotels in Ireland

#8. Croke Park Stadium Tour & GAA Museum, Dublin

The Croke Park Stadium Tour offers you the chance to explore the home of Gaelic sport and take a behind-the-scenes journey through this 82,300 capacity stadium. Enjoy an access-all-areas experience on the guided Stadium Tour, as you walk in the footsteps of legends and visit the team dressing rooms, before going pitch-side via the players’ tunnel and taking a seat in the VIP area.

Explore the GAA Museum with its exhibition galleries that vividly illustrate the story of Gaelic games, from ancient times to present day. Exhibitions include the Sam Maguire and Liam MacCarthy Cups, the official GAA Hall of Fame, and lots more. Test your hurling and football skills in the interactive games zone – a must for museum visitors of all ages!

You May Also Enjoy 30 Fun Family-Friendly Things to Do in Leinster

#9. Belvedere House, Westmeath

Image © Westmeath County Council (www.visitwestmeath.ie)

Belvedere House, attracting over 160,000 visitors a year, sits on a magnificent 160 acre lakeside estate with restored Georgian Villa, Victorian Walled Garden, naturalistic designed 18th century parkland, punctuated with Romantic follies including the largest in Ireland; “The Jealous Wall”. A day visitor to Belvedere can explore the restored Belvedere House, Victorian Walled Garden and rolling parkland with its numerous follies.

An excellent day out with a difference, Belvedere House Gardens & Park offers something for young and old. Open daily, all year round, visitors can enjoy 8km of safe and serene walks, a Georgian Villa, a Victorian Walled Garden, Fairy Garden, & 4 Children’s Areas. There is also a Gift Shop, picnic areas and licensed café.

You May Also Enjoy Best Playgrounds in Ireland Recommended by Parents

#10. Wildlands, Galway

Discover the Wild at Wildlands Galway! Located in Moycullen, just 10 minutes from Galway city at the gateway to Connemara along the Wild Atlantic Way sits Wildlands adventure park on 20 acres of mature woodland.

Thrill-seekers of all ages can enjoy indoor and outdoor adventures including:

• Zip ‘n’ Trek
• Indoor Climbing Walls
• Irish mythology themed Celtic Challenge Rooms
• Cloud Climb and Ninja obstacle course
• Bushcraft survival skills
• Archery
• Disc Golf
• Yoga
• Off Road Adventure (mini 4×4 driving)
• Baile Beag miniature play village
• Woodland walks and Fairy Trails and lots more to explore!

Food options include Olive Tree Kitchen Restaurant and the Wildlands Wagon, a converted VW postal van which serves coffees and treats.

You May Also Enjoy 99 Fantastic Places To Go in Ireland with Kids this Summer

#11. Powerscourt Estate, Wicklow

Powerscourt Estate, just 20km south of Dublin, offers a fun family day out with wonderful family walks around the 47 acres of gardens which include themed Italian & Japanese gardens, tower valley, hundreds of different plants and trees, water features, statues and much more. There are shops and restaurants to enjoy before or after you explore all the Powerscourt has to offer.

You can also visit the Powerscourt waterfall, Ireland’s highest waterfall and explore the countryside surrounding it. Pack a picnic, enjoy the playground and spot many different varieties of birds.

#12. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Clare

At Bunratty Castle & Folk Park everywhere is open for you to explore! The Castle is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Kids will enjoy the sights, sounds tastes, scents, of Bunratty Folk Park as you stroll from house to house or around the charming village street complete with school, post office, doctors house, hardware shop, printers and a pub.

The gardens at Bunratty Folk Park have been restored to their former glory. The gardens are modelled on the original Regency period garden which supplied fruit, vegetables, and flowers to Bunratty House (built in 1804) and are refurbished in typical Victorian style. This is your opportunity to experience one of the great gardens of Ireland.

There’s also a Fairy Trail and playground for the kids to enjoy.

You May Also Enjoy 12 Stunning Scenic Drives and Family Road Trips in Ireland

#13. The Ark, Dublin

The Ark Dublin, based on Eustace Street in Temple Bar, is a unique, purpose built, cultural centre where children aged 2-12 and their families can explore theatre, music, literature, art, film, dance and more. Expect a different experience every visit!

The Ark’s event programme is always a big hit with families looking for creative and fun activities, so be sure to check their website for what’s on during your visit.

You May Also Enjoy Recommended Hotels In Ireland For Families With More Than 2 Kids

#14. Nore Valley Park, Kilkenny

Nore Valley Park in Kilkenny offers everything you need for a family day out, a celebration or a break away from it all. From interactive encounters with the animals, to attractive camping facilities, to fun activities suited to all ages, Nore Valley Park is perfect for occupying an afternoon, or for spending a week or more.

The variety of animals is vast on this working farm, with hens, ducks, turkeys, geese, quails, owl, pheasants, sheep, goats, pigs, deer, ponies, donkeys, cow, rabbits, and even ostriches! Feed, pet and cuddle animals such as lambs, rabbits and chicks for a truly interactive experience.

Enjoy a variety of activities at Nore Valley Park including:

• Tractor and trailer rides
• Crazy golf
• Go-karts
• Indoor 3D maze
• Animal feeding
• Crazy golf
• Playground
• Giant chess
• Indoor straw bounce
• Nature trails and much more

The campsite at Nore Valley Park is open from March to October annually. For those who want to stay on-site but have no tent or caravan of their own, Nore Valley Park has a number of lovely wooden lodges and spacious mobile homes available to rent, they can be booked in advance.

You May Also Enjoy 10 Outdoor Swimming Pools in Ireland You’ll Want to Visit

#15. Cork City Gaol

Get behind bars for a few hours with a visit to Cork City Gaol. The amazing castle like building gives visitors an insight into prison life with an array of exhibitions bringing it all to life.

As a bonus your entry ticket also gives you access to the radio museum where you can learn more about the birth of Marconi.

You May Also Enjoy Get Out and Explore These Incredible Historic Places in Ireland

#16. The Dunfanaghy Workhouse, Donegal

Visit the Dunfanaghy Workhouse to see a traditional workhouse from famine times. Meet Wee Hannah and hear her story, visit the exhibitions and learn about the history of the workhouse and the surrounding Sheephaven Bay.

The kids can play in the community playground or visit the library or take part in a workshop or class. And you can enjoy tasty homemade treats at the on-site café.

#17. Corralea Activity Centre, Fermanagh

At the family run Corralea Activity Centre in Fermanagh your family can enjoy kayaking, mountain biking, windsurfing, paddle-boarding, archery, caving, climbing and the thrills and spills of the floating waterpark!

#18. W5, Belfast

whowhatwherewhenwhy – W5 is Ireland’s award winning science and discovery centre at Odyssey in Belfast. With over 250 interactive exhibits and a changing programme of events, shows and exhibitions, W5 is a great value day out for all the family. Allow at least 2 hours for your visit.

#19. King John’s Castle, Limerick

King John’s Castle delivers a modern visitor experience with a dramatic history of over 800 years of stories, all brought to life in a stunning exhibition.

The busy Castle courtyard is home to a medieval campaign tent, a blacksmith’s forge and scenes from a 17th century siege. An array of colourful characters, reveal the secrets and scandals of castle life. Not to be missed!!!

Read what Jill and her family thought of King John’s Castle.

#20. Westport House & Gardens, Mayo

Enjoy a fun filled holiday experience this summer with a trip to the award winning Westport House and Hotel Westport. Westport House and Adventure Park has activities suitable for all ages to enjoy including:

• House tours with the new audio app
• Victorian afternoon tea
• Ramble through the gardens, parks and visit the lake
• Cannonball run slide
• Pirate Queen swinging ship
• Pirates plunge
• Activity centre with zip-lining, archery, off-road mini jeeps, kiddy kars, foot darts and more
• New 24 metre inflatable obstacle course
• Swan pedalos
• Go Karts
• Westport House Express
• Pony Rides

You May Also Enjoy How to Have a FREE Family Day Out In Mayo

Things to Do On Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way is the world’s longest defined coastal touring route, passing through nine counties, three provinces, and some of Ireland’s most beautiful scenery.

You May Also Enjoy 20 Fun Things to Do with Kids on the Wild Atlantic Way

#21. Clonakilty Beaches, Cork

© George Karbus Photography / Failte Ireland

There are 5 beautiful beaches near Clonakilty – Inchydoney, Long Strand, Red Strand, The Warren and Owenahincha. It’s hard to pick one favourite but we love the Blue Flag beach at Inchydoney Island, just a few miles from Clonakilty.

It’s not only family-friendly, but very beautiful with plenty of sand dunes and a long stretch of sand ideal for flying kites, paddling, or even surfing for the more adventurous.

You May Also Enjoy Ireland’s Blue Flag Beaches Are Perfect for Family Seaside Fun!

#22. Seafari Kenmare, Kerry

Seafari Cruises are a great way to explore the wildlife of Kenmare Bay. You go out on the bay in a comfortable and sheltered passenger vessel, out to one of the largest seal colonies in Ireland. See if you can spot Kathleen, a stunning seal with a red coat. The rumour is that Kathleen is a selkie, a seal which was once human according to legend.

You may also get to see otters, white-tailed sea eagles and other sea-birds. Humour and fun are part of a Seafari cruise and whilst the boat is not often rocked by waves in the calm waters of the bay, it is frequently rocked by laughter. Tea, coffee, squash and biscuits are offered on all cruises and for those feeling a nip in the air there is a medicinal shot of rum.

#23. Valentia Island, Kerry

Valentia Island is well worth a stop on your travels on the Wild Atlantic Way. Valentia Island lies at the end of the Iveragh Peninsula, more familiar to many as the location of the Ring of Kerry. You can drive onto the island at one end via a bridge and stop at the Skelligs Experience to find out about the amazing islands that you may have seen in the latest Star Wars movie.

Then drive around this small island enjoying the scenery, go see the prehistoric Tetrapod footprints and enjoy some Valentia Island Ice cream before taking the ferry off the island back to the mainland.

#24. Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, Kerry

#25. Tralee Aquadome, Kerry

The Aqua Dome in Tralee is one of Ireland’s largest indoor waterworlds with tropical temperatures all year round, making a good day out option if the weather is a bit iffy.

#26. Foynes Flying Boat Museum, Limerick

The Foynes Flying Boat Museum is the only aviation museum in Ireland and the only dedicated flying boat museum in the world.

This unique attraction preserves the rich history of aviation and the development of passenger travel. It takes you back to that nostalgic era when Foynes became the centre of the aviation world between 1937 and 1945, and you will enjoy

• an authentic 1940’s cinema
• the Radio and Weather Room—complete with transmitters, receivers and Morse code equipment
• the Brendan O’Regan restaurant
• the only full sized replica B314 flying boat in the world
• try your hand at flying the B314 on the flight simulators with amazing visuals.

You May Also Enjoy The Best Museums in Ireland To Take Kids To

#27. Ferry from Kerry to Clare

Catch the ferry from Killimer in Kerry to Tarbert in Clare. It is a 20 minute journey across the estuary linking the iconic tourist destinations of the Kingdom of Kerry to the Banner County of Clare. Ferries leave every hour during winter months with extra half hour ferries during the summer.

You will enjoy views of the majestic Shannon Estuary and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the dolphins, which in the summer, can sometimes swim so near the ferry, as if just to entertain you. The captain will announce if he spots dolphins so keep an ear out and your eyes peeled!

You May Also Enjoy Best Self Catering Options for Families at Hotels in Ireland

#28. Lahinch, Clare

#29. Cliffs of Moher, Clare

A must see on the Wild Atlantic Way, the Cliffs of Moher stand 214m (702 feet) at their highest point. On a clear day you will be able to see the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, the Twelve Pins and Maum Turk mountains in Connemara to the north, Loop Head and the Dingle Peninsula and Blasket Islands in Kerry to the south.

Be warned that due to the popularity of the Cliffs of Moher as a tourist attraction, during the months of July and August the Cliffs can become quite crowded during the peak times of the day, 11am- 3pm. Here is some advice on planning your visit:

You will want to allow some time to visit the Cliffs Experience to take in the exhibits about the Cliffs, and be sure to stop at Postcard from the Edge, where you can choose a backdrop and make a short movie of yourselves which you can email to friends and family. There’s also a kids area where children can play a fun game and learn more about wildlife at the Cliffs and create some digital artwork to email home.

#30. Ballyvaughan, Clare

#31. The Burren, Clare

#32. Rinville Park, Oranmore, Galway

#33. Eyre Square, Galway

Eyre Square in the heart of Galway is a handy spot to take kids. Pick up a picnic at a nearby shop, settle on one of the grassy areas to have your lunch, then make a stop to the mini playground at the side of the Square.

If the weather is warm the fountains at the top of the square may be on, they switch off and on a timer, and the kids will enjoy running about (and in and out of the water).

Afterwards you can always drag them away by promising them a visit to another playground (by the Cathedral) once you have stopped at our next stop Galway Market.

#34. Galway Market

#35. Roundstone, Connemara, Galway

©Big Smoke Studio for Tourism Ireland

At Roundstone in Connemara you will find a pretty little fishing village with a busy little harbour, where local fishermen prepare and return with the day’s catches. You will also enjoy the views of the Twelve Bens and the Atlantic. There are cafes and craft shops and a playground to stop at too.

Nearby beaches at Dogs Bay and Gurteen Beach have pure white sand and clear waters, ideal for a splash and some beach time.

There’s also a playground at the nearby Connemara National Park, and the route up and back from Diamond Hill offers kids of all ages an easy climb which they will enjoy. The route loops back again to the start. It takes about 3 hours to do the route.

#36. Killary Harbour, Borders of Galway & Mayo

Image © Big Smoke Studio Tourism Ireland

When we think of fjords we think of Norway but Ireland has its very own fjord at Killary in North County Galway. Take a 90 minute boat tour of Killary Harbour (kids go free) leaving from Leenaun and enjoy the spectacular scenery, with mountains and water and birdlife. You may even get to see some dolphins!

Misunderstood Heron is a unique food truck cafe located at Killary Fjord, check their menu out on Instagram.

#37. Westport, Mayo

Image Courtesy Michael Mc Laughlin

#38. Strandhill Beach, Sligo

Strandhill Beach is an area of great natural beauty located 5 miles west of Sligo town with panoramic views of Knocknarea and Benbulben. As well as being an extremely popular surfing spot, there are some great walks to Culleenamore Strand and also to Killaspubrone.

N.B. Due to dangerous currents and tides, it is advisable not to swim from this beach but you will still enjoy your time at Strandhill, especially during the summer months, when dolphins and/or porpoises can sometimes be seen jumping from the waves at sea.

#39. Tropical World, Donegal

Tropical World is Donegal’s very own family friendly mini zoo. Based in Letterkenny and opening seasonally, you can see beautiful butterflies in full flight, lemurs, owls, meerkats, parrots and many more tropical birds and reptiles.

#40. Bundoran Waterworld, Donegal

Free Things to Do with Kids in Ireland

#41. National Museum of Ireland – Dublin

The three National Museums in Dublin, now open 7 days, are all free to visit and have great collections as well as a wide range of ongoing events for families. They include:

• National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History is home to a wide range of objects, which include weaponry, furniture, silver, ceramics and glassware; as well as examples of Folk life and costume.
• National Museum of Ireland – Museum of Natural History has galleries of animals from Ireland and overseas, also geological exhibits form a total collection of about 2 million scientific specimens with a Discovery Zone.
• National Museum of Ireland – Museum of Archaeology is the national repository for all archaeological objects found in Ireland and displays artefacts dating from 7000 BC to the 20th century. The Irish archaeology collections include The Treasury, featuring outstanding examples of Celtic and Medieval art.

You May Also Enjoy Low Cost Things to Do In Ireland with Kids

#42. National Museum of Ireland – Mayo

Turlough_School Tours June 2015. Traditional games

The National Museum of Ireland – Country Life in Castlebar, now open 7 days, brings to life the traditions of rural life in Ireland. Exhibitions are full of wonderful objects from long ago.

See what schools were like, the toys children played with, and how they marked special events like Halloween & Christmas. Learn about how people lived in the towns and countryside, cut turf, caught fish and worked in the home. Workshops, exhibitions and family programmes for all ages. Free entry – it’s perfect for those rainy days.

#43. Clondalkin Round Tower, Dublin

For a totally FREE interactive day out with the family head to one of South Dublin County’s cultural highlights, The Round Tower Clondalkin which is built on the site of a monastery founded by St. Mochua in the 7th century, and is one of only four remaining round towers in County Dublin. The recently launched Visitor Centre provides the perfect FREE family day out, as it brings the story of The Round Tower Clondalkin and the surrounding area to life through an exciting interactive experience. Fully accessible and can be reached by public transport.

What’s more, The Round Tower Clondalkin is located close to Corkagh Park, the Grand Canal Way and Áras Chrónáin Irish Cultural Centre, which combined together add a different heritage experience, away from the city centre and close to the natural outdoors of Dublin.

#44. Spire of Lloyd, Meath

The Spire of Lloyd in Kells is an inland lighthouse designed by Henry Aaron Baker (designer of the King’s Inn, Dublin) for the First Earl of Bective in memory of his father Sir Thomas Taylor in 1791. At 30m high, one can see magnificent views of the surrounding countryside as far as the Mourne Mountains in County Down, Northern Ireland on a clear day.

The Spire was used to view horse racing and the hunt in the 19th century. It is open on selected dates during the summer. Don’t miss the “Paupers Graveyard” in the community park (The People’s Park) in which many victims of the mid-19th century famine lie buried.

#45. Emo Court Park and Gardens, Laois

Emo Court Park and Gardens has over 100 acres of parkland and gardens to explore – pack a picnic for a fun day out. The gardens are open all year and entry to the gardens is free. The tearooms in the walled garden are worth a visit. Enjoy the 2.2km walking loop of the 20 acre man-made lake, which includes foot bridges and pathways. If you visit on the first Wednesday of the month, you can also tour the House for free.

#46. Altamont Gardens, Carlow

Known as the most romantic garden in Ireland, Altamont, near Tullow, is an enchanting blend of formal and informal gardens located on a 100 acre estate. Whilst still little known, it ranks in the top ten of Irish gardens and is often referred to as ‘the jewel in Ireland’s gardening crown’.

The formal lawns slope down to a romantic lake, and there’s a fascinating walk, which kids love, through the Arboretum, Bog Garden and Ice Age Glen with its canopy of ancient oaks leading to the River Slaney. There are picnic areas, and a garden centre with tea-rooms, which host free music sessions on Sunday afternoons in summer.

You May Also Enjoy The Best Gardens in Ireland to Take Kids To

#47. Find Some Fairies in Tipperary & Kerry

The Brehon Hotel Fairy Trail

Head to the lovely Town Park in Templemore, County Tipperary, and walk past the lake, to find the fairy trail in the woods. Try and spot all the fairy doors, which are updated at seasonal times like Christmas and Halloween. Afterwards feed the ducks and swans and let the kids play in the playground, while you get a “workout” on the outdoor adult gym.

In Kerry, there are 3 magical fairy trails to be found, free to visit and open to all visitors.

You May Also Enjoy 15 Places to Find Magical Fairy Trails in Ireland

#48. Glendalough, Wicklow

Glendalough has long been an area renowned for its natural beauty and history and it is one of the most visited places in Ireland.

The Glendalough Valley is located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park and has many attractions to entice, entertain and delight visitors, from its world famous Monastic Site with Round Tower (Can you stretch your arms around St. Kevin’s cross and have your wishes granted?) to its scenic lakes and valleys, as well as a selection of walks and trails in the area including The Wicklow Way. Glendalough has everything to offer the whole family.

#49. Castletown House, Kildare

The first, and largest Palladian manor in Ireland, Castletown House, built for William Conolly, is an awesome sight. The Parkland and River Walks are open every day throughout the year. There is no admission fee to walk and explore the parklands. Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a lead and are not allowed in the lake, as there is wildlife nesting.

If you plan your visit for the first Wednesday of the month then you can also visit the House for free.

#50. Deer Spotting at Phoenix Park, Dublin

#51. Avondale Forest Park, Wicklow

With 500 acres, Avondale Forest Park in Wicklow has an endless variety of walks with fabulous scenery. The park has four way-marked walking trails as well as a family cycling trail. There’s a lovely wooden playground area with swings, slides and climbing frames. Sure to be lots of opportunities for wildlife and bird spotting!

You can also visit Avondale House, the birthplace of Charles Stewart Parnell – admission cost applies.

#52. Clara Bog Nature Reserve and Visitor Centre, Offaly

Clara Bog Nature Reserve is free to visit and has many free events for children. The bog itself is reputed to be the best remaining example of a raised bog in Western Europe.

There is a 1km boardwalk looped walk on Clara Bog which lets you see the wonderful plants, birds and animals which Clara Bog is home to, and to soak up the atmosphere of an exceptional raised bog in the heart of Ireland (NB wear trainers or shoes). The Visitor Centre also organises walks, art and nature activities on a regular basis.

You May Also Enjoy Why We Love These Fantastic Family Friendly Hotels in Ireland

#53. Copper Coast, Waterford

A designated European Geopark, Copper Coast has several beautiful coastal landmarks, dunes, cliffs and clean beaches. It offers small, sheltered beaches surrounded by rugged cliffs – ideal for quiet getaways. Annestown Heritage Trail will guide you around a section of the Copper Coast Global Geopark introducing you to its rich heritage and geology.

And while you are there, The Waterford Greenway offers great cycling and walking opportunities for the family.

#54. John F. Kennedy Arboretum, Wexford

The John F. Kennedy Arboretum near New Ross, has lovely walks and great trees. Feed ducks by the pond and watch the fish dart about. This is a good place to bring the bikes to help small legs get around more easily!

There’s also a miniature railway, and the playground has plenty of picnic tables, a cafe, a small maze, a great slide and a house grown out of hedging! Drop into the centre and take a look at the exhibitions.

You May Also Enjoy Fun, Educational and FREE Places to Visit in Ireland With Kids

#55. Curraghchase, Limerick

Curraghchase Forest Park, located 22km west of Limerick on the N69 coast road, is the woodland estate and lakes around the shell of the 18th century house, which was the home of poet Aubrey de Vere. There are a number of looped way marked trails in the park to suit all visitors. They vary from the multi-access trails suitable for wheelchair users and family walkers, to the longer Curragh and Glenisca trails suitable for those looking for more demanding walking and cycling.

Amenities include Public toilet, Picnic Site, Playground, Barbecue, Boat launch, Orienteering Course, Walking Trails, Cycling Trails, Arboreta/Gardens, and there’s a €5 charge per car.

#56. Kilkee Habitat Trail, Clare

The Kilkee Habitat Trail is a scenic walk which follows the beach and cliffs. There are six panels, each one themed to its location, illustrating the diverse wildlife habitats of Kilkee. Be sure to look out for the Pollock Holes along the way.

While you’re in Kilkee, take the nets and try to catch fish in the rock pools, or play the unique local game of Racquets (a form of outdoor squash) against the West End wall on the beach.

You May Also Enjoy The Best Campsites in Ireland All Recommended by Parents

#57. Shannon Dolphin Trail, Clare

Start at the Shannon Dolphin Information Board in Kilkee’s Market Square. Follow the trail markers and it will take you to the Shannon Dolphin & Wildlife Centre where you can listen to sounds from the bottlenose dolphins, see real skeletons of whales and dolphins, and enjoy many more ‘dol-fun’ educational activities for children.

