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All ages · up to 60 min · any budget
Why it matchesFamilies can explore the Inspirational Gardens, find an African mud hut, and spot koi in the pond. There is also a children's playground and a box maze.
Why it matchesSee over 50 species of reptiles and amphibians, including alligators, pythons, and tarantulas. There are hourly animal encounters and an indoor playground for children.
Why it matchesThis indoor play centre in Kilkenny has soft play for small children and a larger play frame for bigger kids. There is also a hurling tunnel to test your puck speed.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore the garden centre, see the vegetable exhibition, and let children play in the dedicated play area. There are picnic spots and a cafe for refreshments.
Why it matchesThis festival in Kilkenny celebrates animation and illustration with screenings, talks, workshops, and live drawing. Families can watch, listen, draw, and explore the world of drawn images.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore a dinosaur theme park with life-size moving dinosaurs, an adventure playground, and a fairy village. There is also a mini wildlife farm, go-karts, a fossil dig, and a dinosaur show.
Why it matchesThis food festival in Kilkenny City has a market with street food and local produce. There are cooking demonstrations and workshops, plus entertainment for families.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore Kilkenny Castle, which has a nursery and bedrooms. There are extensive parklands, a playground, and a picnic area. You can also see the Picture Gallery.
Why it matchesThis show celebrates Irish trees and timber. You can watch chainsaw carvers, see machinery, and find artisan crafts and food. There are also woodland talks and family activities.
Why it matchesFamilies can go horse riding, trekking, or trail-riding. Children can also attend pony camps during school holidays and mid-terms. You can also learn about the horses during morning rounds and feeding times.
Why it matchesChildren can play in the Activity Barn with ping pong, fuze ball, and an indoor beach. They can also pet and feed donkeys, ponies, pigs, and goats. There is a pedal go-kart track. Families can eat in the restaurant.
Why it matchesFamilies can pick pumpkins, explore a Witches' Village, and walk through a Monsters' Woodland. There are also tractor rides, playgrounds, and a trick-or-treat trail, all within Secret Valley Wildlife Park.
Why it matchesFamilies can see over 200 animals from 40 species, including rescued exotic animals. There are daily activities and animal encounters, plus seasonal events like a corn maze or Christmas Grinch.
Why it matchesFamilies can visit a working fruit farm, pick their own fruit, and learn about farm life. There is also food and hospitality available.
Why it matchesExplore woodland walks with sculptures and a coal mining exhibition. Older children can try the Skywalk Challenge with aerial games and ziplines, or go boating. There are craftspeople in the stables.
Why it matchesFamilies can meet and feed farm animals, play in the sandpit or playground, and explore a nature trail. There are also pedal go-karts, crazy golf, and tractor rides.
Why it matchesFamilies can wander through the Millennium Garden, a collection of seven themed gardens built by the local community. Each garden tells a story using local plants and stones.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy an afternoon of traditional Irish music in the Walled Garden at Altamont Gardens. Remember to bring your own seat for the event.
Why it matchesExplore 16 hectares of gardens, from sculpted lawns and a lake to an arboretum and an Ice Age Glen. There are rare trees, rhododendrons, and roses in summer.
Why it matchesFamilies can stroll through these lovely gardens, spotting different plants and trees. There is a lake and a river walk to enjoy, with both native and exotic species to see.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore a large garden with lawns, shrubs, and a walled garden with many plants and flowers. There are grass paths, a pond with lilies and fish, and a vegetable garden.
Why it matchesFamilies can wander through a hectare of sensory gardens, enjoying the plants, water features, and the floating marble kugal. There is a garden centre and a cafe on site.
Why it matchesExplore the historic walled gardens and pleasure grounds at Duckett's Grove. See old varieties of roses, peonies, and fruit trees, and walk along restored paths and over a sunken stone bridge.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy a walk through Ballyrafton Wood, following the riverside path for about 1.6km. There are picnic tables and seats for a break, and a tower bridge to see.
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