#58. Enjoy Hidden Sculptures at Gleniff Horseshoe, Sligo

Visit Gleniff Horseshoe in North County Sligo and enjoy hidden sculptures along the way. Then carry on walking/driving/cycling (it’s approx a 10km loop) this incredibly scenic hidden valley. If you are driving check out the spot where you car will ‘roll up the hill’ too and keep an eye out for Diamuid and Gráinne’s Cave too.

You May Also Enjoy Places to Visit in Ireland with Kids: Hidden Gems You Never Knew About!

#59. Glenveagh National Park, Donegal

Glenveagh National Park is one of six national parks in Ireland. Situated in the Northwest of Co. Donegal, Glenveagh encompasses some 16,000 hectares in the heart of the Derryveagh Mountains.

The award-winning Visitor Centre incorporates a living heather roof mimicking the surrounding landscape causing minimum disturbance. The extensive displays contained within provide an introduction to the parks natural and built history as well as providing information on walking trails, events etc. Guides on duty will also be happy to provide visitors with information about the park and surrounding area. 

#60. Lough Muckno Leisure Park, Monaghan

A day out in Lough Muckno Leisure Park in Castleblayney is a must for all the family. Walking Trails, Waterski & Wakeboarding Club, Fishing, Nature Walks and Picnic area.

It is open all year around and there’s no admission fee.

You May Also Enjoy 50 Outstanding Places to Take Your Child This Summer

Hidden Gems for Your Family Vacation in Ireland

#61. Birr Castle Demesne & Science Centre, Offaly

Birr Castle Demesne is an experience of discovery for the whole family – home to extensive gardens and parkland, as well as the Historic Science Centre and the great telescope of the 1840s.

Kids will adore the play area, complete with picnic areas, sandpits, and the most spectacular tree house – in fact you may find it hard to pry them away! There is also a lovely cafe on site.

You May Also Enjoy Fabulous Fairytale Castles in Ireland To Show The Kids

#62. Castlecomer Discovery Park, Kilkenny

Located 18 km North of Kilkenny City, Castlecomer Discovery Park has a range of exciting recreational, cultural and educational activities for visitors of all ages. Attractions include pedal boats and Canadian canoes on one of the picturesque lakes, a Tree Top Adventure Walk course nestled 10m high in the great Sycamore and Lime trees, a ‘Leap of Faith’ and Climbing Wall.

The park has 80 acres of natural woodland with 6km of trails throughout, a fishing lake, an interactive coal mining museum, design craft workshops and award winning Jarrow café.

The Elf & Fairy Village at Castlecomer has a small yellow sweet shop, cute café, an underground bunker, and an amazing Head Quarters for the fairy folk! It’s full of colourful hand-carved toadstool mushrooms where children can meander through the woodland paths. Visitors, of all ages, can enjoy the woodland village which is FREE and is a short 7-10 minute walk from reception.

#63. Waterford & Suir Valley Railway

The magic of rail’s golden age has been brought to life in Kilmeaden on the Waterford & Suir Valley Railway. Experience the beauty of the Suir Valley from a partially opened carriage as you take in the panoramic views of the river and rolling farmland of Waterford and across the river to County Kilkenny on return trips on Saturdays.

The track runs mostly along the picturesque banks of the River Suir offering a glimpse into the world famous Mount Congreve Gardens (which you can also visit), and across the river to County Kilkenny. You will also see The Magic Wood, a magical Fairy glade – sometimes the fairies can be seen among the trees but you have to look carefully!

You May Also Enjoy All Aboard! Steam Trains and Fun Train Rides in Ireland

#64. Slieve League Cliffs, Donegal

Almost 3 times higher than the Cliffs of Moher, the Slieve League Cliffs in Co. Donegal reach to a height of almost 2,000 feet making them some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Families can leave their car at the lower level and walk the road to the base, or take the bus along the winding road to the upper level.

From here enjoy the view across the Atlantic to Sligo, Leitrim and Mayo. The cliffs cater for all levels of climber, with a rocky path leading you to the top. The more adventurous can climb to one man’s pass, and discover early stone dwellings and sacred sites.

#65. Marble Arch Caves, Fermanagh

The Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark is located in the rugged mountainous uplands and the gentle rolling lowlands of counties Fermanagh and Cavan. Taking in the world-famous Marble Arch Caves, the Geopark boasts some of the finest natural landscapes in Ireland and offers a window into the area’s 650 million year past.

Be sure to stop by Lough Navar Forest, located approximately 5km outside the village of Derrygonnelly, and undoubtedly one of the jewels in the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark. Truly a spectacular forest.

#66. Lough Boora Discovery Park, Offaly

© Failte Ireland

For something unique, visit Lough Boora Discovery Park, one of the most important Mesolithic sites in Ireland – go to the site of the ancient settlement by following the Mesolithic Route.

There are walkways and walking trails, a fairy trail, sculptures, picnic benches, cycle tracks, angling, bird watching and a bike hire facility. Guided tours also available.

#67. Leprechauns & Fairies, Louth

Image: Leprechaun & Fairy Cavern

Head to Carlingford’s Leprechaun & Fairy Cavern and meet the Leprechaun Whisperer who has built the underground cavern to connect with two old tunnels, one linking with the fairy glen in Rostrevor Co. Down, and the other with Foy mountain and the home of Ireland’s last remaining 236 leprechauns. It is only belief that keeps them alive now.

You May Also Enjoy Our Favourite Mythical and Folklore Places to Visit in Ireland 

#68. Trim Castle, Meath

Did you know that Trim Castle in County Meath took more than 30 years to build, back in the 12th century? It’s the largest, best-preserved, and most impressive Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland, and it’s a fascinating place to explore. You may remember it better as the backdrop to the Oscar-winning film, Braveheart.

#69. Loughcrew Cairns, Meath

Image: Loughcrew Cairns

The Loughcrew Cairns, also known as the Hills of the Witch, are a group of Neolithic passage tombs dating to 3000 BC. The tombs are located on three different hills and Cairn T, one of the largest tombs in the complex, is situated on Cairnbane East.

A visit to Loughcrew Cairns is more suitable for older children as it’s a fair hike up to the top of the hills, but it is worth it for the amazing views.

#70. Iveagh Gardens, Dublin

Why not plan a picnic in Iveagh Gardens, Dublin 2, arguably the most beautiful park in the capital and not all that well known, so it’s trully a hidden gem!

Stunning grounds, beautiful waterfall, so much space to run around and it’s always peacefully quiet – a real oasis in the city! Located near St. Stephen’s Green and Luas stop.

#71. The Little Museum of Dublin, Dublin

The Little Museum of Dublin conveniently located on St. Stephen’s Green, is truly a little gem, telling the story of the capital over the last 100 years from the visit of Queen Victoria to modern day.

Over 5000 items are displayed over 3 floors. Entry to the museum is by guided tour only, so book online to be sure of entry. There are worksheets available for children of all ages, and interactive artefacts that they will enjoy.

#72. Boda Borg at Lough Key Forest Park, Roscommon

Basically the Boda Borg is like a physical version of a computer game. It’s not completely unlike the Crystal Maze, for those of you who remember that show. There are about twenty quests to choose from. Each quest is made up of between three and five rooms, each with different tasks to be completed.

#73. Waterford Treasures Medieval Museum, Waterford

Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, founded by the Vikings in the last 9th century, is home to the Viking Triangle, a collection of museums dedicated to the history of this ancient city.

The Waterford Treasures Medieval Museum is a tribute to Medieval Waterford and life in the city during that period. Carefully preserving several medieval structures within its walls, the Museum was opened to the public in August 2012. Guided Tours available from historic characters in period costumes.

Afterwards, stop for a bite at the magnificent Bishop’s Palace, and relax in the stunning gardens surrounding the Bishop’s Palace, which are based on a design by celebrity gardener Diarmuid Gavin.

#74. Shandon Bells & Tower, Cork

Image: Shandon Bells

Head up the steps into the old part of Cork city and ring the world famous Shandon Bells in the beautiful surrounds of St. Anne’s Church – one of the oldest churches in the city built in 1722.

Climb 132 steps up the tower to get a spectacular 360 degree views of the city. You can view the internal workings of the clock (the Four Faced Liar, so called as every face tells a different time) and see the 18th century bells.

#75. Dursey Island Cable Car, Cork

Image © Tourism Ireland

Originally opened in 1969, the Dursey Island cable car remains, to this day, the most used means of transport across the turbulent waters of the Dursey Sound and offers a truly singular experience. Ireland’s only cable car, and one of the very few cable cars that traverses seawater in all of Europe, it is one of the great attractions of the island. As long as you and the kids have a good head for heights, that is, as it can be a wild ride over the waves!

There are no shops or restaurants on the island so pack a picnic and enjoy a walk around the island.

You May Also Enjoy Superb Self Catering Accommodation In Ireland Perfect for Family Holidays

#76. Lough Gur, Limerick

© Dominic Harmon

Lough Gur is a magical and mysterious place that is rich in folklore, along with a wealth of archaeology and history dating back to Stone Age times. The Heritage Centre provides a fascinating interpretation of the sites associated with Lough Gur.

At the Heritage Centre you will find interactive exhibitions with touch screens. There’s a fully guided tour and also audio guides and outdoor acoustic guides to help you enjoy your visit. For children there’s an activity sheet, dressing up, and a neolithic pot building section. Check out the Archaeology Dig where kids can try out some digging!

#77. Loophead Lighthouse, Clare

Image courtesy of Carsten Krieger

Visit the iconic Loophead lighthouse in Kilbaha, West Clare, from May to September, and experience the remarkable panorama extending as far as the Blasket Islands in Co. Kerry and the Twelve Bens in Co. Galway, from the top of the tower.

A wonderful guided walk around the Loophead Peninsula will bring you by the fabled Diarmuid and Gráinne’s Leap. You might also spot some of the whales and dolphins along the Shannon Estuary too.

#78. Vandeleur Walled Garden, Clare

Beautiful old stone walls enclose the sheltered gem of Vandeleur Walled Garden (2.158 acres) near Kilrush, which is set among 420 acres of native woodland. Formerly part of the Vandeleur Family Demesne, this garden has been restored around the old path system with a horizontal maze, unusual water-features and a free-standing Victorian-style working glasshouse which is accessible to visitors.

Chess enthusiasts can test their skills by playing the giant outdoor Chess game, and children will enjoy the living willow structure, sand area and follow the butterfly trail. There is a garden centre and coffee shop also.

#79. Athenry Heritage Centre, Galway

The Athenry Heritage Centre is the ideal place to experience history the fun way. The ‘Medieval Experience’ provides visitors of all ages the opportunity to dress up in medieval costume and become a Knight, Princess, a Lord or Lady of the Manor. Discover your inner Robin Hood with our exciting Have-A-Go Archery activity and engage with history using interactive exhibits, which includes weapons and armour from the middle ages.

Experience the market street and see the dark side of life in the centre’s medieval dungeon. Relax in the picnic area afterwards, and don’t miss exploring the wooden maze.

#80. Glencar Waterfall, Leitrim

Glencar Waterfall is 50ft high and is situated in Glencar Lough, 11km west of Manorhamilton. It is particularly impressive after rain (shouldn’t have to wait too long in Ireland for that!), and can be viewed from a lovely wooded walk. There are more waterfalls visible from the road, although none is quite as romantic as this one. Pack a picnic to use at the on-site picnic facilities and an information kiosk.

You May Also Enjoy Visit These Wonderful Waterfalls In Ireland Perfect For A Family Day Out

Fantastic Fairytale Castles in Ireland

Ireland certainly has its share of dramatic castles, from medieval tower houses to Palladian style mansions to ruins perched by the sea or rivers

#81. Cloughoughter Castle, Cavan

Cloughoughter Castle © Tourism Ireland

Cloughoughter Castle dates back to the early part of the 13th century and is part of the Marble Arch Geopark, and situated beside the picturesque Killykeen Forest Park which has accessible nature walks. The castle itself sits on a Crannog (man-made island) and so is only accessible by boat or canoe. You can rent canoes from Cavan Canoe Centre, they also offer guided day trips to the castle.

If you don’t fancy a canoe trip, you can view the castle from several spots. It eventually became the last remaining stronghold for the rebels during the Cromwell era, but sometime in March 1653 the castle fell to Cromwell’s cannons. The castle walls were breached and the castle was never rebuilt after this point.

Enjoy a visit to the Marble Arch Caves and Geopark afterwards.

You May Also Enjoy 10 Fun Things to Do in Cavan with Kids

#82. Duckett’s Grove, Carlow

Duckett’s Grove is a ruined 19th-century great house was formerly at the centre of a 20,000 acre estate that dominated the Carlow landscape for over 300 years. Even in ruin, the surviving towers and turrets of Duckett’s Grove Walled Gardens and Pleasure Grounds form a romantic profile making it one of the most photogenic historic buildings in Ireland.

After exploring the two recently restored Walled Gardens you can enjoy a visit to the Tea Rooms.

You May Also Enjoy 10 Great Things to Do in Carlow with Kids

#83. Malahide Castle, Dublin

Image: Malahide Castle © Failte Ireland

Malahide Castle has a long and rich history and played a central role in Medieval Irish history. The oldest parts of the castle date back to the 12th century. The estate was home to the Talbot family for almost 800 years between 1185 and 1975, the only exception being the period from 1649–60, when Oliver Cromwell granted it to Miles Corbet after the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland; Corbet was hanged following the demise of Cromwell, and the castle was restored to the Talbots. The building was notably enlarged in the reign of Edward IV, and the towers added in 1765.

There’s plenty to do at Malahide Castle:

• Take a guided tour of the castle
• Follow the fairy trail
• Explore the Walled Botanical Gardens
• See a 400 year old tree at the West Lawn
• Enjoy shops and Avoca cafe at the Courtyard
• Have fun in the playground and exploring the grounds of the Demesne

#84. Rock of Dunamase, Laois

Image: Rock of Dunamase © Fáilte Ireland

The Rock Of Dunamase overlooks the valley of the O’Moores, just outside Portlaoise, County Laois. Spectacular views of the surrounding countryside made this a strategic place to build a fortress. When the Normans arrived in Ireland, Dunamase became one of the most important Anglo-Norman strongholds in Laois.

Despite the castle’s ruined state, visitors can get a sense of its former grandiosity and also have the opportunity to take in stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The Rock of Dunamase is now maintained by the Office of Public Works and is open to the public year round.

You May Also Enjoy 10 Fun Things to Do in Laois with Kids

#85. Enniscorthy Castle, Wexford

Once home to Norman knights, English armies, Irish rebels, prisoners, and local merchant families, Enniscorthy Castle is located in Enniscorthy Town in the heart of County Wexford.

Children will love exploring the dungeons and the battlements of the castle and viewing the exhibitions as you move through the castle.

Tip: You can dress up as a knight at the Castle when you visit, and there’s also a great view from the roof.

#86. Carlingford Castle, Louth

Carlingford Castle also referred to as King John’s Castle was built in the 12th century overlooking Carlingford Lough. Built by Hugh de Lacy, this dramatic fortress offers stunning views across the Lough towards the Mourne Mountains and it is said that King John of England stayed here for a few days in 1210.

The original Castle consisted of an enclosed D-shaped courtyard with two rectangular towers at the entrance. The eastern part of the Castle was built in 1261 with a number of rooms and a great hall.

There is a viewing area on the shore side of the Castle with lovely views across Carlingford Lough towards the Mourne Mountains in Co. Down and to the Irish Sea. Then head back into Carlingford to enjoy wandering its narrow streets with medieval buildings, for example, Taaffe’s Castle, a 16th-century tower house. There’s also Carlingford Heritage Centre, located in a medieval church, which has displays on local history as well as seasonal events.

You May Also Enjoy 10 Brilliant Things to Do in Louth with Kids

#87. Blarney Castle, Cork

Image: Blarney Castle © Tourism Ireland

Blarney Castle is one of Ireland’s most popular visitor attractions probably due to the fact that it is the home of the Blarney Stone. Legend has it if you kiss the stone you will never again be lost for words.

Built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy, King of Munster, who is said to have supplied four thousand men from Munster to supplement the forces of Robert the Bruce at the battle of Bannockburn in 1314. Legend has it that the latter king gave half of the Stone of Scone to McCarthy in gratitude, what is now the Blarney Stone.

#88. Ardgillan Castle, Dublin

Although referred to as a Castle, the residence at Ardgillan is a large country-styled house built in 1738 with castellated embellishments. The house consists of two storeys over a basement which extends out under the lawns on the southern side of the building. The Castle has now been restored and the ground floor rooms and kitchens are open to visitors for guided tours.

As well as castle tours, you can enjoy the parklands in the Demesne, visit the Walled Garden, Rose Garden and Ornamental Gardens, take afternoon tea at the tearooms, find fairies on their fairy trail and enjoy seasonal events.

#89. Portumna Castle, Galway

Image: Portumna Castle © Failte Ireland / Tourism Ireland

Portumna Castle, on the shores of Lough Derg on the River Shannon, is an imposing example of Irish architecture of the early 17th Century. It was the main seat of the de Burgo family for over 200 years, and marks the transition from the medieval Tower House to the Renaissance style manor house.

Following a fire and the ravages of time, the castle became just a shell, but the Office of Public Works have undertaken conservation and restoration works, with the ground floor open to the public and housing an exhibition on the history and restoration, there’s a virtual reality presentation to help bring the story to life.

The castle is set in formal gardens, there’s also a walled kitchen garden at the side and an old shrub rose garden, all helping to re-create a sense of what it was like in the 17th century. Be sure to visit nearby Portumna Forest Park where you’ll find walks and forest trails and might even spot a deer running through the forest!

#90. Nenagh Castle, Tipperary

Built around 1200, Nenagh Castle was the main seat of the Butler family until 1391, before they moved to Kilkenny, partially driven out by the native clan of the O’Kennedys and their allies. It was here, in 1336, that a peace treaty was signed between James Butler, 1st Earl of Ormond, and a representative of the Irish O’Kennedy clan. Some 600 years later the original treaty was presented as a gift to President Kennedy during a state visit to Ireland in 1963, and is now on view in the J.F.K Library in Massachusetts.

Nenagh Castle has a 100-foot high cylinder-shaped keep with four storeys and stone spiral stairs to the top. There are 101 steps in all to the top. Access to the tower is through a passageway within the base of the wall. This has low head room and visitors will need to stoop to avoid hitting the stone above. All children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

The Castle is open for visitors from April to October with some limited winter hours.

Fun Ideas for Your Family Trip to Dublin

#91. Head to Howth

Image: Howth Harbour © Failte Ireland

Head to Howth in North Dublin where you can go seal-spotting and crab-fishing in the harbour, watch the fishermen unload their catches, browse the market, or get some fresh air and take in the views with a hike up Howth Head.

#92. Go Bird Watching

Head to North Bull Island and discover an extraordinary wealth of wildlife within the many different coastal habitats found here. At times this tiny manmade island, just 5km in length and 1km wide, plays home to up to 180 different bird species. This was the first bird sanctuary in Ireland and the first National Special Amenity Area in Ireland.

In addition to birds and other wildlife, you can find over 300 species of plants, including some rare and officially protected species. These in turn provide food and shelter for rare insects (such as butterflies and bees) and birds.

#93. National Botanical Gardens

Image: National Botanic Gardens, Dublin © Tourism Ireland

Get lost in the glorious green haven and excite your senses with a visit to the National Botanical Gardens in Glasnevin, just 3km from the city centre.

Home to thousands of plant species, you’ll also find some stunning restored glasshouses, daily tours, a regular programme of family events and seasonal activities.

#94. Hike to the Hell Fire Club

Hike to the Hell Fire Club on Montpelier Hill by taking the newly refurbished walking trail. This is a popular site, and at the top of the hill you’ll find the ruins of an old shooting lodge that has many legends associated with it.

The city views from the Hell Fire Club are sprawling and unlike anywhere else. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the top, or walk the woodland in search of pixies and fairies.

#95. Go On an Interactive Fairy Trail

Enjoy the fun and interactive fairy trail at Lucan Demesne home to 17 fairies. Families can use their smartphones to scan the doors and find out more about each fairy who lives there.

#96. Stroll Through Merrion Square

Image: Oscar Wilde statue, Merrion Square, Dublin

Merrion Square is one of the best maintained Georgian Squares in the heart of Dublin city centre. It is home to some important and impressive buildings and there are lots of free things to do here with the family, including statue-spotting – don’t miss Oscar Wilde, who resided at 1 Merrion Square from 1855 to 1876.

Merrion Square also plays home to numerous family festivals and events throughout the year.

#97. Visit the President

Image: Aras an Uachtarain

Áras an Uachtaráin is the official and private residence of the President of Ireland and is open to the public for hour-long tours every Saturday morning.

Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis from the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre and can not be booked in advance. The Phoenix Park Visitor Centre is a separate heritage site, located outside of the grounds of Áras an Uachtaráin, which has a children’s playground and café.

#98. Chester Beatty Library

With free admission and described by the Lonely Planet as “one of the best in Europe”, the Chester Beatty Library is also winner of ‘European Museum of the Year’.

The library’s rich collections from countries across Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Europe open a window on the artistic treasures of the great cultures and religions of the world. There are regular art workshops for preschoolers, primary aged children and teens.

#99. EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum tells the story of the Irish diaspora. Using the latest interactive technology, you can follow the story of 78 million people and 10 million journeys, through the themes of migration, influence, motivation and connection. You won’t find leprechauns or pots of gold here, but you will discover that what it means to be Irish expands far beyond the borders of Ireland through the stories of Irish emigrants who became scientists, politicians, poets, artists and even outlaws all over the world.

Children and adults alike, will be wowed by the interactive nature of the displays. This is an epic way to learn about great Irish influencers, from authors to scientists, and business people to sports men and women.

You May Also Enjoy 30 Terrific Things to Do in Dublin For Teens and Older Kids

#100. National Maritime Museum

Experienced guides will bring you on a voyage of discovery at the National Maritime Museum, enthralling you with stories of discovery, heroism, war and disasters at sea. You will learn about maritime history, exploration, navigation, radio, deep-sea cable technology, nature, wildlife and view art inspired by the sea.

See the 10-tonne revolving Baily Optic, try the electrified steam engine, and pause to reflect at the Titanic exhibit, the re-created radio room, the Royal Navy prisoners docks and the war memorial.

Try your hand at sailor’s knots, or learn how they lift heavy weights. Afterwards visit the shop and café for a treat.

Tip: Don’t miss being photographed with the pirate!

#101. Dublin Zoo

No round-up of family days out would be complete with a trip to Dublin Zoo! Located in the heart of Dublin city, Dublin Zoo is one of Ireland’s top attractions with millions visiting from around the world each year.

Although Dublin Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world, it is constantly enhancing the visitor experience. And there has been a whole heap of baby animals born in the past few years, so there’s always something new to spot. We love the herd of magnificent Asian elephants, as well as watching the Orangutans climb the ropes over your head (watch out for a ‘surprise’ dropping from a height…!).

Make time for as many of the keeper talks as you can, they are a great way to learn more about your favourite animals and what life is like as a zookeeper.

Top Tip: Check out the Eco Explorers Trail when you first arrive. This free app shows kids what Dublin Zoo is doing to protect the planet, while also teaching families how to be more sustainable.

You May Also Enjoy Ahoy There! Whale Watching, Cruises and Boat Tours in Ireland

Have your say! What are your must-see spots for your family vacation in Ireland? We’d love to hear from you!

The post 101 of the Best Ideas for Your Family Vacation in Ireland appeared first on MyKidsTime.

Don’t miss our best content straight to your inbox! Sign up now and get our FREE newsletters packed with fun ideas and things to do with the kids, family-friendly recipes, expert advice, parenting tips and great competitions.

This extensive list includes a fun mix of adrenalin activities, cultural day trips, and plenty of fresh air guaranteed! Make planning easier and download all 99 places on a handy checklist – just print it out and tick off each place as you visit. It’s a great way to keep track of your favourites!

We hope you have fun visiting them all – be sure to let us know how you get on! You can even give us a family review and tell us about somewhere you’ve visited.

Best Places to Go in Ireland: Connacht

#1. Lough Key Forest & Activity Park, Roscommon

Located in Boyle, Co. Roscommon and set in the grounds of the old King-Harman Estate on the shores of island studded Lough Key, the Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, offers hours of entertainment for all the family.

A wonderful tree top walk will entertain even the smallest visitors while the weather independent Boda Borg Challenge will test the mental skills and physical agility of everybody over seven! Take a boat trip on the lake or test your paddle skills when you hire a kayak, try the Zipit courses and you can even stay over in the campsite.

There are miles of biking trails and orienteering courses and loads of picnic spots as well as the Lakeside Café. You can even hire an electric bike to help navigate the 8km cycle route!

Don’t Miss: The Treecanopy walk and climb to the top of the Moylurg Viewing Tower

You May Also Enjoy 7 Interesting Family Walks To Enjoy At Lough Key In Roscommon

#2. Strokestown Park House Gardens & National Famine Museum, Roscommon

Strokestown Park houses the Irish National Famine Museum, a must-see visitor attraction for families. Strokestown House is open daily and visitors will get a real insight into days gone by at this Georgian Palladian mansion in which many of the original furnishings can still be seen.

Visitors can take a stroll through the magical 6 acre walled garden and surrounding woodlands. Be sure to pick up some of the family trails from reception when you arrive including the Woodland Trail, the Garden Trail and the Archive Explorers Guide.  There is also a Fairy Trail and an outdoor xylophone to spark the imagination.

Afterwards enjoy a snack or lunch at the Woodland Café.

Don’t Miss: The Victorian Nursery complete with toys. And the National Famine Way walk.

You May Also Enjoy 9 Super Fun Things To Do With Kids in Roscommon at Strokestown Park

#3. National Museum of Ireland – Mayo

The National Museum of Ireland – Country Life in Castlebar, brings to life the traditions of rural life in Ireland, with exhibitions that are full of wonderful objects from long ago. See what schools were like, the toys children played, with and how they marked special events like Halloween & Christmas.

Learn about how people lived in the towns and countryside, cut turf, caught fish and worked in the home. Workshops, exhibitions and family programmes for all ages and entry is free.

Don’t Miss: A stroll around the lake and lunch in the courtyard cafe.

You May Also Enjoy How to Have a FREE Family Day Out In Mayo

#4. Wildlands, Galway

Discover the Wild at Wildlands Galway! Located in Moycullen, just 10 minutes from Galway city at the gateway to Connemara along the Wild Atlantic Way sits Wildlands adventure park on 20 acres of mature woodland.

Thrill-seekers of all ages can enjoy indoor and outdoor adventures including: Zip ‘n’ Trek, Indoor Climbing Walls, Irish mythology themed Celtic Challenge Rooms, Cloud Climb and Ninja obstacle course, Bushcraft survival skills, Archery, Disc Golf, Yoga, Off Road Adventure (mini 4×4 driving), Baile Beag miniature play village, woodland walks, Fairy Trails and lots more to explore!

Food lovers are spoiled for choice in the Olive Tree Kitchen Restaurant. Take in a panoramic view of the park as you dine and watch people zipping overhead! Their firebrick pizzas are cooked in front of you in a traditional Neapolitan pizza oven.

Or treat yourself to a cocktail from their new menu after a day of adventuring. Or you can grab a quick bite from the Wildlands Wagon, a converted VW postal van which serves coffees and treats.

Wildlands is also home to luxury cabins perfect for families and groups who want to extend their stay.

Visit www.wildlands.ie or follow @wildlands_galway on social media for more info.

Don’t Miss: The Celtic Challenge Rooms – 24 rooms to test your mind and agility!

#5. Brigit’s Garden, Galway

Brigit’s Garden in West Galway, located between Moycullen and Oughterard, is a magical place for families to explore.

With family-friendly Celtic gardens, children’s discovery trail, willow play area and sandpit, Nature trail, ring-fort and crannog, gift shop and the award-winning, family friendly Garden Café. Look out for special events that run throughout the year including Summer Nature Camps for Kids.

Don’t Miss: The fun nature trail that takes you around the Garden.

You May Also Enjoy Fun Things To Do in Galway with Kids

#6. Galway Atlantaquaria, Galway

We guarantee you’ll jump (!) the first time you venture through the entrance to Galway Atlantaquaria, Ireland’s largest aquarium, and that’s because their first exhibit is Ireland’s largest “Splash” tank!

You’ll also enjoy the ray pool, ocean tank, fin whale skeleton, touch pools and heaps of activities and fun things to do while you visit such as feeding the fish and touching starfish and crabs.

Don’t Miss: The Eel tank – see if you can spot them sliding in and out of the pipes!

#7. The Burren Nature Sanctuary, Galway

We love The Burren Nature Sanctuary near Kinvara, an interpretive centre on the natural history of the Burren. There’s an Adventure Playground with excellent equipment, including a fantastic sand pit. Afterwards, take the 1K Nature Trail, a gentle loop walk where you can feed the sheep and see llamas.

Kids can do a nature trail activity where they can make rubbings of leaves and other nature items on the way around and return their sheet for a “reward”. Indoors there’s an artisan cafe, and soft play area with slides, ball pool and climbing frames. Read our review on our Family Trip to the Burren.

Don’t Miss: Feeding the animals as you wind your way around the nature trail.

#8. Athenry Heritage Centre, Galway

The Athenry Heritage Centre is the ideal place to experience history the fun way. The ‘Medieval Experience’ provides visitors of all ages the opportunity to dress up in medieval costume and become a Knight, Princess, a Lord or Lady of the Manor. Discover your inner Robin Hood with our exciting Have-A-Go Archery activity and engage with history using interactive exhibits, which includes weapons and armour from the middle ages.

Experience the market street and see the dark side of life in the centre’s medieval dungeon. Relax in the picnic area afterwards. The centre’s tour guides are here to make sure everyone has fun in the best-preserved medieval town in Ireland.

Don’t Miss: Exploring the wooden maze!

#9. Portumna Forest Park, Galway

Portumna Forest Park makes a great day out for kids, situated 1 km from Portumna town in Co. Galway. Pack up a picnic, outdoor gear and kids bikes/scooters for lots of outdoor fun, including leisure and mountain cycling, the Arboretum, Forest Park, Walking Trails, and Orienteering with access for all. Picnic facilities available on-site.

There are 4 looped trails in the park, ranging from a multi-access trail suitable for all visitors of approx 1km length, to a long multi-use trail of over 10km for walkers and cyclists.

One of our favourite walks takes you near the edge of Lough Derg and back to the picnic area. We have seen deer and red squirrels, as well as birds and shyer species including foxes and badgers. Dogs are allowed, just keep them on lead at all times.

Don’t Miss: A visit to Portumna Castle in the heart of the town. It is an OPW site and visitors get access to the house and a lovely walled garden.

You May Also Enjoy Visit Heritage Ireland Sites for FREE

#10. Diamond Hill, Galway

Diamond Hill located in Connemara National Park in Co. Galway has several looped walks including a Nature Trail walk of 0.5 km, a buggy-friendly 3 km-trail of Lower Diamond Hill, and the Upper Diamond Hill loop is a further 3.7 km with great views when you get to the top.

There is a fun kids playground and also the Connemara ponies to see.

Admission and parking are free, the park is open year-round with the Visitor Centre open from March to November. There are Tea Rooms by the Visitor Centre for light snacks and refreshments.

Don’t Miss: The view of Kylemore Abbey from the top of Diamond Hill.

#11. Dún Aonghasa, Aran Islands, Galway

Photo Credit Gareth McCormack

Dún Aonghasa is one of Ireland’s most visited attractions. Located on the 300 ft cliff side or south side of Inismór, it is a semi circular stone fort overlooking the Atlantic with dramatic views that stretch the length of the Island. Exploring Dún Aonghasa requires a bit of climbing, and there is no rail at the edge of the cliff, so it may not be a good place to visit with small children or people with mobility problems.

Most people who visit the island will hire a bike and cycle to Dún Aonghasa, 8 kms from the pier where the Aran Islands ferry comes in – there are bikes for kids, kids bike seats as well as buggies which attach to the back of an adult’s bike for smallies, so everyone is catered for. The ride to Dún Aonghasa is like cycling through an outdoor museum of ancient artefacts, villages, forts, lighthouses, and standing stones.

Don’t Miss: A visit to Poll na bPéist (hole of worms/sea monsters), located at the southern coast of the island, which is a large naturally formed rectangular pool.

#12. Baysports Inflatable Water Park, Westmeath

The Baysports Inflatable Water Park in Hodson Bay near Athlone is a giant inflatable island with its own jungles, towers, trampolines, slides, water based obstacle courses and even a castle.

You can climb, jump, slide and splash into water, float on rafts, climb on the climbing frame, hamster wheels, viking rocker and splash fun to suit the young and young at heart.

Wetsuits can be hired or you can bring your own.

Don’t Miss: The 12.6 m high floating Round Tower slide.

#13. Funny Bones, Sligo

Funny Bones House of Fun is a large children’s activity centre based in Collooney, outside Sligo. Vertigo @ Funny Bones is a unique adventure zone for older children, Student and Corporate groups.

Vertigo is a specially built 6 meter climbing wall and high ropes adventure course, and don’t miss out on the fun in their Hurricane.

Go-Karting and Laser fun are also available. And for younger kids, there’s lots of fun at their soft play section.

Don’t Miss: Vertigo High Ropes Adventure Course, not for the fainthearted!

You May Also Enjoy 10 Fun Things to Do in Sligo With Kids

#14. Eagles Flying, Sligo

The Irish Raptor Research Centre at Eagles Flying in Ballymote, Co. Sligo is a scientifically managed sanctuary for Birds of Prey and Owls. Situated on 27 hectares, the sanctuary is home to about 350 birds and animals out of 75 species.

During the highly entertaining and interactive Bird Shows you can experience Eagles, Hawks, Falcons, Vultures and Owls swooping right over your head or landing next to you. Some of them even allow to be touched – but ask one of the birds trainers before you do! You might even have the chance of a bird landing on your bare hand.

Bird Shows start at 11 a.m. & 3 p.m every day lasting for approximately 60 minutes each. They also have a touch-zoo where you can pet goats, lambs, donkeys, horses, guinea pigs, rabbits, hedgehogs, ferrets, different pigs, raccoons and chinchillas.

Don’t Miss: A trip to the touch zoo is a must.

You May Also Enjoy Best Places to see Animals, Birds & Beasts in Ireland

#15. Jackie Clarke Collection, Mayo

Located in Ballina, the Jackie Clarke Collection showcases one of the world’s leading collections of historical Irish material. Discover 400 years of Irish history through the self-guiding family friendly interactive touch screens.

Discover something new about your family history by searching the in-house census and eviction records. Learn about Irish Native trees, organic vegetable gardening and the importance of our hedgerows in the Urban Walled Garden. Admission is FREE and you can enjoy lunch in cafe after your visit.

Don’t Miss: The Memory Pod where you can record and share your stories and memories.

#16. Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park, Mayo

A family visit to the West is not complete without a trip to the home of family fun at the award winning Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park set on a 480 acre estate.

Explore the House and Gardens, or have some fun in the Pirate Adventure Park – a treasure trove of family fun with its Grace O’Malley-themed amusement park with rides and activities. Or take a trip on the Westport Train Tour which runs right through the grounds.

You also have a choice of milder to wilder adventure activities including zorbing, zip wire, archery, combat games, high ropes frame as well as tree climbing and archery tag. Be sure to arrive early for a full day’s fun – and dress for the weather!

Don’t Miss: The Birds of Prey Centre

You May Also Enjoy Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Ireland with Family Activities

Best Places to Go in Ireland: Leinster

#17. Irish National Stud, Kildare

Enjoy a great day out for all the family at the Irish National Stud & Gardens in Kildare Town, Co. Kildare. Just off the M7 motorway and only 30 minutes by car from Dublin and the M50, the Irish National Stud offers an unforgettable experience in 800 acres of beautiful Kildare countryside that can be enjoyed by all the family.

It is a unique attraction of outstanding natural beauty with some of the most magnificent horses and sumptuous gardens to be found anywhere in the world, including the beautiful Japanese Gardens and St Fiachra’s Garden.

Be sure to explore the magical ‘fairy trail’ in the woodland area, and afterwards let the kids run off some steam at the playground. And check out their summer fun events which run on select days during July & August.

For older kids and teens, a visit to the Irish Racehorse Experience is a must. You will learn all about the history of Irish racing and can even take part in your own race against other jockeys!

Don’t Miss: The Fairy Trail – Pick up a map on arrival and see how many friendly fairies you can spot!

#18. Beyond the Trees Avondale, Wicklow

The Treetop and Viewing Tower located at Beyond the Trees Avondale is the first of its kind in Ireland and the UK. It is a unique visitor attraction that is fully accessible to all generations.

Your journey through the forest on the Treetop Walk begins as the boardwalk makes its way out over the Avonmore River valley. Play areas and interactive games along the route encourage you to take a different view of the forest and explore the bird and animal life of the surrounding area.

Reaching 38 metres into the sky, the Viewing Tower can be seen peeping above the eucalyptus trees for miles around. It is accessed via a short underground tunnel, where you will learn about the abundant life below the forest floor before emerging for the next part of your adventure!

The spiral ramped boardwalk rises slowly through the forest and has a gentle gradient. It is fully wheelchair and pram accessible with resting points on each level.  After 10 gentle circuits you will reach the circular viewing platform at the top, with 360° panoramic views over Avondale Forest Park, the Vale of Avoca, the Wicklow Mountains and beyond.

To continue the adventure, take the option to whizz back down to earth on the giant spiral slide inside the Viewing Tower. Alternatively continue back down the ramped boardwalk to the forest floor once more.

Don’t Miss: The 90m spiral slide from the top all the down – for the more adventurous!!

You May Also Enjoy 20 Fun Things to do with Kids on the Wild Atlantic Way

#19. Round Tower Clondalkin, Dublin

One of South Dublin County’s cultural highlights, The Round Tower Clondalkin is one of only four remaining round towers in County Dublin. The Visitor Centre provides the perfect FREE family day out, as it brings the story of The Round Tower Clondalkin and the surrounding area to life through an exciting interactive experience. The fun and educational exhibition can be enjoyed through eight distinctive themed spaces in the refurbished 19th century Mill Cottages.

Suitable for all ages, The Round Tower Clondalkin experience incorporates public gardens, and an exhibition and gallery space.

Don’t Miss: Nearby Corkagh Park is a wonderful place to visit with children. Attractions include sports fields, nature walks, playgrounds, pet farm, fishing lake, arboretum and a duck pond but the real highlight is the Fairy Trail through the magical Fairy Wood.

#20. Johnstown Castle, Wexford

Johnstown Castle is a spectacular gothic Castle in Wexford and offers a historical day out for all ages. It was built in the 1170’s and was first occupied by the Esmondes, a Norman family. In 1692, John Grogan acquired the castle and his descendants owned it up until 1945 when it was presented as a gift to the nation.

It is now run by The Irish Heritage Trust, Teagasc and the Irish Agricultural Museum who have worked together to open a new visitor experience which showcases eight restored rooms in the castle along with the servants tunnel.

,The Castle is surrounded by beautiful ornamental gardens designed by Daniel Robertson. Within the grounds you will see gothic statues, a Victorian Walled Garden, turrets and much more.

Discover the chequered past of Johnstown Castle at the Irish Agricultural Museum housed within the grounds of Johnstown Castle. With one of the most comprehensive collections showcasing farming and rural life in Ireland with everything from tractors to kitchens! You will also learn more about how the Great Famine of Ireland affected those living in the area.

Don’t Miss: The 86 metre long servants’ tunnel!

You May Also Enjoy 10 Fabulously Fun Things To Do With Kids In Wexford At Johnstown Castle

#21. National Museum of Ireland – Dublin

The National Museum of Ireland in Dublin are all free to visit and have great collections as well as a wide range of ongoing events for families. They include:

• National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History is home to a wide range of objects, which include weaponry, furniture, silver, ceramics and glassware; as well as examples of Folk life and costume.
• National Museum of Ireland – Museum of Natural History has galleries of animals from Ireland and overseas, also geological exhibits form a total collection of about 2 million scientific specimens with a Discovery Zone.
• National Museum of Ireland – Museum of Archaeology is the national repository for all archaeological objects found in Ireland and displays artefacts dating from 7000 BC to the 20th century. The Irish archaeology collections include The Treasury, featuring outstanding examples of Celtic and Medieval art.

Don’t Miss: Great family-friendly events taking place in all the museums over the summer holidays and all year round.

#22. Birr Castle Demesne, Offaly

Birr Castle Demesne is an experience of discovery for the whole family – home to extensive gardens and parkland, as well as the Historic Science Centre and the great telescope of the 1840s.

Kids will adore Ireland’s largest tree house, and the play area, picnic areas, sandpits – in fact you may find it hard to pry them away! There is also a lovely cafe on site.

Don’t Miss: The Family Quest, pick up your quest sheet when you arrive and follow the clues!

You May Also Enjoy Fabulous Fairytale Castles in Ireland To Show The Kids

#23. Belvedere House, Westmeath

Belvedere House, attracting over 160,000 visitors a year, sits on a magnificent 160 acre lakeside estate with restored Georgian Villa, Victorian Walled Garden, naturalistic designed 18th century parkland, punctuated with Romantic follies including the largest in Ireland; “The Jealous Wall”. A day visitor to Belvedere can explore the restored Belvedere House, Victorian Walled Garden and rolling parkland with its numerous follies.

An excellent day out with a difference, Belvedere House Gardens & Park offers something for young and old. Open daily, all year round, visitors can enjoy 8km of safe and serene walks, a Georgian Villa, a Victorian Walled Garden, Fairy Garden, & 4 Children’s Areas. There is also a Gift Shop, picnic areas and licensed café.

Annual Membership available. Belvedere also has a year round calendar of events, this summer they have outdoor theatre – check out www.belvedere-house for more details.

Don’t Miss: The Narnia Trail and the Fairy Garden!

You May Also Enjoy 30 Fun Family-Friendly Things to Do in Leinster

#24. Nore Valley Park, Kilkenny

Nore Valley Park in Kilkenny offers everything you need for a family day out, a celebration or a break away from it all. From interactive encounters with the animals, to attractive camping facilities, to fun activities suited to all ages, Nore Valley Park is perfect for occupying an afternoon, or for spending a week or more.

The variety of animals is vast on this working farm, with hens, ducks, turkeys, geese, quails, owl, pheasants, sheep, goats, pigs, deer, ponies, donkeys, cow, rabbits, and even ostriches! Feed, pet and cuddle animals such as lambs, rabbits and chicks for a truly interactive experience.

Enjoy a variety of activities at Nore Valley Park including:

• Tractor and trailer rides
• Crazy golf
• Go-karts
• Indoor 3D maze
• Animal feeding
• Crazy golf
• Playground
• Giant chess
• Indoor straw bounce
• Nature trails and much more

The campsite at Nore Valley Park is open from March to October annually. For those who want to stay on-site but have no tent or caravan of their own, Nore Valley Park has a number of lovely wooden lodges and spacious mobile homes available to rent, they can be booked in advance.

You May Also Enjoy Best Family Friendly Campsites In Ireland With Activities for Children

#25. Oak Forest Park, Carlow

Oak Park Forest Park in Carlow consists of colour-coded circular walkways of varying lengths with excellent surfaces and easy gradients to make a visit here an enjoyable experience for young and old alike.

The woodland walks have been laid out to encompass the broadest range of natural features. Situated on the outskirts of Carlow Town, the park is an oasis of tranquility and a popular destination for walking and educational visits. The park also features a picnic area, informal leisure areas and seating at regular intervals. All trails are wheelchair accessible.

#26. Powerscourt Estate, Wicklow

Powerscourt Estate, just 20km south of Dublin, offers a fantastic day out for families with a choice of attractions to visit. Experience one of the best views in Ireland at Powerscourt Gardens, featuring ornate Italian and Japanese Gardens where mum and dad can enjoy a romantic stroll to rambling, wooded walks where little ones can play hide and seek.

Children love climbing the Pepper Pot Tower and posing for a picture with the cannons nearby. Enjoy the year-round events programme of treasure hunts, enchanted walks, bug hunt and lots more.

Don’t miss: Powerscourt, the highest waterfall in Ireland, located 5 km from the main Estate where you can discover trees that are hundreds of years old such as the Giant Redwoods which grow up to 80m high!

#27. Castlecomer Discovery Park, Kilkenny

Located 18 km North of Kilkenny City, Castlecomer Discovery Park has a range of exciting recreational, cultural and educational activities for visitors of all ages. Attractions include pedal boats and Canadian canoes on one of the picturesque lakes, a Tree Top Adventure Walk course nestled 10m high in the great Sycamore and Lime trees, a ‘Leap of Faith’ and Climbing Wall.

The park has 80 acres of natural woodland with 6km of trails throughout, a fishing lake, an interactive coal mining museum, design craft workshops and award winning Jarrow café.

Don’t Miss: The Elf & Fairy Village!

#28. The Ark, Dublin

The Ark Dublin, on Eustace Street in Temple Bar, is a unique, purpose built, cultural centre where children aged 2-12 and their families can explore theatre, music, literature, art, film, dance and more.

Don’t Miss: The Ark’s summer programme is always a big hit with families looking for creative and fun activities during the school holidays so check their website before you go.

#29. Dublinia, Dublin

At Dublinia, travel back to Viking and Medieval Dublin, witness the sights, sounds and smells and unearth the city’s archaeology in the History Hunters exhibition!

There’s a full programme of events taking place at weekends during the summer, including Family First Saturdays which includes Making a Viking Longship Magnet, and demonstrations. With Viking Dublin Tours, Medieval Dublin tours and lots more, there’s heaps for families to do at Dublinia.

Don’t Miss: Family First Saturdays with fun workshops and more.

#30. Croke Park Stadium Tour & GAA Museum, Dublin

The Croke Park Stadium Tour offers you the chance to explore the home of Gaelic sport and take a behind-the-scenes journey through this 82,300 capacity stadium. Enjoy an access-all-areas experience on the guided Stadium Tour, as you walk in the footsteps of legends and visit the team dressing rooms, before going pitch-side via the players’ tunnel and taking a seat in the VIP area.

Explore the GAA Museum with its exhibition galleries that vividly illustrate the story of Gaelic games, from ancient times to present day. Exhibitions include the Sam Maguire and Liam MacCarthy Cups, the official GAA Hall of Fame, and lots more.

Don’t Miss: Test your hurling and football skills in the interactive games zone – a must for museum visitors of all ages!

#31. Malahide Castle, Dublin

Take a guided tour of one of Ireland’s oldest castles, dating back to the 12th Century, and learn the fascinating & colourful history behind the Talbot Family who owned Malahide Castle for nearly 800 years! Don’t get spooked in Puck’s corner though!

The Malahide Walled Botanical Garden & Exhibition is perfect for little explorers with 7 glasshouses, 5000 species of plants, a grass parterre and lots of wild life roaming happily. Be sure to take your picture beside some of the oldest trees on the Malahide Castle demesne West Lawn.

With 22 acres to explore it might be worth bringing your picnic and a flask!

Don’t Miss: The butterfly house, interactive fairy trail, and state of the art playground for little ones to enjoy.

#32. Airfield, Dublin

The farm, gardens, café and heritage experience at Airfield Estate offers visitors a wonderful opportunity to enjoy and learn about food, farming and the natural work in the unique and relaxed 38 acre urban environment in Dundrum.

Learn about the workings of the farm from daily milkings, to egg collecting, mucking out and feeding, and there are lots of play areas for kids including the Grey Barn soft play area for under 4’s, and the interactive Naturescape play area for 4-12 yrs in the woodland area.

Relax afterwards in the lovely Overends restaurant. There are interactive summer camps and workshops for kids, so check what’s on before you visit.

Don’t Miss: The vintage car collection.

#33. Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA), Dublin

The Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA), home to the national collection of modern and contemporary art, is housed in the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, the finest 17th-century building in Ireland. Admission is free.

IMMA has a broad range of family programmes to engage audiences of all ages with drop in Family Workshops where children and grown-ups can enjoy visiting an exhibition and making artworks together in the gallery. Family workshops take place on Thursday and Friday mornings in the summer months- just drop into the main IMMA reception at 10 am to join.

Don’t Miss: The fabulous gardens with the huge maze.

#34. National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin

The National Gallery of Ireland is located in the heart of Dublin, and holds the national collection of European and Irish fine art. Admission is free, and the Gallery offers plenty for children and adults alike. Pick up a free Family Pack with paper, pencils, discovery trails and activity sheets at the Information Desk in the Millennium Wing. They also have free audio guides, suitable for children aged 6-10. And during the summer months look out for fun workshops for families.

Don’t Miss: The drop-in creative spaces where children can draw and colour to their hearts content – they’re always well stocked with activity sheets and colouring pencils, and the children can then hang their art for all to admire.

#35. Viking Splash Tours, Dublin

Viking Splash Tours is Ireland’s only tour company that shows you the sights of Dublin on both land and water, without having to leave the vehicle!

Take a trip on their World War II amphibious DUKWS as they bring you on a fun filled tour through the streets of the capital with engaging Viking captains, before splashing down in Grand Canal Dock!

Please note children must be aged 3 or over to travel on the water section of the tour.

Don’t Miss: Wearing your Viking Hat!

#36. National Maritime Museum of Ireland, Dublin

Experienced guides will bring you on a voyage of discovery at the National Maritime Museum, enthralling you with stories of discovery, heroism, war and disasters at sea. You will learn about maritime history, exploration, navigation, radio, deep-sea cable technology, nature, wildlife and view art inspired by the sea.

See the 10-tonne revolving Baily Optic, try the electrified steam engine, and pause to reflect at the Titanic exhibit, the re-created radio room, the Royal Navy prisoners docks and the war memorial. Try your hand at sailor’s knots, or learn how they lift heavy weights. Afterwards visit the shop and café for a treat.

Don’t Miss: Being photographed with the pirate!

#37. EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, Dublin

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum tells the story of the Irish diaspora. Using the latest interactive technology, you can follow the story of 78 million people and 10 million journeys, through the themes of migration, influence, motivation and connection.

Children and adults alike, will be wowed by the interactive nature of the displays. This is an epic way to learn about great Irish influencers, from authors to scientists, and business people to sports men and women.

Don’t Miss: Getting your passport stamped throughout the tour and sending it as a virtual postcard.

You May Also Enjoy Horrible Histories Fans will Love Exploring These Incredible Historic Places in Ireland

#38. Dublin Zoo, Dublin

Dublin Zoo is much more than a fun-filled, stimulating day out for all the family… it’s a place to learn about wild animals, especially those which are endangered. The Zoo is a registered charity, so your visit will help maintain Dublin Zoo to a high standard, improve the Zoo and contribute to conservation programmes.

Located in the Phoenix Park in the heart of Dublin city, Dublin Zoo is Ireland’s most popular family attraction, and welcomed over one million visitors last year.

As one of the world’s oldest, yet popular zoos, the 28 hectare park in the heart of Dublin is home to some 400 animals, and where education and conservation combine for an exciting an unforgettable experience!

Don’t Miss: Feeding Times and Daily Talks

#39. Wells House and Gardens, Wexford

Wells House and Gardens has a state of the art playground, picnic area, a 3D Archery Course, an animal farm, falconry and woods with fairies and sculptures. In addition you may come face to face with trolls, fairies and a few bugs who have checked into the Bug Hotel. The facility is open year round and there is a charge of €8 per car, payable on exit..

Don’t Miss: Taking a stroll through the deep, dark woods where they will come face to face with the elusive Gruffalo. Be warned, he is life sized! Mouse is also there, along with other wood carvings created by owner, Uli Roesier.

#40. Little Museum, Dublin

The Little Museum of Dublin conveniently located on St. Stephen’s Green, is truly a little gem, telling the story of the capital over the last 100 years from the visit of Queen Victoria to modern day.

Over 5000 items are displayed over 3 floors. Entry to the museum is by guided tour only, so book online to be sure of entry. Kids will really enjoy exploring the interactive artefacts.

Don’t Miss: The kids worksheets that are available for kids of all ages.

#41. Killruddery House & Gardens, Wicklow

Head to Killruddery House & Gardens for a fun day out for all the family. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens, enjoy a picnic in the walled garden with the sandpit and the tyre dragon, or visit on the great feature days like their ‘Teddy Bears Picnic’ and ‘Fairytale Tale Day’. There are also guided tours of the house available. Check what’s on for your visit.

Don’t Miss: The Squirrel’s Scramble tree adventure park with zip wires and 40 different challenges on 4 height levels, for lots more fun outdoor adventure.

#42. Russborough House, Wicklow

Russborough House & Parklands in Wicklow has plenty to keep families amused indoors and out. Starting with the House itself, for families with an interest in history and art you can take a House Tour. Russborough have just announced that after over 100 years some of the British & European Masters and furnishings have returned to Russborough so you can see these works in the rooms for which they were commissioned or purchased by the Earls of Milltown in the 18th & 19th centuries.

Then visit the 2000 metre beech hedge maze. A statue of Cupid stands at the centre of the maze to help you puzzle your way in but will you find your way back out again?

There’s a fantastic playground with a picnic area alongside, and a Fairy Walk through their woodlands and out to Lady’s Island. Kids can pick up a brochure from reception and learn all about the fairies’ adventures. There is a restaurant and gift shop.

Don’t miss: the National Birds of Prey Experience is also on site at Russborough House for those who want to do a fun extra activity.

You May Also Enjoy Amazing Mazes In Ireland To Puzzle Your Way Into & Out Of!

#43. Greenan Maze, Wicklow

For another “amazing” experience in Wicklow, head to Greenan Maze where you’ll find a large 1/2 acre Celtic hedge maze on a working farm, which is 7 feet tall and a tricky puzzle to solve, so the kids will love it.

Afterwards, enjoy the farm animals and then take the beautiful wild nature walk that leads down by a stream to the ponds to spot some dragonflies. The Dragonfly Walk is a raised wooden walkway leading through native woods and wetlands and has three ponds with raised viewing platforms.

There’s a cafe with good coffee on site (for Mums and Dads)!

Don’t Miss: The solstice maze, a more gentle contemplative experience for adults and toddlers.

#44. Secret Valley Wildlife Park, Wexford

Secret Valley Wildlife Park, Wexford, has fourteen acres of fun-filled adventures from bottle-feeding the hungry kid goats, and meeting the resident insects and snakes, to riding Snowball the pony. Hop on board the quad train, or try your luck at the welly-throwing and obstacle course – you’re sure of a fun family day out here.

Don’t miss: The lovely lemurs, Roxy, Lenny and Penny!

#45. Fort Lucan Outdoor Adventureland, Dublin

Set within a huge wooden Viking Fort, Fort Lucan is Dublin’s only fully supervised outdoor Adventureland complete with hidden towers, crazy golf, slides, go-karts, zip lines, a playground, and a mini wooden maze perfect for those who like to keep their feet on the ground.

For the adventure seekers, try crossing the 40ft-high suspension bridges, crash down the raging river and get soaked on the waterfall slide.

The adventure park is perfect for children aged 2-12 years. After entry fees, rides are charged individually so getting wristbands for unlimited rides is advised.

Remember to pack a picnic, and spare clothes are essential.

Don’t Miss: The new Pirate Ship to explore!

#46. Hook Head Lighthouse, Wexford

Standing on the tip of the peninsula is the oldest intact operational lighthouse in the world. Monks were the first keepers of the lighthouse, built 800 years ago. Take the guided tour, and climb the 115 winding steps where the monks heaved sacks of coal upwards for panoramic sea views. Explore the surrounding rock pools outside, relax in the cafe, or have a picnic outside and enjoy the outdoor games.

Don’t Miss: Spotting the fossils in the limestone rocks on the Head.

You May Also Enjoy 8 Great Family Walks in Wexford

#47. Irish National Heritage Park, Wexford

The Irish National Heritage Park, Ferrycarrig offers a unique perspective on the past. Explore the unique fen woodland, pan for gold, wattle your own house, draw rock art, row your own coracle boat, try archery and spear throwing and join the Big Dig.

There’s plenty of Family Fun at the Irish National Heritage Park too. Scattered around the Park, the family will find a series of Have a go! interactive challenges. The children will have to try and move a megalithic, carve some rock art, weave a wattle house and even pan for gold! If the children complete the tasks and bring back a piece of gold to the reception desk, they will get a certificate of merit.

The kids will love the two adventure playgrounds too with a wide range of climbing frames and ropes.

Don’t Miss: The chance for the ultimate sleepover. You can stay in a perfect replica of a 1,500 year old Irish ringfort, living as our ancestors did for a night or two.

#48. John F. Kennedy Arboretum, Wexford

The John F. Kennedy Arboretum near New Ross, has lovely walks and great trees. Feed ducks by the pond and watch the fish dart about. This is a good place to bring the bikes as small legs will get around more easily!

There’s also a miniature railway, and the playground has plenty of picnic tables, a cafe, a small maze, and a great slide! Drop into the centre and take a look at the exhibitions.

Don’t Miss: The house grown out of hedging!

#49. Kia Ora Mini Farm, Wexford

For a fun day out visit Kia Ora Mini Farm, where children can interact with, hold and feed, animals of the usual farmyard variety. There are some more exotic animals too, like llamas, emus, alpacas, pot bellied pigs, chinchillas. parrots, Scottish highland, Kerry cows etc.

There’s plenty of other entertainment too including sandpits, a football pitch, a rough rider track, and a convoy of ride on tractors. Bring a picnic or enjoy the delicious home-baked goodies at the coffee-shop.

Don’t Miss: Taking a drive and having a singalong in the genuine fire engine.

#50. Lough Boora Discovery Park, Offaly

For something unique, visit Lough Boora Discovery Park, one of the most important Mesolithic sites in Ireland – go to the site of the ancient settlement by following the Mesolithic Route.

The Discovery Park consists of a magnificent collection of natural & man-made lakes, wetlands, walkways and walking trails, a fairy trail, sculptures, picnic benches, cycle tracks, angling, bird watching and a bike hire facility. Guided tours also available.

Don’t Miss: The sculptures throughout the parklands which you can explore using the free programme that you can pick up at the visitor centre.

You May Also Enjoy Fun, Educational and FREE Places to Visit in Ireland With Kids

#51. Emo Court House & Gardens, Laois

Emo Court, near Emo village, Laois, was designed by the architect James Gandon in 1790 for the Earls of Portarlington and is a magnificent example of this neo-classical style. The house, which is accessible by guided tour only, is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland which were first laid out in the 18th century and contain formal lawns, a lake and woodland walks with many very fine trees and shrubs.

The gardens are open all year and entry to the gardens is free. The tearooms in the walled garden are worth a visit.

Don’t Miss: The 2.2km walking loop of the 20 acre man made lake, which includes foot bridges and pathways.

You May Also Enjoy 10 Fun Things to Do in Laois with Kids

#52. Castletown House, Kildare

The first, and largest Palladian manor in Ireland, Castletown House, built for William Conolly, is an awesome sight. You and the kids will enjoy the Self-Guided Nature Trail, where you can explore the wildflower meadow, cross a ha-ha or sunken fence on their way to the garden temple or make your way to the river Liffey at the bottom of the meadow.

Open from March to October, there are tours of the house daily – admission price applies.

Don’t Miss: the monthly Country Market and Craft Fair with live music in the courtyard

#53. Kildare Maze

The Kildare Maze, located just outside Prosperous in the North Kildare countryside, provides a challenging and exciting day out in the fresh air, with good old fashioned fun for families at an affordable price.

With 2 mazes, crazy golf, playground with zip line, assault course, and oodles of space to run around, there’s plenty to entertain the whole family here. The hedge maze was grown to mark the Millennium and is designed in the shape of a St. Brigid’s Cross. It covers approximately 1.5 acres with more than 1.5 miles of paths, with hedges over 6 feet high.

Don’t Miss: The farm animals on the way in!

#54. Museum of Style Icons, Kildare

Located within the Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre, the Museum of Style Icons hosts numerous collections and artefacts relating to Stars of the Silver Screen and many modern day artists – including Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Princess Grace, Princess Diana, Michael Jackson, Michael Flatley, the Beatles and many more.

Now rated as one of the top 5 free tourist attractions in Ireland, the Museum regularly hosts visiting collections from around the globe and admission is free. There are guided tours available daily also, with u12s free with an adult (booking required).

Don’t Miss: Tasty lunch or treats in the Silver café.

#55. Leisureplex Centres, Dublin & Cork

Leisureplex, the fun family entertainment centres with bowling, quasar and more in Blanchardstown, Charlestown, Coolock, Tallaght and Stillorgan in Dublin and Leisureplex Cork, are open for family fun every bank holiday weekend. Check out what our family testers thought about Quasar at Leisureplex!

Don’t Miss: The offers which you can find on the website.

#56. Spire of Lloyd, Meath

The Spire of Lloyd in Kells is an inland lighthouse designed by Henry Aaron Baker (designer of the King’s Inn, Dublin) for the First Earl of Bective in memory of his father Sir Thomas Taylor in 1791. At 30m high, one can see magnificent views of the surrounding countryside as far as the Mourne Mountains in County Down, Northern Ireland on a clear day. The Spire was used to view horse racing and the hunt in the 19th century.

It is open on selected dates during the summer.

Don’t Miss: The “Paupers Graveyard” in the community park (The People’s Park) in which many victims of the mid-19th century famine lie buried.

#57. Loughcrew Estate and Gardens, Meath

Loughcrew Gardens are a breathtaking spectacle from 17th and 19th century landscape and pleasure gardens. Within the gardens stand a medieval motte and St. Oliver Plunkett’s family church and Tower House.

There is also a longer lake walk around Lough Creeve with beautiful scenery to be taken in along the way, as it goes right past Loughcrew House. With extra treats along the way as the walk itself takes in different forest and rockery walks and also has a fairy ring. This walk starts and finishes at the Limetree Coffee Shop.

There’s also a fun fairy trail the kids will love, they get to follow the activity bookletand ma through the Gardens, solving clues and answering questions in treasure hunt style.

Don’t Miss: A visit to Loughcrew Cairns to see the amazing megalithic structures.

#58. Emerald Park, Meath

Emerald Park (previously Tayto Park) has plenty to offer all the family for a fun day out, with over 100 attractions in the theme park & zoo. Learn about a host of different animals from Rabbits to Meerkats to Amur Tigers. Test yourself on the Sky Walk High Ropes Course and the Ziplines. Bounce, climb and mine in the Geronimo Thrill Zone. A visit to the park would not be complete without learning the secrets of Tayto crisp making on the Factory Tour. The park has plenty of Cafes, Shops and Picnic Areas.

And then if you dare, take a ride on Europe’s largest wooden rollercoaster, The Cú Chulainn Coaster.

Don’t Miss: A trip through the Vortex Tunnel for a truly head spinning experience!

#59. Clara Lara, Wicklow

Located in the hidden valleys of Rathdrum, County Wicklow, the 50-acre water-based adventure park provides families with healthy and creative fun in a world away from screens.

Bursting with activities such as Tarzan swings, rafts, boating lakes, kiddie-karts, water slides, rope bridges and an assault course, Clara Lara Funpark is a great day out for all ages.

Shoes must be worn (even in the water) so make sure to bring some old runners, along with spare clothes, towels and a hearty packed lunch.

Don’t Miss: The dedicated section for little explorers including a sandpit, woodland playground and pirate ship.

#60. Tullynally Castle Gardens, Westmeath

The Gardens at Tullynally Castle and the castle itself date back over 350 years. Take the main path to the walled Flower Garden and visit the llamas and the stone “Nandi” (sacred Indian bulls) next door, or take the path to the Grotto with fantastic carvings by a local artist. Walk the Forest Walk to the Chinese garden and onto the Lower Lake to see the pair of resident swans.

Everywhere you will find superb trees and views – and pretty ornamental summer houses to rest in. Tree enthusiasts will love the special Tree Trail, and children will enjoy exploring the exciting Treasure Trail.

After exploring the gardens, return to the sunny Tearoom in the Castle Courtyard which offers teas, coffee and delicious homemade food throughout the day.

Don’t Miss: The splendid family coach on display.

#61. Clonfert Pet Farm, Kildare

Clonfert Pet Farm located in Maynooth, Co. Kildare, has so much to offer at a very reasonable price of €15 for a family ticket and under two’s go free. With a host of attractions including:

• Go karts
• 3 playgrounds
• Sheltered sand pit
• Zip wire
• Permanent large bouncy castle
• Indoor soft play area

They also have crazy golf at a small charge of €2 per person.

Along with these amenities are the usual farm animals like donkeys, ducks, cows, pigs, and sheep and you will also find more exotic animals like wallabies, llamas, and alpacas too. There is an onsite cafe and plenty of picnic benches dotted around the farm to enjoy too.

#62. Dun na Si Amenity & Heritage Park, Westmeath

The Amenity & Heritage Park at Dún na Sí is a community park for all, encompassing ecology, arts, education and play.

• Meet the ancient Irish warrior Lugh who with his magic spear, stands guard over Dún na Sí.
• Visit an old farmhouse, blacksmith’s forge. fisherman’s cottage and hedge school to discover how rural communities lived in times past.
• Explore Irish music at ‘Scéal An Tradisiúin’ which is a unique exhibition that tells the story of Traditional Irish Music, Song and Dance.
• Enjoy a walk through planted parklands and a wetland reserve which is home to native wildlife species.
• Discover the lovely art in the park, all made from recycled and natural materials by students from local schools who work with artists to enhance the visitor experience of the park.

A fully equipped children’s playground is situated next to the Catoca Café which serves coffee and lunch.

Don’t miss: The disappearing Turlough at Dún na Sí Amenity Park which appears in the winter then disappears for the summer months.

#63. Battle of the Boyne, Meath

The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre is located in the recently restored 18th century Oldbridge House, which is on the battle site. As well as the Visitor Centre, there’s an Audio Visual Show, original and replica 17th Century weaponry displays, laser battlefield model, Tea Pavillion, and walled garden.C

There are self guiding walks through the parkland and battlesite, with partial access for people with disabilities.

Don’t Miss: Free entry on the 1st Wednesday of every month.

#64. Carlingford, Louth

Carlingford has so much to offer and is a wonderful village to wander about. Kids will enjoy the long pier and exploring the ruined castle on the hill overlooking the lough, while the village also has a good playground.

Take a visit to the Leprechaun & Fairy Cavern and meet the Leprechaun Whisperer, who has built an underground cavern to connect with two old tunnels, one linking with the fairy glen in Rostrevor Co. Down, and the other with Foy mountain and the home of Ireland’s last remaining 236 leprechauns.

Round off your visit with a trip to Slieve Foy Woods, which is located 3.5km from Carlingford (on the left hand side) on the road to Omeath/Newry. There are two car parks, lots of picnic areas and beautiful panoramic views of Slieve Foye mountain and the Lough.

Don’t Miss: The opportunity to do a bit of bird watching while on the Cooley Peninsula

You May Also Enjoy 10 Brilliant Things to Do in Louth with Kids

#65. Ravensdale Forest, Louth

Ravensdale Forest, 8 km north of Dundalk, has a picnic area and 3 marked trails in the forest, the Tain Trail, the Ring of Gullion and the short but interesting Ravensdale Loop.

The forest is rich in archaeological features such as the standing stones just a short detour off the Ravensdale Loop, and has many interesting features such as bridges and old driving roads.

Don’t Miss: The standing stones just off the Ravensdale Loop

Best Places to Go in Ireland: Munster

#66. Fota House and Gardens, Cork

Fota House and Gardens in Cork offers visitors a look at how life was lived in the past, whether as a servant or as a member of the gentry. When you tour the house you get to see behind the scenes to the bedrooms and a Victorian nursery. Then visit the service wing, where you can see the working conditions of all the servants.

“Where is Mrs Kevin’s Cat?!” is a families tour through the House with a dedicated guide, solving the mystery of where the house keeper’s cat has got to. It’s a great way for children to enjoy learning about the House and the people who lived here.

Or you can go Digging for History in their award winning Victorian Working Garden, with a tour through the Victorian glasshouses with fun facts for kids, finishing off with a chance to pot up their own plant to take home and cherish. Both the Mrs Kevin’s Cat tour and Digging for History are suitable from 4 to about 11.

They also have fantastic trails for kids to follow in the gardens they have some really fun ones e.g. Junior Plant Hunters Activity Trail, Little Explorers Trail, and a Tree Trail.

Don’t Miss: And after all that fun you can refresh yourselves in the Bakestone Cafe.

#67. glór, Clare

More than just a theatre, glór sits in the heart of Ennis town in Co. Clare and offers ample parking for visitors. They attract the best of local, national and International entertainment for all ages. And have a full line up of family fun and regular events including films, music, dance and theatre performances, classes and workshops. They also boast an art gallery and an on-site café with freshly cooked food with seating indoors and outdoors so you can enjoy your visit whatever the weather.

And we love their BYOK (Bring Your Own Kids) where well behaved kids can avail of discounted tickets and come along to shows with their parents! Saving you money on a babysitter.

Don’t Miss: The World’s Tallest Chair in the lobby!

#68. King John’s Castle, Limerick

King John’s Castle delivers a modern visitor experience with a dramatic history of over 800 years of stories, all brought to life in a stunning exhibition.

The busy Castle courtyard is home to a medieval campaign tent, a blacksmith’s forge and scenes from a 17th century siege. An array of colourful characters, reveal the secrets and scandals of castle life. Not to be missed! Read what Jill and her family thought of King John’s Castle.

Don’t Miss: The Audio Visual Characters from the past that talk to you!

#69. Craggaunowen, Clare

A highlight of any visit to the West of Ireland is the Living Past Experience at Craggaunowen, which is off the beaten track but will give you a real sense of stepping back in history. At Craggaunowen you will find

• a restored Tower House Castle, where you can climb up the winding stairs and into the different rooms.
• The Crannog, where you can meet actors who renact and tell stories of how the Celts lived in Iron & Early Christian periods, what they did for hunting, how the bards were important, how battles might have taken place, how society was run.
• Follow the trail past the Iron Age Field, Iron Age Road (with a section brought over from an original Iron Age bog road Corlea), and visit the Ringfort.
• You can also visit The Brendan which was a boat built in 1976 based on descriptions of Brendan the Navigator’s vessel which according to legend went to America long before Columbus
• Complete your visit with a Woodland Walk back to the café and shop for some refreshment.

Don’t miss: The annual Lughnasa Festival held in August, in honour of the Celtic God Lugh of the Tuatha de Danann, God of arts and crafts, which marks the start of the harvest season.

#70. Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Clare

At Bunratty Castle & Folk Park everywhere is open for you to explore! The Castle is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Kids will enjoy the sights, sounds tastes, scents, of Bunratty Folk Park as you stroll from house to house or around the charming village street complete with school, post office, doctors house, hardware shop, printers and a pub.

The gardens at Bunratty Folk Park have been restored to their former glory. The gardens are modeled on the original Regency period garden which supplied fruit, vegetables, and flowers to Bunratty House (built in 1804) and are refurbished in typical Victorian style. This is your opportunity to experience one of the great gardens of Ireland.

Don’t Miss: The adventure playground full of fantastic play equipment!

You May Also Enjoy Our Favourite Mythical and Folklore Places to Visit in Ireland 

#71. Titanic Experience Cobh, Cork

The Titanic Experience, Cobh tells the story of a legend and her connection to Cobh. Situated in the original offices of The White Star Line, retrace the footsteps of the 123 Queenstown Passengers who boarded Titanic from Cobh.

Upon check-in at the White Star Line Ticket Office you will receive your boarding card. Your boarding card will have the details of one of the 123 passengers who came to the White Star Line Ticket Office on Thursday April 11th 1912.

After check-in, experience life on board through the innovative audio visual technology, and replica set designs and discover the facts surrounding the tragic sinking of Titanic.

Don’t miss: The end when you will find out if you are a survivor or not

#72. Old Cork Waterworks & Lifetime Lab, Cork

Old Cork Waterworks (formerly Lifetime Lab) is a multi award winning visitor centre offering a fascinating insight into industrial heritage and environmental issues.

Visitors journey through Victorian architecture and explore the age of steam, investigate the interactive exhibits and transform into environmental detectives discovering how daily choices impact our world. Suitable for all ages.

Make sure to allow time for the playground and garden overlooking the River Lee.

Don’t Miss: Visiting the multi sensory 360 experience charting the development of the former Victorian waterworks in tandem with the development of Cork City.

#73. West Coast Aqua Park, Kilrush, Clare

An epic adventure awaits for all the family to enjoy at West Coast Aqua Park. Climb, bounce and slide your way around the inflatable obstacle course on the water. Located on the picturesque marina in Kilrush, county Clare, the only aqua park on the Wild Atlantic Way. Kids as young as six can take part all under the watchful eye of experienced lifeguards.

“I booked the Aqua Park recently for myself and 4 kids aged 7 to 16. It was a brilliant experience, the 9 year old said it was the best day ever! Staff were fantastic and very safety conscious, just what you want when combining kids and water. Would totally recommend it as a fun day out for the the family, friends, school tour or with a sports team/club as an activity day“. Mum Michelle

Don’t Miss: Seeing your friends get wiped out!

You May Also Enjoy These Water Parks in Ireland Are Well Wicked!

#74. West Cork Model Railway Village, Cork

West Cork Model Railway Village, in Clonakilty, is where visitors can enjoy a look at the West Cork of the 1940’s brought to life with tiny handmade figurines and a miniature version of the West Cork railway line along with small scale houses and businesses depicted in a market day scene.

During the summer months, you can also hop on board the Choo Choo Road Train for a unique way to see the lovely village of Clonakilty.

Don’t Miss: Getting a 10% discount when you book in advance online.

#75. Lough Gur Heritage Centre, Limerick

Lough Gur is a magical and mysterious place that is rich in folklore along with a wealth of archaeology and history dating back to Stone Age times. The Heritage Centre provides a fascinating interpretation of the sites associated with Lough Gur.

At the Heritage Centre you will find interactive exhibitions with touch screens. There’s a fully guided tour and also audio guides and outdoor acoustic guides to help you enjoy your visit. For children there’s an activity sheet, dressing up, and a neolithic pot building section.

Don’t Miss: The Archaeology Dig where kids can try out some digging!

#76. King of the Vikings, Waterford

Experience the world of vikings in virtual reality in Ireland’s Oldest City Vadrafjord (Waterford) and visit the authentic viking house in the ruins of a 13thC Franciscan Friary.

The first of its kind in the world, the adventure takes place in the reconstructed Viking house and seamlessly blends new technology with ancient viking house building techniques.

Each experience lasts 30 minutes. As there are only spaces for 10 people, booking is highly recommended. Open daily from 10:30 am until last show starting at 5:00 pm. Shows every 30 minutes.

#77. Waterford & Suir Valley Railway, Waterford

The magic of rail’s golden age has been brought to life in Kilmeadan on the Waterford & Suir Valley Railway. Experience the beauty of the Suir Valley from a partially opened carriage as you take in the panoramic views of the river and rolling farmland of Waterford and across the river to County Kilkenny on a 40 minute return trip and 1 hour return trips on Saturdays.

The track runs mostly along the picturesque banks of the River Suir offering a glimpse into the world famous Mount Congreve Gardens and across the river to County Kilkenny. You will also see The Magic Wood, a magical Fairy glade, where the fairies come out to play and enjoy the sunshine during the day and at night they curl up to sleep in their little houses. Sometimes they can be seen among the trees but you have to look carefully!

Don’t Miss: The Family Fun Events every Wednesday and Sunday at Kilmeadan Station.

You May Also Enjoy All Aboard! Steam Trains and Fun Train Rides in Ireland

#78. Sea Synergy, Kerry

Award winning Sea Synergy Marine Awareness & Activity Centre is nestled in the colourful coastal village Waterville, Co. Kerry on the Ring of Kerry and perfect for families looking for fun adventure and discovery along our beautiful Wild Atlantic Way!

The awareness centre houses a unique interactive exhibition on Ireland’s sea life where marine biologists will give you a tour without having to get wet!

Hold some of the largest animals on earth’s bones and see some of the ocean’s smallest and extremely important animals in the exhibition.

#79. Muckross Traditional Farms, Kerry

A visit to Muckross House, Killarney would not be complete without a trip to Muckross Traditional Farms, where you step back in time to Ireland of the 1930’s & 1940’s to experience what life was like on a traditional working farm.

You can step inside traditional dwellings, a Labourer’s Cottage, a Carpenter’s Workshop and the Blacksmiths Forge and visit the old schoolhouse.

Afterwards you can relax with a picnic while the kids enjoy the woodland playground, bouncy castle and a visit to the petting farm.

Don’t Miss: The petting farm.

#80. Tetrapod Footprints Valentia Island, Kerry

Valentia Island lies at the end of the Iveragh Peninsula, more familiar to many as the location of the Ring of Kerry. But did you know that on the island you will find one of only 4 sets of prehistoric footprints in the world?

The Tetrapod imprints are thought to date from Devonian times – somewhere between 350 and 370 million years ago.

This site is of international significance as it represents the transition of life from water to land – a momentous turning point in evolution and provides the oldest reliably dated evidence of four-legged vertebrates (amphibians) moving over land.

Don’t Miss: The information plaque at the bottom of the hill.

#81. Tralee Bay Wetlands, Kerry

Play king of the castle in the viewing tower at Tralee Bay Wetlands. You can also sit in a bird hide, visit the state of the art interactive wildlife exhibits, take a guided nature boat tour and go on the nature board walk, where you can get up close with plants, insects and small mammals!

As if that wasn’t enough, the activity zone and lake offer you the chance to rent a pedalo or a rowing boat,  go water zorbing, or scale the climbing wall.

Relax afterwards in the visitor centre, which houses a café/bistro and gift shop.

Don’t Miss: The view from the top of the viewing tower taking in 8,000 acres of the reserve and the Slieve Mish mountains in the background.

You May Also Enjoy 40 Fun Family Things to Do on The Ring of Kerry and Beyond

#82. Seafari, Kerry

Seafari Kenmare have Seal and Sea Eagle watching cruises running throughout the summer months. They pride themselves on entertaining everyone from age 3 to 93, with an informative commentary given by the captain and guides as you cruise along the 6 to 10 mile route sheltered by the Beara peninsula.

Common seal pups are born during late June and July and at these times you can see young pups being fed by their mothers on the shore and hanging onto their mothers’ backs as they are learning to swim and catch fish!

Don’t Miss: The complimentary lollipops, tea, coffee and cookies or for anyone feeling the need, a special ‘tot’ of medicine!

#83. Crag Cave, Kerry

Crag Cave is situated just outside Castleisland in Co. Kerry and is thought to be over 1 million years old. On your tour of Crag Cave you will see fine examples of pillars, stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, straws and curtains, all naturally formed in the limestone cave.

After your cave visit, you can relax with tea/coffee and selection of snacks in Crazy Cave, while the kids enjoy a run around in the well equipped play area.

During the Summer months visitors can also enjoy live birds of prey flying shows by Kingdom Falconry.

Don’t Miss: The Crystal Gallery within the cave.

You May Also Enjoy Best Outdoor Places in Kerry for Families

#84. Dolphinwatch Carrigaholt, Clare

Where the mouth of the Shannon feeds into the Atlantic is the place a group of 200 bottlenose dolphins like to hang out. Shannon Dolphinwatch offer you the chance to hear them chat via an underwater microphone in Draíocht, skipper Geoff Magee’s boat – and you might even spot a whale, a seal or some wild goats on the surrounding hillside.

The nature boat trip excursion lasts approximately 2 hours.

Don’t Miss: The nearby Carrigaholt Castle, one of Ireland’s best preserved Tower Houses.

#85. Aillwee Caves & Bird of Prey Centre, Clare

Two attractions in one at the Aillwee Caves and Burren Bird of Prey Centre in County Clare where you can visit underground caves and then enjoy spectacular bird flights above ground.

The Cave tour consists of a 30 minute stroll through the beautiful caverns – over bridged chasms, under weird formations and alongside the thunderous waterfall which sometimes gently sprays the unsuspecting visitor!

The Birds of Prey Centre offers dynamic flying displays where the visitor can interact and get up close and personal to the birds. They also house Eagles, Falcons, Hawks, and Owls from all over the world.

Don’t Miss: The Woodland Craft Village where you can try your hand at archery!

#86. Aquasplash, Tipperary

For those families looking for safe fun on the water, head to Aqua Splash on Lough Derg in Nenagh. Everything you need for your family day out on the water is provided including wet-suits and life jackets, which makes it easy for you to just turn up and enjoy your day!

At Aqua Splash you can enjoy:

• A giant inflatable water park
• Super size water trampoline
• Banana boat rides
• Kayaks
• Stand up paddle boarding

Don’t Miss: The pedal boats, which are a great way to see Lough Derg and suitable for children 3+ (with an adult).

#87. Bike Park Ireland Roscrea, Tipperary

Bike Park Ireland is a hidden gem in north Tipperary, a purpose-built mountain bike park that caters for everyone.

“I didn’t think that I was going to take part, but I had heard there was a lovely cafe on site so that was good enough for me. When we got there I couldn’t believe there were trails I could go on at my own pace. The best bit was getting a lift to the top of the trails in an army truck. A great day out with friends and family.” – Maura

Best Places to Go in Ireland: Ulster

#88. W5, Belfast

w5 belfast who, what, where, when, why is Ireland’s award winning science and discovery centre at Odyssey in Belfast. With over 250 interactive exhibits and a changing programme of events, shows and exhibitions, W5 is a great value day out for all the family, we recommend you allow at least 2 hours for your visit.

Don’t Miss: Spacebase an activity zone for 3 to 11 year olds.

You May Also Enjoy 15 Fun Things to Do in Belfast with Kids

#89. Titanic Belfast

At Titanic Belfast, discover the Titanic story in a fresh and insightful way. Explore the shipyard, travel to the depths of the ocean and uncover the true legend of Titanic, in the city where it all began.

With several levels of interactive exhibits, tracing the story of the Titanic from its origins in industrial Belfast to the final tragedy itself, you will find plenty for all ages.

Don’t miss: Afternoon Tea which takes place in the Titanic Suite, featuring the Grand Staircase and overlooking the Slipway on which Titanic was built.

#90. Slieve League Cliffs, Donegal

Almost 3 times higher than the Cliffs of Moher, the Slieve League Cliffs in Co. Donegal reach to a height of almost 2,000 feet making them some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Families can opt to leave their car at the lower level and walk up, or take the bus along the winding road to the upper level.

From here enjoy the view across the Atlantic to Sligo, Leitrim and Mayo. The cliffs cater for all levels of climber, with a rocky path leading you to the top.

Don’t Miss: The more adventurous can climb to one man’s pass, and discover early stone dwellings and sacred sites.

#91. Donegal Castle, Donegal

Donegal Castle, in the heart of Donegal Town, was built by the O’Donnell chieftain in the 15th century. The O’Donnell clan held it until until 1607, when they fled Ireland following a failed rebellion – becoming part of the so-called ‘flight of the earls’. Red Hugh O’Donnell was the leader and one of the Earls that fled to Spain after the defeat at the Battle of Kinsale.

A few years later the King granted the castle and its lands to Basil Brooke, whose descendants owned it until 1898 when it was donated to the state. It was partially restored in the 1990s. Guided tours available.

Don’t Miss: The suits of armour – see how many you can count!

You May Also Enjoy 10 Top Things to Do in Donegal with Kids

#92. Glenveagh National Park, Donegal

Glenveagh National Park is one of six national parks in Ireland. Situated in the Northwest of Co. Donegal, Glenveagh encompasses some 16,000 hectares in the heart of the Derryveagh Mountains.

The extensive displays contained within the award-winning Visitor Centre provide an introduction to the parks natural and built history, as well as providing information on walking trails, events etc. Guides on duty will also be happy to provide visitors with information about the park and surrounding area. 

Don’t Miss:The living heather roof of the Visitor Centre, mimicking the surrounding landscape to cause minimum disturbance.

You May Also Enjoy 13 Picturesque Walks in Donegal for Families to Enjoy

#93. Cavan County Museum, Cavan

The Cavan County Museum is located at Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan. The museum houses a medieval dug out boat and sheela-na-gigs, galleries on folk life in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries, the great famine, Percy French & the GAA. There is a children’s playground, garden, shop and tea rooms also on site.

Don’t Miss: The World War 1 Trench Experience, the largest outdoor replica WW1 Trench open to the public in Ireland and the UK.

#94. Bear Essentials, Cavan

At Bear Essentials in Cavan, you’ll find all sorts of bear fun! The Silver Bear Centre is an experience for children and adults alike with a vintage teddy bear collection. In the teddy bear gift shop you will find probably the largest collection of teddy bears in Ireland. Besides famous brands of Steiff and Charlie Bears, the shop sells one off limited edition bears.

The gardens are also worth a visit with picnic areas as well as greenhouses and a small playground for the children. You can also book a Build a Bear family workshop, just bring 5 people to the workshop and enjoy a teddy bears picnic afterwards.

Don’t Miss: Having your photograph taken with life size replica brown and polar bears.

#95. Marble Arch Caves, Fermanagh

The Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark is located in the rugged mountainous uplands and the gentle rolling lowlands of counties Fermanagh and Cavan.

Taking in the world-famous Marble Arch Caves, the Geopark boasts some of the finest natural landscapes in Ireland and offers a window into the area’s 650 million year past.

Don’t Miss: The truly spectacular Lough Navar Forest, located approximately 5km outside the village of Derrygonnelly, and undoubtedly one of the jewels in the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark.

You May Also Enjoy Low Cost Things to Do In Ireland with Kids

#96. Corralea Activity Centre, Fermanagh

Fly down a 12-foot waterslide, bounce on a floating trampoline, catapult your siblings into the water – all at a floating water park in Upper Lough Macnean at Corralea Activity Centre at Belcoo in County ­Fermanagh.

There are 3 trampolines all connected by various walkways and logs, you can bounce on the water trampolines and splash into the water or whizz down the 4m high water slide. Hours of water fun for the whole family under the watchful eyes of Corralea’s Activity’s lifeguards.

Don’t Miss: The outdoor climbing wall when you tire of the water.

#97. Giant’s Causeway, Antrim

The Giant’s Causeway provides a glimpse into the Earth’s most ancient past, and thus was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Made up of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the Giant’s Causeway is the result of intense volcanic activity millions of years ago. Climb the Shepherd’s Steps and hike along the cliff-top trail to get a bird’s eye view of the beautiful causeway coast.

Don’t Miss: The award-winning visitor centre, where there are also guided tours/audio guides available.

98. Ulster American Folk Park, Tyrone

The Ulster American Folk Park, just outside Omagh, is an outdoor museum which tells the story of emigration from Ulster to America in the 18th and 19th centuries. Follow the emigrant trail, meeting an array of costumed characters on your way, as you journey from the thatched cottages of Ulster, on board a full scale emigrant sailing ship, leading to the log cabins of the American Frontier.

Don’t Miss: The regular programme of family events so check what’s on for your visit.

 #99.The Planetarium in Armagh ­

The Armagh Planetarium should be on your go-to list if there are any budding astronomers in your house! Interactive displays allow you to learn about the cosmos and watch the latest space news in real time.

The Armagh Celestial Cathedral is a beautiful gallery of illuminated deep space images taken by the Hubble Space Telescope framed in dramatic gothic arches and the Astropark is a scale model of the Universe where visitors can walk through the Solar System and into the Milky Way and beyond.

Don’t Miss: You can design, build and launch your own rocket too!

You May Also Enjoy Places to Visit in Ireland with Kids: Hidden Gems You Never Knew About!

Lead image: Trawmore Strand, Achill Island, County Mayo © Tourism Ireland

The post 99 Fantastic Places to Go in Ireland with Kids appeared first on MyKidsTime.

Family-Friendly Walks in Ireland

If you’re worried the kids will get bored while you’re out, these entertaining (and distracting!) games to play while walking are a great way to pass the time.

You may also want to try one of our free scavenger hunt downloads to keep the kids busy – take your pick from a nature scavenger hunt, a fun beach scavenger hunt, an unusual sound scavenger hunt, and lots more here including seasonal options.

Walks in Leinster

Derrycassin Woods © Longford Tourism

• Walks in Carlow
• Walks in Dublin
• Walks in Kildare
• Walks in Kilkenny
• Walks in Laois
• Walks in Longford
• Walks in Louth
• Walks in Meath
• Walks in Offaly
• Walks in Westmeath
• Walks in Wexford
• Walks in Wicklow

Walks in Munster

Waterford Greenway © Luke Myers / Failte Ireland

• Walks in Clare
• Walks in Cork
• Walks in Kerry
• Walks in Limerick
• Walks in Tipperary
• Walks in Waterford

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Ireland’s Blue Flag Beaches are Perfect for Family Seaside Fun!

Walks in Connacht

Acres Lake Boardwalk © Leitrim Tourism

• Walks in Galway
• Walks in Leitrim
• Walks in Mayo
• Walks in Roscommon
• Walks in Sligo

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Fantastic Forest Parks in Ireland Perfect for Families

Download

Plan a whole range of family days out with this brilliant checklist of 99 fantastic places to visit around Ireland!

Tell Me More!

Walks in Ulster

Errigal © Tourism Ireland

• Walks in Cavan
• Walks in Donegal
• Walks in Monaghan
• Walks in Northern Ireland

Lead image: Waterford Greenway © Luke Myers / Failte Ireland

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: The Best Playgrounds in Ireland Recommended By Parents & Children

The post Go Exploring with the Best Family Walks in Ireland by County appeared first on MyKidsTime.

Best Beaches in UK for Families

Britain boasts some seriously incredible beaches for fabulous family escapes. We’re talking spectacular coastal views, rock pools, fine sand, fossil hunting, brilliant surf for water sports fans, old-fashioned seaside entertainment and even some hidden havens that are nestled amidst the scenery away from the crowds.

Get the buckets and spades ready and let’s take a look at 20 of the best beaches in UK for a family getaway.

Porthcurno, Cornwall

With dramatic rock formations on both sides, white sand, turquoise sea and exotic plant life, this narrow strip of land couldn’t be more striking – and is definitely one of the best beaches in UK for insta-worth pics. Set beneath the clifftop Minack Theatre, this is arguably the county’s most beautiful bay.

Easily accessible, it is very popular with families. It’s best at low tide when you can walk to other beaches in the bay (heads up – one of these beaches is nudist) and sit on sandbars beneath the ancient cliff fort of Treryn Dinas.

Swanlake Bay, South Pembrokeshire

The only way to get to this hidden gem is to walk down the Pembrokeshire National Park Coastal Footpath. Although it takes some effort to get here, it is more than worth it for those who make the journey.

Most of the beach is made up of shingle, but at low tide you will see a long expanse of sand. The beach is actually separated into two sections, an eastern side which is lined with golden sand and sits in the shade of high cliffs and a western side which is covered with rock pools. There is also plenty of birdlife to see with species here including curlew, whimbrel, redshank, and godwit.

Blackpool Sands, Devon

This award-winning Blue Flag beach is one of Devon’s most popular attractions set in an unspoilt, sheltered bay amongst evergreens and pines. Blackpool Sands is a shingle beach located only 3 miles west of Dartmouth on the beautiful South Devon heritage coast in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

With safe swimming for children, sand pits, a bathing raft, kayaks and paddle boards for hire, a range of delicious hot and cold food and a beach shop, it has something for all the family.

West Wittering, Sussex

There are no crazy golf courses or amusement arcades here – just a wide, sloping beach with shallow tidal pools and clean, calm water. This beach has sweet colourful bathing houses, as well as an unspoilt sandy beach and a wonderful view of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs beyond.

The natural and unspoilt sandy beach of West Wittering has been a favourite destination for a family day out for generations. The highest water quality and excellent facilities have made it one of the premier Blue Flag beaches in the country. The sea is popular with wind and kite surfers, and the whole area is internationally recognised for its wildlife, birds and unique beauty.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 50 Fun and Interesting Things to do with Kids at the Beach

Peel, Isle of Man

The west coast beach of Peel is one of the finest on the island and one of the best beaches in UK to visit with kids. A good stretch of golden sand protected by a large breakwater make this beach a family favourite. With Peel Castle and the historic fishing port as a backdrop this spot is brimming with history.

Sometimes referred to as “Sunset City”, Peel is a great place to watch the sun going down behind the ruins of the castle. In the distance you can often pick out the Mountains of Mourne across the water in Ireland. If you are feeling brave, Peel Bay is also home to the Peel Dip, an annual New Year’s dip in the sea in support of a number of charities.

Holkham Beach, Norfolk

Named beach of the year 2018, the beach at Holkham is one of the most unspoilt and beautiful stretches of sand in the country. Behind the shoreline lies a semi-circular basin, which, at very high tides, rapidly fills to form a spectacular shallow lagoon.

With pine woodlands, long runs of sand dunes and rock pools galore, this beach is brilliant – it’s also ideal for a bit of kite flying, sandcastle building and wildlife spotting.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 8 Stunning Shell Crafts for Kids to Make and Keep

Download

The beach is such a fun place to explore! If you’re planning a trip to the beach, why not check out our fun Beach Scavenger Hunt for kids?

Tell Me More!

Silecroft, Cumbria

Set on the edge of the Lake District National Park, this gently shelving shingle beach extends in both directions as far as the eye can see. With five miles of sand and shingle, there is plenty of room for exploring on this beach. There’s also water sports, fishing, canoeing and water-skiing all available.

It’s claimed that on a clear day Scotland, Wales, the Isle of Man and 14 counties of England can be seen from the summit of nearby Black Coombe. The beach is quite popular with locals and day-trippers, and sea-anglers can often be seen at the shoreline.

Alongside the beach is an area which has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to Natterjack toads spawning in the area in springtime. Local and migratory birds (including swallows, oystercatchers and gannets) can also be spotted in the skies.

Bamburgh Castle Beach, Northumberland

This award-winning beach on the Northumberland Coast has a vast expanse of golden sand that is ideal for families. There is also the vision of Bamburgh’s imposing castle in the distance, which can be seen for miles around.

Bamburgh Castle beach is a perfect place to go for long, wind-swept walks at any time of year. The water temperatures don’t really get particularly warm even in the height of summer, but in the milder months of the year children enjoy playing in the waves and the sand is good for building sandcastles and playing beach games.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Go Explore! 25 Legendary Castles in England, Scotland and Wales

Barafundle Beach, Pembrokeshire

Barafundle has been ranked among the best beaches in the world. This Blue Flag beach was listed as one of the Top 12 beaches in the world in 2004, then in 2006 The Good Holiday Guide described it as “the best beach in Britain”. In the same year, Country Life magazine dubbed it “the best place in the UK for a picnic,” and in 2012 it again won the accolade “The UK’s Top Picnic Spot”. The only drawback is that the lack of road access and the uneven terrain of its approaches make it unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

Scattered with sand dunes and a host of rock pools and hidden caves, Barafundle also has the UK’s highest award for water quality, so children can happily brave the chilly water for a paddle once you’ve packed the picnic away.

Seacliff, East Lothian

Not far from North Berwick lies the hidden gem of Seacliff Beach, which is ideal if you want to avoid the crowds. Perfect for a day trip from Edinburgh, this beach is a low-key, laid-back kind of place that’s ideal for building sandcastles, exploring rock pools or playing a spot of beach tennis.

This private beach is largely unspoilt and attracts surfers, dog-walkers and picnickers all year round, while car entry to this area is controlled by a coin-operated barrier.

Discover the tiny sandstone harbour thought to be the smallest in the UK, and enjoy the splendid views of Bass Rock and the ruins of Tantallon Castle.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Terrific Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids

Portstewart Strand, Northern Ireland

A favourite with locals and tourists alike who come to enjoy the clean sand, magnificent views and unique wildlife, Portstewart Strand is cared for by the National Trust.

The magnificent two-mile beach and extensive white dunes of Portstewart Strand are home to rare birds, insects, butterflies and exotic orchids. There are herb-rich grassland verges behind the beach and excellent family facilities, including a children’s play area, a nature trail and a designated water sports zone.

Rhossili Bay, Swansea

Awarded the best beach in Europe 2017, breathtaking Rhossili bay is a three-mile long sandy beach. It is also overlooked by the Old Rectory, the most popular National Trust holiday cottage. Visible on the beach at low tide are the remains of the Helvetia, a ship wrecked in 1887.

The beach is a walker’s dream with routes in all directions, including the Welsh coastal path. The beach is also dog-friendly all year round and the whole area is beautiful, whatever the weather.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 12 Unmissable Spots for Camping in Wales with Kids

West Sands, St Andrews, Scotland

This is a popular beach in the university town of St Andrews, offering clean bathing water and an expanse of sandy beach. Famous for the opening scenes of the film Chariots of Fire, West Sands extends for almost 2 miles of uninterrupted sand backed with dunes and the world-renowned golf course. With a reliable sea breeze, it’s the perfect place for the little ones to try their hand at flying a kite for the first time.

West Sands is a short walk from the town centre, and there is plenty of car parking available. Shops and restaurants are close by and there are plenty of wet weather alternatives.

Compton Bay

One of the Isle of Wight’s best kept secrets, Compton offers a two mile stretch of contrasting golden and dark sands, with rolling seas, tumbling multi-coloured sandstone cliffs, and the white chalk cliffs at Freshwater in the distance. This rural and unspoilt stretch of coast is caught between the English Channel and the grassy downs of West Wight.

Compton is a totally natural do-it-yourself beach. Bring all you need, including windbreaks (if necessary), body and surf boards and food and drink – although there is an ice-cream van that also offers beverages, snacks and a few beach toys.

Walk south to Brook Bay at low tide and you may find ancient dinosaur tracks revealed on the foreshore, or spot fossils in the crumbling cliffs. Access from the clifftop car parks (National Trust) is by steep wooden steps.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Quirky and Cool: 20 Unusual Places to Visit in the UK

Porthmeor St Ives, Cornwall

An idyllic seaside town with lovely small beaches. Porthmeor is ideal for kids ready to brave staying on their feet in the waves. There’s also St Ives, considered to be the ‘jewel of the South West’, a bustling town with lots to keep everyone happy.

The harbour area is ideal for a buggy promenade, with sights and sounds to mesmerise babies. The sandy shoreline of Porthmeor is a haven for surfers and a firm favourite with families looking for a fun day out by the sea.

Situated in the shadow of the iconic Tate St Ives building, sandy Porthmeor is popular with surfers and swimmers alike in an ideal location just a stone’s throw from the centre of St Ives where you’ll find ancient pubs, trendy cafes and art galleries.

Charmouth, Dorset

Charmouth Beach is great for the family – lots of sand especially at low tide, safe swimming, picnic areas, cafes and beach shops. The beach is divided in two by the mouth of the River Char which is often dammed by the beach, forming a lagoon suitable for boating or watching the many ducks and swans.

The Jurassic Coast stretches for 95 miles from East Devon through Dorset, and lives up to its name by offering a treasure trove of special rocks for inquisitive young fossil hunters – Charmouth Beach is one of the best places for discovering fossils.

There are ample car parks close to the beach and beach huts are available to hire (including the ones featured in Broadchurch).

Watergate Bay, Newquay

Watergate Bay is a large beach, about three miles from Newquay on the North Cornwall coast and a European Designated beach that has achieved the highest standard for UK bathing water.

Two miles of golden sand backed by cliffs and caves, where the Atlantic swells offer surf and peregrine falcons, gulls and fulmars wheel overhead. Spot strawberry anemones and crabs among the rock pools, walk along the clifftop, or book a surfing or traction kiting lesson.

There are lots of events held on the beach during the year, as well as the annual Polo on the Beach. For the more traditional beachgoer there are also plenty of rock pools for the children to play in, as well as designated safe swimming areas in the sea. The beach is patrolled by RNLI Lifeguards during the summer months.

Weymouth, Dorset

A grand sandcastle complete with moat is an accomplishment for any child, and helping to build one is sure to prove irresistible to the whole family. The added bonus here is that Weymouth Beach is said to have some of the best sand in Britain for sandcastle building.

There’s plenty of entertainment to embrace from traditional attractions such as Punch & Judy and donkey rides, to lively events such as beach volleyball championships, live music and free summer firework displays. Enjoy a stroll along the promenade or on the sands, take part in the Christmas “Chase the Pudding” race or just relax in the sunshine on a summer’s day.

The post Take a Trip to the Seaside! 20 of the Best Beaches in UK appeared first on MyKidsTime.

The post These Are the Best Museums in Ireland to Visit with Kids appeared first on MyKidsTime.

Unusual Places to Visit in the UK

Eden Project, Cornwall

Kids of all ages can journey into landscaped worlds within futuristic domes and get immersed in botany on the way. One of the best bits is the Canopy Walkway, a raised platform high among the treetops in the rainforest biome. You can identify the various plants and trees, like cashew, rubber, banana and cocoa.

For young thrills, there’s England’s longest zip line, the SkyWire over the biomes, a rock climbing wall and lots of interactive gadgets at the Core Building. There are also various play areas around the site, including mazes made of willow, large instruments to play, a wooden ship to climb, a sand pit and a gigantic nutcracker to wind. You can walk down the winding paths or you can ride on the land train tractor. With an average visit lasting over four hours, be sure to visit the website to plan your day.

The Garden of Cosmic Speculation, Dumfries, Scotland

If history not your thing, then that’s okay. You’re sure to be mesmerised by one of Scotland’s most unusual places – a 30 acre garden inspired by modern physics.

With five main areas, you will explore snail-shaped grass mounds, twisting DNA helix sculptures, and undulating waves of rhododendrons which make up the awe-inspiring open space of bridges, gardens sculptures and unique architecture! So let the kids free to explore the highs and lows of this beauty, and get some well-needed fresh air. Alice in Wonderland eat your heart out!

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Make Science Fun with a Visit to the Best Science Attractions in the UK

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

One of the UK’s most special locations will seem even more magical through a child’s eyes.

Kids are trivia sponges, and the facts and figures of this site will blow young minds of all ages. It’s amazing to think what was achieved 5,000 years ago with just man and ox-power, ropes and stones. The very sight of this monument will also make a big impression on children and get them pondering an era that is mysterious, even for grown-ups.

If you haven’t visited since you were a child, Stonehenge now also boasts a fantastic new Visitor Centre and exhibition space, which includes a 360-degree virtual experience, plus over 250 objects of international importance will be on display, and the reconstructed face of an Early Neolithic man is a highlight. The immediate surroundings of the stones are also undergoing dramatic improvement so it’s worth a visit with kids more than ever.

Imperial War Museum, Cambridgeshire

Full of activity, excitement and nostalgia the Imperial War Museum has over six hectares of indoor and outdoor displays to create an unforgettable experience whatever the weather.

With a collections of more than 200 aircraft, tanks, military vehicles and naval exhibits, Duxford has something of interest to everyone. The Museum also runs family activities throughout the school holiday period. It will certainly indulge that young fascination for high-octane hardware and feats of wartime daring. This is dreamland for kids who love big machines.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 15 of the Best UK Holiday Destinations for Families

The Gnome Reserve, Devon

Looking for somewhere that gnome man has ever gone before…? For a brilliantly bizarre day out, you can journey through the enchanted wood, home to over 1,000 gnomes and pixies. Wander the four enchanted acres of The Gnome Reserve whilst wearing your very own gnome hats!

Making over 70 television appearances and being in the Guinness Book of World Records, this attraction is exceptionally popular. Deep in the mystical woods you’ll find an enormous collection of gnomes and pixies. They’ll be hiding in unusual places along the pathway, and peeking behind the trees, so can your little ones spot all of them?

In your phe-gnomenal outfits you’ll have the chance to take plenty of photos in a setting to remember. Walk through a picturesque wood and discover hundreds of little gnomes who can’t wait to say hello. Come and enjoy a cheap and quirky adventure, devour real Devon cream teas, and make memories you’ll never forget.

The Slide at The Orbit, Stratford, London

If it’s extreme that you’re looking for to satisfy your thrill-seeking kids, The Slide is the place to be. Described as a ‘hair-raising London experience’, The Arcelor Mittal Orbit stands as the UK’s tallest public art display. Travel 80m to the top and then down the longest tunnel slide, at a whopping 178m long!

Be bowled over by panoramic views of London, while squeezing in a few landmarks like the Gherkin, Big Ben and The Shard. Footy fans can even spot some of London’s famous football grounds, including West Ham Utd. Take your time at the top – you’ll have a chance to learn more about the tower with interactive storytelling screens and, of course, don’t forget to flip the world upside down by taking a peek in one of the concave mirrors.

They’ve managed to pack a whole lot into a 40-second trip with loops circling the iconic structure 12 times, before whizzing you right back down to the ground on a 50m straight drop. Everyone over 1.3m tall and 8 years of age can ride the slide, and it’s certainly more thrilling than the stairs!

Forbidden Corner, North Yorkshire

For a spooky, offbeat and brain-teasing afternoon of discovery a visit to The Forbidden Corner is a must. After popular demand, the site has been opened up to the public with four acres of all-out weird, and it’s one of our favourite unusual places to visit in the UK!

Little adventurers are encouraged to explore tunnels, mazes, a creepy mausoleum and hidden passages at a large garden where getting completely lost is all part of the fun. You will have a checklist of things to track down, but there’s not a map to be found. You will be served up a barrage of tricky challenges, including the occasional spray of water! Just keep your eyes peeled for the secret brass circles which reveal hidden markings and direct you on your mission.

Children will have a whale of a time solving problems, and grown-ups will fall in love with the garden’s wit and imagination.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 14 Fun and Exciting Things to Do in York with Kids

BeWILDerwood, Norfolk

Recommended for your under 12’s this gem has all the energy-burning fun of a soft play park, in 50 acres of whimsical woodland. There’s interactive story-telling and puppet shows for toddlers, as well as mazes, zip-lines and rope bridges for bigger kids.

Like an Ewok village for children, BeWILDerwood adapts to mature woodland and poses a natural and healthy alternative to indoor play parks. Glide along an enchanted river on one of their Bewilderboats, or get involved with a daily special event like fancy dress parties, puppet shows and storytelling. It’s all the brainchild of kids’ author Tom Blofeld and the characters from his books show up to make things even more fun.

This award-winning forest adventure encourages parents to play alongside their children. Just because you’re grown doesn’t mean you should miss out on the magic!

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Have a Real Adventure with 15 of the Best Mazes in the UK

Giant’s Causeway, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Image © Tourism Ireland photographed by Christopher Hill Photographic

The name alone will spark kids’ active imaginations, but when they see the causeway their sense of awe will be off the charts!

Take in the geology, flora and fauna of international importance at this UNESCO World Heritage site as you walk along the Causeway and discover the wishing chair, the harp and the organ – the three collections of curious columns. You can clamber over the rocks, picking out the weird and wonderful formations, and seeing if they match their old nicknames.

Park up at the visitor centre and get to the site via the special shuttle, which has reduced rates for kids. The Centre, which is open daily, provides an exhibition and short audio-visual presentation that allows visitors to learn about the origins of the Causeway, and is the ideal starting point for walks along the coastal and cliff top paths. There are guided walks and the Centre also has a gift shop and visitor facilities.

Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland

Hadrian’s Wall marks the northern boundary of the whole Roman Empire, a titanic wall between the civilised world and northern tribes. Hadrian’s Wall is the largest single Roman artefact in the world, and its length was marked with mile-castles and forts every five miles.

One of these, Housestead’s Fort, encourages children to dip into the ancient past by clambering over these evocative ruins. From here you can walk down to Sycamore Gap, a spectacular valley made famous by movies and inspiration to scenes from Game of Thrones. Discover the rich history behind the archaeological remains, using the stone walls as a guide around the village south of the fort as you try to envisage the different chambers and rooms.

All around and about you is Crag Lough, which is home to an array of wildlife and birds. You’re also on three of the National Cycle Network cycle routes, but should pick carefully if you’ve got young or inexperienced riders as what goes down must also come up again!

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Go Explore! 25 Legendary Castles in England, Scotland and Wales

Loch Ness, Inverness, Scotland

One of the UK’s most unusual places has to be the famed Loch Ness! The legend of the Loch Ness Monster dates back to 500AD, when drawings of a serpent-like creature were found on rocks along the loch. It has global renown as being one of the quirkiest and unusual places in the UK, packed with mystery and intrigue!

Take your young adventurers out on a Loch Ness Cruise, which is perfect for doing some Nessie-spotting! You never know, you may be lucky – but in the meantime, there’s also plenty of other wildlife on view including leaping trout and salmon, indigenous and migrating birds, or even otter and deer on the shores.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Hertfordshire

For a Harry Potter fan, what could be more exciting than stepping into the Great Hall or boarding the Hogwarts Express? You can go behind the scenes for secrets about the special effects and animatronics, and browse a decade’s worth of costumes, sets and iconic props.

The day reveals some closely guarded secrets, including facts about the special effects and animatronics that made these films so hugely popular all over the world. And now the tour is better than ever with an extension to Platform 9 3/4. Will you make it through the wall

Beware the gift shop as wands and butterbeers, marauders maps and treats from Honeydukes are on offer as souvenirs of your day.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 30 Magical Harry Potter Places to Visit

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

Whilst on a Harry Potter theme, why not plan a day out so that the kids can tell their friends they’ve been to the real Hogwarts? Investigate one of the few medieval British castles that have remained habitable to this day.

After the outside and inside of the building starred in the Harry Potter films, Alnwick Castle has reached out to younger audiences. Courageous kids can join the Knight’s Quest, dressing up in chivalric gear and winding your way through a labyrinth to see if you can defeat the mythical dragon at the end! There’s a thrilling Lost Cellars experience for over 13s which draws on the grimmer elements of local history with holograms and sound effects (Warning: not for the faint-hearted!)

You can also enjoy special events like Longbow and falconry demonstrations, traditional musical performances and meeting locals like Peterkin, the court jester. His fire eating, stilt walking antics will have you laughing and gasping all at once!

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: We Spent a Marvellous Family Day Out in Alnwick

The Alnwick Garden, Northumberland

Just down the road from the castle, The Alnwick Garden is home to one of the world’s largest wooden treehouses, with walkways in the sky, rope bridges and a fantastic place to eat in the treetops, as well as the Woodland Walk.

The Garden also features the Grand Cascade, a tumbling mass of water with shooting jets, and the Rose and Ornamental Gardens. The Serpent Garden features interactive water sculptures, and there’s also the Bamboo Labyrinth and the Poison Garden, with dangerous plants and their gruesome stories.

Although The Garden has fantastic indoor and sheltered spaces in The Pavilion and Visitor Centre, it is predominantly an outdoor attraction so dress for the weather. It’s possible to get quite wet in the jets of the Grand Cascade, so a change of clothes is advised.

Zip World, Gwynedd, Wales

This former slate quarry is now a fantasy-like subterranean space where bottomless sheer walls are fitted with zip lines, rope bridges, climbing grips and even a massive bouncy net!

This activity centre is fun, awe-inspiring and exhausting all at the same time and includes the first four-person zip line in Europe. Recommended for over 10s.

Download

Shake up the menu with our FREE 14-day Dinner Plan and try some of our favourite family meals!

Download!

Chester Rows, Chester

The medieval town of Chester is famous for the unique two-tier design on the high street that looks like shops have been sandwiched together! The Rows comprise covered walkways and a second level of shopfronts, which date back to the 11th century.

Despite the fact that many of the shop units are now occupied by well-known retailers and chains, the whole shopping experience feels different. This is due, in part, to the fact that The Rows vary in appearance, height and style giving the whole city a very quirky look!

Greenwich Foot Tunnel, London

Did you know there’s a sort-of secret tunnel that runs under the River Thames? Take the family for a day trip to Greenwich, where there’s lots to do, and make sure you leave time for a quick trip through the Greenwich Foot Tunnel.

The tunnel was originally opened in 1902, and runs 50 feet below the surface. You can enter it beside the Cutty Sark in Greenwich, descend via stairs or lifts, and then cross to Island Gardens on the Isle of Dogs. It has recently been refurbished and, as a public path, is free (and fun!) to walk through – and one of the unusual places on our list that’s easy to tick off.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 40 Thrilling Things to Do in London with Teens and Older Kids

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

The Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge was built by salmon fishermen in 1755 to link the mainland with Carrick-A-Rede Island and the island’s one building, a small fishermen’s cottage. Suspended 100 feet above sea level, the bridge is now a unique tourist attraction for those who think they’re brave enough!

As you cross the bridge, take a look down at the caverns below. Keep an eye out too for the variety of wildlife in the area. You may be lucky enough to see basking sharks, porpoises, dolphins, puffins, razorbills, oystercatchers and plenty more seabirds.

It is worth noting that a timed ticketing system is in place. Visitors must purchase tickets from the visitor centre on-site, and will receive an hour’s slot for crossing the bridge – this gives you plenty of time to go for a bracing clifftop or coastal walk along the Ulster Way.

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, Wales

Yes, you read that right…Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch is the name of a Welsh town on the isle of Anglesey. Have a go at pronouncing it – the kids will love this one!

Originally known as simply Llanfairpwll, the town got its extended and tongue-twisting name in the 1880s. A local merchant concocted the name to ensure the town would become a tourist attraction. Translated, the name means “St. Mary’s Church in the hollow of white hazel near a rapid whirlpool and the Church of St. Tysilio near the red cave”!

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 12 Unmissable Spots for Camping in Wales With Kids

The post Quirky and Cool: 20 Unusual Places to Visit in the UK appeared first on MyKidsTime.

Don’t miss our best content straight to your inbox! Sign up now and get our FREE newsletters packed with fun ideas and things to do with the kids, family-friendly recipes, expert advice, parenting tips and great competitions.

There is lots to see around the country, from castles and beaches to wildlife and famous landmarks. Doing a trip at your own pace, particularly with young children, is a great idea and gives you the freedom and flexibility to customise your adventure.

Some of these road trips in Ireland can be done in an afternoon, while others could be the basis for a mini break with lots to stop and see. Have a great time exploring, and don’t forget to let us know which one is your favourite!

You May Also Enjoy Take a Fairytale Road Trip Around Ireland

Take in the Sights With These Fun Road Trips in Ireland

#1. Ring of Kerry

Kerry is home to the most westerly point in Ireland and is the start, or end of the Wild Atlantic Way. The Ring of Kerry, one of the most famous road trips in Ireland, stretches over 180km from Killarney out to Kenmare, onto Sneem, Caherdaniel, up to Cahersiveen, Glenbeigh, Killorglin and back to Killarney and takes approx 3.5 hours to drive.

On the way you will find amazing beaches, ring forts, beehive huts, waterfalls and a few roads that fall away towards the sea! Plan in some stops to suit your family and if you happen to stop in Dingle, I can highly recommend a trip to Murphy’s ice cream parlour!

You May Also Enjoy 40 Fun Family Things to do on the Ring of Kerry and Beyond

#2. Fanad Peninsula (Donegal)

Photo credit and copyright: Tourism Ireland / Failte Ireland

The Fanad Peninsula also forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way and is situated at one of the most northerly points of County Donegal, lying between Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay.

Starting in Ramelton, take the road to Rathmullen and follow signs for the Fanad Drive. This will bring you to Ballymastocker Bay and Portsalon, both of which have awarding-winning beaches (and the links golf course at Portsalon is pretty impressive too). Follow the signs to Fanad Head where you will find the famous Fanad Lighthouse.

When you finish exploring, take the road back but instead of going to Portsalon, follow the bay with the sea to your right and head for Kerrykeel. This part of the Fanad Drive will take you past the Mulroy Bay lakes and back to Milford.

The full drive is approximately 73km and there is plenty to see and do along the way, from dramatic mountain roads to unspoilt beaches and villages that have changed little in the last 100 years.

You May Also Enjoy 10 Top Things to Do in Donegal with Kids

#3. The Burren Loop (Clare)

The Burren is situated in the west of Ireland and offers a landscape like no other. It rises from the ground in a series of dramatic limestone ‘steps’ with the coast running alongside.

Starting in Kinvara, hug the coast road passing the Flaggy Shore and follow the road to Ballyvaughan. From there, head for Murroogh, Fanore, Doolin and Liscannor until you reach the beautiful beach at Lahinch.

Once you finish exploring, take the road inland to Ennistymon onto Kilfenora then into Lisdoonvarna (home of the infamous matchmaking festival!) before coming back to Ballyvaughan. This route is approximately 100km and can be done in a day.

Be sure to take in all that The Burren has to offer including the Cliffs of Moher, Ailwee Caves, Burren Nature Sanctuary and a dive into the wild Atlantic Ocean at one of the many piers and rocky beaches. Look our for Dolmens along the way.

If you fancy going further afield, you can catch a ferry from Doolin Pier to the Aran Islands. Do check times before you travel as you could be gone for the day.

You May Also Enjoy 10 Top Things To Do in Clare With Kids

#4. Lough Gill Loop & Yeats County (Sligo, Donegal, Leitrim)

Take in the scenic Lough Gill route by starting in Ballysadare and skirting the edge of Lough Gill before coming to Sligo. This route is approximately 40km.

For those wishing to see Yeats County, follow the road to Drumcliffe, thought to be the burial place of WB Yeats, and on to Mullaghmore beneath the stunning Ben Bulben which rises out of the ground majestically.

Come back onto the main road and on to Bundoran, a beautiful seaside village where you can visit the famous Puffin Holes and witness the might of the Atlantic Ocean as the waves crash onto the beach in the centre of town.

You are likely to spot surfers if the waves are favourable. As you return to Sligo, you can head inland to Leitrim and take in the beauty of the Glencar Waterfall and Devil’s Chimney Waterfall before travelling back to Sligo.

You May Also Enjoy Amazing Mazes In Ireland to Puzzle Your Way In and Out Of!

#5. Boyne Valley Drive (Meath)

Part of Ireland’s Ancient East, the Boyne Valley Drive is full of historical monuments that document some of Ireland’s oldest battles. It is the seat of the High Kings of Ireland and you will see evidence of this everywhere along the way.

Starting in Drogheda, where you will find St Peter’s Church and the head of Oliver Plunkett, follow the signs for the Boyne Valley Drive. Leaving Drogheda, you will pass the Battle of the Boyne visitor centre and then on the road to Navan you will find historic passage tombs at Newgrange, a UNESCO world heritage site. These burial mounds are among some of the oldest manmade structures in the world!

From Navan, follow signs to Tara and discover the Hill of Tara, seat of the high kings of Ireland for more than 7,000 years, before travelling on to Trim to view Trim Castle, made famous by the film Braveheart.

Follow the road to Kilskeer and on to Oldcastle where you can visit the Loughcrew Cairns passage tombs, built almost 6,000 years ago. Coming back to Ballinlough, follow signs for Kells where you will find the Kells High Crosses and you can visit Mellifont Abbey.

Next, take the road to Monasterboice to see the famous Abbey with its amazing, richly decorated High Cross and round tower in the grounds. From here the roads loops back to Drogheda once more.

There is much to see and do on this road trip, so it could take you more than one day to complete!

You May Also Enjoy Journey into the Past with Our Favourite Mythical and Folklore Places to Visit in Ireland

#6. The Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough and The Sally Gap

The Wicklow Mountains are just a stone’s throw from Dublin’s M50 (J12) and offer breathtaking views, walking trails and history.

It will take you just under an hour to reach the Sally Gap, and from there you can follow the road to Laragh and on to Glendalough, which is home to a well-preserved round tower and monastery. There is a visitor centre here and you can take walks around the lake, so be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes and maybe even a picnic.

The whole trip can be done in approximately 2.5 hours, including a few stops along the way to admire the scenery and take in a bit of the history.

You May Also Enjoy The Best Gardens in Ireland to Visit with Kids

#7. The Copper Coast Drive (Wexford to Waterford)

Photo credit and copyright: Luke Myers

The Copper Coast forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland’s Ancient East, running from Wexford to Dungarvan in County Waterford, and is approximately 170km long.

There are sandy beaches and rocky coves to discover along the way, but the route is probably best known for the UNESCO World Heritage Global Geopark in Bunmahon. There is a visitor centre here where you can learn about the copper mining that took place in the 18th and 19th century.

Pack your swimsuit if you fancy braving the Atlantic Ocean for a swim or even a spot of windsurfing. The beaches along this route are stunning and kids will love spending time on them hunting for fossils and crabbing in the rock pools. You may even find the odd sea stack along the way.

If you have keen cyclists in the car, consider stopping off to cycle some of the Waterford Greenway, which offers safe cycling for all abilities with no traffic.

Other sights to enjoy along the way include; Johnstown Castle, Tintern Abbey, Hook Head Lighthouse, Dunhill Castle and amazing beaches.

You May Also Enjoy Parents Recommend the best Sandy Beaches in Ireland 

#8. Connemara and The Sky Road (Galway)

Connemara in County Galway is home to the 12 Bens, a range of mountains dotted around serene lakes, bogs and amazing scenery. The Sky Road route starts and ends in Clifden and is approximately 20km long. Along its length you will find beautiful beaches, megalithic tombs, forts and standing stones.

If you are leaving from Galway, consider taking the road through Spiddal, Inverin and onto Connemara and coming home via Oughterard and Moycullen. If time permits, pay a visit to the Coral Beach, where you can play in the rock pools, swim in pristine waters and pick up some coral for your collection.

On the way home, you could divert to Leenane at the head of the Killary Fjord, Ireland’s only Fjord. And if you have time, stop at Diamond Hill in the Connemara National Park where you will find three climbing routes, with stunning views across the Atlantic and back down the valley to Kylemore Abbey.

This route can be done in a day and adults and children alike will enjoy the sights and stops along the way.

You May Also Enjoy Enjoy These Fabulous Family Cycle Routes in Ireland

#9. Achill Atlantic Drive and The Currane Peninsula (Mayo)

Take the road from the Achill Sound to Mulranny and pass through some of the most rugged landscapes in Ireland. You will be surrounded by high peaks and will pass Bellacragher Bay, a large tidal inlet.

From Mulranny, follow the signs for Currane and The Atlantic Drive and this road will take you along the coast with views over the islands in Clew Bay. Along the way there are viewing points which are well worth stopping at. You will see Croagh Patrick, the Maamturks and Clare Island.

Stop in Currane Village for a spot of history. It was once a copper mining village and had several famous residents, including Sir Robert Peel. On leaving the village you will drive along the Achill Sound. Continue your Atlantic Drive through small villages, including Shraheens and Cloughmore, until you come to Darby’s Point and onwards to Ashleam Bay. Along the way you will pass towers, forts and steep rocky cliffs along with sandy blue flag beaches.

Be sure to leave time to do a spot of rambling and some gentle hill climbs. And pack a picnic and swimwear to enjoy all that Achill has to offer.

You May Also Enjoy Unusual Places To Visit in Ireland with the Kids

#10. Beara Peninsula (Cork & Kerry)

Allihies Copper Mine Trail, Beara, Co Cork

The Beara Peninsula in Cork offers an insight into the Ireland of old and is one of the most unspoilt road trips in Ireland, as it takes you along around roads and country lanes.

Start either in Kenmare in Kerry or Castletownbere in Cork and the route is approximately 140kms. It can be done in a day, but you may find yourself stopping to look at the scenery, enjoy the food, the flowers and all the region has to offer.

From Kenmare follow the road to Tuosist and Gleninchaquin where you can view the Uragh Stone Circle. From there, take the road to Lauragh and take the Healy pass to Ardgroom – this is not a road for nervous drivers, but well worth holding your nerve for the breathtaking views!

In Ardgroom be sure to pay a visit to the stone circle, and just outside the village in Ballycrovane, you will find the largest standing Ogham stone in Ireland. From there it is well worth diverting to see Kilcatherine Point and then onto Eyeries. Then follow the route through Urhan to Allihies with its copper mining museum, and on to Lamb’s Head for a cable car ride above the wild Atlantic ocean to Dursey Island!

Back on dry land, take the road to Cahermore and on to the fishing port of Castletownbere. Your road trip could end here, but it would be a shame to miss some of the most amazing lakes and scenery as you follow the road back to Kenmare through Adrigole, Rodeen, Trafrask and on to Glengarrif where you will find the Glengarrif Nature Reserve.

You May Also Enjoy Whale Watching Trips in Ireland Guaranteed to Wow The Kids

#11. The Causeway Coastal Route (Northern Ireland)

Follow the Causeway Coastal Route from Belfast to Derry, or vice versa – it is one of the most fascinating road trips in Ireland, and you won’t be disappointed!

Starting in Derry, take the road towards Coleraine, passing Magilligan Point with its Martello Tower and on to Downhill Demesne where you will find the landmark, Musssenden Temple overlooking the stunning sandy Downhill beach.

From there take the road to Portstewart and Portrush. Both are well known for their scenic golf courses and beautiful beaches.

Hug the coast road and be sure to build in time to stop at Dunluce Castle ruins, perched on the cliffside overlooking the ocean. Head inland to the town of Bushmills, home of the famous Old Bushmills Distillery, and back out to the coast again to visit the Giant’s Causeway.

From there, take in Whitepark Bay and the harbour town of Ballintoy. Next take the road to Carrick-a-Rede to visit the rope bridge suspended above the wild waves and rocks below.

Be sure to come inland to visit the iconic dark hedges, featured in Game of Thrones and one of the most photographed roads in Northern Ireland.

Keep on driving through Ballycastle, where you can view the Bonamargy Friary and on to Cushendun where you will find the Cushendun Caves, also made famous by Game of Thrones. Then travel on to Murlough Bay and Torr Head via Glenarm Castle, a well preserved family castle with beautiful gardens to explore.

Be sure to stop in Carnfunnock to visit the maze in Carnfunnock Country Park and journey inland to see the Glenarrif Forest Park where you can enjoy walks and waterfalls.

For the brave in your family, follow the road to the Islandmagee peninsula and you will find the Gobbins cliff walk, a walk along the cliffs where you cross a manmade metal tube bridge bolted onto the cliff face and suspended above the sea.

After your exhilarating cliff walk, hop back in the car and take the road to Belfast where you can enjoy a warm welcome and a trip to the Titanic Museum and Carrickfergus Castle to name but a few of the landmarks in this famous city.

You May Also Enjoy 15 Fun Things to Do in Belfast with Kids

#12. Inishowen Peninsula (Donegal)

Five Finger Strand, Donegal. Photo credit and copyright: Tourism Ireland / Failte Ireland

The Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal runs along the Wild Atlantic Way from Derry to Letterkenny.

Starting in Letterkenny, take the road towards Buncrana along the coast. Your first stop will be Burt Castle and then on to Inch Island. Back on the road again, you could stop at Lisfannon Beach, before getting to the seaside town of Buncrana.

Follow signs for Malin Head, and along the way you will pass Dunree Head, before travelling through the Gap of Mamore with a steep climb up to 800ft (and an even steeper gradient of up to 30%) and down into Pollan Bay.

Go on to Carrickabraghy Castle and Five Fingers Strand, with some of the highest dunes in Ireland and breathtaking views across Trawbreaga Bay, before taking the road out to Malin Well and Malin Head, the northern most point of Ireland.

From here you will come back along the coast towards Lough Foyle passing Culdaff Beach, Kinnagoe Bay and on to Magilligan Point, Inishowen Head and Stroove, where you will find a working lighthouse. Follow along the edge of the lake passing Greencastle, Moville, Redcastle, Quigley’s Point, Carrowkeel, Muff, Culmore until you come to Derry. This famous walled city has plenty to do for all the family.

You May Also Enjoy 100 Free Fun Things to Do with Kids in Ireland

The post 12 Stunning Scenic Drives and Family Road Trips in Ireland appeared first on MyKidsTime.

Although our weather can be, well let’s just say ‘changeable’, we’re fortunate to have tons of amazing outdoor places in Ireland to visit. From gigantic prehistoric dolmens and waterfalls to forest parks and beaches, when you think what’s on our doorstep in our beautiful country, it’s just fabulous!

We’ve picked out a few favourite spots to get active and outdoors with the kids. We hope you enjoy planning some days out and family walks.

Family-Friendly Outdoor Places in Leinster

Brownshill Dolmen, Carlow

© Brian Morrison Tourism Ireland

The Brownshill Dolmen is a magnificent capstone made of granite, apparently one of the heaviest in Europe. An enormous slab sits on two portal stones which flank a door stone. Its date of construction has been estimated at around 5,000 years ago and experts believe religious rites were performed at the site.

It’s located on Hacketstown Road not far from Carlow town. The walk from the small car park (free) is surrounded by fields and is a pleasant walk. Kids will enjoy exploring in and around the Dolmen.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Carlow to visit with kids!

Stephenstown Pond Nature Park, Louth

Stephenstown Pond in Knockbridge, Dundalk is a lovely nature park with lots to do with the whole family. There are walks by the lake and through the woods, a large playground and many areas for picnics.

There’s a pond with ducks and they also have a kids nature quiz where they can learn about the wildlife in the park. Car park (€2 on exit) and café on site.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Louth to visit with kids! 

Clara Bog, Offaly

Clara Bog is perhaps the best remaining example of midland raised bog in Western Europe. It has been said that you can experience 10,000 years of history in the ten square miles that accommodate Clara Bog.

Clara Bog Visitor Centre & Nature Reserve boardwalk, which meanders through Clara Bog Nature Reserve, is located a two minute drive from the Clara Bog Visitor Centre. The boardwalk is a 1km looped walk on Clara Bog.

Admission to the boardwalk and Clara Bog Visitor Centre. It’s recommended to wear sturdy footwear for the boardwalk.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Offaly to visit with kids!

Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park, Westmeath

The Amenity & Heritage Park at Dún na Sí is a fantastic place for kids! They can meet the ancient Irish warrior Lugh who with his magic spear, stands guard over Dún na Sí. Then enjoy ambling through the parklands and a wetland reserve, discovering art installations throughout the park.

You’ll find a children’s playground next to the café which serves coffee and lunch.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Westmeath to visit with kids!

The Tinahely Railway Walk, Wicklow

The Old Railway Walk in Tinahely is a safe, quiet spot to take the family for a lovely day out. The walk stretches 2.7km in length and traverses a section of the Woodenbridge to Shillelagh Railway Line which was closed in 1964.

Each season along the walk is beautiful in its own right, from bluebells in spring to blackberries and crab apples in the autumn.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Wicklow to visit with kids!

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 30 Fun and Family-Friendly Things to Do in Leinster

Family-Friendly Outdoor Places in Munster

The Flaggy Shore, Clare

The Flaggy Shore, Clare has a fabulous coastal family walk. Head to New Quay, just off the N67 Kinvara/Ballyvaughan road where you can walk with the wild Atlantic ocean to one side and the limestone rocks of the Burren to the other.

The looped walk brings you from New Quay to Finavarra Point and is suitable for all members of the family. You can choose to walk along the beach or stroll along the quiet road. Be sure to visit the well preserved Martello tower at Finavarra Point and check out the rocks to see if you can find any fossils.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Clare to visit with kids!

Gougane Barra National Park, Cork

© Tourism Ireland

Gougane Barra National Park is a super option for a family day out in Cork and is a beautiful destination in any season. There are walking and cycling trails and if the weather is nice, there is also a picnic area.

There are six different walking trails to suit all levels of fitness. There’s also a looped 3km scenic drive with spectacular views of the deep valley and its walled sides.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Cork to visit with kids!

Fenor Bog, Waterford

Designated as Waterford’s first national nature reserve in 2004, Fenor Bog is rich in flora and fauna and is the unique habitat of many rare plants, birds and butterflies.

A raised walkway through the bog and picnic area makes it a great place for a day out and a picnic.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Waterford to visit with kids!

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Family Things to Do in Munster

Download

Plan a whole range of family days out with this brilliant checklist of 99 fantastic places to visit around Ireland!

Tell Me More!

Family-Friendly Outdoor Places in Connacht

Coole Park, Galway

Coole Park is a fabulous place to take kids and one of our favourite outdoor places in Ireland. There are multiple walks in the woods, and other fun features kids will love, such as:

• deer to spot in a special walled area near the visitor centre
• a walled garden for picnics with its own sundial laid out that you can stand on (if lucky enough to get some sun!) to tell the time
• the famous Autograph Tree where Yeats and other famous writers, playwrights and poets carved their initials

You will also find a visitor centre where you can Hunt The Thimble and see some of the interesting items from Lady Gregory’s life and family as well as a café and toilets in the park.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Galway to visit with kids!

Strokestown Park, Roscommon

Strokestown Park in Roscommon is one of our favourite outdoor places in Ireland. It has fabulous parklands to run about and fly a kite in, as well as lovely gardens with Victorian rose garden, and woodlands to explore. They run regular family events too, so check before you visit.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Roscommon to visit with kids!

Hazelwood Demesne, Sligo

The Hazelwood Demesne around the shores of Lough Gill in Sligo offers a variety of family friendly walks. These are particularly pretty in autumn, when you get a variety of reds, oranges and yellows on the trees.

There are several different walks, including the ‘Sculpture Tour’ where you will find wooden sculptures from Irish and international artists running alongside the track.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Sligo to visit with kids!

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Family Things to do in Galway and Connacht

Family-Friendly Outdoor Places in Ulster

Slieve Gullion, Armagh

Slieve Gullion near Newry always gets a few recommendations when we ask our parents for their favourite days out. The Forest Park is a great free day out with a massive adventure playground, amazing fairy trail walk, Giant’s Lair story trail, woodland walks and walled garden to explore. There’s a courtyard with coffee shop.

Erica’s Fairy Forest, Cavan

Erica’s Fairy Forest in Cootehill was created by her parents Natasha and Ciaran to honour five-year-old Erica’s memory and her unshakable belief in fairies and magical kingdoms. It is also a thank you to the people of Cootehill and surrounding areas whose love and support was never ending throughout Erica’s journey.

Bring your letters and pop them in the Fairy Post Box – you never know, you may get a reply! The Fairy Forest is free to visit.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Cavan to visit with kids!

Ards Forest Park, Donegal

© Failte Ireland

On the coast with lots of facilities for families, Ards Forest Park is one of Ireland’s finest forest parks and one of the most scenic outdoor places in Ireland.

At the Park you can enjoy many forest walks, a car park and a children’s play area. There are numerous viewing points on the walks and trails with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

The remains of four ringforts are to be seen in the park as well as a number of megalithic tombs – legend has it that these were the beds of Diarmuid and Grainne during their flight from Fionn Mac Cumhaill!

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Donegal to visit with kids!

Rossmore Forest Park, Monaghan

Rossmore Forest Park near Monaghan Town has several forest walks, a Nature Trail and a Yew walk. It has a car park, picnic sites, forest and lakeside walks, nature trails and viewing points. €5 per car on Saturdays and Sundays.

Don’t miss more great ideas for outdoor places in Monaghan to visit with kids!

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Fun, Educational and FREE Places to Visit in Ireland with Kids

The post Fun Guaranteed at these Family-Friendly Outdoor Places in Ireland appeared first on MyKidsTime.

Family-Friendly Things to Do in Belfast

There are so many things to do in Belfast! Soak up the lively atmosphere, stroll along fine Victorian streets, enjoy world-class visitor attractions and indulge in a cafe, restaurant and entertainment scene that can rival any city in Europe.

With so much on offer, Belfast is a great choice for a city break or family day out!

W5 at Odyssey

If you do one thing in Belfast with the kids, we recommend this. Do you fancy launching a rocket, or flying a plane? Want to sneak up on a butterfly or discover what’s inside the rock beneath your feet? At W5, your imagination and curiosity are the keys to unlocking worlds you’ve only imagined!

W5 is a science and discovery centre, not a museum, so visitors of all ages are free to let their imagination turn, twist and fly through more than 250 hands-on permanent exhibits in the four incredible exhibition areas – Discovery, Go, See and Do.

Meet Robo Thespian, W5’s life-sized, humanoid, interactive robot who can move, speak, educate, interact and entertain! Or have an adventure on ClimbIt, a huge multi-storey climbing structure, which is a cross between a maze and a jungle gym.

Make sure to check the events schedule as there is a constant programme of temporary exhibitions and events, as well as a daily programme of live science demonstrations and shows included within the admission price.

Admission is valid all day and you can stay as long as you wish, which means a day out at W5 is good value for money – always useful on a family day out!

Sightseeing Hop on Hop off Tour

From a walk around the Titanic Quarter to hopping off at the award-winning zoo, wrap up all that’s brilliant about Belfast on one of the City Sightseeing Belfast Hop on Hop off Tours.

Firstly, over 20 tour stops, keep your eyes peeled for a few of the city’s 2,000 political murals which have become a powerful symbol of Northern Ireland. Belfast has traditionally been a hub of industry and the centre of Irish rope-making and shipbuilding. That much is evident in the Titanic Quarter – with its fantastic old factories and docks, it’s one of the world’s largest waterfront developments and well worth a nosy.

Kids will love the stop at Belfast Zoo with its curious creatures. From here spend some time strolling around the Botanic Gardens, or tour Belfast Castle which sits proudly on the slopes of Cave Hill Country Park. The Ulster Museum is also a great stop off (plus it’s free!) before enjoying a bit of family fun at W5 Interactive Science Centre.

Titanic Belfast Visitor Attraction

You can’t come to this family-friendly city without visiting its most famous export – Titanic.

Explore the shipyard, walk the decks, travel to the depths of the ocean and uncover the real legend of Titanic in the city where the story began. Housed in an iconic, six-floor building, filled with movies, interactive exhibits, memorabilia and fascinating facts, Titanic Belfast is located in the heart of Belfast, right beside the historic site of this world-famous ship’s construction.

The Titanic experience takes you through nine galleries, telling the story of RMS Titanic, from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through her construction and launch, to her famous maiden voyage and tragic end. The galleries are innovative and interactive to tell the story in a fresh and insightful way. You also get to go on a ride through an atmospheric shipyard (although if you have young children, it’s worth checking busy periods as queues can be as substantial as the thrills).

Whether or not you are interested in Titanic, you’ll find this an imaginative exploration of Belfast in the early 19th century, and watching the footage of the wreck today is a sobering experience.

Ulster Museum

The Ulster Museum is a firm family favourite where you can come face to face with rawesome dinosaurs, an exciting Egyptian mummy, and a huge array of curiosities and modern masterpieces from across the globe.

As Northern Ireland’s true treasure house of the past and the present, the Ulster Museum is home to a rich collection of art, history and natural sciences. The museum tells the story of the people of the north of Ireland from earliest times to the present day. Their impressive galleries and interactive discovery zones bring history, science and art collections to life for visitors of all ages.

Free admission and a regular programme of events and exhibitions means the Ulster Museum always has something to capture the imaginations of kids and adults alike.

Belfast Zoo

Belfast Zoo is now a leading and award-winning visitor attraction in Northern Ireland, with more than 300,000 visitors each year. Home to more than 1,000 animals and 140 species, many of which are on the verge of extinction in their natural habitat, the Zoo is one of the oldest visitor attractions in Northern Ireland.

At the Zoo the popular attractions include the Asian elephants, Rothschild giraffes, California sea lions, penguins, apes, Malayan tapirs, giant ant-eater, Malayan sun bears, Visayan warty pigs, Goodfellow tree kangaroo, red-backed bearded sakis, crowned sifaka and Sumatran tigers. The Zoo also takes part in over 90 breeding programmes, so if you’re lucky you might get a glimpse of some very cute babies too!

There’s a full programme of events on throughout the year, as well as a ‘zoovenir’ shop for your pride to spend their pocket money. Don’t forget a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside on sunny days.

Belfast’s Window On Wildlife

Nestled in the heart of the Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast’s Window on Wildlife is home to birds and wildlife from all over the world, and you and the family can get up close and personal with them from the comfort of the visitor centre.

Two hides, constructed from shipping containers to tie in with their surroundings, offer different perspectives on the reserve and feature a members-only area, which is perfect for budding photographers. As you look out over the reserve towards the famous Cavehill, you might also be able to spot the resident konik ponies which graze the reserve to help keep it in the best condition for ground-nesting birds like lapwings.

RSPB NI provides lots of new homes for nature at the site, including a sand martin bank and a swift tower. There’s a lot to see at the reserve no matter when you visit. In summer, artificial islands give common and Arctic terns a safe place to breed and the reserve comes to life with the sound of the warblers arriving from Africa. In winter, the water is full of wildfowl like wigeon (a type of duck, and not us misspelling pigeon!) and teal, while black-tailed godwits can be seen digging in the mud for food.

Belfast WOW is open every day except Tuesdays, and is Free for RSPB members.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 50 Fabulous Places To Take Kids In The UK This Summer

Ulster Folk and Transport Museum

If you fancy getting out of the city a little, take a drive along the coast to the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum. Here, you can walk around the houses of people going about their business in the early 1900s. The museum is set in extensive grounds and you can spend all day walking to and from the various rural buildings.

Kids will love the secret door between the Bank Manager’s house and the bank, as well as the old school room. Explore thatched cottages, farms, schools and shops as you experience life from over 100 years ago. You can talk to costumed visitor guides as they demonstrate traditional crafts and meet farm animals in the beautiful parkland of the Folk Museum.

However, it’s the Transport Museum that really shines for many families, with its brightly painted trains, new Titanica exhibition and transport cafe. This is the place to discover more than 500 original artefacts, climb on and off majestic steam locomotives and explore horse drawn carriages, electric trams, boats, motorbikes, fire-engines and vintage cars for an experience your transport lovers will treasure.

Barnett Demesne

Take the kids out for some fresh air within easy reach of Belfast city centre at Barnett Demesne, located next to Malone House. The park features an arboretum, daffodil garden, eco-trail, orienteering routes and a children’s playground – or for those looking for a little bit more adventure, you can try the bike trails and jump parks.

The park, which is named after William Barnett who was the last owner of Malone House, is popular for family walks due to its proximity to the River Lagan, Shaw’s Bridge and nearby Clement Wilson Park. Barnett Demesne is also home to woodland and wildflower meadows, many wild animals (including rabbits, badgers and squirrels), and birds for your family to spot.

More than 70 species of wildflower grow in the meadows during the summer months which is a beautiful setting for any family picnic. It is also home to an annual Spring Fair, which offers music, entertainment and wildlife displays each April.

Aunt Sandra’s Candy Factory

If your tribe have ever wondered what it would have been like for Charlie Bucket in the Roald Dahl classic, then this attraction is made for you! Aunt Sandra’s Candy Factory in East Belfast is renowned as one of the finest providers of handmade chocolates, fudge and boiled sweets, made from 100-year-old recipes.

A visit to Aunt Sandra’s is like taking a trip back in time and watching old-time candy making at its best. A viewing window into the small, quaint factory allows visitors to see how chocolates and fudge are made, most of which (you will be pleased to hear) can be sampled as it’s being produced. The delights on offer will have the whole family salivating over treats like yellow man, raspberry ruffles, macaroons, Belfast fudge and brandy drops. They also offer workshops and shows, where you can make any kind of treat you can imagine.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Quirky and Cool: 20 Unusual Places to Visit in the UK

Download

Plan a whole range of family days out with this brilliant checklist of 99 fantastic places to visit around Ireland!

Tell Me More!

We Are Vertigo

Are your family in the mood for adventure and an action-packed family day out? Find it in abundance at We Are Vertigo, Northern Ireland’s first indoor ski and adventure park.

Don your skis or snowboard and take to the slopes at their indoor skiing centre, or reach new heights as you brave the high ropes or extreme climbing wall. We are Vertigo also houses Northern Ireland’s largest indoor trampoline park with dodge ball courts, basketball lanes, stunt pits, Gladiator balance beam and performance wall.

If bouncing isn’t your thing, then there’s plenty more adrenaline-fuelled fun to be had.  Kids of all ages will be enthralled by the Alpine Swiss play village, the Sky Trail, the electric quads and, for those who wish to take adventure to new heights, try out the 40m zip line!

Streamvale Open Farm

Streamvale Open Farm is a family farm with plenty to offer, nestled in the rolling hills on the edge of Belfast. Try your hand at some baby animal cuddling, take in some of the many live shows and demonstrations, or just enjoy all the great play areas.

When you arrive, pick up a map and a full list of the activities running throughout the day. This includes puppy, rabbit and chick cuddling; bottle feeding the lambs and goats; dog agility shows; and tractor and barrel rides!

The Creamery Cafe has delicious homemade ice cream and snacks, and there are also several play areas for kids, including an innovative play village. This miniature village has a farm shop, vets clinic, milking parlour and much more for hands-on and interactive fun.

Belfast Castle Visitors Centre

We’ve called it Belfast Castle Visitors Centre rather than Belfast Castle because there’s no real ‘castle’ as such to explore: the interior facilities are reserved for weddings and other functions, so don’t let the kids go expecting turrets and spiral staircases! However, the other features here more than make up for it, with plenty to do if you’ve got good weather.

The Castle and its grounds are within Cave Hill Country Park, so you’ve got plenty of space to explore and plenty of things to look for – including the local landmark, Napoleon’s Nose!

Cave Hill Visitor Centre is inside Belfast Castle too, where there is also a gift shop. You’ve got the Cellar Restaurant and The Castle Tavern to choose from for refreshments, and everywhere on site is family-friendly.

Cave Hill Country Park

Pack up a picnic and head along to Cave Hill Country Park in Belfast with the children. Here you will be fully entertained with a visitor centre, a fantastic adventure playground, archaeological sites and orienteering routes. History buffs will love that the park has an assortment of historical and natural features, including the remains of a stone cairn, cashel and crannog.

If you have children that can handle a longer walk, the path leading to the summit from Belfast Castle car park passes beneath the five caves that give the hill its name (it’s a 7.2km circular trail; allow two hours). The view from the summit of Cave Hill (368m) takes in the whole sprawl of the city, the docks, Belfast Lough and the Mourne Mountains – on a clear day you can even see Scotland!

National Football Stadium at Windsor Park

Learn about the history of Irish football from the 1880s to today with a tour of the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park. No football fan young or old can escape the thrill of the stadium, which makes this a great shared experience for both parents and kids alike.

The 45-minute tour takes you behind the scenes to experience what it is like for a professional footballer and the teams of staff that support them – from the players’ changing rooms, to the tunnel and of course the pitch. Kids love the interactive parts of the tour with the highlight being the opportunity to strike a penalty kick against a computerised Pat Jennings.

You can also explore the new Education and Heritage Centre with its awesome collection of memorabilia.

HMS Caroline

You may think that Belfast is all about the Titanic, but your boat-sized adventure continues on HMS Caroline, a five-star rated visitor attraction and a unique survivor of The Battle of Jutland. Lovingly restored as a must-see floating museum with an amazing story to tell, this impressively restored WWI vessel has a quayside visitor centre and plenty of interactive exhibits and family-friendly events to tell the tale of life at sea.

Step aboard the ‘Carry’ and experience impressively restored cabins and deck areas, as well as interactive exhibits to get your mini sailors fully involved. Soak up the atmosphere as you find out about communication at sea in the Signal School, and continue to the Torpedo School before finishing your visit at the galley café. On sunnier days you can relax at the new picnic area or let your little mariners loose on the naval-themed kiddies’ play park.

• YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Animal Parks in the UK You Need to Visit for a Wild Day Out!

The post 15 Fun Things to Do in Belfast with Kids appeared first on MyKidsTime.

Don’t miss our best content straight to your inbox! Sign up now and get our FREE newsletters packed with fun ideas and things to do with the kids, family-friendly recipes, expert advice, parenting tips and great competitions.

Nature is a great educator and most children love being outdoors exploring, playing and connecting to nature.

Get a Great Nature Education for Kids in Ireland

Cool Planet Experience, Wicklow

Cool Planet Experience aims to inspire visitors to make sustainability so cool it becomes the norm! This is achieved through a series of interactive and engaging exhibitions, games and competitions.

Visitors to the Cool Planet Experience will see for themselves the science behind the highs and lows of our changing climate while discovering new and exciting innovations and how they can put them in place, not just during their visit, but through their everyday life to make a change and create a healthy future for our planet.

During school holidays, visitors can also enjoy inspiring interactive workshops around nature, science and sustainability. And Cool Planet Experience also offer birthday parties and group rates.

You May Also Enjoy Amazing Mazes In Ireland to Puzzle Your Way In and Out Of!

Fota House, Arboretum and Gardens, Cork

Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens in Cork is operated by Irish Heritage Trust, an independent charity. There is plenty for families with children of all ages to enjoy including, house tours, special events & workshops.

To learn more about nature and the world around us, Fota House have a number of special nature themed activities and trails that can be taken when you visit. These include;

• Digging for History where you can get stuck into the award winning Victorian working garden with a tour through the glass where kids will learn fun facts and finish off with the opportunity to pot their own plant to take home and enjoy or take away a packet of seeds to plant later.
• Queen Maeve’s Honey Bee Adventure is a great introduction to bees with an activity based talk which will have children buzzing around the farmyard doing their waggle dance and discovering how the hive works.
• Victorian Working Garden Tour can be taken 7 days a week from March to September by arrangement. There is a wide variety of interesting plants for visitors to see.
• Junior Plant Hunters Activity Trail collect your activity book and take the trail to discover everything there is to see and do in the gardens and arboretum. A fun way to spend a morning or afternoon discovering nature.
• Little Explorers Trail is a fun trail around the gardens and arboretum to explore the wonders of nature.
• Plant Hunters Tree Trail is a trail to identify rare and unusual species at Fota. It is a free-ranging trail suitable for older families and adults.

Be sure to check opening hours before you travel.

You May Also Enjoy Take a Fairytale Road Trip Around Ireland 

Powerscourt Estate & Gardens, Wicklow

Powerscourt Estate & Gardens in Wicklow offer an amazing nature experience. Visit at any time of year and be delighted by their clever planting and places to explore the great outdoors, spot wildlife and discover Ireland’s highest waterfall! Powerscourt Gardens has been voted no. 3 garden in the world by National Geographic and it is just a short drive from Dublin city centre.

In addition to the beautiful surroundings, they run regular events which include nature inspired events for children and adults, with everything from gardening workshops to bug hunts and guided walks and tours.

You May Also Enjoy Best Playgrounds in Ireland Recommended by Parents

Strokestown Park, Roscommon

Strokestown Park has a 6 acre working walled garden which has been restored over time and offers visitors an insight into the horticultural design and architecture from the 1740’s to the present day.

Former owner of the house, Henry Pakenham, was an avid gardener and travelled extensively gathering plants and seeds from around the world to grow at Strokestown Park. Many of these exotic plants can still be seen today.

The walled gardens include a 4 acre pleasure garden, 2 acres of fruit and vegetable gardens, a lily pond, fernery, rose garden, peach house and vinery.

In addition the surrounding woodlands have many fine specimens of beech and oak trees and you can enjoy a walking route through the woodlands and get glimpses of the house and gardens beyond.

Also on the site is the National Famine Museum where you will get an insight into life in Ireland during famine times. And there are regular events organised for visitors to enjoy.

You May Also Enjoy Terrific Places to See Dinosaurs In Ireland

Birr Castle Demesne & Science Centre, Offaly

Birr Castle Demesne has 50 hectares of gardens and woodlands to explore, so be sure to pack a picnic when you visit. Throughout the year there are nature & science themed workshops & events taking place including Nature Detective mid-term and summer camps.

The gardens and terraces around the castle are home to a varied and interesting variety of plants, shrubs and trees, including some of the world’s tallest box hedges.

Water also features around the grounds with waterfalls, a lake and 2 rivers to enjoy. Here you will spot a good variety of birds and wildlife and enjoy a walk in the Fernery.

Before you travel, be sure to download the app for an audio tour of the gardens. You can also pick up maps at the visitor centre to enjoy a self guided tour of the gardens, woodlands, science centre and great telescope. There are 3 different maps with points of interest marked on each one.

After discovering all the grounds have to offer, be sure to stop off in the huge tree house, Ireland’s largest and play area and pop in to see the science centre too.

You May Also Enjoy – Unusual Places To Visit in Ireland with the Kids

National Museum of Ireland – Natural History, Dublin

NMI – Museum of Natural History aka ‘The Dead Zoo’, has galleries of animals from Ireland and overseas, also geological exhibits form a total collection of about 2 million scientific specimens with a Discovery Zone.

It is free to visit and they run regular, free educational events and workshops for children and adults to enjoy.

You May Also Enjoy Best Places to see Animals, Birds & Beasts in Ireland

Johnstown Castle & Gardens, Wexford

Johnstown Castle is a spectacular gothic Castle in Wexford and offers an amazing day out in nature for all ages. You can explore the beautiful ornamental gardens designed by Daniel Robertson, walk by the 3 lakes where you will spot peacocks and other wildlife. There is also a Victorian Walled Garden and an Ornamental Pleasure Garden to discover and enjoy.

The grounds incorporate 2 research farms run by Teagasc, who own the entire estate. The farms have been carrying out pioneering agricultural related research for more than 50 years. They have teamed up with the Irish Heritage Trust to work on a new visitor centre and experience and will be running nature related workshops and events during the year.

The Irish Agricultural Museum is housed within the grounds of Johnstown Castle and is home to one of the most comprehensive collections showcasing farming and rural life in Ireland with everything from tractors to kitchens!

You May Also Enjoy Top Spots in Ireland for Swimming and Splashing Family Fun

National Museum of Ireland – Country Life, Thurlough Park, Mayo

The National Museum of Ireland – Country Life in Castlebar, is open 7 days a week and brings to life the traditions of rural life in Ireland. Exhibitions are full of wonderful objects from long ago.

Learn about how people lived in the towns and countryside, cut turf, caught fish and worked in the home. Educational nature related workshops, exhibitions and family programmes for all ages take place throughout the year.

Entry is free and you can explore the surrounding woodland, greenway and impressive award-winning Victorian gardens.

You May Also Enjoy 9 Amazing Adventure Centres for Families in Ireland

Belvedere House and Gardens, Westmeath

Belvedere House and Gardens incorporates 160 acres of grounds with 10 kms of serene trails along the lakeshore and through the woodlands. The trails provide the opportunity to explore the flora and fauna at Belvedere. Some trees throughout the estate have been planted for hundreds of years. In addition there is a walled garden and arboretum with many exotic plants and a fairy garden for younger members of the family.

Belvedere House hosts nature themed events throughout the year including Bat Walks, Dawn Chorus and Tree Walks. Details can be found on the events page.

You May Also Enjoy Our Favourite Mythical and Folklore Places to Visit in Ireland

Irish National Stud and Gardens, Kildare

The Irish National Stud is a farm that specialises in breeding racehorses. The site is also home to the Japanese Gardens, which maps the ‘journey of life’ according to Japanese history and St Fiachra’s Garden with an environmental trail and four acres of woodland and lakes for families to have an ecological day out. For younger children there is a fairy trail and a well equipped playground along with a Horse Museum.

They offer ecological school tours where children can get up close to horses and wildlife in a relaxed natural environment. They will see horses and foals in the paddocks and enjoy hands on interaction with miniature Falabella horses. When they visit the horse museum they will learn more about the anatomy of the horse, as there is a full skeleton of Gold Cup winner Arkle. Then enjoy the Japanese Gardens and follow the path through tunnels and streams with an explanation of the symbolism of each section.

You May Also Enjoy Take an Enchanting Fairytale Road Trip Around Ireland

Castlecomer Discovery Park, Kilkenny

Located 18 km North of Kilkenny City, Castlecomer Discovery Park has a range of exciting recreational, cultural and educational activities for visitors of all ages.

The park has 80 acres of natural woodland with 6km of trails throughout, a fishing lake, an interactive coal mining museum, design craft and nature workshops and award winning café.

You can book team challenges which include orienteering and they have a digital scavenger hunt for visitors to download and solve which will teach children & adults more about the natural environment and history of Castlecomer.

Castlecomer is an accredited SFI Discover Centre and run DPSM (discover primary science & maths) days for primary schools, connecting the children to nature through outdoor play, learning and adventure.

For secondary schools they have a comprehensive programme of activities related to nature, geography, science, biology & ecology, that can be combined with adventure and team building activities.

You May Also Enjoy 35 Exciting Books for Curious Children to Learn About Nature

Barnett Demesne, Belfast

Take the kids out for some fresh air within easy reach of Belfast city centre at Barnett Demesne, located next to Malone House. The park features an arboretum, daffodil garden, eco-trail, orienteering routes and a children’s playground – or for those looking for a little bit more adventure, you can try the bike trails and jump parks.

The park, which is named after William Barnett who was the last owner of Malone House, is popular for family walks due to its proximity to the River Lagan, Shaw’s Bridge and nearby Clement Wilson Park. Barnett Demesne is also home to woodland and wildflower meadows, many wild animals (including rabbits, badgers and squirrels), and birds for your family to spot.

More than 70 species of wildflower grow in the meadows during the summer months which is a beautiful setting for any family picnic. It is also home to an annual Spring Fair, which offers music, entertainment and wildlife displays each April.

You May Also Enjoy Best Places to See Bluebells in Ireland 

Tropical World Letterkenny, Donegal

Tropical World is home to a wide range of animals and plants and incorporates a butterfly house and mini zoo with animals and birds including lemurs, marmosets, meerkats, tamarins, owls, parakeets and many different species of butterfly.

It is open seasonally, so do check opening times before you travel. It will give you a good insight into the living world around us as you can get up close to animals & plants.

You May Also Enjoy How to Make a Butterfly Garden With Your Kids

Clara Bog Nature Reserve and Visitor Centre, Offaly

Clara Bog Nature Reserve is free to visit and has many free events for children. The bog itself is reputed to be the best remaining example of a raised bog in Western Europe.

There is a 1 km boardwalk looped walk on Clara Bog which lets you see the wonderful plants, birds and animals which Clara Bog is home to, and to soak up the atmosphere of an exceptional raised bog in the heart of Ireland (NB wear trainers or shoes). The Visitor Centre also organises walks, art and nature activities on a regular basis.

You May Also Enjoy Enjoy These Fabulous Family Cycle Routes in Ireland

Discover Nature Through Photography

Brian Cregan Photography works with primary and secondary schools to offer insightful photography and creative nature workshops that helps young people express themselves in a creative way. He often incorporates nature into the themes, using flowers, leaves and other objects to create art that is then photographed in different ways and can be kept as a keepsake to enjoy forever.

You May Also Enjoy 10 Best Nature Activities for Kids To Do in Your Own Garden

Coole Park, Galway

One of the most stunning nature reserves in Galway, Coole Park offers a wonderful day out for all the family whether it be to enjoy the organised nature walks, explore the forest, spot the swans on the lake or head over to enclosure near the visitor centre and go deer spotting.

Coole Park is free to visit and there is free parking on-site.

You May Also Enjoy 10 Terrific Places to See Dinosaurs in Ireland

Seaforde Gardens, Down

The tropical butterfly house at Seaforde Gardens is home to hundreds of free flying exotic butterflies from around the world. You will also see reptiles, parrots and other animals on your visit.

Afterwards take a stroll around the beautiful gardens where the kids will love getting lost in the maze! It is open seasonally so do check opening times before you make your journey.

You May Also Enjoy – Big Bug Scavenger Hunt for Kids

Phoenix Park, Dublin

The Phoenix Park in Dublin offers nature in an urban setting and families have enjoyed spending time there for many years. It is managed by the OPW and the visitor centre offers free nature themed educational workshops to primary schools including;

• Trees, what would we do without them?
• Discover the animals that live in the park
• Biodiversity
• Pollinators

The park is free to visit and includes The People’s Gardens, a 22 acre park showcasing Victorian horticulture at its best. Next to the visitor centre The Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden offers inspiration and education on the horticultural skills involved in designing a Victorian Kitchen Garden as well as growing fruit, vegetables and flowers. There is also a viewing hive, where you can see bees at work and sample the honey produced by them.

Brigit’s Garden, Galway

Brigit’s Garden takes you on a magical journey into the heart of Celtic heritage and mythology. The award-winning Celtic Gardens are widely regarded as one of the most spectacular in Ireland, set within 11 acres of native woodland & wildflower meadows.

In addition to the Celtic Gardens visitors can enjoy the nature trail, an ancient ring fort (fairy fort), thatched roundhouse and crannog, and the calendar sundial, the largest in Ireland. Brigit’s Garden is very family-friendly with a kids’ discovery trail, a natural playground, café and lots of opportunity to explore. They run summer camps and regular nature themed events throughout the year.

Seafari Kenmare, Kerry

Seafari Cruises are a great way to explore the wildlife and nature of Kenmare Bay. You go out on the bay in a comfortable and sheltered passenger vessel, out to one of the largest seal colonies in Ireland. See if you can spot Kathleen, a stunning seal with a red coat. The rumour is that Kathleen is a selkie, a seal which was once human according to legend.

You may also get to see otters, white-tailed sea eagles and other sea-birds. Humour and fun are part of a Seafari cruise and whilst the boat is not often rocked by waves in the calm waters of the bay, it is frequently rocked by laughter. Tea, coffee, squash and biscuits are offered on all cruises and for those feeling a nip in the air there is a medicinal shot of rum.

The Burren, Clare

Belfast’s Window On Wildlife

Nestled in the heart of the Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast’s Window on Wildlife is home to birds and wildlife from all over the world, and you and the family can get up close and personal with them from the comfort of the visitor centre.

Two hides, constructed from shipping containers to tie in with their surroundings, offer different perspectives on the reserve and feature a members-only area, which is perfect for budding photographers. As you look out over the reserve towards the famous Cavehill, you might also be able to spot the resident konik ponies which graze the reserve to help keep it in the best condition for ground-nesting birds like lapwings.

RSPB NI provides lots of new homes for nature at the site, including a sand martin bank and a swift tower. There’s a lot to see at the reserve no matter when you visit. In summer, artificial islands give common and Arctic terns a safe place to breed and the reserve comes to life with the sound of the warblers arriving from Africa. In winter, the water is full of wildfowl like wigeon (a type of duck, and not us misspelling pigeon!) and teal, while black-tailed godwits can be seen digging in the mud for food.

Belfast WOW is open every day except Tuesdays, and is Free for RSPB members.

Over to you now. Can you recommend any more fun places for nature education for kids in Ireland? Please share them with us in the comments box below. 

The post Fantastic Fun Places for Nature Education for Kids in Ireland appeared first on MyKidsTime.